# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0002015799
**File Stem:** 0001193125-25-300245
**Filing Date:** 2025-11
**Character Count:** 644328
**Document Hash:** e709666a6354db46a52bf62141717965
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-25-300245.hdr.sgml**: 20251126

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-25-300245

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 485BPOS

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 41

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20251126

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20251126

**EFFECTIVENESS DATE**: 20251128

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Lincoln Funds Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0002015799

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485BPOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1940 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 811-23952
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251529490

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1301 S. HARRISON STREET
- **CITY:** FORT WAYNE
- **STATE:** IN
- **ZIP:** 46802
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (484) 583-6302

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1301 S. HARRISON STREET
- **CITY:** FORT WAYNE
- **STATE:** IN
- **ZIP:** 46802
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Lincoln Funds Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0002015799

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485BPOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-278528
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251529489

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1301 S. HARRISON STREET
- **CITY:** FORT WAYNE
- **STATE:** IN
- **ZIP:** 46802
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (484) 583-6302

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1301 S. HARRISON STREET
- **CITY:** FORT WAYNE
- **STATE:** IN
- **ZIP:** 46802

## Series and Classes Contracts Data

### Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund (Series ID: S000085533)

| Class ID   | Class Name   | Ticker Symbol   |
|:---|:---|:---|
| C000250823 | Class I      | LFTEX           |
| C000250824 | Class A      | LFTAX           |

### Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund (Series ID: S000085534)

| Class ID   | Class Name   | Ticker Symbol   |
|:---|:---|:---|
| C000250825 | Class I      | LFTPX           |
| C000250826 | Class A      | LFTOX           |

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? Lincoln Funds Trust

**As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 26, 2025**

**1933 Act Registration No. 333-278528**

**1940 Act Registration No. 811-23952**

------

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION**

**Washington, D.C. 20549**

**FORM N-1A**

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933**

**POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 5**

**And**

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940**

**AMENDMENT NO. 5**

**LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST**

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

John Morriss, President

1301 South Harrison Street

Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (260) 455-2000

Paul T. Chryssikos, Esquire

Lincoln Financial

150 N. Radnor-Chester Road

Radnor, PA 19087

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

Copies of all communications to:

Robert A. Robertson, Esquire

Dechert, LLP

US Bank Tower

633 West 5th Street, Suite 4900

Los Angeles, CA 90071-2013

**It is proposed that this filing will become effective:**

[] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)

[X] on November 28, 2025, pursuant to paragraph (b)

[] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

[ ] on __________________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

[] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)

[] on __________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485

**If appropriate, check the following box:**

[_] This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.

Title of Securities Being Registered: Shares of Beneficial Interest.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

------

*Lincoln Funds Trust* 

**Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Class A LFTAX <br> Class I LFTEX

1301 South Harrison Street

Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802

**Prospectus** November 28, 2025

Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund (the "Fund") is a series of the Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust"). This prospectus discusses the information about the Fund that you should know before investing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

We have not authorized any dealer, salesperson, or any other person to give any information, or to make any representation, other than what this prospectus states.

------

**Table of Contents** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Item | Page |
| **[Summary](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1)** |  |
| [Investment Objective](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Fees and Expenses](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Shareholder fees](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Annual Fund Operating Expenses](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Example](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Portfolio Turnover](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Principal Investment Strategies](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Principal Risks](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Fund Performance](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| [Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| [Portfolio Manager](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| [Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_5) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [Tax Information](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_5) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [Payments to Broker-Dealers and other Financial Intermediaries](#xx_de41ffbf-8ac8-48a9-b96b-c5fd4b2ca18a_5) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| **[Additional Information about the Fund](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_1)** | &nbsp;&nbsp; 6 |
| [More Information About the Fund's Investment Objectives](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 6 |
| [More Information About the Fund's Principal Investment Strategies](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 6 |
| [Principal Risks](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 7 |
| [Management and Organization](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_6) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 11 |
| [Pricing of Fund Shares](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_7) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 12 |
| [Purchase of Fund Shares](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_8) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Purchasing Additional Fund Shares](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_8) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 14 |
| [Market Timing](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_10) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 |
| [Portfolio Holdings Disclosure](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_10) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 |
| [Share Classes and Distribution Arrangements](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_10) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 |
| [Distribution Policy and Federal Income Tax Considerations](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_11) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 16 |
| [Redemptions-in-kind](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_12) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 17 |
| [Account Minimum](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_12) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 17 |
| [Exchanges](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_12) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 17 |
| [Document Delivery](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_12) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 17 |
| [Payment to Financial Intermediaries](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_12) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 17 |
| [Financial Highlights](#xx_4dd7a1c8-dd54-444b-983b-4f22646f4c77_13) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 18 |
| [For More Information](#xx_b4bd20d6-f5c1-4bc1-bb1c-831beb445c74_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 19 |

---

------

**Summary**

**Investment Objective**

The investment objective of the Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund ("Fund") is to seek a total return that exceeds the rate of inflation over an economic cycle (generally, rolling three-to-five-year periods).

**Fees and Expenses**

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the tables and examples below.** Please contact your financial intermediary for more information regarding whether you may be required to pay a brokerage commission or other fees.

**Shareholder fees** 

**(fees paid directly from your investment)**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
| Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a Percentage of offer price) | None | None |
| Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption <br> Proceeds, whichever is lower)<br>| None | None |

---

**Annual Fund Operating Expenses** 

**(Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
| Management Fee | 0.85% | 0.85% |
| Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees | 0.25% |  |
| Other Expenses | 5.25% | 5.25% |
| Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses (AFFE) | 0.02% | 0.02% |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(including AFFE)<sup>1</sup> | 6.37% | 6.12% |
| Less Expense Reimbursement<sup>2</sup> | (5.00%) | (5.00%) |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (After Expense Reimbursement) | 1.37% | 1.12% |

---

Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses do not correlate to the ratio of expenses to average net assets appearing in the Financial Highlights table, which reflects only the operating expenses of the Fund and does not include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses.

Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation (the "Adviser") has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund to the extent that the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (excluding Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses) exceed 1.35% of the Fund's average daily net assets for Class A (and 1.10% for Class I). Any reimbursements made by the Adviser are subject to recoupment from the Fund within three years after the occurrence of the reimbursement, provided that such recoupment shall not be made if it would cause annual Fund operating expenses of a class of the Fund to exceed the lesser of (a) the expense limitation in effect at the time of the reimbursement, or (b) the current expense limitation in effect, if any. The agreement will continue through at least July 31, 2026 and cannot be terminated before that date without the mutual agreement of the Fund's Board of Trustees and the Adviser.

**Example**

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example illustrates the hypothetical expenses that you would incur over the time periods indicated if you invest $10,000 in the Fund's shares. The example also assumes that the Fund provides a return of 5% a year and that operating expenses remain the same. This example reflects the net operating expenses with a fee waiver for the contractual period and the total operating expenses without a fee waiver for the remaining time periods shown below. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than this example. The results apply whether or not you redeem your investment at the end of the given period. This example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends and other distributions. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **1 year** | **3 years** | **5 years** | **10 years** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $139 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $1442 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2708 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $5727 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $114 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $1371 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2601 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $5555 |

---

------

**Portfolio Turnover**

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 193% of the average value of its portfolio.

**Principal Investment Strategies**

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA") serves as the Fund's sub-adviser. The SIMNA is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's assets.

The Fund seeks to provide a total return above U.S. inflation over an economic cycle (generally, rolling three-to-five-year periods) as measured by the United States Consumer Price Index after fees have been deducted.

The Fund is actively managed and will over time invest in a broad range of asset classes worldwide including bonds, emerging markets debt (including sovereign bonds), currencies, Commodity Instruments (as defined below), and equities, in any currency, either directly or indirectly through unaffiliated open-end investment funds (mutual funds) and ETFs (collectively, the "Underlying Funds"). The Fund may invest indirectly in commodities and other asset classes through derivatives or Underlying Funds. In general, SIMNA will select unaffiliated passively managed Underlying Funds that provide exposure to certain investments in accordance with the Fund's investment strategy. Positions are determined on a market-by-market basis by SIMNA's investment outlook, which is summarized in the form of scorecard which covers all investable markets. This enables SIMNA to rank opportunities across fixed income, currencies, commodities as well as some equities and construct a diversified portfolio purely of investments that are forecast to generate inflation-beating returns. Each investable market is put into one of three tiers, based on the U.S. dollar aggregate open interest and volumes, meaning the more liquid the market the larger the position permitted.

The Fund may invest more than 50% of its assets in fixed and floating rate securities that have a below investment grade credit rating, as measured by Standard & Poor's or any equivalent grade of other credit rating agencies (these securities are known as "junk bonds"). The Fund seeks to limit geographical concentration using a proprietary, liquidity-based ranking system when selecting non-U.S. fixed and floating rate securities.

The Fund may use derivatives with the aim of achieving investment gains, reducing risk, or managing the Fund more efficiently. Derivatives, which are instruments that have a value based on another instrument, exchange rate or index, may be used as substitutes for securities in which the Fund can invest. The Fund may use futures contracts, options, swaps, and other derivatives as tools in the management of portfolio assets.

In selecting securities for the Fund, SIMNA integrates material environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") analysis into its investment process. SIMNA evaluates the impact and risk around issues such as climate change, environmental performance, labor standards, and corporate governance, among others, which it views as important in its assessment of an issuer's risk and potential for profitability. SIMNA believes that this ESG assessment, which is integrated with more traditional methods, is an important consideration to understand the investment potential of a company (or an issuer).

The Fund's investments in commodity futures contracts and other commodity linked instruments (collectively, "Commodities Instruments") will be made through a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands (the "Subsidiary"). Through its investment in the Subsidiary, the Fund will seek exposure to a range of commodity sectors from time to time including the energy, agriculture, and metals sectors.

The Fund's investment in the Subsidiary is intended to provide the Fund with exposure to commodity markets within the limits of current federal income tax laws applicable to investment companies such as the Fund, which limit the ability of investment companies to invest directly in Commodities Instruments. The Subsidiary has the same investment objective as the Fund, but unlike the Fund, it may invest without limitation in Commodities Instruments. Except as otherwise noted, for purposes of this Prospectus, references to the Fund's investments include the Fund's indirect investments through the Subsidiary. The Fund will invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Subsidiary.

**Principal Risks**

All mutual funds carry risk. Accordingly, loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund and there is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The risks below reflect the principal risks of the Fund. **An investment in a Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Market Risk.** The value of portfolio investments may decline. As a result, your investment in the Fund may decline in value and you could lose money.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Bond/Fixed-Income Exposure Risk.** Fixed income prices can fall because of various factors affecting the particular fixed income or due to general weakness in the overall bond markets. Fixed income are subject to varying levels of credit risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk and volatility.

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Stock/Equity Investing Risk.** Equities generally fluctuate in value more than bonds and may decline significantly over short time periods. Equity prices overall may decline because stock markets tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Issuer Risk.** The prices of, and the income generated by, portfolio securities may decline in response to various factors directly related to the issuers of such securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Active Management Risk.** The portfolio investments are actively-managed, rather than tracking an index or rigidly following certain rules, which may negatively affect investment performance. Consequently, there is the risk that the methods and analyses, including models, tools and data, employed in this process may be flawed or incorrect and may not produce desired results.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Interest Rate Risk.** When interest rates change, fixed income securities (i.e., debt obligations) generally will fluctuate in value. These fluctuations in value are greater for fixed income securities with longer maturities or durations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Commodities-Related Investment Risks.** Exposure to the commodities markets may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of commodity-linked derivative investments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates, or sectors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, embargoes, tariffs and international economic, political and regulatory developments. Investing in commodities, including through commodity-linked derivative instruments is speculative. The current or "spot" prices of physical commodities may also affect, in a volatile and inconsistent manner, the prices of futures contracts or other derivatives on the relevant commodity. Moreover, growth in industrial production and gross domestic product has made China and other developing nations oversized users of commodities and has increased the extent to which certain commodities prices are influenced by those markets.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Credit Risk.** Credit risk is the risk that the issuer of a debt obligation will be unable or unwilling to make interest or principal payments on time. Credit risk is often gauged by "credit ratings" assigned by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs). A decrease in an issuer's credit rating may cause a decline in the value of the issuer's debt obligations. However, credit ratings may not reflect the issuer's current financial condition or events since the security was last rated by a rating agency. Credit ratings also may be influenced by rating agency conflicts of interest or based on historical data that are no longer applicable or accurate.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Below Investment Grade (Junk Bond) Risk.** Below investment grade bonds, otherwise known as "high yield" bonds or "junk" bonds, generally have a greater risk of principal loss than investment grade bonds. Below investment grade bonds are often considered speculative and involve significantly higher credit risk and liquidity risk. The value of these bonds may fluctuate more than the value of higher-rated debt obligations, and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty or periods of rising interest rates and may be subject to negative perceptions of the junk bond markets generally and less secondary market liquidity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Inflation-Focused Securities Risk.** During periods of low or declining inflation, inflation-protected securities and other inflation-linked securities could underperform the market generally. When inflation is low, declining, or negative, the principal and income of an inflation-linked security will decline and could result in losses.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Foreign Investments Risk.** Foreign investments have additional risks that are not present when investing in U.S. investments. Foreign currency fluctuations or economic or financial instability could cause the value of foreign investments to fluctuate. The value of foreign investments may be reduced by foreign taxes, such as foreign taxes on interest and dividends. Additionally, foreign investments include the risk of loss from foreign government or political actions including, for example, the imposition of exchange controls, the imposition of tariffs, economic and trade sanctions or embargoes, confiscations, and other government restrictions, or from problems in registration, settlement or custody. Investing in foreign investments may involve risks resulting from the reduced availability of public information concerning issuers. Foreign investments may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than comparable investments in U.S. issuers. In addition, certain foreign countries may be subject to terrorism, governmental collapse, regional conflicts and war, which could negatively impact investments in those countries.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Foreign Currency Risk.** Foreign currency risk is the risk that the U.S. dollar value of investments in foreign (non-U.S.) currencies or in securities that trade in, and receive revenues in, foreign (non-U.S.) currencies, may be negatively affected by changes in foreign (non-U.S.) currency rates. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Emerging Markets Risk.** Companies located in emerging markets tend to be less liquid, have more volatile prices, and have significant potential for loss in comparison to investments in developed markets.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Sovereign Debt Risk.** Sovereign debt instruments are subject to the risk that a governmental entity may delay or refuse to pay interest or repay principal on its sovereign debt, due, for example, to cash flow problems, insufficient foreign currency reserves, political considerations, the relative size of the governmental entity's debt position in relation to the economy or the failure to put in place economic reforms required by the International Monetary Fund or other multilateral agencies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Derivatives Risk.** Derivatives or other similar instruments (referred to collectively as "derivatives"), such as futures, forwards, options, swaps, structured securities and other similar instruments, are financial contracts whose value depends on, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate or index. Derivatives may involve costs and risks that are different from, or possibly greater than, the costs and risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives prices can be volatile, may correlate imperfectly with price of the applicable underlying asset, reference rate or index and may move in unexpected ways, especially in unusual market conditions, such as markets with high volatility or

------

large market declines. Some derivatives are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates. Other risks include liquidity risk, which refers to the potential inability to terminate or sell derivative positions and for derivatives to create margin delivery or settlement payment obligations for the Fund. Further, losses could result if the counterparty to a transaction does not perform as promised. Derivatives that involve a small initial investment relative to the investment risk assumed can magnify or otherwise increase investment losses. This is referred to as financial "leverage" due to the potential for greater investment loss. Derivatives are also subject to operational and legal risks.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **ESG Integration Risk.** The investment process for the Fund may incorporate a wide range of considerations, which may include certain environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors. While the integration of ESG factors into the investment process has the potential to identify financial risks and contribute to long-term performance, ESG factors may not be considered for every investment decision. There is no guarantee that the integration of ESG factors will result in better performance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Subsidiary Risk.** By investing in a subsidiary, the Fund is indirectly exposed to the risks associated with the subsidiary's investments. The commodity-related instruments held by the Fund's subsidiary (the "Subsidiary") are generally similar to those that are permitted to be held by the Fund and are subject to the same risks that apply to similar investments if held directly by the Fund (see "Commodities Related Investment Risks" above). There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Subsidiary will be achieved. The Subsidiary is not registered under the 1940 Act, and, unless otherwise noted in the Fund's prospectus, is not subject to all the investor protections of the 1940 Act. However, the Fund wholly owns and controls the Subsidiary, and the Fund and the Subsidiary are both managed by the Adviser, making it unlikely that the Subsidiary will take action contrary to the interests of the Fund and its shareholders. Changes in the laws of the United States and/or the Cayman Islands could result in the inability of the Fund and/or the Subsidiary to operate as described in the Fund's prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") and could adversely affect the Fund.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Fund of Funds Risk.** The Fund bears all risks associated with the investment strategies of its Underlying Funds, including the possibility that an Underlying Fund may not achieve its investment objective, which could negatively affect the Fund's performance. In addition, among other risks, the Fund indirectly pays a proportional share of the fees and expenses of each Underlying Fund.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Non-Diversification Risk.** When a mutual fund is non-diversified, it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund. Therefore, a fund's value may decrease because of a single investment or a small number of investments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Liquidity Risk.** Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund cannot meet requests to redeem Fund-issued shares without significantly diluting the remaining investors' interest in the Fund. This may result when portfolio holdings may be difficult to value and may be difficult to sell, both at the time or price desired. Liquidity risk also may result from increased shareholder redemptions in the Fund. Actions by governments and regulators may have the effect of reducing market liquidity, market resiliency and money supply. Liquidity risk also refers to the risk that the Fund may be required to hold additional cash or sell other investments in order to obtain cash to close out derivatives or meet the liquidity demands that derivatives can create to make payments of margin, collateral, or settlement payments to counterparties. The Fund may have to sell a security at a disadvantageous time or price to meet such obligations. The Fund's liquidity risk management program requires that the Fund invest no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments.

**Fund Performance**

The Fund commenced operations on October 1, 2024. Once the Fund has at least one full calendar year of performance, a bar chart and performance table will be included in the prospectus. Please note that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.

**Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser**

Investment Adviser: Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI")

Investment Sub-Adviser: Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA")

**Portfolio Manager**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **SIMNA Portfolio Managers** | **Company Title** | **Experience with Fund** |
| Oscar Agra, CFA | Inflation Plus Fund Manager and Quantitative Analyst | Since September 2024 |
| Abdallah Guezour | &nbsp;&nbsp; Head of Emerging Markets Debt, Commodities and <br> Inflation Plus<br>| Since September 2024 |
| Malcolm Melville | &nbsp;&nbsp; Commodities and Inflation Plus Fund Manager and <br> Sentiment and Chart Analyst<br>| Since September 2024 |

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**Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares** 

You may purchase or redeem Fund shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares may be purchased or redeemed:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through your financial professional; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through the Transfer Agent at 800-215-6280 and obtaining an account application.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Initial Requirements:** | **Minimum Initial Requirements:** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Subsequent Investments:** | **Minimum Subsequent Investments:** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

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See the "Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares" section for more information.

**Tax Information** 

The Fund's distributions, if any, are generally taxable and may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are invested through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Such tax-deferred arrangements may be taxed later upon withdrawal of monies from those arrangements.

**Payments to Broker-Dealers and other Financial Intermediaries** 

If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank or financial professional), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your financial professional to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your financial professional or visit your financial intermediary's website for more information.

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**Additional Information about the Fund**

**More Information About the Fund's Investment Objectives**

The Fund's investment objective is a non-fundamental policy of the Fund and may be changed by the Board without the approval of shareholders. There is no guarantee that a Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a Fund.

**More Information About the Fund's Principal Investment Strategies**

The Fund's investment policy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in a particular type of investment or security is a non-fundamental policy of the Fund that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders.

The value of your investment in a Fund will change with the values of the Fund's investments. Many factors can affect those values.

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA") serves as the Fund's sub-adviser. The SIMNA is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's assets.

The Fund seeks to provide total return above U.S. inflation over an economic cycle (generally, rolling three-to-five-year periods) as measured by the United States Consumer Price Index after fees have been deducted.

The Fund is actively managed and will over time invest in a broad range of asset classes worldwide including bonds, emerging markets debt (including sovereign bonds), currencies, Commodity Instruments (as defined below), and equities, in any currency, either directly or indirectly through unaffiliated open-end investment funds (mutual funds) and ETFs (collectively, the "Underlying Funds"). The Fund may invest indirectly in commodities and other asset classes through derivatives or Underlying Funds. In general, SIMNA will select unaffiliated passively managed Underlying Funds that provide exposure to certain investments in accordance with the Fund's investment strategy. Positions are determined on a market-by-market basis by SIMNA's investment outlook, which is summarized in the form of scorecard which covers all investable markets. This enables SIMNA to rank opportunities across fixed income, currencies, commodities as well as some equities and construct a diversified portfolio purely of investments that are forecast to generate inflation-beating returns. Each investable market is put into one of three tiers, based on the U.S. dollar aggregate open interest and volumes, meaning the more liquid the market the larger the position permitted.

The Fund may invest more than 50% of its assets in fixed and floating rate securities that have a below investment grade credit rating, as measured by Standard & Poor's or any equivalent grade of other credit rating agencies (these securities are known as "junk bonds"). The Fund seeks to limit geographical concentration using a proprietary, liquidity-based ranking system when selecting non-U.S. fixed and floating rate securities.

The Fund may use derivatives with the aim of achieving investment gains, reducing risk, or managing the Fund more efficiently. Derivatives, which are instruments that have a value based on another instrument, exchange rate or index, may be used as substitutes for securities in which the Fund can invest. The Fund may use futures contracts, options, swaps, and other derivatives as tools in the management of portfolio assets.

In selecting securities for the Fund, SIMNA integrates material environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") analysis into its investment process. SIMNA evaluates the impact and risk around issues such as climate change, environmental performance, labor standards, and corporate governance, among others, which it views as important in its assessment of an issuer's risk and potential for profitability. SIMNA believes that this ESG assessment, which is integrated with more traditional methods, is an important consideration to understand the investment potential of a company (or an issuer).

The Fund's investments in commodity futures contracts and other commodity linked instruments (collectively, "Commodities Instruments") will be made through a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands (the "Subsidiary"). Through its investment in the Subsidiary, the Fund will seek exposure to a range of commodity sectors from time to time including the energy, agriculture, and metals sectors.

The Fund's investment in the Subsidiary is intended to provide the Fund with exposure to commodity markets within the limits of current federal income tax laws applicable to investment companies such as the Fund, which limit the ability of investment companies to invest directly in Commodities Instruments. The Subsidiary has the same investment objective as the Fund, but unlike the Fund, it may invest without limitation in Commodities Instruments. Except as otherwise noted, for purposes of this Prospectus, references to the Fund's investments include the Fund's indirect investments through the Subsidiary. The Fund will invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Subsidiary.

The Subsidiary is managed pursuant to compliance policies and procedures that are the same, in all material respects, as the policies and procedures adopted by the Fund on an aggregate basis. As a result, the Adviser and SIMNA, in managing the Subsidiary's portfolio, are subject to the same investment policies and restrictions (on an aggregate basis) that apply to the management of the Fund, and, in particular, to the requirements relating to portfolio leverage, liquidity, brokerage, and the timing and method of the valuation of

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the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of the Subsidiary. The Fund's Chief Compliance Officer oversees implementation of the Subsidiary's policies and procedures, and makes periodic reports to the Board regarding the Subsidiary's compliance with its policies and procedures. The Fund and the Subsidiary test for compliance with certain investment restrictions on a consolidated basis.

The Adviser provides the investment management and other services to the Subsidiary. SIMNA serves as sub-adviser to the Subsidiary. Neither the Adviser nor SIMNA receives separate compensation from the Subsidiary for providing it with investment management or administrative services. However, the Fund pays the Adviser based on the Fund's assets, including the assets invested in the Subsidiary. The Subsidiary will also enter into separate contracts for the provision of custody and audit services with the same or with affiliates of the same service providers that provide those services to the Fund. The financial statements of the Subsidiary will be consolidated with the Fund's financial statements in the Fund's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports. The Fund's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports are distributed to shareholders, and copies of the reports are provided without charge upon request as indicated on the back cover of this prospectus.

The Fund is non-diversified for purposes of the Investment Company Act of 1940, and as a result may invest a greater percentage of assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund.

**Principal Risks**

All mutual funds carry risk. Accordingly, loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund and there is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The risks below reflect the principal risks of the Fund. **An investment in a Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.**

**Market Risk.** The value of portfolio investments may decline. As a result, your investment in the Fund may decline in value and you could lose money. A decline in value could result from, among other things, a negative development of the issuer of the security, an industry, a sector of the economy, or the overall securities market. In addition, the occurrence of geopolitical conflicts, war or terrorist activities could have adverse impacts on markets in various and unpredictable ways. For instance, war, terrorism, social unrest, recessions, supply chain disruptions, market manipulation, government defaults, government shutdowns, political changes, diplomatic developments, or the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures, public health emergencies (such as the spread of infectious diseases, pandemics and epidemics) and natural/environmental disasters can all negatively impact the securities markets, which could cause the Fund to lose value.

**Bond/Fixed-Income Exposure Risk.** Fixed income prices can fall because of various factors affecting the particular fixed income or due to general weakness in the overall bond markets. Fixed nicome are subject to varying levels of credit risk, interest rate risk, and liquidity risk. At times, participants in bond markets may develop concerns about the ability of certain issuers to make timely principal and interest payments, or they may develop concerns about the ability of financial institutions that make markets in certain debt instruments to facilitate an orderly market. Those concerns could cause increased volatility and reduced liquidity in particular bonds or in the overall bond markets and the related derivatives markets, which could hamper the ability to sell the bond investments or to find and purchase suitable investments.

**Stock/Equity Investing Risk.** Equities generally fluctuate in value more than bonds and may decline significantly over short time periods. Equity prices overall may decline because stock markets tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. The value of stocks may decline due to general weakness or volatility in the stock markets or because of factors that affect a particular company or industry. Stock declines may result from, among other things, political, regulatory, market, economic and/or social developments affecting the relevant market(s). In addition, increased inflation, tightening monetary policy or interest rate increases may negatively affect many issuers, which could have an adverse effect on stock prices.

**Issuer Risk.** The prices of, and the income generated by, portfolio securities may decline in response to various factors directly related to the issuers of such securities. These factors may include reduced demand for an issuer's goods or services, poor management performance, major litigation, investigations or other controversies related to the issuer, changes in the issuer's financial conditions or credit rating, changes in government regulations affecting the issuer or its competitive environment, and strategic initiatives such as mergers, acquisitions or dispositions and the market response to any such initiatives.

**Active Management Risk.** The portfolio investments are actively-managed, rather than tracking an index or rigidly following certain rules, which may negatively affect investment performance. Consequently, there is the risk that the methods and analyses, including models, tools and data, employed in this process may be flawed or incorrect and may not produce desired results. This could cause the Fund to lose value or its investment results to lag relevant benchmarks or other funds with similar objectives.

**Interest Rate Risk.** When interest rates change, fixed income securities (i.e., debt obligations) generally will fluctuate in value. These fluctuations in value are greater for fixed income securities, as well as funds, with longer maturities or durations. Duration measures the sensitivity of a security's price to changes in interest rates. This measure incorporates a security's yield, maturity, and call features, among other factors. If, for example, the price of a security has a duration of five years, it would be expected that the price of that security would fall approximately five percent if interest rates rose by one percent.

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In addition, when interest rates rise, certain obligations will be paid off more slowly than anticipated, causing the value of these obligations to fall. Also, proceeds from a current investment in fixed income securities, both interest payments and principal payments, may be reinvested in instruments that offer lower yields than the current investment due in part to market conditions and the interest rate environment at the time of reinvestment.

Numerous factors can cause interest rates to change, including, but not limited to, changes, or the anticipation of changes, to Federal Reserve central bank or government monetary policies and general economic conditions, which may exacerbate the risks associated with changing interest rates. The Federal Reserve, for example, may raise the federal funds rate as part of its efforts to address rising interest rates. During periods of very low or negative interest rates, a Fund may be unable to maintain positive returns. Very low or negative rates may magnify interest rate risk. Changing interest rates, including rates that fall below zero, may have unpredictable effects on the markets, may result in heightened market volatility and may detract from the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective.

**Commodities-Related Investment Risks**. Exposure to the commodities markets may subject a fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. In addition, the Fund's exposure to investments in physical commodities presents unique risks. Investing in physical commodities, including through commodity-linked derivative instruments such as commodity-linked total return swaps, commodity-linked futures, and options thereon, is speculative.

The value of commodity-linked derivative investments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates, or sectors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, embargoes, tariffs and international economic, political and regulatory developments. The current or "spot" prices of physical commodities may also affect, in a volatile and inconsistent manner, the prices of futures contracts or other derivatives on the relevant commodity.

Certain commodities are used primarily in one industry, and fluctuations in levels of activity in (or the availability of alternative resources to) one industry may have a disproportionate effect on global demand for a particular commodity. Moreover, growth in industrial production and gross domestic product has made China and other developing nations oversized users of commodities and has increased the extent to which certain commodities prices are influenced by those markets.

**Credit Risk.** Credit risk is the risk that the issuer of a debt obligation will be unable or unwilling to make interest or principal payments on time. Credit risk is often gauged by "credit ratings" assigned by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs). A decrease in an issuer's credit rating may cause a decline in the value of the issuer's debt obligations.

The issuer also may have increased interest payments, because an issuer with a lower credit rating generally has to pay a higher interest rate to borrow money. As a result, the issuer's future earnings and profitability also could be negatively affected. This could further increase the credit risk associated with that debt obligation. Generally, credit risk is higher for corporate and foreign government debt obligations than for U.S. government securities, and higher still for debt rated below investment grade (high yield bonds).

In addition, credit ratings may not reflect the issuer's current financial condition or events since the security was last rated by a rating agency. Credit ratings also may be influenced by rating agency conflicts of interest or based on historical data that are no longer applicable or accurate. Rising or high interest rates may deteriorate the credit quality of an issuer or counterparty, particularly if an issuer or counterparty faces challenges rolling or refinancing its obligations.

**Below Investment Grade (Junk Bond) Risk.** Below investment grade bonds, otherwise known as "high yield" bonds or "junk" bonds, generally have a greater risk of principal loss than investment grade bonds. Below investment grade bonds are often considered speculative and involve significantly higher credit risk and liquidity risk. The value of these bonds may fluctuate more than the value of higher-rated debt obligations, and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty or periods of rising interest rates and may be subject to negative perceptions of the junk bond markets generally and less secondary market liquidity. A liquid security market may not always exist for positions in below investment grade bonds. When secondary markets for these bonds are less liquid than the market for other types of securities, it may be more difficult to value the bonds because such valuation may require more research, and elements of judgments may play a greater role in the valuation because there is less reliable, objective data available. These bonds also are more likely to experience greater fluctuations in value due to changes in the issuer's credit rating.

**Inflation-Focused Securities Risk.** During periods of low or declining inflation, inflation-protected securities and other inflation-linked securities could underperform the market generally. When inflation is low, declining, or negative, the principal and income of an inflation-linked security will decline and could result in losses. Attempts at investing in companies that offer some protection from accelerating inflation could lessen relative returns and underperform the market generally. Even if inflation-protected investments may respond well to long-term inflation, they may not respond quickly to short-term increases in inflation. Further, an ongoing period of high inflation may place other strains on the economy that depress the prices of all stocks, even those of companies that typically benefit from high or rising inflation.

**Foreign Investments Risk.** Foreign investments have additional risks that are not present when investing in U.S. investments. Foreign currency fluctuations or economic or financial instability could cause the value of foreign investments to fluctuate. The value of foreign investments may be reduced by foreign taxes, such as foreign taxes on interest and dividends. Additionally, foreign investments include the risk of loss from foreign government or political actions including, for example, the imposition of exchange controls, the

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imposition of tariffs, economic and trade sanctions or embargoes, confiscations, and other government restrictions, or from problems in registration, settlement or custody. The governments of certain countries may prohibit or impose substantial restrictions on foreign investing in their capital markets or in certain sectors or industries. Foreign governments may also impose a heavy tax on a company, withhold a company's payment of interest or dividends, seize assets of a company, take over a company, limit currency convertibility, or repatriation, or bar withdrawal of assets from the country. Investing in foreign investments may involve risks resulting from the reduced availability of public information concerning issuers. Foreign issuers generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards or to other regulatory practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. The volume of transactions in certain foreign markets remains considerably below that of the U.S. markets. Accordingly, foreign investments may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than comparable investments in U.S. issuers. Investing in local markets may require special procedures or local governmental approvals or other actions, any of which may involve additional costs. These factors also may affect the liquidity of a foreign investment. Foreign brokerage commissions and custodian fees also are generally higher than in the U.S. In addition, certain foreign countries may be subject to terrorism, governmental collapse, regional conflicts and war, which could negatively impact investments in those countries. Recent examples include conflict, loss of life and disaster connected to ongoing armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine in Europe and Hamas and Israel in the Middle East. The extent, duration and impact of these conflicts, related sanctions and retaliatory actions are difficult to ascertain, but could be significant and have severe adverse effects on the region, including significant adverse effects on the regional or global economies and the markets for certain securities and commodities. These impacts could negatively affect a Fund's investments in securities and instruments that are economically tied to the applicable region, and include (but are not limited to) declines in value and reductions in liquidity.

**Foreign Currency Risk.** Foreign currency risk is the risk that the U.S. dollar value of investments in foreign (non-U.S.) currencies or in securities that trade in, and receive revenues in, foreign (non-U.S.) currencies, may be negatively affected by changes in foreign (non-U.S.) currency rates. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including rates of inflation, balance of payments and governmental surpluses or deficits, intervention (or the failure to intervene) by U.S. or foreign (non-U.S.) governments, central banks or supranational entities such as the International Monetary Fund, or by the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the United States or abroad.

**Emerging Markets Risk.** Companies located in emerging markets tend to be less liquid, have more volatile prices, and have significant potential for loss in comparison to investments in developed markets. Emerging market countries may have especially unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries and securities markets that trade a small number of securities. Additional risks of emerging market investments may include: greater social, diplomatic, economic, and political instability; more substantial governmental involvement in the economy; less governmental supervision and regulation of issuers; companies that are newly organized and small; less developed auditing and financial reporting standards, which may result in unavailability of material information about issuers; and less developed legal systems. The impact of infectious diseases in emerging market countries may be greater due to less-established health care systems. Emerging markets also may have different clearance and settlement procedures, which may make it difficult to engage in securities transactions. Settlement problems may result in missed investment opportunities, holding a portion of assets in cash, or delays in disposing of investments. Investments in emerging market countries may be affected by national policies that restrict foreign investment in certain issuers or industries. Sanctions, export and import controls and other intergovernmental actions may be undertaken against an emerging market country, which may result in the devaluation of the country's currency, a downgrade in the country's credit rating, and a decline in the value and liquidity of the country's securities. Sanctions could result in the immediate freeze of securities issued by an emerging market company or government, impairing the ability of the Fund to buy, sell, receive or deliver these securities.

**Sovereign Debt Risk.** Sovereign debt instruments are subject to the risk that a governmental entity may delay or refuse to pay interest or repay principal on its sovereign debt, due, for example, to cash flow problems, insufficient foreign currency reserves, political considerations, the relative size of the governmental entity's debt position in relation to the economy or the failure to put in place economic reforms required by the International Monetary Fund or other multilateral agencies.

**Derivatives Risk.** Derivatives or other similar instruments (referred to collectively as "derivatives"), such as futures, forwards, options, swaps, structured securities and other instruments, are financial contracts whose value depends on, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate or index. Derivatives may involve costs and risks that are different from, or possibly greater than, the costs and risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives prices can be volatile, may correlate imperfectly with price of the applicable underlying asset, reference rate or index and may move in unexpected ways, especially in unusual market conditions, such as markets with high volatility or large market declines. Some derivatives are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates. Further, losses could result if the counterparty to a transaction does not perform as promised. Derivatives that involve a small initial investment relative to the investment risk can magnify or otherwise increase investment losses. This is referred to as financial "leverage" due to the potential for greater investment loss. Derivatives are also subject to operational and legal risks.

The performance of a derivative generally largely depends on the performance of its underlying asset, reference rate or index. If using derivative instruments is unsuccessful, performance may be worse than if no derivatives were used. When used for hedging purposes, there is a risk, especially under extreme market conditions, that a derivative may provide no such hedging benefit. Additionally,

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there is no guarantee that a liquid market will exist for a derivative position or that a derivative position will be able to be terminated, particularly with respect to "over-the-counter" instruments (investments not traded on an exchange). If the Fund is unable to close out a position on an options or futures contract, for example, the Fund would remain subject to the risk of adverse price movements until the Fund is able to close out the position. Changes in the value of a derivative or other similar instrument may also create margin delivery or settlement payment obligations for the Fund. Furthermore, counterparties to over-the-counter derivative contracts present the same types of credit risk as issuers of fixed income securities, including bankruptcy or insolvency. Options and futures contracts are also subject to the creditworthiness of clearing organizations and exchanges. Futures and security options also are subject to the credit risk of futures commission merchants and broker-dealers, respectively. Derivatives can also be difficult to value, especially in declining markets.

Swap agreements may include equity, interest rate, index, total return, commodity, currency and credit default swaps. Swap agreements typically are contracts with a swap dealer, bank, or other institutional entity in which the parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on a particular set dollar or currency value of predetermined investments or instruments. Currently, some, but not all, swap transactions are subject to central clearing. Non-cleared swap agreements, including credit default swaps, involve greater risks than cleared swaps, including illiquidity risk and counterparty risk. Certain non-cleared swaps are subject to margin requirements that mandate the posting and collection of minimum margin amounts, which is intended to reduce some of the risks associated with these instruments. Eventually many swaps may be centrally cleared and exchange-traded. Although central clearing is expected to decrease counterparty risk because it interposes the central clearinghouse as the counterparty in bilaterally negotiated contracts, central clearing will not make swap transactions risk-free.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC") and the various exchanges have established limits referred to as "speculative position limits" on the maximum net long or net short positions that any person may hold or control in a particular futures contract, option on futures contract, and in some cases, over-the-counter transaction that is economically equivalent to certain futures or options contracts on physical commodities. Trading limits are imposed on the number of contracts that any person may trade on a particular trading day. An exchange or the CFTC may order the liquidation of positions found to be in violation of these limits and may impose sanctions or restrictions.

Changes in regulation relating to the Fund's use of derivatives and related instruments could potentially limit or impact the Fund's ability to invest in derivatives, limit the Fund's ability to employ certain strategies that use derivatives, and adversely affect the value or performance or derivatives and the Fund.

**ESG Integration Risk.** The investment process for the Fund may incorporate a wide range of considerations, which may include certain environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors. The relevance and weightings of specific ESG factors can vary across individual portfolio holdings, asset classes, sectors and strategies. No one factor or consideration is determinative. While the integration of ESG factors into the investment process has the potential to identify financial risks and contribute to long-term performance, ESG factors may not be considered for every investment decision. There is no guarantee that the integration of ESG factors will result in better performance. Moreover, ESG information is in many instances qualitative and therefore subjective. There are significant differences in interpretations of what it means for a company to have positive or negative ESG characteristics. An assessment of ESG factors for the Fund may differ from the views of other investors and advisers. The approach to ESG integration may evolve and develop over time, both due to a refinement of investment decision-making processes to address ESG factors and risks, and because of legal and regulatory changes.

**Subsidiary Risk.** By investing in a subsidiary, the Fund is indirectly exposed to the risks associated with the subsidiary's investments. The commodity-related instruments held by the Fund's subsidiary (the "Subsidiary") are generally similar to those that are permitted to be held by the Fund and are subject to the same risks that apply to similar investments if held directly by the Fund (see "Commodities Related Investment Risks" above). There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Subsidiary will be achieved. The Subsidiary is not registered under the 1940 Act, and, unless otherwise noted in the Fund's prospectus, is not subject to all the investor protections of the 1940 Act. However, the Fund wholly owns and controls the Subsidiary, and the Fund and the Subsidiary are both managed by the Adviser, making it unlikely that the Subsidiary will take action contrary to the interests of the Fund and its shareholders. Changes in the laws of the United States and/or the Cayman Islands could result in the inability of the Fund and/or the Subsidiary to operate as described in the Fund's prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") and could adversely affect the Fund.

**Fund of Funds Risk.** The Fund bears all risks of an Underlying Fund's investment strategies, including the risk that an Underlying Fund may not meet its investment objective, which may negatively affect the Fund's performance. Additional fund of funds risk include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Underlying Fund Expenses*: Because the Fund owns shares of the Underlying Funds, shareholders of the Fund will indirectly pay a proportional share of the fees and expenses, including applicable management, administration and custodian fees, of the Underlying Funds in which the Fund invests. The Underlying Funds do not charge any front-end sales loads, contingent deferred sales charges, or Rule 12b-1 fees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Investment Performance*: The Fund's investment performance is directly tied to the performance of its Underlying Funds. If one or more of the Underlying Funds fails to meet its investment objective, a Fund's performance will be negatively affected. The

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Fund does not control the investments of Underlying Funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the Fund would not engage in directly. There can be no assurance that the Fund or any Underlying Fund will achieve its investment objective.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Asset Allocation*: The Fund is subject to different risks based on its actual allocation among asset classes and Underlying Funds. The Fund will be affected to varying degrees by stock and bond market risks, among others. The potential impact of the risks related to an asset class depends on the size of the Fund's investment allocation to it.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Strategy*: The Adviser's evaluations and allocations among asset classes and Underlying Funds may prove incorrect. Further, the Adviser may add or delete Underlying Funds or alter the Fund's asset allocation at its discretion. A material change in the Underlying Funds selected or in asset allocation (or the lack thereof) could affect both the level of risk and the potential for gain or loss.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Limited Portfolio Holdings*: Because the Fund may hold large positions in its Underlying Funds, changes in the value of those Funds' shares can have an amplified effect on the Fund's value and total return. Aggregation of Underlying Fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase Fund volatility.

**Non-Diversification Risk.** When a mutual fund is non-diversified it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund. Therefore, a fund's value may decrease because of a single investment or a small number of investments.

**Liquidity Risk**. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund cannot meet requests to redeem Fund-issued shares without significantly diluting the remaining investors' interest in the Fund. This may result when portfolio holdings may be difficult to value and may be difficult to sell, both at the time or price desired. Liquidity risk may result from increased shareholder redemptions in the Fund. An increase in shareholder redemptions could require the Fund to sell securities at reduced prices, which would in turn reduce the value of the Fund. In addition, the market for a particular holding may become illiquid due to adverse market or economic conditions, completely apart from any specific conditions in the market for a particular security. Actions by governments and regulators may have the effect of reducing market liquidity, market resiliency and money supply, such as through higher interest rates, tighter financial regulations and proposals related to open-end fund liquidity that may prevent the Fund from participating in certain markets. Liquidity risk also refers to the risk that the Fund may be required to hold additional cash or sell other investments in order to obtain cash to close out derivatives or meet the liquidity demands that derivatives can create to make payments of margin, collateral, or settlement payments to counterparties. The Fund may have to sell a security at a disadvantageous time or price to meet such obligations. The Fund's liquidity risk management program requires that the Fund invest no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments.

**Management and Organization** 

The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of the Fund oversees the business and affairs of the Fund, and has the power to amend the Fund's bylaws, to declare and pay dividends, and to generally oversee the Fund's operations.

**Manager of Managers Structure:** LFI has previously received an SEC exemptive order that permits it to operate the Fund under a "manager-of-managers" structure. This structure allows LFI (defined below as the Fund's investment adviser), subject to approval of the Board – and without the approval of shareholders – to: (i) select a new sub-adviser or additional sub-advisers for the Fund; (ii) terminate an existing sub-adviser and/or replace a sub-adviser; (iii) enter into new sub-advisory agreements and/or modify the terms of any existing sub-advisory agreement; and (iv) allocate and reallocate the Fund's assets among LFI and one or more sub-advisers. (The order does not apply to the hiring of a sub-adviser that is an affiliate of LFI.) If a new sub-adviser is hired for a Fund, the Fund will provide its shareholders with information about the new sub-adviser within 90 days of hiring. LFI has the ultimate responsibility (subject to Board oversight) to oversee, monitor and evaluate a sub-adviser's performance and to recommend the hiring, termination, and replacement of a sub-adviser.

**Investment Adviser:** Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI") is the Fund's investment adviser. LFI is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln Life. LFI's address is 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, PA 19087. LFI (or its predecessors) has served as an investment adviser to mutual funds for over 30 years. As of July 31, 2025, LFI had more than $113.1 billion in assets under management.

The Fund has entered into an Investment Management Agreement with LFI. LFI may hire one or more sub-advisers who are responsible for the Fund's day-to-day investment management. A sub-adviser is paid by LFI from its management fee.

A description of LFI (including the effective advisory fee rate for the most recently completed fiscal year) and the portfolio managers are shown below. The Fund's statement of additional information ("SAI") provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers' ownership of Fund shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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|:---|:---|
| **Adviser** | LFI (advisory fee is 0.85% of the Fund's average daily net assets).  |

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|:---|:---|
| **Sub-Adviser** | &nbsp;&nbsp; Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA"), located at 7 Bryant Park, New York, NY <br> 10018, is a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Schroders plc, a publicly-owned holding company orga-<br> nized under the laws of England. Schroders plc and its affiliates had assets under management of approxi-<br> mately $1,064.2 billion as of June 30, 2025.<br>|
| **SIMNA Portfolio Man-**<br> **agers**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; Oscar Agra, Abdallah Guezour and Malcolm Melville are responsible for the day-to-day management of the <br> Fund's assets.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Oscar Agra, CFA,** is an Inflation Plus Fund Manager and Quantitative Analyst Emerging Market Debt & <br> Commodities (London). He is also responsible for quantitative analysis across the whole EMD TR group <br> and his investment career commenced in 2010 when he joined the EMD & Commodities team as a Quanti-<br> tative Analyst. He joined the firm in 2010 on the EMD & Commodities team as a Quantitative Analyst. Agra <br> holds an MS in computer science from King's College London and is a CFA charterholder.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Abdallah Guezour** is the Head of Emerging Markets Debt, Commodities and Inflation Plus. He oversees <br> the EMD and Commodities portfolio managers and strategists. Guezour joined the firm in 2000 as a fund <br> manager for Emerging Markets Debt Total Return products. Abdallah was initially responsible for covering <br> Asian markets and for establishing the quantitative analysis framework for all EM fixed income assets and <br> currencies. He developed the EMD team's sovereign risk and valuation models and has contributed to the <br> adoption and to the enhancements of the EMD investment process. Guezour holds a BA in management <br> and finance from Tours Business School (France).<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Malcolm Melville** is a Commodities and Inflation Plus Fund Co-Manager and Sentiment and Chart Ana-<br> lyst. He is also co-fund manager of the Schroder AS Commodity fund, Schroder AS Commodity TR, <br> Schroder ISF Commodity, Commodity TR LP and Schroder ISF Inflation Plus. Melville joined the firm in <br> 2010 and is also responsible for chart and sentiment analysis across the whole EMD TR and Commodities <br> group. He holds a degree in marketing from Newcastle Upon Tyne University.<br>|

---

A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment management and sub-advisory agreements is available in the Fund's Form N-CSR for the period ended January 31, 2025.

**Pricing of Fund Shares** 

The Fund determines its net asset value per share ("NAV") as of close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time, each business day). The Fund's NAV is the value of a single Fund share. The Fund determines its NAV by adding the values of its portfolio securities and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of Fund shares outstanding.

An order for Fund shares received after the close of regular trading on the NYSE will be effected at the NAV determined on the next business day.

The Fund's portfolio securities may be traded in other markets on days when the NYSE is closed. Therefore, the Fund's NAV may fluctuate on days when you do not have access to the Fund to purchase or redeem shares.

The Fund typically values its assets based on "market price." Market price for equities is typically the security's last sale price on a national securities exchange or over-the-counter, and for debt securities is typically the mean between the bid and ask prices (or the price established by an independent pricing service). Certain short-term fixed income securities are valued based on "amortized cost."

In certain circumstances, the Fund's adviser, LFI, may value Fund portfolio securities at "fair value" in accordance with applicable fair value procedures. The fair value of portfolio securities may differ from quoted or published prices for the same securities. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments, and a security's fair value price may be materially different than the value realized upon the sale of that security. LFI's role with respect to fair valuation may present certain conflicts of interest given the impact valuations can have on Fund performance.

The Fund anticipates using fair value pricing for securities primarily traded on U.S. exchanges only under very limited circumstances, such as the unexpected early closing of the exchange on which a security is traded or suspension of trading in the security. The Fund may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets, if applicable, because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund determines its NAV. The earlier close of these non-U.S. markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. If the Fund invests in foreign equity securities, it may frequently value many of those securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools to the extent available.

To the extent the Fund invests in one or more mutual funds, the Fund values underlying mutual fund shares at their respective NAVs. For more information regarding the determination of a mutual fund's NAV, including when the mutual fund will fair value its portfolio securities and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the mutual fund's prospectus and SAI.

------

**Purchase of Fund Shares** 

**How to buy shares** 

You may purchase Fund shares:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through your financial professional; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through the Transfer Agent at 800-215-6280 and obtaining an account application.

The completed application, along with a check made payable to the fund, must then be returned to Lincoln Funds Trust at the following address:

Lincoln Funds Trust

P.O. Box 182801

Columbus, OH 43218-2801

If you are making an initial purchase by mail, you must include a completed investment application (or an appropriate retirement plan application if you are opening a retirement account) with your check.

*Through your financial professional* 

Your financial professional can handle all the details of purchasing shares, including opening an account. Your financial professional may charge a separate fee for this service.

The price you pay for shares will depend on when we receive your purchase order. If a Fund's transfer agent or a sub-transfer agent receives your purchase in good order before the close of regular trading on the NYSE, which is normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, you will pay that day's closing share price, which is based on the Fund's NAV. If your order is received after the close of regular trading on the NYSE, you will pay the next business day's price. The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase order.

The Fund sells its shares at the offering price, which is the NAV.

If you participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan that offers the Fund, please consult your employer for information on how to purchase shares of the Fund through the plan, including any restrictions or limitations that may apply.

Federal law requires mutual funds to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies investors opening new accounts. Investors must provide their full name, residential or business address, Social Security or tax identification number, and date of birth. Entities, such as trusts, estates, corporations, and partnerships must also provide additional identifying documentation. For trusts, the Fund must obtain and verify identifying information for each trustee listed in the account registration. For certain legal entities, the Fund must also obtain and verify identifying information regarding beneficial owners and/or control persons. The Fund is unable to accept new accounts if any required information is not provided. If identifying information cannot be verified after opening your account, the Fund reserves the right to close your account at the then-current NAV, which may be more or less than your original investment. We may share identifying information with third parties for the purpose of verification subject to the terms of the Fund's privacy policy.

Also, the Fund may periodically close to new purchases of shares or refuse any order to buy shares if the Fund determines that doing so would be in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders.

**Purchasing Additional Fund Shares** 

Once you have an existing account, you can make additional investments at any time in any amount in the following ways:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through a financial professional.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Via the Internet or phone.* If you have an existing Lincoln Financial fund account and you have completed and returned an Electronic Investment Authorization Form, you can buy additional shares online at https://www.lfg.com/LFT or by calling Lincoln Financial at 866-436-8717.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *By mail.* You may also request a book of investment stubs for your account. Complete an investment stub and write a check for the amount you wish to invest, payable to the fund. Return the check and investment stub to Lincoln Financial.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Wire Transfer.* You may buy fund shares by bank wire transfer of same-day funds. Please call Lincoln Funds Trust at 866-436-8717 for wiring instructions. Any commercial bank can transfer same-day funds by wire. The Fund will normally accept wired funds for investment on the day received if they are received by the Fund's designated bank before the close of regular trading on the NYSE. Your bank may charge you for wiring same-day funds. Although the Fund's designated bank does not currently charge you for receiving same-day funds, it reserves the right to charge for this service. You cannot buy shares for employer-sponsored retirement plans by wire transfer.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Investment Requirements** | **Minimum Investment Requirements** |
| Class A Shares | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I Shares | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

---

------

**Which Class of Shares is Best for Me?** 

The prospectus offers you two class of fund shares: Class A and Class I.

Each share class represents investments in the same portfolio of securities, but each class has its own expense structure, as illustrated in the Fund summary – Fees and expenses section, allowing you and your financial representative to choose the class that best suits your investment needs. When you purchase shares of a Fund, you must choose a share class. Deciding which share class best suits your situation depends on a number of factors that you should discuss with your financial representative, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• How long you expect to hold your investment?

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• How much you intend to invest?

Total expenses associated with each share class. As shown in the section entitled Summary – Fees and Expenses, each share class offers a different combination of up-front and on-going expenses.

**Summary of Share Class Differences** 

*Class A Shares* 

Class A shares have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A 12b-1 distribution and servicing fee of 0.25%.

*Class I Shares* 

The following investors may purchase Class I shares if approved by Lincoln Financial:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employer-sponsored retirement plans that are clients of third-party administrators (including affiliated of Lincoln Financial) that have entered into agreements with Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bank trust departments and trust companies that have entered into agreement with Lincoln Financial and offer institutional share class pricing to their clients;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Corporate individual retirement accounts (IRAs) administered by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• College savings plans that qualify for tax-exempt treatment under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other Lincoln Financial funds and Lincoln Financial investment products;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Investors purchasing shares through an asset-based fee program that is sponsored by a registered broker-dealer or other financial institution;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Investors purchasing sales through a commission-based platform of a registered broker-dealer or other financial institution that charges you additional fees or commissions, other than those described in the prospectus and statement of additional information, and that entered into an agreement with Lincoln Financial to offer Class I shares through such a program;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Corporations, endowments, foundations, and other institutional investors that have been approved by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unaffiliated investment companies (whether registered or private) that have been approved by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Clients of a financial representative who are charged a fee for consulting or similar services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unaffiliated investment companies (whether registered or private) that have been approved by Lincoln Financial; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Current and retired employees and/or directors of Lincoln Financial or an affiliate and their immediate family members (including an employee's spouse, domestic partner, fiancé, or other family members who are living in the same household).

Class I shares have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lower annual expenses, and higher dividends, than Class A shares because of no 12b-1 fees.

**Sale of Fund Shares** 

*By mail* 

You may redeem your shares by mail by writing to:

Lincoln Funds Trust

P.O. Box 182801

Columbus, OH 43218-2801

All owners of the account must sign the request. For redemptions of more than $100,000, you must include a signature guarantee for each owner. Signature guarantees are also required when redemption proceeds are going to an address other than the address of record on the account.

*Through your financial professional* 

Your financial professional can handle all the details of redeeming your shares (selling them back to the Fund). Your financial professional may charge a separate fee for this service.

------

When you send us a properly completed request form to redeem or exchange shares, and an authorized agent or we receive the request before the close of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time), you will receive the NAV next determined after we receive your request. If we receive your request after the close of regular trading on the NYSE, you will receive the NAV next determined on the next business day. You may also have to pay taxes on the proceeds from your sale of shares. We will send you a check, normally the next business day, but no later than seven days after we receive your request to sell your shares. If you purchased your shares by check, we will wait until your check has cleared, which can take up to 15 days, before we send your redemption proceeds.

The Fund sells and redeems its shares at the NAV next determined after the Fund or its agent receives a purchase or redemption request in good order. The value of shares redeemed may be more or less than original cost. The Fund normally pays for shares redeemed within seven days after the Fund receives the redemption request. However, a Fund may suspend redemption or postpone payment for any period when (a) the NYSE closes for other than weekends and holidays; (b) the SEC restricts trading on the NYSE; (c) the SEC determines that an emergency exists, so that a fund's disposal of investment securities, or determination of NAV is not reasonably practicable; or (d) the SEC permits, by order, for the protection of fund shareholders.

The Fund typically expects to pay redemption proceeds using holdings of cash in the Fund's portfolio or using the proceeds from sales of portfolio securities. To a lesser extent, a Fund also may use borrowing arrangements to meet redemption requests. Borrowing is typically expected to be used only during stressed or abnormal market conditions, when an increased portion of the Fund's holdings may be comprised of less liquid investments, or during emergency or temporary circumstances.

**Market Timing** 

Frequent, large, or short-term purchases, redemptions, or transfers such as those associated with "market timing" transactions, may adversely affect a Fund and its investment returns. These transactions may dilute the value of Fund shares, interfere with the efficient management of the Fund's portfolio, and increase a Fund's brokerage and administrative costs. As a result, the Fund strongly discourages such trading activity. To protect the Fund and its shareholders from potentially harmful trading activity, the Board has approved certain market timing policies and procedures (the "Market Timing Procedures"). The Board may revise the Market Timing Procedures at any time and without prior notice.

Investors may seek to exploit delays between a change in the value of a Fund's portfolio holdings, and the time when that change is reflected in the NAV of the Fund's shares by purchasing or redeeming shares at NAVs that do not reflect appropriate fair value prices. This risk is more pronounced for funds investing in overseas markets, due to the time differential in pricing between U.S. and overseas markets, and thinly traded securities. The Fund seeks to deter and prevent this activity by the appropriate use of "fair value" pricing of the Fund's portfolio securities.

The Fund seeks to monitor shareholder account activities in order to detect and prevent excessive and disruptive trading practices. The Fund and LFI each reserve the right to reject, restrict, or refuse any purchase order (including exchanges) from any investor, if, in the judgment of the Fund or LFI, the transaction may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. Among other things, the Fund may monitor for any patterns of frequent purchases and sales that appear to be made in response to short-term fluctuations in share price.

Fund investors seeking to engage in market timing may deploy a variety of strategies to avoid detection. In addition, Fund shares may be held through omnibus accounts, which generally do not identify trading activity of Fund investors on an individual basis. As a result of these and other operational or technological limitations, there is no guarantee that a Fund will be able to identify or prevent market timing. Moreover, the identification of Fund investors determined to engage in transactions that may adversely affect the Fund or its investors involves judgments that are inherently subjective.

The Board may revise the Market Timing Procedures at any time as necessary and without prior notice to better detect and deter frequent, large, or short-term transfer activity to comply with state or federal regulatory requirements, and/or to impose additional or alternate restrictions on market timers (such as dollar or percentage limits on transfers). The Fund also reserves the right to implement and administer redemption fees in the future.

**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure** 

A description of the Fund's policies and procedures with respect to the Fund's disclosure of portfolio securities is available in the Fund's SAI.

**Share Classes and Distribution Arrangements** 

The Fund offers two classes of shares: Class A and Class I. Each class of shares is subject to other fees than the other classes and bears a different level of expenses. The class of shares that is best for you depends upon a number of factors, including the amount and the intended length of your investment. The following summarizes key information about each class to help you make your investment decision, including the various expenses associated with each class and the payments made to financial intermediaries for distribution and other services. More extensive information about the Fund's multi-class arrangements is included in the SAI which may be obtained from the Fund free of charge.

------

Under a Distribution and Servicing Plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("Plan"), Class A shares pay annual amounts not exceeding 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Class A shares of the Fund. The Fund pays its principal underwriter, Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("LFD"), out of the assets of the Class A shares for activities primarily intended to sell and/or service Class A shares. The Fund pays fees to LFD on an ongoing basis as compensation for the services LFD renders and the expenses LFD bears in connection with the sale and distribution of Fund shares ("distribution fees") and/or in connection with personal services rendered to Fund shareholders and the maintenance of shareholder accounts ("servicing fees").

The fees may be used to pay LFD for distribution services and sales support services provided in connection with Class A shares. The fees also may be used to pay financial intermediaries for the sales support services and related expenses and shareholder servicing fees. Shareholder servicing fees are paid to compensate financial intermediaries for the administration and servicing of shareholder accounts and are not costs which are primarily intended to result in the sale of the Fund's shares.

LFI and its affiliates, including LFD, and/or the Fund's Sub-Advisers or Underlying Funds, if any, or their affiliates, may pay additional compensation (at their own expense and not as a Fund expense) to certain affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, or other financial intermediaries (collectively, "financial intermediaries") in connection with the sale or retention of Fund shares that contain the Fund and/or shareholder servicing ("distribution assistance"). The level of payments made to a qualifying financial intermediary in any given year will vary. To the extent permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, LFD may pay or allow its affiliates to pay other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries.

If a mutual fund sponsor, distributor or other party makes greater payments to your financial intermediary for distribution assistance than sponsors or distributors of other mutual funds make to your financial intermediary, your financial intermediary and its salespersons may have a financial incentive to favor sales of shares of the mutual fund complex making the higher payments over another mutual fund complex or over other investment options. You should consult with your financial intermediary and review carefully the disclosure relating to the compensation your financial intermediary receives in connection with the investment products your financial intermediary recommends or sells to you. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments to a financial intermediary will not change a Fund's NAV, or the price of its shares, as such payments are not made from Fund assets.

The 12b-1 fee may be increased by the Fund's Board up to the maximum allowed by the Plan, without shareholder approval, in accordance with the Plan's terms. These fees are paid out of the Class A assets on an ongoing basis, and over time will increase the cost of your investment.

For more information, please see the SAI.

**Distribution Policy and Federal Income Tax Considerations** 

**Dividends and distributions** 

The Fund intends to qualify each year as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. As a regulated investment company, the Fund generally pays no federal income tax on the income and gains it distributes to you. The Fund expects to declare dividends at least semi-annually and distribute all of its net investment income, if any, to shareholders as dividends at least semi-annually. The Fund will distribute net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually, usually in December. The Fund may distribute such income dividends and capital gains more frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate federal excise or income taxes on the Fund. The amount of any distribution will vary, and there is no guarantee a Fund will pay either an income dividend or a capital gains distribution. We automatically reinvest all dividends and any capital gains, unless you direct us to do otherwise.

**Annual statements** 

Each year, a Fund will send you an annual statement (Form 1099) of your account activity to assist you in completing your federal, state and local tax returns. Distributions declared in December to shareholders of record in such month, but paid in January, are taxable as if they were paid in December.

**Tax considerations** 

*Fund distributions.* The Fund expects that its distributions, if any, will be taxable as ordinary income, capital gains, or some combination of both. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional fund shares or receive them in cash.

For federal income tax purposes, fund distributions of short-term capital gains are taxable to you as ordinary income. Fund distributions of long-term capital gains are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter how long you have owned your shares. A portion of income dividends designated by a Fund may be qualified dividend income eligible for taxation by individual shareholders at long-term capital gain rates provided certain holding period requirements are met.

Use of a fund of funds structure could affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders and may therefore increase the amount of taxes payable by shareholders.

*Sale or redemption of Fund shares.* A sale or redemption of Fund shares is a taxable event and, accordingly, a capital gain or loss may be recognized. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale.

------

*State and local taxes.* Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your Fund shares generally are subject to state and local taxes.

This discussion of dividends, distributions, and taxes is not intended or written to be used as tax advice. Because everyone's tax situation is unique, you should consult your tax professional about federal, state, local, or foreign tax consequences before making an investment in the Fund.

**Redemptions-in-kind** 

The Fund has reserved the right to pay for redemptions with portfolio securities under certain conditions. See the SAI for more information on redemptions-in-kind.

**Account Minimum** 

If you redeem shares and your account balance falls below $500, a Fund may redeem your shares after 60 days' written notice to you.

**Exchanges** 

You may generally exchange all or part of your shares for shares of the same class of another Fund. You may have to pay taxes on your exchange. When you exchange shares, you are purchasing shares in another fund, so you should be sure to get a copy of the fund's prospectus and read it carefully before buying shares through such an exchange.

**Document Delivery** 

If you have an account in the same Fund as another person or entity at your address, we send one copy of the Fund's prospectus and annual and semi-annual reports to that address, unless you elect otherwise. This will help the Fund reduce the Fund's printing and mailing expenses. We will continue to send one copy of each of these documents to that address until you notify us that you wish to receive individual materials. If you wish to receive individual materials, please call your client services representative at 800-234-3500. We will begin sending you individual copies of these documents 30 days after receiving your request.

**Payment to Financial Intermediaries** 

LFI and its affiliates, including LFD, may pay certain costs of marketing the Fund from legitimate profits. LFI and its affiliates may also share with financial intermediaries certain marketing expenses or pay for the opportunity to distribute the Fund, sponsor informational meetings, seminars, client awareness events, support for marketing materials, or business building programs. LFI and its affiliates may pay amounts from their own resources to third parties, including brokerage firms, banks, financial advisors, retirement plan service providers, and other financial intermediaries for providing record keeping, subaccounting, transaction processing and other administrative services. These payments, which may be substantial, are in addition to any fees that may be paid by a Fund for these types of services or for other services.

The amount of these payments is determined from time to time by LFI and may differ among such financial intermediaries. Such payments may provide incentives for such parties to make fund shares available to their customers and may allow a Fund greater access to such parties and their customers than would be the case if no payments were paid. Such access advantages include, but are not limited to, placement of a fund on a list of mutual funds offered as investment options to the financial intermediary's customers (sometimes referred to as "Shelf Space"); access to the financial intermediary's registered representatives; and/or ability to assist in training and educating the financial intermediary's registered representatives. These payment arrangements will not, however, change the price an investor pays for fund shares or the amount that a Fund receives to invest on behalf of the investor. These payments may create potential conflicts of interests between an investor and a financial intermediary who is recommending a particular mutual fund over other mutual funds. You may wish to consider whether such arrangements exist when evaluating any recommendations to purchase or sell fund shares, and you should contact your financial intermediary for details about any payments it may receive from the Fund or from LFI. Payments are typically based on a percentage of assets under management or based on the number of customer accounts or a combination thereof. Payments to a financial intermediary that is compensated based on its customers' assets typically vary in any given year based on assets invested in a Fund by the financial intermediary's customers.

For more information, please see the SAI.

------

**Financial Highlights** 

The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand the financial performance of the Fund's Class A and Class I shares for the past five years or since their inception (as applicable). Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. Total investment return is based on the change in net asset value of a share during the period and assumes reinvestment of dividends and distributions at net asset value. Total investment return reflects any waivers and reimbursement of expenses by the Adviser, as applicable. If this is the case, performance would have been lower had the expense limitation not been in effect. The information in the table was derived from the financial statements which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, the Fund's Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, whose report, along with the Fund's financial statements, is included in the annual report dated July 31, 2025, which is available upon request.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **10/1/24**<sup>1</sup> <br>**to**<br> **7/31/25**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **10/1/24**<sup>1</sup> <br>**to**<br> **7/31/25**<br>|
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $10.000 | $10.000 |
| **Income (loss) from investment operations:** |  |  |
| Net investment income<sup>2</sup> | 0.382 | 0.403 |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (0.129) | (0.129) |
| Total from investment operations | 0.253 | 0.274 |
| **Less dividends and distributions from:** |  |  |
| Net investment income | (0.316) | (0.337) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $9.937 | $9.937 |
| Total return<sup>3</sup> | 2.59% | 2.80% |
| **Ratios and supplemental data:** |  |  |
| Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) | $5140 | $5232 |
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | 1.35% | 1.10% |
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets prior to expenses waived/reimbursed | 6.35% | 6.10% |
| Ratio of net investment income to average net assets | 4.66% | 4.91% |
| Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets prior to expenses waived/reimbursed | (0.34%) | (0.09%) |
| Portfolio turnover | 193% | 193% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<sup>1</sup> Date of commencement of operations; ratios have been annualized and portfolio turnover and total return have not been annualized.

<sup>2</sup> The average shares outstanding method has been applied for per share information.

<sup>3</sup> Total return is based on the change in net asset value of a share during the period and assumes reinvestment of dividends and distributions at net asset value. Total return reflects waivers and/or reimbursements, if applicable, by the manager. Performance would have been lower had the waivers and/or reimbursements not been in effect.

------

**For More Information** 

You can find additional information in the Fund's SAI, which is on file with the SEC. The Fund incorporates the SAI, dated November 28, 2025, into the prospectus. The Fund will provide a free copy of the SAI upon request.

You can find detailed information about the Fund's investments in the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders and in Form N-CSR. The Fund's annual report discusses the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during its last fiscal period or year. In Form N-CSR, you will find the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements. The Fund will provide a free copy of their annual and semi-annual reports upon request.

The Fund will issue unaudited semi-annual reports showing current investments and other information; and annual financial statements audited by the Fund's independent auditors.

The SAI, annual and semi-annual reports, and other information such as the Fund's financial statements are available, free of charge, upon request. For an SAI, annual or semi-annual report or financial statements, either write Lincoln Funds Trust, P.O. Box 182801, Columbus, OH 43218, or call 866-436-8717. You may also call this number to request other information about the Fund, or to make inquiries. The Fund's SAI and annual and semi-annual reports, and other information such as the Fund's financial statements are available, free of charge, at **https://www.lincolnfinancial.com/lft**.

Reports and other information about the Fund are available on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and copies of this information may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

Investment Company Act File Number 811-23952

------

*Lincoln Funds Trust* 

**Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Class A LFTOX <br> Class I LFTPX

1301 South Harrison Street

Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802

**Prospectus** November 28, 2025

Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund (the "Fund") is a series of the Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust"). This prospectus discusses the information about the Fund that you should know before investing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

We have not authorized any dealer, salesperson, or any other person to give any information, or to make any representation, other than what this prospectus states.

------

**Table of Contents** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Item | Page |
| **[Summary](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1)** |  |
| [Investment Objective](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Fees and Expenses](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Shareholder fees](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Annual Fund Operating Expenses](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Example](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 |
| [Portfolio Turnover](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Principal Investment Strategies](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Principal Risks](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 |
| [Fund Performance](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_3) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 3 |
| [Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_3) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 3 |
| [Portfolio Manager](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_3) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 3 |
| [Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| [Tax Information](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| [Payments to Broker-Dealers and other Financial Intermediaries](#xx_920b3a4f-214d-4576-bd8a-bff41467b587_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4 |
| **[Additional Information about the Fund](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_1)** | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [More Information About the Fund's Investment Objectives](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [More Information About the Fund's Principal Investment Strategies](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [Principal Risks](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 |
| [Management and Organization](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_3) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 7 |
| [Pricing of Fund Shares](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_4) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 8 |
| [Purchase of Fund Shares](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_5) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 9 |
| [Purchasing Additional Fund Shares](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_5) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 9 |
| [Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_6) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 10 |
| [Market Timing](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_7) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 11 |
| [Portfolio Holdings Disclosure](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_8) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 12 |
| [Share Classes and Distribution Arrangements](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_8) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 12 |
| [Distribution Policy and Federal Income Tax Considerations](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_8) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 12 |
| [Redemptions-in-kind](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Account Minimum](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Exchanges](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Document Delivery](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Payment to Financial Intermediaries](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_9) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 13 |
| [Financial Highlights](#xx_411bbec3-022e-43ab-9583-31ae43819acf_11) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 |
| [For More Information](#xx_f12ba53e-0dc2-4aba-846f-a9ae8587c707_1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 16 |

---

------

**Summary**

**Investment Objective**

The investment objective of the Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund ("Fund") is to seek a high level of current income with long-term growth of capital.

**Fees and Expenses**

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the tables and examples below.** Please contact your financial intermediary for more information regarding whether you may be required to pay a brokerage commission or other fees.

**Shareholder fees** 

**(fees paid directly from your investment)**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
| Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a Percentage of offer price) | None | None |
| Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption <br> Proceeds, whichever is lower)<br>| None | None |

---

**Annual Fund Operating Expenses** 

**(Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
| Management Fee | 0.85% | 0.85% |
| Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees | 0.25% |  |
| Other Expenses | 3.75% | 3.75% |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | 4.85% | 4.60% |
| Less Expense Reimbursement<sup>1</sup> | (3.53%) | (3.53%) |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (After Expense Reimbursement) | 1.32% | 1.07% |

---

Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation (the "Adviser") has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund to the extent that the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (excluding Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses) exceed 1.32% of the Fund's average daily net assets for Class A (and 1.07% for Class I). Any reimbursements made by the Adviser are subject to recoupment from the Fund within three years after the occurrence of the reimbursement, provided that such recoupment shall not be made if it would cause annual Fund operating expenses of a class of the Fund to exceed the lesser of (a) the expense limitation in effect at the time of the reimbursement, or (b) the current expense limitation in effect, if any. The agreement will continue through at least July 31, 2026 and cannot be terminated before that date without the mutual agreement of the Fund's Board of Trustees and the Adviser.

**Example**

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example illustrates the hypothetical expenses that you would incur over the time periods indicated if you invest $10,000 in the Fund's shares. The example also assumes that the Fund provides a return of 5% a year and that operating expenses remain the same. This example reflects the net operating expenses with a fee waiver for the contractual period and the total operating expenses without a fee waiver for the remaining time periods shown below. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than this example. The results apply whether or not you redeem your investment at the end of the given period. This example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends and other distributions. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **1 year** | **3 years** | **5 years** | **10 years** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $134 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $1142 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2152 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $4691 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $109 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $1069 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2037 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $4490 |

---

------

**Portfolio Turnover**

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 18% of the average value of its portfolio.

**Principal Investment Strategies**

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA") serves as the Fund's sub-adviser. SIMNA is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's assets.

The Fund, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its assets in equity and equity related securities of U.S. companies. These are companies where the Country of Risk, as defined by Bloomberg's Global Equity Indices Methodology, is the United States. The Country of Risk is a Bloomberg proprietary value, primarily driven by four factors: country of domicile, country of listing, country of largest revenue and reporting currency. The Fund tends to focus on equity and equity related securities (including stocks and index futures) of larger, well-established companies with market capitalizations similar to those companies that comprise the top 500 U.S. companies by market capitalization. The market capitalization range of the S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index was $6.626 billion to $4.542 trillion as of September 30, 2025.

The Fund's portfolio seeks to be broadly diversified by company and industry. Based on market or economic conditions, the Fund may, through its stock selection, focus in one or more sectors of the market, though the Fund does not target any particular sector. The Fund is actively managed and invests in an index replication-style portfolio constructed from certain of the top 500 listed U.S. companies by market capitalization. The equity portfolio is constructed using an optimization process to provide exposure to the U.S. large cap market. This risk-based approach uses defined constraints (in this case, the number of holdings) and solves for the lowest available tracking error to the S&P 500 Index given this number of holdings.

The Fund may use derivatives with the aim of achieving investment gains, reducing risk, or managing the Fund more efficiently. Derivatives, which are instruments that have a value based on another instrument, exchange rate or index, may be used as substitutes for securities in which the Fund can invest. The Fund may use futures contracts, options, swaps, and other derivatives as tools in the management of portfolio assets.

The Fund receives income from dividends on equities in the portfolio and from the selective sale of short-dated covered call options on individual securities or portfolios of securities held by the Fund, by agreeing to strike prices above which potential capital growth is foregone in exchange for receiving upfront options premiums.

Selling call options may reduce participation in capital growth. In exchange for this, the Fund receives a premium income upfront. The reduction in participation means that when the stocks are rising, the Fund will generally underperform a similar, long only equity fund. As stocks fall, the Fund can benefit from the premium received from selling the call options. (The maximum outperformance in weak markets is limited to the aggregate option premium received.) Under certain circumstances, the Fund may also use index options as part of its income generation strategy.

The Fund may invest in long futures contracts, which may have the economic effect of creating leverage by creating additional investment exposure, as well as the potential for greater loss. "Leverage" means any method by which the Fund increases its investment exposure whether through the borrowing of cash or securities, or leverage embedded in derivative positions or by any other means.

**Principal Risks**

All mutual funds carry risk. Accordingly, loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund and there is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The risks below reflect the principal risks of the Fund. **An investment in a Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Market Risk.** The value of portfolio investments may decline. As a result, your investment in the Fund may decline in value and you could lose money.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Stock/Equity Investing Risk.** Equities generally fluctuate in value more than bonds and may decline significantly over short time periods. Equity prices overall may decline because stock markets tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Issuer Risk.** The prices of, and the income generated by, portfolio securities may decline in response to various factors directly related to the issuers of such securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Active Management Risk.** The portfolio investments are actively-managed, rather than tracking an index or rigidly following certain rules, which may negatively affect investment performance. Consequently, there is the risk that the methods and analyses, including models, tools and data, employed in this process may be flawed or incorrect and may not produce desired results.

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Large-Cap Company Risk.** The Fund may invest a relatively large percentage of its assets in the securities of large capitalization companies. While securities in this capitalization range may represent a significant percentage of a market, the Fund's performance may be adversely affected if securities of large capitalization companies underperform that sector or the market as a whole.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Concentration Risk.** Investments that are concentrated in particular industries, sectors or types of investments may be subject to greater risks of adverse developments in such areas of focus than investments that are spread among a wider variety of industries, sectors or investments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Derivatives Risk.** Derivatives or other similar instruments (referred to collectively as "derivatives"), such as futures, forwards, options, swaps, structured securities and other similar instruments, are financial contracts whose value depends on, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate or index. Derivatives may involve costs and risks that are different from, or possibly greater than, the costs and risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives prices can be volatile, may correlate imperfectly with price of the applicable underlying asset, reference rate or index and may move in unexpected ways, especially in unusual market conditions, such as markets with high volatility or large market declines. Some derivatives are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates. Other risks include liquidity risk, which refers to the potential inability to terminate or sell derivative positions and for derivatives to create margin delivery or settlement payment obligations for the Fund. Further, losses could result if the counterparty to a transaction does not perform as promised. Derivatives that involve a small initial investment relative to the investment risk assumed can magnify or otherwise increase investment losses. This is referred to as financial "leverage" due to the potential for greater investment loss. Derivatives are also subject to operational and legal risks.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Dividend Risk.** There is no guarantee that the issuers of the stocks held by the Fund will declare dividends in the future or that, if dividends are declared, they will remain at their current levels or increase over time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Leverage Risk.** Investment in certain derivatives, including certain futures contracts, may have the economic effect of creating financial leverage by creating additional investment exposure, as well as the potential for greater loss. Losses on derivatives may exceed the amount invested.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Non-Diversification Risk.** When a mutual fund is non-diversified, it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund. Therefore, a fund's value may decrease because of a single investment or a small number of investments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Liquidity Risk.** Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund cannot meet requests to redeem Fund-issued shares without significantly diluting the remaining investors' interest in the Fund. This may result when portfolio holdings may be difficult to value and may be difficult to sell, both at the time or price desired. Liquidity risk also may result from increased shareholder redemptions in the Fund. Actions by governments and regulators may have the effect of reducing market liquidity, market resiliency and money supply. Liquidity risk also refers to the risk that the Fund may be required to hold additional cash or sell other investments in order to obtain cash to close out derivatives or meet the liquidity demands that derivatives can create to make payments of margin, collateral, or settlement payments to counterparties. The Fund may have to sell a security at a disadvantageous time or price to meet such obligations. The Fund's liquidity risk management program requires that the Fund invest no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments.

**Fund Performance**

The Fund commenced operations on October 1, 2024. Once the Fund has at least one full calendar year of performance, a bar chart and performance table will be included in the prospectus. Please note that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.

**Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser**

Investment Adviser: Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI")

Investment Sub-Adviser: Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA")

**Portfolio Manager**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **SIMNA Portfolio Managers** | **Company Title** | **Experience with Fund** |
| Kaarthi Chandrasegaram | Fund Manager | September 27, 2024 |
| Jeegar Jagani, CFA | Fund Manager | September 27, 2024 |
| Ghokhulan Manickavasagar | Fund Manager | September 27, 2024 |
| Scott Thomson | Head of Structured Fund Management, Fund Manager | September 27, 2024 |

---

------

**Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares** 

You may purchase or redeem Fund shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares may be purchased or redeemed:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through your financial professional; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through the Transfer Agent at 800-215-6280 and obtaining an account application.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Initial Requirements:** | **Minimum Initial Requirements:** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Subsequent Investments:** | **Minimum Subsequent Investments:** |
| Class A | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

---

See the "Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares" section for more information.

**Tax Information** 

The Fund's distributions, if any, are generally taxable and may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are invested through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Such tax-deferred arrangements may be taxed later upon withdrawal of monies from those arrangements.

**Payments to Broker-Dealers and other Financial Intermediaries** 

If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank or financial professional), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your financial professional to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your financial professional or visit your financial intermediary's website for more information.

------

**Additional Information about the Fund**

**More Information About the Fund's Investment Objectives**

The Fund's investment objective is a non-fundamental policy of the Fund and may be changed by the Board without the approval of shareholders. There is no guarantee that a Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a Fund.

**More Information About the Fund's Principal Investment Strategies**

The Fund's investment policy to invest at least 80% of its assets in a particular type of investment or security is a non-fundamental policy of the Fund that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. For purposes of determining compliance with the Fund's 80% investment policy, the Fund's option exposure (which is for income generation purposes) is excluded.

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (the "SIMNA") serves as the Fund's sub-adviser. SIMNA is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's assets.

The Fund, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its net assets (including borrowings for investment purposes) in equity and equity related securities of U.S. companies. These are companies where the Country of Risk, as defined by Bloomberg's Global Equity Indices Methodology, is the United States. The Country of Risk is a Bloomberg proprietary value, primarily driven by four factors: country of domicile, country of listing, country of largest revenue and reporting currency. The Fund tends to focus on equity and equity related securities (including stocks and index futures) of larger, well-established companies with market capitalizations similar to those companies that comprise the top 500 U.S. companies by market capitalization. The market capitalization range of the S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index was $6.626 billion to $4.542 trillion as of September 30, 2025.

The Fund's portfolio seeks to be broadly diversified by company and industry. Based on market or economic conditions, the Fund may, through its stock selection, focus in one or more sectors of the market, though the Fund does not target any particular sector. The Fund is actively managed and invests in an index replication-style portfolio constructed from certain of the top 500 listed U.S. companies by market capitalization. The equity portfolio is constructed using an optimization process to provide exposure to the U.S. large cap market. This risk-based approach uses defined constraints (in this case, the number of holdings) and solves for the lowest available tracking error to the S&P 500 Index given this number of holdings. The Fund may also invest directly or indirectly in other securities (including in other asset classes), countries, regions, industries or currencies, warrants, and money market instruments, and cash.

The Fund may use derivatives with the aim of achieving investment gains, reducing risk, or managing the Fund more efficiently. Derivatives, which are instruments that have a value based on another instrument, exchange rate or index, may be used as substitutes for securities in which the Fund can invest. The Fund may use futures contracts, options, swaps, and other derivatives as tools in the management of portfolio assets.

The Fund receives income from dividends on equities in the portfolio and from the selective sale of short-dated covered call options on individual securities or portfolios of securities held by the Fund, by agreeing to strike prices above which potential capital growth is foregone in exchange for receiving upfront options premiums. A call option on a security (or index) is a contract that gives the holder of the option, in return for the payment of a "premium," the right, but not the obligation, to buy from the writer of the option the security underlying the option (or the cash value of the index) at a specified exercise price at the expiration date of the option. Under normal circumstances, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its assets in call options.

Selling call options may reduce participation in capital growth. In exchange for this, the Fund receives a premium income upfront. The reduction in participation means that when the stocks are rising, the Fund will generally underperform a similar, long only equity fund. As stocks fall, the Fund can benefit from the premium received from selling the call options. (The maximum outperformance in weak markets is limited to the aggregate option premium received.) Under certain circumstances, the Fund may also use index options as part of its income generation strategy.

The Fund may invest in long futures contracts, which may have the economic effect of creating leverage by creating additional investment exposure, as well as the potential for greater loss. "Leverage" means any method by which the Fund increases its investment exposure whether through the borrowing of cash or securities, or leverage embedded in derivative positions or by any other means.

The Fund is non-diversified for purposes of the Investment Company Act of 1940, and as a result may invest a greater percentage of assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund.

**Principal Risks**

All mutual funds carry risk. Accordingly, loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund and there is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The risks below reflect the principal risks of the Fund. **An investment in a Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.** 

------

**Market Risk.** The value of portfolio investments may decline. As a result, your investment in the Fund may decline in value and you could lose money. A decline in value could result from, among other things, a negative development of the issuer of the security, an industry, a sector of the economy, or the overall securities market. In addition, the occurrence of geopolitical conflicts, war or terrorist activities could have adverse impacts on markets in various and unpredictable ways. For instance, war, terrorism, social unrest, recessions, supply chain disruptions, market manipulation, government defaults, government shutdowns, political changes, diplomatic developments, or the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures, public health emergencies (such as the spread of infectious diseases, pandemics and epidemics) and natural/environmental disasters can all negatively impact the securities markets, which could cause the Fund to lose value.

**Stock/Equity Investing Risk.** Equities generally fluctuate in value more than bonds and may decline significantly over short time periods. Equity prices overall may decline because stock markets tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. The value of stocks may decline due to general weakness or volatility in the stock markets or because of factors that affect a particular company or industry. Stock declines may result from, among other things, political, regulatory, market, economic and/or social developments affecting the relevant market(s). In addition, increased inflation, tightening monetary policy or interest rate increases may negatively affect many issuers, which could have an adverse effect on stock prices.

**Issuer Risk.** The prices of, and the income generated by, portfolio securities may decline in response to various factors directly related to the issuers of such securities. These factors may include reduced demand for an issuer's goods or services, poor management performance, major litigation, investigations or other controversies related to the issuer, changes in the issuer's financial conditions or credit rating, changes in government regulations affecting the issuer or its competitive environment, and strategic initiatives such as mergers, acquisitions or dispositions and the market response to any such initiatives.

**Active Management Risk.** The portfolio investments are actively-managed, rather than tracking an index or rigidly following certain rules, which may negatively affect investment performance. Consequently, there is the risk that the methods and analyses, including models, tools and data, employed in this process may be flawed or incorrect and may not produce desired results. This could cause the Fund to lose value or its investment results to lag relevant benchmarks or other funds with similar objectives.

**Large-Cap Company Risk.** The Fund may invest a relatively large percentage of its assets in the securities of large capitalization companies. While securities in this capitalization range may represent a significant percentage of a market, the Fund's performance may be adversely affected if securities of large capitalization companies underperform that sector or the market as a whole.

**Concentration Risk.** Investments that are concentrated in particular industries, sectors or types of investments may be subject to greater risks of adverse developments in such areas of focus than investments that are spread among a wider variety of industries, sectors or investments. Investments in a select group of securities can be subject to a greater risk of loss and may be more volatile than investments that are more diversified.

**Derivatives Risk.** Derivatives or other similar instruments (referred to collectively as "derivatives"), such as futures, forwards, options, swaps, structured securities and other instruments, are financial contracts whose value depends on, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate or index. Derivatives may involve costs and risks that are different from, or possibly greater than, the costs and risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives prices can be volatile, may correlate imperfectly with price of the applicable underlying asset, reference rate or index and may move in unexpected ways, especially in unusual market conditions, such as markets with high volatility or large market declines. Some derivatives are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates. Further, losses could result if the counterparty to a transaction does not perform as promised. Derivatives that involve a small initial investment relative to the investment risk can magnify or otherwise increase investment losses. This is referred to as financial "leverage" due to the potential for greater investment loss. Derivatives are also subject to operational and legal risks.

The performance of a derivative generally largely depends on the performance of its underlying asset, reference rate or index. If using derivative instruments is unsuccessful, performance may be worse than if no derivatives were used. When used for hedging purposes, there is a risk, especially under extreme market conditions, that a derivative may provide no such hedging benefit. Additionally, there is no guarantee that a liquid market will exist for a derivative position or that a derivative position will be able to be terminated, particularly with respect to "over-the-counter" instruments (investments not traded on an exchange). If the Fund is unable to close out a position on an options or futures contract, for example, the Fund would remain subject to the risk of adverse price movements until the Fund is able to close out the position. Changes in the value of a derivative or other similar instrument may also create margin delivery or settlement payment obligations for the Fund. Furthermore, counterparties to over-the-counter derivative contracts present the same types of credit risk as issuers of fixed income securities, including bankruptcy or insolvency. Options and futures contracts are also subject to the creditworthiness of clearing organizations and exchanges. Futures and security options also are subject to the credit risk of futures commission merchants and broker-dealers, respectively. Derivatives can also be difficult to value, especially in declining markets.

Swap agreements may include equity, interest rate, index, total return, commodity, currency and credit default swaps. Swap agreements typically are contracts with a swap dealer, bank, or other institutional entity in which the parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on a particular set dollar or currency value of predetermined investments or instruments. Currently, some, but not all, swap transactions are subject to central clearing. Non-cleared swap agreements, including

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credit default swaps, involve greater risks than cleared swaps, including illiquidity risk and counterparty risk. Certain non-cleared swaps are subject to margin requirements that mandate the posting and collection of minimum margin amounts, which is intended to reduce some of the risks associated with these instruments. Eventually many swaps may be centrally cleared and exchange-traded. Although central clearing is expected to decrease counterparty risk because it interposes the central clearinghouse as the counterparty in bilaterally negotiated contracts, central clearing will not make swap transactions risk-free.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC") and the various exchanges have established limits referred to as "speculative position limits" on the maximum net long or net short positions that any person may hold or control in a particular futures contract, option on futures contract, and in some cases, over-the-counter transaction that is economically equivalent to certain futures or options contracts on physical commodities. Trading limits are imposed on the number of contracts that any person may trade on a particular trading day. An exchange or the CFTC may order the liquidation of positions found to be in violation of these limits and may impose sanctions or restrictions.

Changes in regulation relating to the Fund's use of derivatives and related instruments could potentially limit or impact the Fund's ability to invest in derivatives, limit the Fund's ability to employ certain strategies that use derivatives, and adversely affect the value or performance or derivatives and the Fund.

**Dividend Risk.** There is no guarantee that the issuers of the stocks held by the Fund will declare dividends in the future or that, if dividends are declared, they will remain at their current levels or increase over time. A company's ability to pay dividends depends on its financial health and earnings. Economic downturns or strategic changes within a company can lead to reduced or suspended dividend payouts.

**Leverage Risk.** Investments in certain derivatives, including certain futures contracts, may have the economic effect of creating financial leverage by creating additional investment exposure, as well as the potential for greater loss. Losses on derivatives may exceed the amount invested.

**Non-Diversification Risk.** When a mutual fund is non-diversified it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer than a diversified fund. Therefore, a fund's value may decrease because of a single investment or a small number of investments.

**Liquidity Risk**. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund cannot meet requests to redeem Fund-issued shares without significantly diluting the remaining investors' interest in the Fund. This may result when portfolio holdings may be difficult to value and may be difficult to sell, both at the time or price desired. Liquidity risk may result from increased shareholder redemptions in the Fund. An increase in shareholder redemptions could require the Fund to sell securities at reduced prices, which would in turn reduce the value of the Fund. In addition, the market for a particular holding may become illiquid due to adverse market or economic conditions, completely apart from any specific conditions in the market for a particular security. Actions by governments and regulators may have the effect of reducing market liquidity, market resiliency and money supply, such as through higher interest rates, tighter financial regulations and proposals related to open-end fund liquidity that may prevent the Fund from participating in certain markets. Liquidity risk also refers to the risk that the Fund may be required to hold additional cash or sell other investments in order to obtain cash to close out derivatives or meet the liquidity demands that derivatives can create to make payments of margin, collateral, or settlement payments to counterparties. The Fund may have to sell a security at a disadvantageous time or price to meet such obligations. The Fund's liquidity risk management program requires that the Fund invest no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments.

**Management and Organization** 

The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of the Fund oversees the business and affairs of the Fund, and has the power to amend the Fund's bylaws, to declare and pay dividends, and to generally oversee the Fund's operations.

**Manager of Managers Structure:** LFI has previously received an SEC exemptive order that permits it to operate the Fund under a "manager-of-managers" structure. This structure allows LFI (defined below as the Fund's investment adviser), subject to approval of the Board – and without the approval of shareholders – to: (i) select a new sub-adviser or additional sub-advisers for the Fund; (ii) terminate an existing sub-adviser and/or replace a sub-adviser; (iii) enter into new sub-advisory agreements and/or modify the terms of any existing sub-advisory agreement; and (iv) allocate and reallocate the Fund's assets among LFI and one or more sub-advisers. (The order does not apply to the hiring of a sub-adviser that is an affiliate of LFI.) If a new sub-adviser is hired for a Fund, the Fund will provide its shareholders with information about the new sub-adviser within 90 days of hiring. LFI has the ultimate responsibility (subject to Board oversight) to oversee, monitor and evaluate a sub-adviser's performance and to recommend the hiring, termination, and replacement of a sub-adviser.

**Investment Adviser:** Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI") is the Fund's investment adviser. LFI is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln Life. LFI's address is 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, PA 19087. LFI (or its predecessors) has served as an investment adviser to mutual funds for over 30 years. As of July 31, 2025, LFI had more than $113.1 billion in assets under management.

The Fund has entered into an Investment Management Agreement with LFI. LFI may hire one or more sub-advisers who are responsible for the Fund's day-to-day investment management. A sub-adviser is paid by LFI from its management fee.

------

A description of LFI (including the effective advisory fee rate for the most recently completed fiscal year) and the portfolio managers are shown below. The Fund's statement of additional information ("SAI") provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers' ownership of Fund shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Adviser** | LFI (advisory fee is 0.85% of the Fund's average daily net assets). |
| **Sub-Adviser** | &nbsp;&nbsp; Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA"), located at 7 Bryant Park, New York, NY <br> 10018, is a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Schroders plc, a publicly-owned holding company orga-<br> nized under the laws of England. Schroders plc and its affiliates had assets under management of approxi-<br> mately $1,064.2 billion as of June 30, 2025.<br>|
| **SIMNA Portfolio Man-**<br> **agers**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; Kaarthi Chandrasegaram, Jeegar Jagani, Ghokhulan Manickavasagar and Scott Thomson are responsible <br> for the day-to-day management of the Fund's assets.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Kaarthi Chandrasegaram** is a Fund Manager. He has managed the Maximiser funds since 2022, having <br> joined the Structured Fund Management team in 2019. Chandrasegaram joined the firm as a Trade Pro-<br> cessing Specialist in 2016. During his three years on this team, he specialized in OTC derivative electronic <br> and paper confirmations. Chandrasegaram holds a BSc in from economics from City, University of Lon-<br> don.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Jeegar Jagani, CFA,** is a Fund Manager on the Structured Fund Management team. He has managed the <br> Maximiser funds since joining the Structured Fund Management team in January 2012. Jagani joined <br> Schroders' Portfolio Solutions team in 2008 as a fund management assistant and Fund Manager in Febru-<br> ary 2009. He holds a BS in mathematics and computer science from the University of Surrey and is a CFA <br> charterholder.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Ghokhulan Manickavasagar** is a Fund Manager on the Structured Fund Management team. He has man-<br> aged the Maximiser funds since joining Structured Fund Management in August 2017. Manickavasagar's <br> investment career commenced in 2003 when he joined Schroders' Service Management Unit. He holds an <br> MS in information technology from Queen Mary, University of London and BSc in biochemistry from <br> Queen Mary, University of London.<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Scott Thomson** is the Head of Structured Fund Management and a Fund Manager. He has managed the <br> Maximiser funds since joining the Structured Fund Management team in 2009. Thomson joined Schroders <br> in 1997, managing the deal implementation team and becoming a junior fund manager on the EAFE team. <br> He joined the Investment Process Resource Unit, a quantitative fund management team, in 2004 as assis-<br> tant fund manager on an absolute return and an international 130/30 equity fund. Thomson holds a BA in <br> applied economics from the University of Abertay, Dundee.<br>|

---

A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment management and sub-advisory agreements is available in the Fund's Form N-CSR for the period ended January 31, 2025.

**Pricing of Fund Shares** 

The Fund determines its net asset value per share ("NAV") as of close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time, each business day). The Fund's NAV is the value of a single Fund share. The Fund determines its NAV by adding the values of its portfolio securities and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing by the number of Fund shares outstanding.

An order for Fund shares received after the close of regular trading on the NYSE will be effected at the NAV determined on the next business day.

The Fund's portfolio securities may be traded in other markets on days when the NYSE is closed. Therefore, the Fund's NAV may fluctuate on days when you do not have access to the Fund to purchase or redeem shares.

The Fund typically values its assets based on "market price." Market price for equities is typically the security's last sale price on a national securities exchange or over-the-counter, and for debt securities is typically the mean between the bid and ask prices (or the price established by an independent pricing service). Certain short-term fixed income securities are valued based on "amortized cost."

In certain circumstances, the Fund's adviser, LFI, may value Fund portfolio securities at "fair value" in accordance with applicable fair value procedures. The fair value of portfolio securities may differ from quoted or published prices for the same securities. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments, and a security's fair value price may be materially different than the value realized upon the sale of that security. LFI's role with respect to fair valuation may present certain conflicts of interest given the impact valuations can have on Fund performance.

------

The Fund anticipates using fair value pricing for securities primarily traded on U.S. exchanges only under very limited circumstances, such as the unexpected early closing of the exchange on which a security is traded or suspension of trading in the security. The Fund may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets, if applicable, because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund determines its NAV. The earlier close of these non-U.S. markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. If the Fund invests in foreign equity securities, it may frequently value many of those securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools to the extent available.

To the extent the Fund invests in one or more mutual funds, the Fund values underlying mutual fund shares at their respective NAVs. For more information regarding the determination of a mutual fund's NAV, including when the mutual fund will fair value its portfolio securities and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the mutual fund's prospectus and SAI.

**Purchase of Fund Shares** 

**How to buy shares** 

You may purchase Fund shares:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through your financial professional; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through the Transfer Agent at 800-215-6280 and obtaining an account application.

The completed application, along with a check made payable to the fund, must then be returned to Lincoln Funds Trust at the following address:

Lincoln Funds Trust

P.O. Box 182801

Columbus, OH 43218-2801

If you are making an initial purchase by mail, you must include a completed investment application (or an appropriate retirement plan application if you are opening a retirement account) with your check.

*Through your financial professional* 

Your financial professional can handle all the details of purchasing shares, including opening an account. Your financial professional may charge a separate fee for this service.

The price you pay for shares will depend on when we receive your purchase order. If a Fund's transfer agent or a sub-transfer agent receives your purchase in good order before the close of regular trading on the NYSE, which is normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, you will pay that day's closing share price, which is based on the Fund's NAV. If your order is received after the close of regular trading on the NYSE, you will pay the next business day's price. The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase order.

The Fund sells its shares at the offering price, which is the NAV.

If you participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan that offers the Fund, please consult your employer for information on how to purchase shares of the Fund through the plan, including any restrictions or limitations that may apply.

Federal law requires mutual funds to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies investors opening new accounts. Investors must provide their full name, residential or business address, Social Security or tax identification number, and date of birth. Entities, such as trusts, estates, corporations, and partnerships must also provide additional identifying documentation. For trusts, the Fund must obtain and verify identifying information for each trustee listed in the account registration. For certain legal entities, the Fund must also obtain and verify identifying information regarding beneficial owners and/or control persons. The Fund is unable to accept new accounts if any required information is not provided. If identifying information cannot be verified after opening your account, the Fund reserves the right to close your account at the then-current NAV, which may be more or less than your original investment. We may share identifying information with third parties for the purpose of verification subject to the terms of the Fund's privacy policy.

Also, the Fund may periodically close to new purchases of shares or refuse any order to buy shares if the Fund determines that doing so would be in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders.

**Purchasing Additional Fund Shares** 

Once you have an existing account, you can make additional investments at any time in any amount in the following ways:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through a financial professional.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Via the Internet or phone.* If you have an existing Lincoln Financial fund account and you have completed and returned an Electronic Investment Authorization Form, you can buy additional shares online at https://www.lfg.com/LFT or by calling Lincoln Financial at 866-436-8717.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *By mail.* You may also request a book of investment stubs for your account. Complete an investment stub and write a check for the amount you wish to invest, payable to the fund. Return the check and investment stub to Lincoln Financial.

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Wire Transfer.* You may buy fund shares by bank wire transfer of same-day funds. Please call Lincoln Funds Trust at 866-436-8717 for wiring instructions. Any commercial bank can transfer same-day funds by wire. The Fund will normally accept wired funds for investment on the day received if they are received by the Fund's designated bank before the close of regular trading on the NYSE. Your bank may charge you for wiring same-day funds. Although the Fund's designated bank does not currently charge you for receiving same-day funds, it reserves the right to charge for this service. You cannot buy shares for employer-sponsored retirement plans by wire transfer.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Minimum Investment Requirements** | **Minimum Investment Requirements** |
| Class A Shares | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000 |
| Class I Shares | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1000000 |

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**Which Class of Shares is Best for Me?** 

The prospectus offers you two class of fund shares: Class A and Class I.

Each share class represents investments in the same portfolio of securities, but each class has its own expense structure, as illustrated in the Fund summary – Fees and expenses section, allowing you and your financial representative to choose the class that best suits your investment needs. When you purchase shares of a Fund, you must choose a share class. Deciding which share class best suits your situation depends on a number of factors that you should discuss with your financial representative, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• How long you expect to hold your investment?

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• How much you intend to invest?

Total expenses associated with each share class. As shown in the section entitled Summary – Fees and Expenses, each share class offers a different combination of up-front and on-going expenses.

**Summary of Share Class Differences** 

*Class A Shares* 

Class A shares have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A 12b-1 distribution and servicing fee of 0.25%.

*Class I Shares* 

The following investors may purchase Class I shares if approved by Lincoln Financial:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employer-sponsored retirement plans that are clients of third-party administrators (including affiliated of Lincoln Financial) that have entered into agreements with Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bank trust departments and trust companies that have entered into agreement with Lincoln Financial and offer institutional share class pricing to their clients;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Corporate individual retirement accounts (IRAs) administered by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• College savings plans that qualify for tax-exempt treatment under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other Lincoln Financial funds and Lincoln Financial investment products;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Investors purchasing shares through an asset-based fee program that is sponsored by a registered broker-dealer or other financial institution;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Investors purchasing sales through a commission-based platform of a registered broker-dealer or other financial institution that charges you additional fees or commissions, other than those described in the prospectus and statement of additional information, and that entered into an agreement with Lincoln Financial to offer Class I shares through such a program;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Corporations, endowments, foundations, and other institutional investors that have been approved by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unaffiliated investment companies (whether registered or private) that have been approved by Lincoln Financial;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Clients of a financial representative who are charged a fee for consulting or similar services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unaffiliated investment companies (whether registered or private) that have been approved by Lincoln Financial; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Current and retired employees and/or directors of Lincoln Financial or an affiliate and their immediate family members (including an employee's spouse, domestic partner, fiancé, or other family members who are living in the same household).

Class I shares have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lower annual expenses, and higher dividends, than Class A shares because of no 12b-1 fees.

**Sale of Fund Shares** 

*By mail* 

You may redeem your shares by mail by writing to:

------

Lincoln Funds Trust

P.O. Box 182801

Columbus, OH 43218-2801

All owners of the account must sign the request. For redemptions of more than $100,000, you must include a signature guarantee for each owner. Signature guarantees are also required when redemption proceeds are going to an address other than the address of record on the account.

*Through your financial professional* 

Your financial professional can handle all the details of redeeming your shares (selling them back to the Fund). Your financial professional may charge a separate fee for this service.

When you send us a properly completed request form to redeem or exchange shares, and an authorized agent or we receive the request before the close of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time), you will receive the NAV next determined after we receive your request. If we receive your request after the close of regular trading on the NYSE, you will receive the NAV next determined on the next business day. You may also have to pay taxes on the proceeds from your sale of shares. We will send you a check, normally the next business day, but no later than seven days after we receive your request to sell your shares. If you purchased your shares by check, we will wait until your check has cleared, which can take up to 15 days, before we send your redemption proceeds.

The Fund sells and redeems its shares at the NAV next determined after the Fund or its agent receives a purchase or redemption request in good order. The value of shares redeemed may be more or less than original cost. The Fund normally pays for shares redeemed within seven days after the Fund receives the redemption request. However, a Fund may suspend redemption or postpone payment for any period when (a) the NYSE closes for other than weekends and holidays; (b) the SEC restricts trading on the NYSE; (c) the SEC determines that an emergency exists, so that a fund's disposal of investment securities, or determination of NAV is not reasonably practicable; or (d) the SEC permits, by order, for the protection of fund shareholders.

The Fund typically expects to pay redemption proceeds using holdings of cash in the Fund's portfolio or using the proceeds from sales of portfolio securities. To a lesser extent, a Fund also may use borrowing arrangements to meet redemption requests. Borrowing is typically expected to be used only during stressed or abnormal market conditions, when an increased portion of the Fund's holdings may be comprised of less liquid investments, or during emergency or temporary circumstances.

**Market Timing** 

Frequent, large, or short-term purchases, redemptions, or transfers such as those associated with "market timing" transactions, may adversely affect a Fund and its investment returns. These transactions may dilute the value of Fund shares, interfere with the efficient management of the Fund's portfolio, and increase a Fund's brokerage and administrative costs. As a result, the Fund strongly discourages such trading activity. To protect the Fund and its shareholders from potentially harmful trading activity, the Board has approved certain market timing policies and procedures (the "Market Timing Procedures"). The Board may revise the Market Timing Procedures at any time and without prior notice.

Investors may seek to exploit delays between a change in the value of a Fund's portfolio holdings, and the time when that change is reflected in the NAV of the Fund's shares by purchasing or redeeming shares at NAVs that do not reflect appropriate fair value prices. This risk is more pronounced for funds investing in overseas markets, due to the time differential in pricing between U.S. and overseas markets, and thinly traded securities. The Fund seeks to deter and prevent this activity by the appropriate use of "fair value" pricing of the Fund's portfolio securities.

The Fund seeks to monitor shareholder account activities in order to detect and prevent excessive and disruptive trading practices. The Fund and LFI each reserve the right to reject, restrict, or refuse any purchase order (including exchanges) from any investor, if, in the judgment of the Fund or LFI, the transaction may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. Among other things, the Fund may monitor for any patterns of frequent purchases and sales that appear to be made in response to short-term fluctuations in share price.

Fund investors seeking to engage in market timing may deploy a variety of strategies to avoid detection. In addition, Fund shares may be held through omnibus accounts, which generally do not identify trading activity of Fund investors on an individual basis. As a result of these and other operational or technological limitations, there is no guarantee that a Fund will be able to identify or prevent market timing. Moreover, the identification of Fund investors determined to engage in transactions that may adversely affect the Fund or its investors involves judgments that are inherently subjective.

The Board may revise the Market Timing Procedures at any time as necessary and without prior notice to better detect and deter frequent, large, or short-term transfer activity to comply with state or federal regulatory requirements, and/or to impose additional or alternate restrictions on market timers (such as dollar or percentage limits on transfers). The Fund also reserves the right to implement and administer redemption fees in the future.

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**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure** 

A description of the Fund's policies and procedures with respect to the Fund's disclosure of portfolio securities is available in the Fund's SAI.

**Share Classes and Distribution Arrangements** 

The Fund offers two classes of shares: Class A and Class I. Each class of shares is subject to other fees than the other classes and bears a different level of expenses. The class of shares that is best for you depends upon a number of factors, including the amount and the intended length of your investment. The following summarizes key information about each class to help you make your investment decision, including the various expenses associated with each class and the payments made to financial intermediaries for distribution and other services. More extensive information about the Fund's multi-class arrangements is included in the SAI which may be obtained from the Fund free of charge.

Under a Distribution and Servicing Plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("Plan"), Class A shares pay annual amounts not exceeding 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Class A shares of the Fund. The Fund pays its principal underwriter, Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("LFD"), out of the assets of the Class A shares for activities primarily intended to sell and/or service Class A shares. The Fund pays fees to LFD on an ongoing basis as compensation for the services LFD renders and the expenses LFD bears in connection with the sale and distribution of Fund shares ("distribution fees") and/or in connection with personal services rendered to Fund shareholders and the maintenance of shareholder accounts ("servicing fees").

The fees may be used to pay LFD for distribution services and sales support services provided in connection with Class A shares. The fees also may be used to pay financial intermediaries for the sales support services and related expenses and shareholder servicing fees. Shareholder servicing fees are paid to compensate financial intermediaries for the administration and servicing of shareholder accounts and are not costs which are primarily intended to result in the sale of the Fund's shares.

LFI and its affiliates, including LFD, and/or the Fund's Sub-Advisers or Underlying Funds, if any, or their affiliates, may pay additional compensation (at their own expense and not as a Fund expense) to certain affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, or other financial intermediaries (collectively, "financial intermediaries") in connection with the sale or retention of Fund shares that contain the Fund and/or shareholder servicing ("distribution assistance"). The level of payments made to a qualifying financial intermediary in any given year will vary. To the extent permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, LFD may pay or allow its affiliates to pay other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries.

If a mutual fund sponsor, distributor or other party makes greater payments to your financial intermediary for distribution assistance than sponsors or distributors of other mutual funds make to your financial intermediary, your financial intermediary and its salespersons may have a financial incentive to favor sales of shares of the mutual fund complex making the higher payments over another mutual fund complex or over other investment options. You should consult with your financial intermediary and review carefully the disclosure relating to the compensation your financial intermediary receives in connection with the investment products your financial intermediary recommends or sells to you. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments to a financial intermediary will not change a Fund's NAV, or the price of its shares, as such payments are not made from Fund assets.

The 12b-1 fee may be increased by the Fund's Board up to the maximum allowed by the Plan, without shareholder approval, in accordance with the Plan's terms. These fees are paid out of the Class A assets on an ongoing basis, and over time will increase the cost of your investment.

For more information, please see the SAI.

**Distribution Policy and Federal Income Tax Considerations** 

**Dividends and distributions** 

The Fund intends to qualify each year as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. As a regulated investment company, the Fund generally pays no federal income tax on the income and gains it distributes to you. The Fund expects to declare dividends at least semi-annually and distribute all of its net investment income, if any, to shareholders as dividends at least semi-annually. The Fund will distribute net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually, usually in December. The Fund may distribute such income dividends and capital gains more frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate federal excise or income taxes on the Fund. The amount of any distribution will vary, and there is no guarantee a Fund will pay either an income dividend or a capital gains distribution. We automatically reinvest all dividends and any capital gains, unless you direct us to do otherwise.

**Annual statements** 

Each year, a Fund will send you an annual statement (Form 1099) of your account activity to assist you in completing your federal, state and local tax returns. Distributions declared in December to shareholders of record in such month, but paid in January, are taxable as if they were paid in December.

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**Tax considerations** 

*Fund distributions.* The Fund expects that its distributions, if any, will be taxable as ordinary income, capital gains, or some combination of both. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional fund shares or receive them in cash.

For federal income tax purposes, fund distributions of short-term capital gains are taxable to you as ordinary income. Fund distributions of long-term capital gains are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter how long you have owned your shares. A portion of income dividends designated by a Fund may be qualified dividend income eligible for taxation by individual shareholders at long-term capital gain rates provided certain holding period requirements are met.

Use of a fund of funds structure could affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders and may therefore increase the amount of taxes payable by shareholders.

*Sale or redemption of Fund shares.* A sale or redemption of Fund shares is a taxable event and, accordingly, a capital gain or loss may be recognized. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale.

*State and local taxes.* Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your Fund shares generally are subject to state and local taxes.

This discussion of dividends, distributions, and taxes is not intended or written to be used as tax advice. Because everyone's tax situation is unique, you should consult your tax professional about federal, state, local, or foreign tax consequences before making an investment in the Fund.

**Redemptions-in-kind** 

The Fund has reserved the right to pay for redemptions with portfolio securities under certain conditions. See the SAI for more information on redemptions-in-kind.

**Account Minimum** 

If you redeem shares and your account balance falls below $500, a Fund may redeem your shares after 60 days' written notice to you.

**Exchanges** 

You may generally exchange all or part of your shares for shares of the same class of another Fund. You may have to pay taxes on your exchange. When you exchange shares, you are purchasing shares in another fund, so you should be sure to get a copy of the fund's prospectus and read it carefully before buying shares through such an exchange.

**Document Delivery** 

If you have an account in the same Fund as another person or entity at your address, we send one copy of the Fund's prospectus and annual and semi-annual reports to that address, unless you elect otherwise. This will help the Fund reduce the Fund's printing and mailing expenses. We will continue to send one copy of each of these documents to that address until you notify us that you wish to receive individual materials. If you wish to receive individual materials, please call your client services representative at 800-234-3500. We will begin sending you individual copies of these documents 30 days after receiving your request.

**Payment to Financial Intermediaries** 

LFI and its affiliates, including LFD, may pay certain costs of marketing the Fund from legitimate profits. LFI and its affiliates may also share with financial intermediaries certain marketing expenses or pay for the opportunity to distribute the Fund, sponsor informational meetings, seminars, client awareness events, support for marketing materials, or business building programs. LFI and its affiliates may pay amounts from their own resources to third parties, including brokerage firms, banks, financial advisors, retirement plan service providers, and other financial intermediaries for providing record keeping, subaccounting, transaction processing and other administrative services. These payments, which may be substantial, are in addition to any fees that may be paid by a Fund for these types of services or for other services.

The amount of these payments is determined from time to time by LFI and may differ among such financial intermediaries. Such payments may provide incentives for such parties to make fund shares available to their customers and may allow a Fund greater access to such parties and their customers than would be the case if no payments were paid. Such access advantages include, but are not limited to, placement of a fund on a list of mutual funds offered as investment options to the financial intermediary's customers (sometimes referred to as "Shelf Space"); access to the financial intermediary's registered representatives; and/or ability to assist in training and educating the financial intermediary's registered representatives. These payment arrangements will not, however, change the price an investor pays for fund shares or the amount that a Fund receives to invest on behalf of the investor. These payments may create potential conflicts of interests between an investor and a financial intermediary who is recommending a particular mutual fund over other mutual funds. You may wish to consider whether such arrangements exist when evaluating any recommendations to purchase or sell fund shares, and you should contact your financial intermediary for details about any payments it may receive from the

------

Fund or from LFI. Payments are typically based on a percentage of assets under management or based on the number of customer accounts or a combination thereof. Payments to a financial intermediary that is compensated based on its customers' assets typically vary in any given year based on assets invested in a Fund by the financial intermediary's customers.

For more information, please see the SAI.

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**Financial Highlights** 

The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand the financial performance of the Fund's Class A and Class I shares for the past five years or since their inception (as applicable). Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. Total investment return is based on the change in net asset value of a share during the period and assumes reinvestment of dividends and distributions at net asset value. Total investment return reflects any waivers and reimbursement of expenses by the Adviser, as applicable. If this is the case, performance would have been lower had the expense limitation not been in effect. The information in the table was derived from the financial statements which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, the Fund's Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, whose report, along with the Fund's financial statements, is included in the annual report dated July 31, 2025, which is available upon request.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Class A** | **Class I** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **10/1/24**<sup>1</sup> <br>**to**<br> **7/31/25**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **10/1/24**<sup>1</sup> <br>**to**<br> **7/31/25**<br>|
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $10.000 | $10.000 |
| **Income from investment operations:** |  |  |
| Net investment income<sup>2</sup> | —<sup>3</sup> | 0.022 |
| Net realized and unrealized gain | 0.986 | 0.987 |
| Total from investment operations | 0.986 | 1.009 |
| **Less dividends and distributions from:** |  |  |
| Net investment income | (0.005) | (0.012) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $10.981 | $10.997 |
| Total return<sup>4</sup> | 9.87% | 10.10% |
| **Ratios and supplemental data:** |  |  |
| Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) | $8251 | $8356 |
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | 1.32% | 1.07% |
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets prior to expenses waived/reimbursed | 4.85% | 4.60% |
| Ratio of net investment income to average net assets | —<sup>5</sup> | 0.25% |
| Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets prior to expenses waived/reimbursed | (3.53%) | (3.28%) |
| Portfolio turnover | 18% | 18% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<sup>1</sup> Date of commencement of operations; ratios have been annualized and portfolio turnover and total return have not been annualized.

<sup>2</sup> The average shares outstanding method has been applied for per share information.

<sup>3</sup> Per-share amount was less than $0.005.

<sup>4</sup> Total return is based on the change in net asset value of a share during the period and assumes reinvestment of dividends and distributions at net asset value. Total return reflects waivers and/or reimbursements, if applicable, by the manager. Performance would have been lower had the waivers and/or reimbursements not been in effect.

<sup>5</sup> Ratio was less than 0.005%.

------

**For More Information** 

You can find additional information in the Fund's SAI, which is on file with the SEC. The Fund incorporates the SAI, dated November 28, 2025, into the prospectus. The Fund will provide a free copy of the SAI upon request.

You can find detailed information about the Fund's investments in the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders and in Form N-CSR. The Fund's annual report discusses the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during its last fiscal period or year. In Form N-CSR, you will find the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements. The Fund will provide a free copy of their annual and semi-annual reports upon request.

The Fund will issue unaudited semi-annual reports showing current investments and other information; and annual financial statements audited by the Fund's independent auditors.

The SAI, annual and semi-annual reports, and other information such as the Fund's financial statements are available, free of charge, upon request. For an SAI, annual or semi-annual report or financial statements, either write Lincoln Funds Trust, P.O. Box 182801, Columbus, OH 43218, or call 866-436-8717. You may also call this number to request other information about the Fund, or to make inquiries. The Fund's SAI and annual and semi-annual reports, and other information such as the Fund's financial statements are available, free of charge, at **https://www.lincolnfinancial.com/lft**.

Reports and other information about the Fund are available on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and copies of this information may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

Investment Company Act File Number 811-23952

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*Lincoln Funds Trust* 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Class A**<br> **Ticker**<br>| **Class I**<br> **Ticker**<br>|
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | LFTAX | LFTEX |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | LFTOX | LFTPX |

---

1301 South Harrison Street

Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802

Statement of Additional Information November 28, 2025

This Statement of Additional Information (SAI), which is not a prospectus, provides more information about the series named in the caption — referred to as "Funds"—of Lincoln Funds Trust. Each Fund offers two classes of shares: Class A and Class I.

[Each Fund's most recent Form N-CSR to shareholders, which contains each Fund's audited financial statements, is incorporated](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0002015799/000139834425018720/fp0095488-1_ncsr.htm)[herein by reference.](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0002015799/000139834425018720/fp0095488-1_ncsr.htm)This SAI should be read in conjunction with each Fund's prospectus dated November 28, 2025, as may be amended or supplemented. You may obtain a copy of a Fund's prospectus and annual or semi-annual report upon request and without charge. Please write Lincoln Funds Trust, P.O. Box 182801, Columbus, OH 43218 or call 866-436-8717.

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**Table of Contents** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Item | Page |
| [Description of the Trust and the Funds](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_1) | 4 |
| [Fundamental Investment Restrictions](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_1) | 4 |
| [Manager of Managers](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_2) | 5 |
| [What are the Underlying Funds?](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_2) | 5 |
| [Additional Investment Strategies and Risks](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_3) | 6 |
| [Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_32) | 35 |
| [Portfolio Turnover](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_33) | 36 |
| [Trustees and Officers](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_34) | 37 |
| [Investment Adviser and Sub-Advisers](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_39) | 42 |
| [Portfolio Managers](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_40) | 43 |
| [Principal Underwriter](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_43) | 46 |
| [Securities Lending](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_43) | 46 |
| [Code of Ethics](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_43) | 46 |
| [Description of Shares](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_43) | 46 |
| [Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_44) | 47 |
| [Rule 12b-1 Plan](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_44) | 47 |
| [Revenue Sharing](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_45) | 48 |
| [Valuation of Portfolio Securities](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_45) | 48 |
| [Portfolio Holdings Disclosure](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_45) | 48 |
| [Purchase and Redemption Information](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_46) | 49 |
| [Custodian and Portfolio Accounting](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_46) | 49 |
| [Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_46) | 49 |
| [Financial Statements](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_47) | 50 |
| [Taxes](#xx_ca5b3967-dc99-4bb1-a770-3580f84ee8ab_47) | 50 |
| [Appendix A — Long and Short-Term Bond/Credit Ratings](#xx_58d86dca-fbc2-429e-a950-949a9dc24a47_1) | 55 |
| [Appendix B — Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures](#xx_3cbaa607-d3fe-436d-9f63-b3429a7967db_1) | 57 |
| [Appendix C — Compensation Structures and Methodologies of Portfolio Managers](#xx_4fe09209-41b5-4d4a-9c92-96223a1dc19d_1) | 61 |

---

------

**Description of the Trust and the Funds** 

Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust formed on July 5, 2023, is an open-end management investment company.

The Trust is currently organized and operating under a Declaration of Trust and the provisions of Delaware law governing the operation of a Delaware statutory trust. The Board of Trustees ("Board" or the "Trustees") may amend the Declaration of Trust from time to time; provided, however, that any amendment which would materially and adversely affect shareholders of the Trust as a whole, or shareholders of a particular Fund, must be approved by the holders of a majority of the Shares of the Trust or the Fund, respectively. The Trustees may, without the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting shares (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act")) of the Trust or a Fund, by a vote of a majority of the Trustees or written instrument executed by a majority of their number then in office, terminate, liquidate or reorganize any Fund or any class of Shares of any such Fund at any time by written notice to affected shareholders. The Trust is a registered open-end management investment company.

The Trust is authorized to issue Shares of beneficial interest, and may divide the Shares into two or more series, each of which evidences a pro rata ownership interest in a different investment portfolio — a "Fund." The Trustees may, without seeking shareholder approval, create additional Funds at any time.

The Funds are authorized to issue Shares of beneficial interest in one or more classes. The Funds currently offer two classes of shares: Class A and Class I. The Trustees may, without seeking shareholder approval, create additional classes of one or more Funds at any time. Shares of each class of a Fund have no par value per share, are fully paid and nonassessable, and have no conversion rights. Shares of each class of a Fund represent proportionate interests in the assets of that Fund and have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the Shares of other classes of the Fund. Shares of each class of a Fund are entitled to the dividends and distributions earned on the assets belonging to the Fund that the Board declares. Class A Shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee of up to 0.25%. Class I Shares are not subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee. Unless otherwise indicated, "Shares" in this SAI refers to all classes of Shares of the Funds.

Each Fund is non-diversified within the meaning of the 1940 Act. A "non-diversified" fund can invest a greater percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers or in any one issuer.

References to "Adviser" in this SAI include both Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI") and a Fund's sub-adviser (if applicable) unless the context otherwise indicates.

References to "each Fund," "a Fund" and "the Funds" in this SAI include the Funds and other series of the Trust.

**Fundamental Investment Restrictions** 

Each of the Funds has adopted certain fundamental policies and investment restrictions which may not be changed without a majority vote of a Fund's outstanding shares. Such majority is defined in the 1940 Act as the vote of the lesser of (1) 67% or more of the outstanding voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities are present in person or by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities. For purposes of the following restrictions: (a) all percentage limitations apply immediately after the making of an investment; and (b) any subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market fluctuations does not require elimination of any security from the portfolio (except for fundamental investment restriction 2 regarding borrowing).

Each Fund may not:

1. Make investments that will result in the concentration — as that term may be defined in the 1940 Act, any rule or order thereunder, or official interpretation thereof — of its investments in the securities of issuers primarily engaged in the same industry, provided that this restriction does not limit the Fund from investing in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or in tax-exempt securities or certificates of deposit.

2. Borrow money or issue senior securities, except as the 1940 Act, any rule or order thereunder, or official interpretation thereof, may permit.

3. Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except that the Fund may engage in transactions involving the acquisition, disposition or resale of its portfolio securities, under circumstances where it may be considered to be an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933.

4. Purchase or sell real estate, unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments and provided that this restriction does not prevent the Fund from investing in issuers which invest, deal, or otherwise engage in transactions in real estate or interests therein, or investing in securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

5. Purchase or sell physical commodities, unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments and provided that this restriction does not prevent the Fund from investing in securities that are secured by physical commodities or engaging in transactions involving financial commodities, such as financial options, financial futures contracts, options on financial futures contracts, and financial forward contracts.

6. Make loans of any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 <sup>1</sup>∕3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, provided that this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt obligations, to repurchase agreements, and to investments in loans, including assignments and participation interests.

The Securities and Exchange Commission's ("SEC") staff has taken the position that, for purposes of the concentration disclosure requirement, a fund investing more than 25% of its assets in an industry may be concentrating in that industry. See *Registration Form Used by Open-End Management Investment Companies*, Investment Company Act Release No. 23064 (Mar. 13, 1998), at note 163. Notwithstanding fundamental investment restriction 1 above, a Fund may concentrate in a particular industry to the extent that such concentration results from the Fund's tracking or replication of an index.

The 1940 Act generally permits an open-end fund to borrow money in amounts of up to one-third of the fund's total assets from banks, and to borrow up to 5% of the fund's total assets from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes. To limit the risks attendant to borrowing, the 1940 Act generally requires an open-end fund to maintain at all times an "asset coverage" of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage generally means the ratio that the value of a fund's total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings.

"Senior securities" are generally fund obligations that have a priority over the fund's shares with respect to the payment of dividends or the distribution of fund assets. The 1940 Act generally prohibits an open-end fund from issuing senior securities, except that a fund may borrow money in amounts of up to one-third of the fund's total assets from banks. A fund also may borrow an amount equal to up to 5% of the fund's total assets from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes, and these borrowings would not be considered senior securities.

**Manager of Managers** 

The Funds employ a "manager of managers" structure, which means that the Fund's investment adviser may delegate the management of some or all of the Fund's investment portfolio to one or more sub-advisers. To use this structure, the Trust has received an exemptive order from the SEC ("SEC Investment Company Act Rel. Nos. 29170 and 29197) to permit the Funds' investment adviser – with Board approval – to enter into and amend a sub-advisory agreement for a Fund without shareholder approval, subject to certain conditions. For example, within ninety days of the hiring of a new sub-adviser, a Fund is required to furnish shareholders with information that would be included in a proxy statement regarding the new sub-adviser. In addition, the Funds' Adviser is not permitted to hire affiliated sub-advisers without shareholder approval.

LFI has also received an SEC exemptive order (SEC Investment Company Act Rel. Nos. 34727 and 34749) which permits the Funds' Board of Trustees to approve new sub-advisory agreements or material amendments to an existing sub-advisory agreement at a meeting that is not in person, provided that the conditions of the order are satisfied. These conditions include, among others, the requirements that: (i) the Trustees will be able to participate in the meeting using a means of communication that allows them to hear each other simultaneously during the meeting; (ii) management will represent that the materials provided to the Board include the same information the Board would have received if approval were sought at an in-person meeting; (iii) the need for considering the proposal at a non-in-person meeting will be explained to the Board; and (iv) the Trustees will have the opportunity to object to considering the proposal at a non-in-person meeting (in which case, the Board will consider the proposal at an in-person meeting unless the objection is rescinded).

**What are the Underlying Funds?** 

Certain of the Funds are fund of funds ("Fund of Funds"), which means that the Fund of Funds invests some or all of its assets in one or more other mutual funds or exchange-traded funds ("Underlying Fund"). For this structure, the Fund of Funds may rely on certain federal securities laws that generally permit a fund to invest in affiliated and non-affiliated funds within certain percentage limitations and in other securities that are not issued by mutual funds. The Trust also has received an exemptive order from the SEC ("SEC Investment Company Act Rel. Nos. 29168 and 29196) to permit the Fund of Funds to acquire shares of affiliated and non-affiliated funds beyond the statutory limits, subject to certain conditions. The Fund of Funds may also rely on an exemptive order from the SEC issued to a sub-adviser or an Underlying Fund.

Each Fund of Funds' relative weightings in the Underlying Funds will vary over time. The Fund of Funds are not required to invest in any particular underlying fund. The Adviser or sub-adviser, as appropriate, may add, eliminate or replace underlying funds at any time and without notice and may invest in affiliated or non-affiliated funds or other types of investment securities.

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In 2020, the SEC adopted certain regulatory changes and took other actions related to the ability of an investment company to invest in another investment company. These changes include, among other things, the rescission of certain SEC exemptive relief permitting such investments in excess of statutory limits and the adoption of Rule 12d1-4, which permits such investments in excess of statutory limits, subject to certain conditions. The Fund of Funds began relying on Rule 12d1-4 as of January 19, 2021, the compliance date for the Rule.

**Additional Investment Strategies and Risks** 

The principal investment strategies each Fund uses to pursue its investment objective and the risks of those strategies are discussed in the Fund's prospectus.

Unless otherwise stated in the prospectus, investment strategies and techniques are generally discretionary. This means a Fund's Adviser may elect to engage or not engage in various strategies and techniques in its sole discretion. Investors should not assume that any particular discretionary investment technique or strategy will always or ever be employed by the Adviser to the Funds or by other mutual funds in which a Fund invests.

Information relating to each Underlying Fund is as of the Underlying Fund's most recent prospectus and SAI. For additional and more current information regarding each Underlying Fund, investors should read the Underlying Fund's current prospectus and SAI.

Below describes additional information concerning the investment strategies that the Funds may employ, either principal or discretionary, and the risks of those investment strategies.

**All Funds Investments** 

The following additional investment strategy and risk information relates to all Funds.

**Artificial Intelligence Risk**. The rapid development and increasingly widespread use of certain artificial intelligence technologies including machine learning models and generative artificial intelligence (collectively "AI Technologies"), may adversely impact markets, the overall performance of a Fund's investments, or the services provided to a Fund by its service providers. For example, issuers in which a Fund invests and/or service providers to the Funds (including, without limitation, a Fund's investment adviser, sub-adviser, fund accountant, custodian, or transfer agent) may use and/or expand the use of AI Technologies in their business operations, and the challenges with properly managing its use could result in reputational harm, competitive harm, legal liability, and/or have an adverse effect on business operations. AI Technologies are highly reliant on the collection and analysis of large amounts of data and complex algorithms, and it is possible that the information provided through use of AI Technologies could be insufficient, incomplete, inaccurate or biased, leading to adverse effects for a Fund, including, potentially, operational errors and investment losses. Additionally, the use of AI Technologies could impact the market as a whole, including by way of use by malicious actors for market manipulation, fraud and cyberattacks, and AI Technologies may face regulatory scrutiny in the future, which could limit the development of this technology and impede the growth of companies that develop and use AI Technologies. To the extent a Fund invests in companies that are involved in various aspects of AI Technologies, such Fund is particularly sensitive to the risks of those types of companies. These risks include, but are not limited to, small or limited markets for such securities, changes in business cycles, world economic growth, technological progress, rapid obsolescence, and government regulation. Such companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources, or personnel. Securities of such companies, especially smaller, start-up companies, tend to be more volatile than securities of companies that do not rely heavily on AI Technologies. Rapid change to technologies that affect a company's products could have a material adverse effect on such company's operating results. Companies that are extensively involved in AI Technologies also may rely heavily on a combination of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secret laws to establish and protect their proprietary rights in their products and technologies. There can be no assurance that the steps taken by these companies to protect their proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent the misappropriation of their technology or that competitors will not independently develop technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior to such companies' technology. Such companies may engage in significant amounts of spending on research and development, and there is no guarantee that the products or services produced by these companies will be successful. Actual usage of AI Technologies by a Fund's service providers and issuers in which a Fund invests will vary. AI Technologies and their current and potential future applications, and the regulatory frameworks within which they operate, continue to rapidly evolve, and it is impossible to predict the full extent of future applications or regulations and the associated risks to a Fund.

**Borrowing.** Each Fund may borrow money from time to time to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, any rule or order thereunder, or official interpretation thereof. This means that, in general, each Fund may borrow money from banks for any purpose in an amount up to 1/3 of the Fund's total assets. Each Fund may also borrow money for temporary purposes in an amount not to exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets.

The 1940 Act requires each Fund to maintain continuous asset coverage (that is, total assets including borrowings, less liabilities exclusive of borrowings) of 300% of the amount borrowed, with an exception for borrowings not in excess of 5% of the Fund's total assets made for temporary purposes. Any borrowings for temporary purposes in excess of 5% of a Fund's total assets must maintain continuous asset coverage. If the 300% asset coverage should decline as a result of market fluctuations or other reasons, a Fund may

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be required to sell some of its portfolio holdings within three days to reduce the debt and restore the 300% asset coverage, even though it may be disadvantageous from an investment standpoint to sell securities at that time.

Borrowing may exaggerate the effect on net asset value of any increase or decrease in the market value of a Fund's investment portfolio. Money borrowed will be subject to interest costs and other fees, which could reduce a Fund's return and may or may not be recovered by appreciation of the securities purchased. A Fund also may be required to maintain minimum average balances in connection with such borrowing or to pay a commitment or other fee to maintain a line of credit; either of these requirements would increase the cost of borrowing over the stated interest rate. In addition, purchasing securities when a Fund has borrowed money may involve an element of leverage.

**Cybersecurity.** The use of technology is more prevalent in the financial industry, including the Funds' management and operations, than in other industries. As a result, the Funds are more susceptible to risks associated with the technologies, processes and practices designed to protect networks, systems, computers, programs and data from attack, damage or unauthorized access, or "cybersecurity." Such risks may include the theft, loss, misuse, improper release, corruption and/or destruction of, or unauthorized access to, confidential or restricted data relating to the Funds or shareholders, and the compromise or failure of systems, networks, devices and applications relating to Fund operations. Cyber-attacks might potentially be carried out by persons or organizations, including foreign governments, using techniques, including electronically circumventing network security, overwhelming websites, gathering intelligence, engaging in ransomware attacks, efforts to make services unavailable to intended users and social engineering functions aimed at obtaining information necessary to gain access. In addition, power or communication outages, acts of god, information technology equipment malfunctions, operational errors, and inaccuracies within software or data processing systems may also disrupt business operations or impact critical data. Market events and disruptions also may trigger a volume of transactions that overloads current information technology and communication systems and processes, impacting the ability to conduct the Funds' operations. A cybersecurity breach may result in:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Financial losses to the Funds and shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The inability of the Funds to timely process transactions or conduct trades;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Delays or mistakes in materials provided to shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Errors or delays in the calculation of Funds' net asset values;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Violations of privacy and other laws (including those related to identity theft);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Regulatory fines, penalties and reputational damage; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Compliance and remediation costs, legal fees and other expenses.

In addition, the noted risks may adversely impact LFI, a Fund's sub-adviser, if any, the Funds' principal underwriter, administrator and other service providers to the Funds, as well as financial intermediaries and parties with which the Funds do business. These risks, in turn, could result in losses to the Funds and shareholders and disruptions to the conduct of business between the Funds, shareholders, the Funds' service providers and/or financial intermediaries. While measures have been developed that are designed to reduce cybersecurity risks and to mitigate or lessen resulting damages, there is no guarantee that those measures will be effective, especially as different or unknown risks may emerge in the future. This is particularly the case because the Funds do not directly control the cybersecurity defenses or plans of their service providers, financial intermediaries and other parties with which the Funds transact. There is also the risk that cybersecurity breaches may not be detected.

**Environment, Social, and Governance ("ESG").** Although a Fund does not seek to implement a specific ESG, impact or sustainability strategy unless disclosed in its prospectus, the Fund's investment process may integrate ESG factors with traditional fundamental factors. The weight given to any particular ESG factor varies across asset classes, sectors, and strategies and no one factor is determinative. When integrating ESG factors into the investment process, the Fund may rely on third-party data believed to be reliable, but the accuracy of such third-party data is not guaranteed. ESG information from third-party data providers may be incomplete, inaccurate, or unavailable, which may adversely impact the investment process. Moreover, ESG information, regardless of its source, is mostly based on a qualitative and subjective assessment. An element of subjectivity and discretion is therefore inherent to the interpretation and use of ESG data. While the Fund believes that consideration of ESG factors has the potential to identify financial risks and contribute to long-term performance, ESG factors may not be considered for each and every investment decision, and there is no guarantee that the consideration of ESG factors will result in better performance. Investor views on positive or negative ESG characteristics can differ, and the current lack of common standards may result in different approaches to considering ESG factors. Accordingly, the Fund may invest in companies that do not reflect the beliefs and values of any particular investor. A Fund's approach to ESG integration may evolve and develop over time, both due to a refinement of investment decision-making processes to address ESG factors and risks, and because of legal and regulatory developments.

**Illiquid Investments.** The Funds may invest in securities or other investments that are considered illiquid. An illiquid investment is any investment that may not reasonably be expected to be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A security or investment might be illiquid due to the absence of a readily available market or due to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. The adviser determines the liquidity of investments purchased by the Funds, subject to the Fund's liquidity risk management program, as approved by the Board of Trustees.

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The Funds may have to bear the expense of registering restricted securities for resale and risk the substantive delays in effecting such registration. However, the Funds may avail themselves of Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, which permits the Funds to purchase securities which have been privately placed and resell such securities to qualified institutional buyers. Certain restricted securities that are not registered for sale to the general public but can be resold to institutional investors may not be considered illiquid, provided that a dealer or institutional trading market exists.

If the value of a Fund's assets invested in illiquid investments at any time exceeds the limitation on illiquid investments, the Fund will take actions, if any are appropriate, to maintain adequate liquidity.

**Increasing Government Debt.** The total public debt of the United States as a percentage of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008-2009 financial downturn. Government agencies currently project that the United States will continue to maintain high debt levels for the foreseeable future. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.

A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause the U.S. Treasury to sell additional debt with shorter maturity periods, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that the U.S. Government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can cause declines in the valuation of currencies, and can prevent the U.S. Government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.

**Infrastructure Investments.** Infrastructure entities include companies in the business of building and maintaining physical structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, power supplies), and infrastructure projects and assets representing a broad range of businesses, types of projects and assets. The risks that may be applicable to an infrastructure entity vary based on the type of business, project or asset, its location, the developmental stage of a project and an investor's level of control over the management or operation of the entity.

Infrastructure entities are typically subject to significant government regulations and other regulatory and political risks, including expropriation; political violence or unrest, including war, sabotage or terrorism; and unanticipated regulatory changes by a government or the failure of a government to comply with international treaties and agreements. Additionally, an infrastructure entity may do business with state-owned suppliers or customers that may be unable or unwilling to fulfill their contractual obligations. Changing public perception and sentiment may also influence a government's level of support or involvement with an infrastructure entity.

Companies engaged in infrastructure development and construction and infrastructure projects or assets that have not been completed will be subject to construction risks, including construction delays; delays in obtaining permits and regulatory approvals; unforeseen expenses resulting from budget and cost overruns; inexperienced contractors and contractor errors; and problems related to project design and plans. Due to the numerous risks associated with construction and the often incomplete or unreliable data about projected revenues and income for a project, investing in the construction of an infrastructure project involves significant risks. The ability to obtain initial or additional financing for an infrastructure project is often directly tied to its stage of development and the availability of operational data. A project that is complete and operational is more likely to obtain financing than a project at an earlier stage of development. Additionally, an infrastructure entity may not be able to obtain needed additional financing, particularly during periods of turmoil in the capital markets. The cost of compliance with international standards for project finance may increase the cost of obtaining capital or financing for a project. Alternatively, an investment in debt securities of infrastructure entities may also be subject to prepayment risk if lower-cost financing becomes available.

Infrastructure projects or assets may also be subject to operational risks, including the project manager's ability to manage the project; unexpected maintenance costs; government interference with the operation of an infrastructure project or asset; obsolescence of project; and the early exit of a project's equity investors. Additionally, the operator of an infrastructure project or asset may not be able to pass along the full amount of any cost increases to customers.

An infrastructure entity may be organized under a legal regime that may provide investors with limited recourse against the entity's assets, the sponsor or other non-project assets and there may be restrictions on the ability to sell or transfer assets. Financing for infrastructure projects and assets is often secured by cash flows, underlying contracts, and project assets. An investor may have limited options and there may be significant costs associated with foreclosing upon any assets that secure repayment of a financing.

**Investment in Securities of Other Investment Companies.** Under the 1940 Act, a Fund (other than a fund of funds) generally may not own more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of an investment company, invest more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, or invest more than 10% of its total assets in the securities of investment companies. Such investments may include, but are not limited to, open-end investment companies, closed-end investment companies and unregistered investment companies.

A Fund operating as a "fund of funds" may rely on certain federal securities laws to permit it to invest in affiliated investment companies without limit, non-affiliated investment companies within the statutory limits described above and in other securities that are not issued by investment companies. The Funds have received an exemptive order from the SEC (SEC Investment Company Act Rel. 29168 and 29196) to permit a Fund to acquire shares of affiliated and non-affiliated investment companies beyond the statutory limits described above, subject to certain conditions.

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If a Fund invests its assets in shares of underlying funds, the Fund is exposed to the investments made by the underlying funds. By investing in the Fund, therefore, you indirectly assume the same types of risks as investing directly in the underlying funds. A Fund's investment performance is affected by each underlying fund's investment performance, and the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective depends, in large part, on each underlying fund's ability to meet its investment objective. In addition, Fund shareholders indirectly bear the expenses charged by the underlying funds.

In 2020, the SEC adopted certain regulatory changes and took other actions related to the ability of an investment company to invest in another investment company. These changes include, among other things, the rescission of certain SEC exemptive relief permitting such investments in excess of statutory limits and the adoption of Rule 12d1-4, which permits such investments in excess of statutory limits, subject to certain conditions. The Fund of Funds began relying on Rule 12d1-4 as of January 19, 2021, the compliance date for the Rule.

**Lincoln National Corporation (LNC) Securities.** LNC is a publicly-held insurance holding company organized under Indiana law. Through its subsidiaries, LNC provides insurance and financial services nationwide. The Funds are prohibited from directly purchasing securities issued by LNC or any affiliate thereof, except that a Fund may hold shares of LNC or affiliates thereof if the Fund is an index fund (or invests in an index fund) whose investment strategies seek to track the investment performance of a broad-based index. A Fund may indirectly hold shares of LNC or affiliates thereof if the Fund invests in underlying funds which are not advised by affiliates of LNC.

**Litigation Risk**. From time to time, a Fund may pursue or be involved as a named party in litigation arising in connection with its role or status as a shareholder, bondholder, lender or holder of portfolio investments, its own activities, or other circumstances. Litigation that affects a Fund's portfolio investments may result in the reduced value of such investments or higher portfolio turnover if the Fund determines to sell such investments. Litigation could result in significant expenses, reputational damage, increased insurance premiums, adverse judgment liabilities, settlement liabilities, injunctions, diversions of Fund resources, disruptions to Fund operations and/or other similar adverse consequences, any of which may increase the expenses incurred by a Fund or adversely affect the value of the Fund's shares.

**Money Market Instruments.** Money market instruments include bank time deposits, certificates of deposit, commercial paper, loan participations and bankers' acceptances. Bank time deposits are funds kept on deposit with a bank for a stated period of time in an interest-bearing account. Certificates of deposit are certificates issued against funds deposited in a bank or financial institution, are for a definite period of time, earn a specified rate of return, and are normally negotiable. Commercial paper is a short-term note with a maturity of up to nine months issued by banks, corporations or government bodies. Loan participations are short-term, high-quality participations in selected commercial bank loans issued by creditworthy banks.

Bankers' acceptances are short-term credit instruments used to finance commercial transactions. Generally, a bankers' acceptance is a time draft or bill of exchange drawn on a bank by an exporter or an importer to obtain a stated amount of funds to pay for specific merchandise. The draft is then accepted by a bank that, in effect, unconditionally guarantees to pay the face value of the instrument on its maturity date. Bankers' acceptances may be purchased in the secondary market at the going rate of discount for a specific maturity. Although maturities for bankers' acceptances can be as long as 270 days, most bankers' acceptances have maturities of six months or less.

Investing in debt obligations, such as money market instruments, primarily involves credit risk and interest rate risk. Credit risk is the risk that the issuer of the debt obligation will be unable to make interest or principal payments on time. A debt obligation's credit rating reflects the credit risk associated with that debt obligation. Higher-rated debt obligations involve lower credit risk than lower-rated debt obligations. Credit risk is generally higher for corporate debt obligations than for U.S. government securities. The value of debt obligations also will typically fluctuate with interest rate changes. These fluctuations can be greater for debt obligations with longer maturities. When interest rates rise, debt obligations will generally decline in value and you could lose money as a result. Periods of declining or low interest rates may negatively impact an investment's yield. A Fund may invest in collective investment vehicles, the assets of which consist principally of money market instruments.

**Operational Risk.** Each Fund is exposed to operational risks arising from a number of factors, including, but not limited to, human error, processing and communication errors, errors of the Fund's service providers, counterparties or other third-parties, failed or inadequate processes and technology or systems failures. Each Fund and the adviser (and sub-adviser, if any) seek to reduce these operational risks through controls and procedures. However, these measures do not completely eliminate such risk or address every possible risk and may be inadequate to address significant operational risks.

**Pledging Assets.** A Fund may not pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or otherwise encumber its assets in excess of 15% of its total assets (taken at current value) and then only to secure borrowings permitted by the "Borrowing" restriction. The deposit of underlying securities and other assets in escrow and other collateral arrangements with respect to margin for derivative instruments shall not be subject to the foregoing 15% requirement.

**Private companies.** The Funds may invest in private companies which can involve greater risks than those associated with investing in publicly traded companies. For example, the securities of a private company may be subject to the risk that market conditions, developments within the company, investor perception, or regulatory decisions may delay or prevent the company from ultimately

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offering its securities to the public. Furthermore, these investments are generally considered to be illiquid until a company's public offering and are often subject to additional contractual restrictions on resale that would prevent a Fund from selling their company shares for a period of time following the public offering.

Investments in private companies can offer a Fund significant growth opportunities at attractive prices. However, these investments can pose greater risk, and, consequently, there is no guarantee that positive results can be achieved in the future.

**Repurchase Agreements.** In a repurchase agreement, a Fund purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed upon price on an agreed upon date within a number of days (usually not more than seven) from the date of purchase. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed upon incremental amount that is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. A repurchase agreement involves the obligation of the seller to pay the agreed upon price, which obligation is in effect secured by the value (at least equal to the amount of the agreed upon resale price and marked-to-market daily) of the underlying security. Certain Funds may also invest in purchase and sale contracts. A purchase and sale contract is similar to a repurchase agreement, but purchase and sale contracts also provide that the purchaser receives any interest on the security paid during the period.

A Fund may engage in a repurchase agreement with respect to any security in which it is authorized to invest. While it is not possible to eliminate all risks from these transactions (particularly the possibility of a decline in the market value of the underlying securities, as well as delays and costs to a Fund in the event of bankruptcy of the seller), it is the policy of a Fund to limit repurchase agreements to those parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the adviser. In addition, the collateral will be segregated and will be marked-to-market daily to determine that the full value of the collateral, as specified in the agreement, does not decrease below 102% of the purchase price plus accrued interest. If such decrease occurs, additional collateral will be requested and, when received, added to maintain full collateralization. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial institution, a Fund will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, a Fund may incur delay and costs in selling the underlying security or may suffer a loss of principal and interest if the Fund is treated as an unsecured creditor and required to return the underlying collateral to the seller's estate.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreements.** In a reverse repurchase agreement, a Fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. Reverse repurchase agreements may be used to provide cash to satisfy unusually heavy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes without the necessity of selling portfolio securities, or to earn additional income on portfolio securities.

The Fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements only with parties that the adviser deems creditworthy. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of the Fund's assets and may be viewed as a form of leverage.

**Short Sales.** A Fund may engage in short sales, including short sales against the box. Short sales (other than against the box) are transactions in which a Fund sells an instrument it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the market value of that instrument. A short sale against the box is a short sale where at the time of the sale, the Fund owns or has the right to obtain instruments equivalent in kind and amounts. To complete a short sale transaction, the Fund must borrow the instrument to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the instrument borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at the time of replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the instrument was sold by the Fund. Until the instrument is replaced, the Fund is required to pay to the lender amounts equal to any interest or dividends which accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the instrument, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the instrument sold. There will also be other costs associated with short sales.

The Fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the instrument increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund replaces the borrowed instrument. Unlike taking a long position in an instrument by purchasing the instrument, where potential losses are limited to the purchase price, short sales have no cap on maximum loss. The Fund will realize a gain if the instrument declines in price between those dates. This result is the opposite of what one would expect from a cash purchase of a long position in an instrument.

The short sale amounts designated on the Fund's records will be marked to market daily. This may limit the Fund's investment flexibility, as well as its ability to meet redemption requests or other current obligations.

There is no guarantee that the Fund will be able to close out a short position at any particular time or at an acceptable price. During the time that the Fund is short an instrument, it is subject to the risk that the lender of the instrument will terminate the loan at a time when the Fund is unable to borrow the same instrument from another lender. If that occurs, the Fund may be "bought in" at the price required to purchase the instrument needed to close out the short position, which may be a disadvantageous price. Thus, there is a risk that a Fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available instruments or for some other reason. It is possible that the market value of the instruments a Fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the instruments a Fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing a Fund potential volatility. Short sales also involve other costs. The Fund must normally repay to the lender an amount equal to any dividends or interest that accrues while the loan is outstanding. In addition, to borrow the instrument, the Fund may be required to pay a premium. The Fund also will incur transaction costs in effecting short sales. The amount of any ultimate gain for the Fund resulting from a short sale will be decreased, and the

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amount of any ultimate loss will be increased, by the amount of premiums, dividends, interest or expenses the Fund may be required to pay in connection with the short sale.

A Fund may enter into short sales on derivative instruments with a counterparty, which will subject the Fund to the risk that the counterparty will not be able to meet its obligations.

When a Fund enters into a short sale against the box, the Fund does not immediately deliver the instruments sold and is said to have a short position in those instruments until delivery occurs. If the Fund effects a short sale of instruments against the box at a time when it has an unrealized gain on the instruments, it may be required to recognize that gain as if it had actually sold the instruments (as a "constructive sale") on the date it effects the short sale. However, such constructive sale treatment may not apply if the Fund closes out the short sale with instruments other than the appreciated Instruments held at the time of the short sale and if certain other conditions are satisfied.

**Special Purpose Acquisition Companies.** The Fund may invest in stock, warrants, and other securities of special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs) or similar special purpose entities that pool funds to seek potential acquisition or merger opportunities. A SPAC is typically a publicly traded company that raises funds through an initial public offering (IPO) for the purpose of acquiring or merging with an unaffiliated company to be identified subsequent to the SPAC's IPO. SPACs are often used as a vehicle to transition a company from private to publicly traded. The securities of a SPAC are often issued in "units" that include one share of common stock and one right or warrant (or partial right or warrant) conveying the right to purchase additional shares or partial shares. Unless and until a transaction is completed, a SPAC generally invests its assets (less a portion retained to cover expenses) in U.S. Government securities, money market fund securities and cash. To the extent the SPAC is invested in cash or similar securities, this may impact a Fund's ability to meet its investment objective. If an acquisition or merger that meets the requirements for the SPAC is not completed within a pre-established period of time, the invested funds are returned to the SPAC's shareholders, less certain permitted expenses, and any rights or warrants issued by the SPAC will expire worthless. Because SPACs and similar entities have no operating history or ongoing business other than seeking acquisitions, the value of their securities is particularly dependent on the ability of the entity's management to identify and complete a suitable transaction. Some SPACs may pursue acquisitions or mergers only within certain industries or regions, which may further increase the volatility of their securities' prices. In addition to purchasing publicly traded SPAC securities, a Fund may invest in SPACs through additional financings via securities offerings that are exempt from registration under the federal securities laws (restricted securities). No public market will exist for these restricted securities unless and until they are registered for resale with the SEC, and such securities may be considered illiquid and/or be subject to restrictions on resale. It may also be difficult to value restricted securities issued by SPACs.

An investment in a SPAC is subject to a variety of risks, including that: a significant portion of the funds raised by the SPAC for the purpose of identifying and effecting an acquisition or merger may be expended during the search for a target transaction; an attractive acquisition or merger target may not be identified and the SPAC will be required to return any remaining invested funds to shareholders; attractive acquisition or merger targets may become scarce if the number of SPACs seeking to acquire operating businesses increases; any proposed merger or acquisition may be unable to obtain the requisite approval, if any, of SPAC shareholders and/or antitrust and securities regulators; an acquisition or merger once effected may prove unsuccessful and an investment in the SPAC may lose value; the warrants or other rights with respect to the SPAC held by the Fund may expire worthless or may be repurchased or retired by the SPAC at an unfavorable price; the Fund may be delayed in receiving any redemption or liquidation proceeds from a SPAC to which it is entitled; an investment in a SPAC may be diluted by subsequent public or private offerings of securities in the SPAC or by other investors exercising existing rights to purchase securities of the SPAC; SPAC sponsors generally purchase interests in the SPAC at more favorable terms than investors in the IPO or subsequent investors on the open market; no or only a thinly traded market for shares of or interests in a SPAC may develop, leaving the Fund unable to sell its interest in a SPAC or to sell its interest only at a price below what the Fund believes is the SPAC security's value; and the values of investments in SPACs may be highly volatile and may depreciate significantly over time.

**Special Situations.** A Fund may invest in certain securities under special situations. A special situation arises when, in the adviser's opinion, the securities of a particular company will be recognized and will appreciate in value due to a specific development at that company. Developments creating a special situation might include a new product or process, a management change, a technological breakthrough or another event considered significant. Investment in special situations may carry an additional risk of loss in the event that the anticipated development does not occur or does not attract the expected attention.

A Fund may invest in the securities of companies which have been in continuous operation for less than three years, or have capitalizations of less than $250 million at the time of purchase. Securities of these companies may have limited liquidity which can result in their being priced lower than they may be otherwise. Investments in unseasoned or smaller companies are more speculative and involve greater risk than do investments in companies with established operating records or that are larger.

**Temporary Defensive Strategies.** In response to market, economic, political or other conditions, a Fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy or take temporary defensive positions that are inconsistent with the Fund's principal investment strategies, including but not limited to, holding a substantial portion of the Fund's assets in cash or cash equivalents, including securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities. If a Fund does so, different factors could affect performance and a Fund may not achieve its investment objectives.

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**Voluntary Actions and Roll-Timing Strategies.** From time to time, a Fund may voluntarily participate in actions (for example, rights offerings, conversion privileges, exchange offers, credit event settlements, etc.) where the issuer or counterparty offers securities or instruments to holders or counterparties, such as a Fund, and the acquisition is determined to be beneficial to Fund shareholders ("Voluntary Action"). Notwithstanding any percentage investment limitation listed under this "Investment Restrictions" section or any percentage investment limitation of the 1940 Act or rules thereunder, if a Fund has the opportunity to acquire a permitted security or instrument through a Voluntary Action, and the Fund will exceed a percentage investment limitation following the acquisition, it will not constitute a violation if, prior to the receipt of the securities or instruments and after announcement of the offering, the Fund sells an offsetting amount of assets that are subject to the investment limitation in question at least equal to the value of the securities or instruments to be acquired.

Unless otherwise indicated, all percentage limitations on Fund investments (as stated throughout this Statement of Additional Information or in the Prospectuses) that are not: (i) specifically included in this "Investment Restrictions" section; or (ii) imposed by the 1940 Act, rules thereunder, the Internal Revenue Code or related regulations (the "Elective Investment Restrictions"), will apply only at the time of investment unless the acquisition is a Voluntary Action. In addition and notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of this policy, certain Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions, as noted above, are also considered Elective Investment Restrictions. The percentage limitations and absolute prohibitions with respect to Elective Investment Restrictions are not applicable to a Fund's acquisition of securities or instruments through a Voluntary Action.

A Fund may engage in roll-timing strategies where the Fund seeks to extend the expiration or maturity of a position, such as a forward contract, futures contract or to-be-announced (TBA) transaction, on an underlying asset by closing out the position before expiration and contemporaneously opening a new position with respect to the same underlying asset that has substantially similar terms except for a later expiration date. Such "rolls" enable the Fund to maintain continuous investment exposure to an underlying asset beyond the expiration of the initial position without delivery of the underlying asset. Similarly, as certain standardized swap agreements transition from over-the-counter trading to mandatory exchange-trading and clearing due to the implementation of Dodd-Frank Act regulatory requirements, a Fund may "roll" an existing over-the-counter swap agreement by closing out the position before expiration and contemporaneously entering into a new exchange-traded and cleared swap agreement on the same underlying asset with substantially similar terms except for a later expiration date. These types of new positions opened contemporaneous with the closing of an existing position on the same underlying asset with substantially similar terms are collectively referred to as "Roll Transactions." Elective Investment Restrictions (defined in the preceding paragraph), which normally apply at the time of investment, do not apply to Roll Transactions (although Elective Investment Restrictions will apply to the Fund's entry into the initial position). In addition and notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of this policy, those Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions that are considered Elective Investment Restrictions for purposes of the policy on Voluntary Actions (described in the preceding paragraph) are also Elective Investment Restrictions for purposes of this policy on Roll Transactions. The Funds will test for compliance with Elective Investment Restrictions at the time of a Fund's initial entry into a position, but the percentage limitations and absolute prohibitions set forth in the Elective Investment Restrictions are not applicable to a Fund's subsequent acquisition of securities or instruments through a Roll Transaction.

**Equity Investments** 

The following additional investment strategy and risk information relates to each Fund that may invest in equity securities.

**Convertible Securities.** Convertible securities are bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a Fund is called for redemption or conversion, the Fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.

Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stock and interest rates. When the underlying common stock declines in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stock rises in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities generally are interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.

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**Equity Securities.** Equity securities, such as common stock, represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Common stock generally takes the form of shares in a corporation. In addition to common stock, equity securities may include preferred stock, convertible securities and warrants. Equity securities may decline due to general market conditions, which are not specifically related to a particular company or to factors affecting a particular industry or industries. Equity securities generally have greater price volatility than fixed-income securities.

Investments in equity securities are subject to a number of risks, including the financial risk of selecting individual companies that do not perform as anticipated and the general risk that domestic and global economies have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. Many factors affect an individual company's performance, such as the strength of its management or the demand for its products or services, and the value of a Fund's equity investments may change in response to stock market movements, information or financial results regarding the issuer, general market conditions, general economic and/or political conditions, and other factors.

**Exchange-Traded Funds ("ETFs").** ETFs are a type of fund bought and sold on a securities exchange. An ETF trades like common stock and represents a portfolio of securities. The Funds may invest in ETFs as a principal investment strategy and the Funds may also purchase an ETF to temporarily gain exposure to a portion of the U.S. or a foreign market while awaiting purchase of underlying securities. The risks of owning an ETF generally reflect the risks of owning the underlying securities they are designed to track, although lack of liquidity in the market for shares of an ETF could result in it being more volatile. In addition, investments in ETFs involve the risk that the market prices of ETF shares will fluctuate, sometimes rapidly and materially, in response to changes in the ETF's net asset value (NAV), the value of ETF holdings and supply and demand for ETF shares. Although the creation/redemption feature of ETFs generally makes it more likely that ETF shares will trade close to NAV, market volatility, lack of an active trading market for ETF shares, disruptions at market participants (such as authorized participants or market makers) and any disruptions in the ordinary functioning of the creation/redemption process may result in ETF shares trading significantly above (at a "premium") or below (at a "discount") NAV. Additionally, to the extent an ETF holds securities traded in markets that close at a different time from the ETF's listing exchange, liquidity in such securities may be reduced after the applicable closing times. Furthermore, bid/ask spreads and the resulting premium or discount to NAV of the ETF's shares may widen during the time when the ETF's listing exchange is open but after the applicable market closing, fixing or settlement times. Significant losses may result when transacting in ETF shares in these and other circumstances. Neither LFI nor the Trust can predict whether ETF shares will trade above, below or at NAV. An ETF's investment results are based on the ETF's daily NAV. Investors transacting in ETF shares in the secondary market, where market prices may differ from NAV, may experience investment results that differ from results based on the ETF's daily NAV.

**ETF Authorized Participant Concentration Risk.** For an underlying exchange-traded fund, only an "authorized participant" may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the ETF. The ETF may have a limited number of institutions that may act as authorized participants on an agency basis (i.e., on behalf of other market participants). To the extent that authorized participants exit the business or are unable to proceed with creation or redemption orders with respect to the ETF and no other authorized participant is able to step forward to create or redeem "creation units," the ETF's shares may be more likely to trade at a premium or discount to NAV and possibly face trading halts or delisting.

**Rights and Warrants.** Each Fund may invest in rights and warrants which entitle the holder to buy equity securities at a specified price for a specific period of time. Rights and warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the securities which may be purchased, nor do they represent any rights to the assets of the issuing company. The value of a right or warrant may be more volatile than the value of the underlying securities. Also, their value does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities. Warrants can be a speculative instrument. The value of a warrant may decline because of a decrease in the value of the underlying stock, the passage of time or a change in perception as to the potential of the underlying stock or any other combination. If the market price of the underlying stock is below the exercise price set forth in the warrant on the expiration date, the warrant will expire worthless. Warrants generally are freely transferable and are traded on the major stock exchanges. Rights and warrants purchased by a Fund which expire without being exercised will result in a loss to the Fund.

**Fixed Income Investments** 

The following additional investment strategy and risk information relates to each Fund that may invest in fixed-income securities.

**Asset-Backed Securities.** Asset-backed securities represent interests in pools of mortgages, loans, receivables or other assets. Payment of interest and repayment of principal may be largely dependent upon the cash flows generated by the assets backing the securities and, in certain cases, supported by letters of credit, surety bonds, or other credit enhancements. Asset-backed security values may also be affected by other factors, including changes in interest rates, the availability of information concerning the pool and its structure, the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the pool, the originator of the loans or receivables, or the entities providing any credit enhancement. If the required payments of principal and interest are not made to the trust with respect to the underlying loans after the credit enhancement is exhausted, certificate holders may experience losses or delays in payment.

For many asset-backed securities, the cash flows from the pool are split into two or more portions, called tranches, varying in risk and yield. The riskiest portion is the "equity" tranche, which bears the first loss from defaults from the bonds or loans in the pool and serves to protect the other, more senior tranches from default (though such protection is not complete). Since it is partially protected

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from defaults, a senior tranche from an asset-backed security typically has higher ratings and lower yields than its underlying securities, and may be rated investment grade. Despite the protection from the equity tranche, asset-backed security tranches can experience substantial losses.

In addition, these securities may be subject to prepayment risk. Prepayment, which occurs when unscheduled or early payments are made on the underlying obligations, may shorten the effective maturities of these securities and may lower their total returns. Additionally, asset-backed securities are also subject to maturity extension risk. This is the risk that in a period of rising interest rates, prepayments may occur at a slower than expected rate, which may cause these securities to fluctuate more widely in response to changes in interest rates.

A Fund may invest in each of collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), collateralized bond obligations ("CBOs"), collateralized loan obligations ("CLOs") and other similarly structured securities. CDOs are types of asset-backed securities. A CBO is ordinarily issued by a trust or other special purpose entity (SPE) and is typically backed by a diversified pool of fixed-income securities (which may include high risk, below investment grade securities) held by such issuer. A CLO is ordinarily issued by a trust or other SPE and is typically collateralized by a pool of loans, which may include, among others, domestic and non-U.S. senior secured loans, senior unsecured loans, and subordinate corporate loans, including loans that may be rated below investment grade or equivalent unrated loans, held by such issuer. Although certain CDOs may benefit from credit enhancement in the form of a senior-subordinate structure, over-collateralization or bond insurance, such enhancement may not always be present, and may fail to protect a Fund against the risk of loss on default of the collateral. Certain CDO issuers may use derivatives contracts to create synthetic exposure to assets rather than holding such assets directly, which entails the risks of derivative instruments described elsewhere in this SAI. CDOs may charge management fees and administrative expenses, which are in addition to those of a Fund.

Interest on certain tranches of a CDO may be paid in kind or deferred and capitalized (paid in the form of obligations of the same type rather than cash), which involves continued exposure to default risk with respect to such payments. The risks of an investment in a CDO depend largely on the type of the collateral securities and the class of the CDO in which a Fund invests. Normally, CBOs, CLOs and other CDOs are privately offered and sold, and thus are not registered under the securities laws. As a result, investments in CDOs may be illiquid. However, an active dealer market may exist for CDOs, allowing a CDO to qualify for Rule 144A transactions. In addition to the normal risks associated with fixed-income securities and asset-backed securities, CDOs carry additional risks including, but not limited to: (i) the possibility that distributions from collateral securities will not be adequate to make interest or other payments; (ii) the risk that the collateral may default or decline in value or be downgraded, if rated by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization; (iii) a Fund may invest in tranches of CDOs that are subordinate to other tranches; (iv) the structure and complexity of the transaction and the legal documents could lead to disputes among investors regarding the characterization of proceeds; (v) the investment return achieved by a Fund could be significantly different than those predicted by financial models; (vi) the lack of a readily available secondary market for CDOs; (vii) risk of forced fire sale liquidation due to technical defaults such as coverage test failures; and (viii) the CDO's manager may perform poorly.

**Bank Capital Securities.** The Fund may invest in bank capital securities. Bank capital securities are issued by banks to help fulfill their regulatory capital requirements. There are two common types of bank capital: Tier I and Tier II. Bank capital is generally, but not always, of investment grade quality. Tier I securities often take the form of trust preferred securities. Tier II securities are commonly thought of as hybrids of debt and preferred stock, are often perpetual (with no maturity date), callable and, under certain conditions, allow for the issuer bank to withhold payment of interest until a later date.

**Bank Holding Company - Trust Preferred Securities.** The Fund may invest in trust preferred securities. Trust preferred securities have the characteristics of both subordinated debt and preferred stock. Generally, trust preferred securities are issued by a trust that is wholly-owned by a financial institution or other corporate entity, typically a bank holding company. The financial institution creates the trust and owns the trust's common securities. The trust uses the sale proceeds of its common securities to purchase subordinated debt issued by the financial institution. The financial institution uses the proceeds from the subordinated debt sale to increase its capital while the trust receives periodic interest payments from the financial institution for holding the subordinated debt. The trust uses the funds received to make dividend payments to the holders of the trust preferred securities. The primary advantage of this structure is that the trust preferred securities are treated by the financial institution as debt securities for tax purposes and as equity for the calculation of capital requirements.

Trust preferred securities typically bear a market rate coupon comparable to interest rates available on debt of a similarly rated issuer. Typical characteristics include long-term maturities, early redemption by the issuer, periodic fixed or variable interest payments, and maturities at face value. Holders of trust preferred securities have limited voting rights to control the activities of the trust and no voting rights with respect to the financial institution. The market value of trust preferred securities may be more volatile than those of conventional debt securities. Trust preferred securities may be issued in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 and subject to restrictions on resale. There can be no assurance as to the liquidity of trust preferred securities and the ability of holders, such as a Fund, to sell their holdings. In identifying the risks of the trust preferred securities, the Fund will look to the condition of the financial institution as the trust typically has no business operations other than to issue the trust preferred securities. If the financial institution defaults on interest payments to the trust, the trust will not be able to make dividend payments to holders of its securities, such as a Fund.

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**Bank Obligations.** Bank obligations in which the Fund may invest include certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, and fixed time deposits. Certificates of deposit are negotiable certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank for a definite period of time and earning a specified return. Bankers' acceptances are negotiable drafts or bills of exchange, normally drawn by an importer or exporter to pay for specific merchandise, which are "accepted" by a bank, meaning, in effect, that the bank unconditionally agrees to pay the face value of the instrument on maturity. Fixed time deposits are bank obligations payable at a stated maturity date and bearing interest at a fixed rate. Fixed time deposits may be withdrawn on demand by the investor, but may be subject to early withdrawal penalties which vary depending upon market conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. There are no contractual restrictions on the right to transfer a beneficial interest in a fixed time deposit to a third party, although there is no market for such deposits. A Fund will not invest in fixed time deposits which: (1) are not subject to prepayment; or (2) provide for withdrawal penalties upon prepayment (other than overnight deposits) if, in the aggregate, more than 15% of its net assets would be invested in such deposits, repurchase agreements with remaining maturities of more than seven days and other illiquid assets.

The activities of U.S. banks and most foreign banks are subject to comprehensive regulations which, in the case of U.S. regulations, have undergone substantial changes in the past decade and are subject to continued legislative and regulatory scrutiny. The enactment of new legislation or regulations, as well as changes in interpretation and enforcement of current laws, may affect the manner of operations and profitability of U.S. and foreign banks. Significant developments in the U.S. banking industry have included increased competition from other types of financial institutions, increased acquisition activity and geographic expansion. Banks may be particularly susceptible to certain economic factors, such as interest rate changes and adverse developments in the market for real estate. Fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles can affect the availability and cost of funds, loan demand and asset quality and thereby impact the earnings and financial conditions of banks.

Obligations of foreign banks involve somewhat different investment risks than those affecting obligations of United States banks, including the possibilities that their liquidity could be impaired because of future political and economic developments, that their obligations may be less marketable than comparable obligations of United States banks, that a foreign jurisdiction might impose withholding taxes on interest income payable on those obligations, that foreign deposits may be seized or nationalized, that foreign governmental restrictions such as exchange controls may be adopted which might adversely affect the payment of principal and interest on those obligations and that the selection of those obligations may be more difficult because there may be less publicly available information concerning foreign banks or the accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements applicable to foreign banks may differ from those applicable to United States banks. Foreign banks are not generally subject to examination by any United States Government agency or instrumentality.

**Creditor Liability and Participation on Creditor Committees.** Generally, when the Fund holds bonds or other similar fixed income securities of an issuer, the Fund becomes a creditor of the issuer. If a Fund is a creditor of an issuer, it may be subject to challenges related to the securities that it holds, either in connection with the bankruptcy of the issuer or in connection with another action brought by other creditors of the issuer, shareholders of the issuer or the issuer itself. A Fund may from time to time participate on committees formed by creditors to negotiate with the management of financially troubled issuers of securities held by the Fund. Such participation may subject a Fund to expenses such as legal fees and may make a Fund an "insider" of the issuer for purposes of federal securities law, and therefore may restrict such Fund's ability to trade in or acquire additional positions in a particular security when it might otherwise desire to do so. Participation by a Fund on such committees also may expose the Fund to potential liabilities under federal bankruptcy law or other laws governing the rights of creditors and debtors. A Fund will participate on such committees only when the Adviser believes that such participation is necessary or desirable to enforce the Fund's rights as a creditor or to protect the value of securities held by the Fund. Further, the Adviser has the authority to represent the Trust, or any Fund(s) thereof, on creditors' committees or similar committees and generally with respect to challenges related to the securities held by the Fund relating to the bankruptcy of an issuer or in connection with another action brought by other creditors of the issuer, shareholders of the issuer or the issuer itself.

**Debt and Other Fixed-Income Securities.** Fixed-income securities include, but are not limited to, preferred stocks, warrants, stock rights, corporate bonds and debentures and longer-term government securities, Brady Bonds, zero coupon bonds and pay-in-kind bonds. Fixed-income securities also include mortgage-backed securities, which are debt obligations issued by government agencies and other non-government agency issuers. Mortgage-backed securities include obligations backed by a mortgage or pool of mortgages and direct interests in an underlying pool of mortgages. Mortgage-backed securities also include collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs). The mortgages involved could be those on commercial or residential real estate properties. Fixed-income securities may be issued by U.S. companies, the U.S. Government and its agencies and instrumentalities, foreign companies, foreign governments and their agencies and instrumentalities, and supranational organizations such as (but not limited to) the European Economic Community and the World Bank, or other issuers. The rate of interest on a fixed-income security may be fixed, floating or variable. Floating and variable rate securities provide for a periodic adjustment in the interest rate paid on the obligations. The adjustment intervals may be regular, and range from daily up to annually, or may be event based, such as based on a change in the prime rate.

The income earned by a Fund on investments in floating and variable rate securities will generally increase or decrease along with movements in the relevant index, benchmark or base lending rate. Thus, a Fund's income on such investments will be more unpredictable than the income earned on such investments with a fixed rate of interest.

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Brady Bonds are debt securities issued under the framework of the Brady Plan as a mechanism for debtor nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness (generally, commercial bank debt). Zero coupon bonds are debt obligations which do not entitle the holder to any periodic payments of interest prior to maturity or a specified date when the securities begin paying current interest, and therefore are issued and traded at a discount from their face amounts or par value. Pay-in-kind bonds pay interest through the issuance to holders of additional securities.

As a general matter, the value of debt securities will fluctuate with changes in interest rates, and these fluctuations can be greater for debt securities with longer maturities. The market value of debt securities typically varies inversely to changes in prevailing interest rates. In periods of declining interest rates, the values of debt securities typically increase. In periods of rising interest rates, the values of those securities typically decrease. These fluctuations in the value of debt securities may cause the value of a Fund's shares to fluctuate in value.

A Fund's share price and yield also depend, in part, on the quality of its investments. U.S. Government securities generally are of high quality. Debt securities that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States (including those of foreign governments) may be affected by changes in the creditworthiness of the issuer of the security. The prices of investment grade bonds generally fluctuate less than the prices of bonds that are below investment grade. Investment grade bonds are those rated at the time of purchase in the top four credit rating categories of Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) or Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC (S&P), or their equivalents from other nationally recognized rating agencies, or are unrated securities judged by the adviser to be of comparable value.

**Delayed Delivery and When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments.** Some Funds may purchase securities on a delayed delivery or when-issued basis and may purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis. When such transactions are negotiated, the price is fixed at the time of the commitment, but delivery and payment can take place a month or more after the date of the commitment. The securities so purchased are subject to market fluctuation and no interest accrues to the purchaser during this period. The Fund may sell the securities before the settlement date, if it is deemed advisable. At the time a Fund makes the commitment to purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, the Fund will record the transaction and thereafter reflect the value, each day, of such security in determining the net asset value of the Fund. At the time of delivery of the securities, the value may be more or less than the purchase price. Subject to this requirement, a Fund may purchase securities on such basis without limit. An increase in the percentage of a Fund's assets committed to the purchase of securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis may increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value.

**Exchange-Traded Notes ("ETNs").** A Fund may invest in ETNs. ETNs are typically notes representing senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt of the issuer, usually a financial institution. ETNs combine both aspects of bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of one or more underlying assets, reference rates or indexes, minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the specific asset, index or rate (reference instrument) to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs do not make periodic interest payments, and principal is not protected.

The value of an ETN may be influenced by, among other things, time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying markets, changes in the applicable interest rates, the performance of the reference instrument, changes in the issuer's credit rating and economic, legal, political or geographic events that affect the reference instrument. An ETN that is tied to a reference instrument may not replicate the performance of the reference instrument. ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable reference instrument. Some ETNs that use leverage can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Levered ETNs are subject to the same risk as other instruments that use leverage in any form. While leverage allows for greater potential return, the potential for loss is also greater. Finally, additional losses may be incurred if the investment loses value because, in addition to the money lost on the investment, the loan still needs to be repaid.

Because the return on the ETN is dependent on the issuer's ability or willingness to meet its obligations, the value of the ETN may change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating, despite no change in the underlying reference instrument. The market value of ETN shares may differ from the value of the reference instrument. This difference in price may be due to the fact that the supply and demand in the market for ETN shares at any point in time is not always identical to the supply and demand in the market for the assets underlying the reference instrument that the ETN seeks to track. ETNs are also subject to tax risk. No assurance can be given that the Internal Revenue Service will accept, or a court will uphold, how a Fund characterizes and treat ETNs for tax purposes.

There may be restrictions on a Fund's right to redeem its investment in an ETN, which are generally meant to be held until maturity. A Fund's decision to sell its ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market. An investor in an ETN could lose some or all of the amount invested.

**High Yield Fixed-Income Securities ("Junk" Bonds).** Debt securities rated below investment grade by the primary rating agencies (bonds rated Ba or lower by Moody's or BB or lower by S&P, or their equivalents from other nationally recognized rating agencies) constitute lower-rated fixed-income securities (commonly referred to as high yield bonds or "junk" bonds). See Appendix A to the SAI for a description of these ratings. Unrated bonds or bonds with split ratings are included in this limit if the adviser determines that these securities have the same characteristics as non-investment-grade bonds.

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High yield bonds involve a higher degree of credit risk, that is, the risk that the issuer will not make interest or principal payments when due. In the event of an unanticipated default, a Fund would experience a reduction in its income, and could expect a decline in the market value of the securities affected. More careful analysis of the financial condition of each issuer of high yield bonds is necessary. During an economic downturn or substantial period of rising interest rates, issuers of high yield bonds may experience financial stress which would adversely affect their ability to honor their principal and interest payment obligations, to meet projected business goals, and to obtain additional financing.

The market prices of high yield bonds are generally less sensitive to interest rate changes than higher-rated investments, but more sensitive to adverse economic or political changes, or in the case of corporate issuers, to individual corporate developments. Periods of economic or political uncertainty and change can be expected to result in volatility of prices of high yield bonds. High yield bonds also may have less liquid markets than higher-rated securities, and their liquidity as well as their value may be negatively affected by adverse economic conditions. Adverse publicity and investor perceptions as well as new or proposed laws also may have a negative impact on the market for high yield bonds.

The market for high yield bonds may be less active than that for higher-rated debt securities, which may make it difficult to value these securities. If market quotations are not available, high yield bonds will be "fair valued" in accordance with a Fund's procedures. Judgment plays a greater role in valuing high yield bonds than is the case for securities for which more external sources for quotations and last-sale information are available.

**Inverse Floater.** The Fund also may invest in inverse floating rate debt instruments ("inverse floaters"). The interest rate on an inverse floater resets in the opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floating rate security may exhibit greater price volatility than a fixed rate obligation of similar credit quality. The Fund may invest up to 5% of its total assets in any combination of mortgage-related and or other asset-backed interest only, principal only, or inverse floater securities. To the extent permitted by the Fund's investment objectives and general investment policies, a Fund may invest in residual interest bonds without limitation.

**Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments.** Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by corporate, governmental, or other borrowers to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation.

Purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. The rate of interest on a loan may be fixed, floating or variable. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of the borrower's failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of developing countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.

Investments in loans directly or through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary.

A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.

Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring the Fund to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.

**Mortgage-Related Securities.** Mortgage-related securities are issued by government and non-government entities such as banks, mortgage lenders, or other institutions. A mortgage-related security is an obligation of the issuer backed by a mortgage or pool of mortgages or a direct interest in an underlying pool of mortgages. Some mortgage-related securities make payments of both principal and interest at a range of specified intervals; others make semiannual interest payments at a predetermined rate and repay principal at maturity (like a typical bond). Mortgage-related securities are based on different types of mortgages, including those on commercial

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real estate (CMBS) or residential properties (RMBS). Stripped mortgage-related securities are created when the interest and principal components of a mortgage-related security are separated and sold as individual securities. In the case of a stripped mortgage-related security, the holder of the "principal-only" security (PO) receives the principal payments made by the underlying mortgage, while the holder of the "interest-only" security (IO) receives interest payments from the same underlying mortgage.

Mortgage-related securities include collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs). CMOs are mortgage-backed bonds whose underlying value is the mortgages that are collected into different pools according to their maturity. CMOs are issued by U.S. government agencies and private issuers. REMICs are privately issued mortgage-backed bonds whose underlying value is a fixed pool of mortgages secured by an interest in real property. Like CMOs, REMICs offer different pools according to the underlying mortgages' maturity. CMOs and REMICs issued by private entities — so-called "non-agency mortgage-backed securities"—are not collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies, or instrumentalities.

As CMOs have evolved, some classes of CMO bonds have become more common. For example, the Funds may invest in parallel-pay and planned amortization class ("PAC") CMOs and multi- class pass through certificates. Parallel-pay CMOs and multi-class pass-through certificates are structured to provide payments of principal on each payment date to more than one class. These simultaneous payments are taken into account in calculating the stated maturity date or final distribution date of each class, which, as with other CMO and multi-class pass-through structures, must be retired by its stated maturity date or final distribution date but may be retired earlier. PACs generally require payments of a specified amount of principal on each payment date. PACs are parallel-pay CMOs with the required principal amount on such securities having the highest priority after interest has been paid to all classes. Any CMO or multi-class pass through structure that includes PAC securities must also have support tranches — known as support bonds, companion bonds or non-PAC bonds — which lend or absorb principal cash flows to allow the PAC securities to maintain their stated maturities and final distribution dates within a range of actual prepayment experience. These support tranches are subject to a higher level of maturity risk compared to other mortgage-related securities, and usually provide a higher yield to compensate investors. If principal cash flows are received in amounts outside a pre-determined range such that the support bonds cannot lend or absorb sufficient cash flows to the PAC securities as intended, the PAC securities are subject to heightened maturity risk. Consistent with a Fund's investment objectives and policies, a Fund may invest in various tranches of CMO bonds, including support bonds.

Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs are pass-through securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"), respectively. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which guarantee payment of interest and repayment of principal on Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs, respectively, are federally chartered corporations supervised by the U.S. Government that act as governmental instrumentalities under authority granted by Congress. Fannie Mae is authorized to borrow from the U.S. Treasury to meet its obligations. Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. However, in 2008, due to concerns related to the mortgage crisis, the Federal Housing Finance Agency placed these agencies into conservatorship and the U.S. government provided them with financial support.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency and the White House have made public statements regarding plans to consider ending the conservatorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In the event that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are taken out of conservatorship, it is unclear how the capital structure of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would be constructed and what effects, if any, there may be on their creditworthiness and guarantees of certain mortgage-backed securities. Should Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's conservatorship end, there could be an adverse impact on the value of their securities, which could cause losses to a Fund. In addition, under the direction of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have entered into a joint initiative to develop a common securitization platform for the issuance of a uniform mortgage-backed security (the "Single Security Initiative") that aligns the characteristics of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac certificates. The Single Security Initiative was implemented in June 2019, and the effects it may have on the market for mortgage-backed securities are uncertain. There is no assurance that the U.S. government or its agencies will provide Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae with financial support in the future.

The value of mortgage-related securities may change due to shifts in the market's perception of issuers and changes in interest rates. In addition, regulatory or tax changes may adversely affect the mortgage-related securities market as a whole. Non-government mortgage-related securities may offer higher yields than those issued by government entities, but also may be subject to greater price changes than government issues. Mortgage-related securities are subject to prepayment risk, which is the risk that early principal payments made on the underlying mortgages, usually in response to a reduction in interest rates, will result in the return of principal to the investor, causing it to be invested subsequently at a lower current interest rate. Alternatively, in a rising interest rate environment, mortgage-related security values may be adversely affected when prepayments on underlying mortgages do not occur as anticipated, resulting in the extension of the security's effective maturity and the related increase in interest rate sensitivity of a longer-term instrument (extension risk). The prices of stripped mortgage-related securities tend to be more volatile in response to changes in interest rates than those of non-stripped mortgage-related securities.

**Municipal Bonds.** A Fund may invest in obligations issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States and the District of Columbia and their political subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities, the payments from which, in the opinion of bond counsel to the issuer, are excludable from gross income for Federal income tax purposes (Municipal Bonds). A Fund may also invest in Municipal Bonds that pay interest excludable from gross income for purposes of state and local income taxes of the designated state and/or allow the value of a Fund's shares to be exempt from state and local taxes of the designated state (State Municipal

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Bonds). A Fund may also invest in securities not issued by or on behalf of a state or territory or by an agency or instrumentality thereof, if the manager believes such securities to pay interest excludable from gross income for purposes of Federal income tax and state and local income taxes of the designated state and/or state and local personal property taxes of the designated state (Non-Municipal Tax-Exempt Securities). Non-Municipal Tax-Exempt Securities could include trust certificates or other instruments evidencing interest in one or more long term municipal securities. Non-Municipal Tax-Exempt Securities also may include securities issued by other investment companies that invest in municipal bonds, to the extent such investments are permitted by applicable law. Other types of Municipal Bonds include, but are not limited to, moral obligation bonds, municipal notes, municipal lease obligations, tender option bonds, variable rate demand obligations, municipal interest rate swap transactions, insured municipal bonds and Build America bonds.

The issuer of Municipal Bonds pays a fixed, floating or variable rate of interest, and must repay the principal at maturity. The risks and special considerations involved in investment in Municipal Bonds vary with the types of instruments being acquired. Investments in Non-Municipal Tax-Exempt Securities may present similar risks, depending on the particular product. Certain instruments in which a Fund may invest may be characterized as derivatives.

The value of the Municipal Bonds may be highly sensitive to events affecting the fiscal stability of the municipalities, agencies, authorities and other instrumentalities that issue securities. In particular, economic, legislative, regulatory or political developments affecting the ability of the issuers to pay interest or repay principal may significantly affect the value of a Fund's investments. These developments can include or arise from, for example, insolvency of an issuer, uncertainties related to the tax status of municipal securities, tax base erosion, state or federal constitutional limits on tax increases or other actions, budget deficits and other financial difficulties, or changes in the credit ratings assigned to municipal issuers. There will be a limited market for certain Municipal Bonds and a Fund could face illiquidity risks.

Municipal Bonds include debt obligations issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities, refunding of outstanding obligations and obtaining funds for general operating expenses and loans to other public institutions and facilities. In addition, certain types of bonds are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to finance various privately owned or operated facilities, including certain facilities for the local furnishing of electric energy or gas, sewage facilities, solid waste disposal facilities and other specialized facilities. Such obligations are included within the term Municipal Bonds if the interest paid thereon is excluded from gross income for Federal income tax purposes and any applicable state and local taxes. Other types of private activity bonds, the proceeds of which are used for the construction, equipment or improvement of privately operated industrial or commercial facilities, may constitute Municipal Bonds, although the current Federal tax laws place substantial limitations on the size of such issues. The two principal classifications of Municipal Bonds are general obligation and revenue or special obligation bonds, which latter category includes private activity bonds (or industrial development bonds under pre-1986 law).

**Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs").** Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain an exemption from the 1940 Act. For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026, qualified REIT dividends (i.e., REIT dividends other than capital gain dividends and portions of REIT dividends designated as qualified dividend income) are eligible for a 20% federal income tax deduction in the case of individuals, trusts and estates. A Fund that receives qualified REIT dividends may elect to pass the special character of this income through to its shareholders. To be eligible to treat distributions from a Fund as qualified REIT dividends, a shareholder must hold shares of the Fund for more than 45 days during the 91-day period beginning on the date that is 45 days before the date on which the shares become ex-dividend with respect to such dividend and the shareholder must not be under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. If a Fund does not elect to pass the special character of this income through to shareholders or if a shareholder does not satisfy the above holding period requirements, the shareholder will not be entitled to the 20% deduction for the shareholder's share of the Fund's qualified REIT dividend income while direct investors in REITS may be entitled to the deduction.

**Real Estate Securities.** A Fund investing significantly in the global real estate industry may carry a much greater risk of adverse developments in the real estate industry than a fund that invests less significantly in that industry. Real estate values rise and fall in response to a variety of factors, including: local, regional, and national and global economic conditions; interest rates; tax and insurance considerations; changes in zoning and other property-related laws; environmental regulations or hazards; overbuilding; increases in property taxes and operating expenses; or value decline in a neighborhood. When economic growth is slow, demand for property decreases and prices may decline.

**To Be Announced (TBA) Investments Risk.** TBA transactions include when-issued and delayed delivery securities and forward commitments. These transactions involve a commitment by the Fund to purchase securities for a predetermined price or yield with payment and delivery taking place after a period longer than the customary settlement period for that type of security. TBA transactions involve the risks that the security the Fund buys will lose value prior to its delivery and that the counterparty will default. The Fund is subject to this risk whether or not the Fund takes delivery of the securities on the settlement date for a transaction. There is also the

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risk that the security will not be issued or that the other party to the transaction will not meet its obligation. If this occurs, the Fund loses both the investment opportunity for the assets it set aside to pay for the security and any gain in the security's price. TBAs may also have a leverage-like effect on the Fund and may cause the Fund to be more volatile. To the extent the Fund "rolls over" TBA agreements prior to the settlement date, the Fund may experience higher portfolio turnover and increased taxable gains.

**U.S. Government Securities.** A Fund may invest in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government. Securities guaranteed by the U.S. Government include: (1) direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury (such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds) and (2) federal agency obligations guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Treasury (such as Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA) certificates and Federal Housing Administration (FHA) debentures). The guarantee by the U.S. Government may be affected by ongoing debt negotiations and related uncertainty or debt default.

Securities issued by U.S. Government instrumentalities and certain federal agencies are neither direct obligations of, nor are they guaranteed by, the U.S. Treasury. However, they do generally involve federal sponsorship in one way or another. Some are backed by specific types of collateral. Some are supported by the issuer's right to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. Some are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Treasury to purchase certain obligations of the issuer. Others are supported only by the credit of the issuing government agency or instrumentality. These agencies and instrumentalities include, but are not limited to, Federal Land Banks, Farmers Home Administration, Central Bank for Cooperatives, Federal Intermediate Credit Banks and Federal Home Loan Banks. There is no guarantee that the government will support these types of securities and, therefore, they may involve more risk than other government obligations.

U.S. Government securities may be acquired by a Fund in the form of separately-traded principal and interest segments of selected securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury. These segments are traded independently under the Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal Securities (STRIPS) program. Under the STRIPS program, the principal and interest parts are individually numbered and separately issued by the U.S. Treasury at the request of depository financial institutions, which then trade the parts independently. Obligations of the Resolution Funding Corp. are similarly divided into principal and interest parts and maintained on the book entry records of the Federal Reserve Banks.

A Fund may also invest in custodial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments, or both, on certain U.S. Treasury notes or bonds in connection with programs sponsored by banks and brokerage firms. Such notes and bonds are held in custody by a bank on behalf of the owners of the receipts. These custodial receipts are known by various names, including Treasury Receipts (TRs), Treasury Interest Guarantee Receipts (TIGRs), and Certificates of Accrual on Treasury Securities (CATS) and may not be deemed U.S. Government securities.

A Fund may invest in collective investment vehicles, the assets of which consist principally of U.S. Government securities or other assets substantially collateralized or supported by such securities, such as government trust certificates.

In general, the U.S. Government securities in which a Fund invests do not have as high a yield as do more speculative securities not supported by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities.

**Foreign Investments** 

The following additional investment strategy and risk information relates to each Fund that may invest in foreign securities.

**Foreign Currency Transactions.** A Fund may hold foreign currency deposits from time to time and may convert dollars and foreign currencies in the foreign exchange markets. Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. A Fund also may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts (forward contracts). Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.

A Fund will exchange foreign currencies for U.S. dollars and for other foreign currencies in the normal course of business and may buy and sell currencies through forward contracts in order to fix a price for securities it has agreed to buy or sell (transaction hedge). A Fund also may hedge some or all of its investments denominated in or exposed to foreign currency against a decline in the value of that currency relative to the U.S. dollar by entering into forward contracts to sell an amount of that currency (or a proxy currency whose performance is expected to replicate the performance of that currency) approximating the value of some or all of its portfolio securities denominated in or exposed to that currency (position hedge) or by participating in options or futures contracts with respect to the currency. A Fund also may enter into a forward contract with respect to a currency where the Fund is considering the purchase of investments denominated in or exposed to that currency but has not yet done so (anticipatory hedge). Certain Funds may also invest in currency forwards to gain exposure to a particular currency or to enhance returns.

A Fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency to another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy,

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sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, similar to if a Fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency but will cause a Fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.

The matching of the increase in value of a forward contract and the decline in the U.S. dollar equivalent value of the foreign currency denominated asset that is the subject of the hedge generally will not be precise. In addition, a Fund may not always be able to enter into forward contracts at attractive prices and may be limited in its ability to use these contracts to hedge Fund assets. Also, with regard to a Fund's use of cross-hedges, there can be no assurance that historical correlations between the movement of certain foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will continue. Poor correlation may exist between movements in the exchange rates of the foreign currencies underlying a Fund's cross-hedges and the movements in the exchange rates of the foreign currencies in which its assets that are the subject of such cross-hedges are denominated.

Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on the adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a Fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a Fund if currencies do not perform as the adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when the adviser had hedged a Fund by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, a Fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If the adviser hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, a Fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if the adviser increases a Fund's exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, a Fund will realize a loss. There is no assurance that the adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a Fund or that it will hedge at appropriate times.

**Forward Foreign Currency Contract Risk.** A Fund may use forward foreign currency contracts to lock in the U.S. dollar price of a security denominated in a foreign currency or protect against possible losses from changes in the relative value of the U.S. dollar against a foreign currency. These forward contracts are subject to the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted or do not correspond accurately to changes in the value of the fund's holdings, which could result in losses and additional transaction costs. The use of forward contracts could reduce performance if there are unanticipated changes in currency prices. A contract to sell a foreign currency would limit any potential gain that might be realized if the value of the currency increases. A forward foreign currency contract may also result in losses in the event of a default or bankruptcy of the counterparty.

**Foreign Investments.** Foreign investments can involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments. The value of securities denominated in or indexed to foreign currencies, and of dividends and interest from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets, and prices on some foreign markets can be highly volatile. Many foreign countries lack uniform accounting and disclosure standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies, and it may be more difficult to obtain reliable information regarding an issuer's financial condition and operations. In addition, the costs of foreign investing, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions and custodial costs, are generally higher than for U.S. investments and therefore may reduce the value of foreign investments.

Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers, brokers, and securities markets may be subject to less government supervision. Foreign security trading practices, including those involving the release of assets in advance of payment, may involve increased risks in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of a broker-dealer, and may involve substantial delays. It may be difficult to enforce legal rights in foreign countries.

Investing abroad involves different political and economic risks. The national politics of foreign countries can be unpredictable and subject to influence by disruptive political groups or ideologies. Foreign investments may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors, including the possibility of expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, tariffs, trade embargoes or other government intervention. There may be a greater possibility of default by foreign governments or foreign government-sponsored enterprises. Investments in foreign countries also involve a risk of local political, economic or social instability or collapse, military action or unrest, terrorism, regional conflicts, war or adverse diplomatic developments, which could negatively impact investments in those countries. Recent examples of the above include conflict, loss of life and disaster connected to ongoing armed conflicts between Russia and Ukraine in Europe and Hamas and Israel in the Middle East. The extent, duration and impact of these conflicts, related sanctions and retaliatory actions are difficult to ascertain, but could be significant and have severe adverse effects on the region, including significant adverse effects on the regional or global economies and the markets for certain securities and commodities. These impacts could negatively affect a Fund's investments in securities and instruments that are economically tied to the applicable region and include (but are not limited to) declines in value and reductions in liquidity. In addition, to the extent new sanctions are imposed or previously relaxed sanctions are reimposed (including with respect to countries undergoing transformation), complying with such restrictions may prevent a Fund from pursuing certain investments, cause delays or other impediments with respect to consummating such investments or divestments, require divestment or freezing of investments on unfavorable terms, render divestment of underperforming investments impracticable, negatively impact a Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective, prevent a Fund from receiving payments otherwise due it, increase diligence and other similar costs to a Fund, render valuation of affected investments challenging, or require a Fund to consummate an investment on terms that are less advantageous than would

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be the case absent such restrictions. Any of these outcomes could adversely affect a Fund's performance with respect to such investments, and thus a Fund's performance as a whole.

The foreign countries in which a Fund invests may become subject to economic and trade sanctions or embargoes imposed by the U.S. or foreign governments or the United Nations. Such sanctions or other actions could result in the devaluation of a country's currency or a decline in the value and liquidity of securities of issuers in that country. In addition, such sanctions could result in a freeze on an issuer's securities which would prevent a fund from selling securities it holds. The value of the securities issued by companies that operate in or have dealings with these countries may be negatively impacted by any such sanction or embargo and may reduce a Fund's returns. The risks related to sanctions or embargoes are greater in emerging and frontier market countries. There is no assurance that the adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects.

Investing in emerging markets involves additional risks. An "emerging market company" generally is any company domiciled or doing a substantial portion of its business in countries represented in the MSCI Emerging Market Index at the time of purchase. The countries included in this definition will change over time. Foreign investment considerations generally are intensified for investments in emerging market countries. Emerging market countries may have relatively unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries and securities markets that trade a small number of securities. In many emerging markets, including China, there also is substantially greater risk that company disclosures will be incomplete or misleading and, in the event of investor harm, substantially less access to recourse, in comparison to U.S. domestic companies. Furthermore, with respect to business operations in China, there are significant risks due to different regulatory and audit requirements related to the quality of financial statements of Chinese issuers and limitations on the ability to inspect the quality of audits performed in China, particularly the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board's lack of access to inspect Chinese audit firms. Securities of issuers located in China and other emerging market countries tend to have volatile prices and may offer significant potential for loss as well as gain.

In addition to investing directly in equity securities, the Funds may invest in American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs). Generally, ADRs in registered form are U.S. dollar-denominated securities designed for use in the U.S. securities markets, which represent and may be converted into the underlying foreign security. EDRs are typically issued in bearer form and are designed for use in the European securities markets. GDRs are designed for use in the global securities markets. Depositary receipts involve many of the same risks of investing directly in foreign securities, including currency risks and risks of foreign investing. Depositary receipts may be sponsored or unsponsored. Issuers of the stock of unsponsored ADRs, EDRs and GDRs are not obligated to disclose material information in the United States and, therefore, there may not be an accurate correlation between such information and the market value of such depositary receipts.

**Investments in Russia.** Investments in Russia are subject to the risk that the United States and/or other countries may impose economic sanctions, export or import controls or other similar measures. Other similar measures may include, but are not limited to, banning or expanding bans on Russia or certain persons or entities associated with Russia from global payment systems that facilitate cross-border payments, restricting the settlement of securities transactions by certain investors, and freezing Russian assets or those of particular countries, entities or persons with ties to Russia (e.g., Belarus). Such sanctions or other similar measures – which may impact companies in many sectors, including energy, financial services and defense, among others – may negatively impact a Fund's performance and/or ability to achieve its investment objective. It is also possible that such sanctions, export or import controls or similar measures may prevent U.S.-based entities that provide services to a Fund from transacting with Russian or Belarusian entities. Under such circumstances, a Fund may not receive payments due with respect to certain investments, such as the payments due in connection with the Fund's holding of a fixed income security. In addition, such sanctions and other similar measures, and the Russian government's response, could result in a downgrade of Russia's credit rating or of securities of issuers located in or economically tied to Russia, devaluation of Russia's currency and/or increased volatility with respect to Russian securities and the ruble. More generally, investments in Russian securities are highly speculative and involve significant risks and special considerations not typically associated with investments in the securities markets of the U.S. and most other developed countries.

Russia has attempted, and may attempt in the future, to assert its influence in the region surrounding it through economic or military measures. In 2022, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine. As a result, Russia, and other countries, persons and entities that have provided material aid to Russia's aggression against Ukraine have been the subject of economic sanctions and import and export controls imposed by countries throughout the world, including the United States. Such measures have had and may continue to have an adverse effect on the Russian economy, Belarusian economy and other securities and economies, which may, in turn, negatively impact a Fund. Moreover, disruptions caused by Russian military action or other actions (including cyberattacks, espionage or other asymmetric measures) or resulting actual or threatened responses to such activity may impact Russia's economy and Russian and other issuers of securities in which a Fund is invested. Such resulting actual or threatened responses may include, but are not limited to, purchasing and financing restrictions, withdrawal of financial intermediaries, boycotts or changes in consumer or purchaser preferences, sanctions, export or import controls, tariffs or cyberattacks on the Russian government, Russian companies or Russian individuals, including politicians. Any actions by Russia made in response to such sanctions or retaliatory measures could further impair the value and liquidity of Fund investments. Sanctions and other similar measures have resulted in defaults on debt obligations by certain corporate issuers and the Russian Federation that could lead to cross-defaults or cross-accelerations on other obligations of these issuers.

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Poor accounting standards, inept management, pervasive corruption, insider trading and crime, and inadequate regulatory protection for the rights of investors all pose a significant risk, particularly to foreign investors. In addition, there is the risk that the Russian tax system will not be reformed to prevent inconsistent, retroactive, and/or exorbitant taxation, or, in the alternative, the risk that a reformed tax system may result in the inconsistent and unpredictable enforcement of the new tax laws. Investments in Russia may be subject to the risk of nationalization or expropriation of assets. Regional armed conflict and its collateral economic and market effects may also pose risks for investments in Russia.

Compared to most national securities markets, the Russian securities market suffers from a variety of problems not encountered in more developed markets. There is little long-term historical data on the Russian securities market because it is relatively new and a substantial proportion of securities transactions in Russia are privately negotiated outside of stock exchanges. The inexperience of the Russian securities market and the limited volume of trading in securities in the market may make obtaining accurate prices on portfolio securities from independent sources more difficult than in more developed markets. Additionally, because of less stringent auditing and financial reporting standards than apply to U.S. companies, there may be little reliable corporate information available to investors. As a result, it may be difficult to assess the value or prospects of an investment in Russian companies. Securities of Russian companies also may experience greater price volatility than securities of U.S. companies. These issues can be magnified as a result of sanctions and other similar measures that may be imposed and the Russian government's response.

Because of the recent formation of the Russian securities market as well as the underdeveloped state of the banking and telecommunications systems, settlement, clearing and registration of securities transactions are subject to significant risks. Prior to the implementation of the National Settlement Depository ("NSD"), a recognized central securities depository, there was no central registration system for equity share registration in Russia and registration was carried out by either the issuers themselves or by registrars located throughout Russia. Title to Russian equities held through the NSD is now based on the records of the NSD and not the registrars. Although the implementation of the NSD has enhanced the efficiency and transparency of the Russian securities market, issues resulting in loss still can occur. In addition, sanctions by the European Union against the NSD, as well as the potential for sanctions by other governments, could make it more difficult to conduct or confirm transactions involving Russian securities. Ownership of securities issued by Russian companies that are not held through depositories such as the NSD may be defined according to entries in the company's share register and normally evidenced by extracts from the register or by formal share certificates. These services may be carried out by the companies themselves or by registrars located throughout Russia. In such cases, the risk is increased that a Fund could lose ownership rights through fraud, negligence, or even mere oversight. While a Fund will endeavor to ensure that its interest continues to be appropriately recorded either itself or through a custodian or other agent by inspecting the share register and by obtaining extracts of share registers through regular confirmations, these extracts have no legal enforceability and it is possible that subsequent illegal amendment or other fraudulent act may deprive the Fund of its ownership rights or improperly dilute its interests. In addition, while applicable Russian regulations impose liability on registrars for losses resulting from their errors, it may be difficult for a Fund to enforce any rights it may have against the registrar or issuer of the securities in the event of loss of share registration. Furthermore, significant delays or problems may occur in registering the transfer of securities, which could cause a Fund to incur losses due to a counterparty's failure to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to complete its contractual obligations because of theft or other reasons.

In addition, issuers and registrars are still prominent in the validation and approval of documentation requirements for corporate action processing in Russia. Because the documentation requirements and approval criteria vary between registrars and issuers, there remain unclear and inconsistent market standards in the Russian market with respect to the completion and submission of corporate action elections. In addition, sanctions or Russian countermeasures may prohibit or limit a Fund's ability to participate in corporate actions, and therefore require the Fund to forego voting on or receiving funds that would otherwise be beneficial to the Fund.

To the extent that a Fund suffers a loss relating to title or corporate actions relating to its portfolio securities, it may be difficult for the Fund to enforce its rights or otherwise remedy the loss. Russian securities laws may not recognize foreign nominee accounts held with a custodian bank, and therefore the custodian may be considered the ultimate owner of securities they hold for their clients. A Fund may also experience difficulty in obtaining and/or enforcing judgments in Russia.

The Russian economy is heavily dependent upon the export of a range of commodities including most industrial metals, forestry products, oil, and gas. Accordingly, it is strongly affected by international commodity prices and is particularly vulnerable to any weakening in global demand for these products, and to sanctions or other actions that may be directed at the Russian economy as a whole or at Russian oil, natural gas, metals or timber industries.

Foreign investors also face a high degree of currency risk when investing in Russian securities and a lack of available currency hedging instruments. In addition, Russia has implemented certain capital controls on foreign portfolio investments and there is the risk that the Russian government will impose additional capital controls on foreign portfolio investments. Such capital controls may prevent the sale of a portfolio of foreign assets and the repatriation of investment income and capital.

**Investing through Stock Connect (China and Hong Kong).** Certain Funds may invest in eligible securities ("Stock Connect Securities") listed and traded on the Shanghai Stock Exchange ("SSE") or the Shenzhen Stock Exchange ("SZSE") through the Shanghai – Hong Kong Stock Connect program and the Shenzhen - Hong Kong Stock Connect program (collectively, "Stock Connect"). Stock Connect allows non-Chinese investors (such as the Funds) to purchase certain equities via brokers in Hong Kong. Purchases of securities

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through Stock Connect are subject to market-wide daily quota limitations, which may prevent a Fund from purchasing Stock Connect securities when it is otherwise advantageous to do so. Once such daily quota on SSE or SZSE is used up, acceptance of the corresponding buy orders on SSE or SZSE (as applicable) will be immediately suspended and no further buy orders will be accepted for the remainder of the trading day. Buy orders which have been accepted will not be affected by the using up of the daily quota, while sell orders will continue to be accepted. An investor cannot purchase and sell the same security on the same trading day, which may restrict a Fund's ability to invest in China A-shares through Stock Connect and to enter into or exit trades where it is advantageous to do so on the same trading day. Because Stock Connect trades are routed through Hong Kong brokers and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Stock Connect is affected by trading holidays in either the People's Republic of China ("PRC") or Hong Kong, and there are trading days in the PRC when Stock Connect investors will not be able to trade. As a result, prices of Stock Connect securities may fluctuate at times when the Fund is unable to add to or exit its position. Only certain China A-shares and ETFs are eligible to be accessed through Stock Connect. Such securities may lose their eligibility at any time, in which case they could be sold but could no longer be purchased through Stock Connect. In addition, the applicable rules as well as trading, settlement and information technology ("IT") systems required to operate Stock Connect are continuing to evolve. In the event that the relevant systems do not function properly, trading through Stock Connect could be disrupted.

Stock Connect is subject to regulations by both Hong Kong and the PRC. Regulators in both jurisdictions are allowed to suspend Stock Connect trading; Chinese regulators may also suspend trading in Chinese issuers (or permit such issuers to suspend trading) during market disruptions, and such suspensions may be widespread. There can be no assurance that further regulations will not affect the availability of securities under Stock Connect, operational arrangements or other limitations. Stock Connect transactions are not covered by investor protection programs of either the Hong Kong Stock Exchanges, SSE or SZSE although for defaults by Hong Kong brokers occurring on or after January 1, 2020, the Hong Kong Investor Compensation Fund will cover losses incurred by investors with a cap at HK $500,000 per investor with respect to securities traded on a stock market operated by the SSE and/or SZSE and in respect of which an order for sale or purchase is permitted to be routed through the northbound link of the Stock Connect. In the PRC, Stock Connect securities are held on behalf of ultimate investors (such as the Fund) by the Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Limited ("HKSCC") as nominee. While Chinese regulators have affirmed that the ultimate investors hold a beneficial interest in Stock Connect securities, the mechanisms that beneficial owners may use to enforce their rights are untested. In addition, courts in China have limited experience in applying the concept of beneficial ownership and the law surrounding beneficial ownership will continue to evolve. To the extent HKSCC is deemed to be performing safekeeping functions with respect to assets held through it, a Fund has no legal relationship with HKSCC and no direct legal recourse against HKSCC in the event that the Fund suffers losses resulting from the performance or insolvency of HKSCC. In this event, a Fund may not fully recover its losses and the process could be delayed. A Fund may not be able to participate in corporate actions affecting Stock Connect securities due to time constraints or for other operational reasons. Similarly, a Fund will not be able to vote in shareholders' meetings except through HKSCC and will not be able to attend shareholders' meetings. HKSCC as nominee holder shall have no obligation to take any legal action or court proceeding to enforce any rights on behalf of the investors in respect of the Stock Connect securities in the PRC or elsewhere. Therefore, even though a Fund's ownership may be ultimately recognized, the Fund may suffer difficulties or delays in enforcing their rights in A-shares. Stock Connect trades are settled in Renminbi (RMB), the Chinese currency, and investors must have timely access to a reliable supply of RMB in Hong Kong, which cannot be guaranteed.

Stock Connect trades are either subject to certain pre-trade requirements or must be placed in special segregated accounts that allow brokers to comply with these pre-trade requirements by confirming that the selling shareholder has sufficient Stock Connect securities to complete the sale. If a Fund does not utilize a special segregated account, a Fund will not be able to sell the shares on any trading day where it fails to comply with the pre-trade checks. In addition, these pre-trade requirements may, as a practical matter, limit the number of brokers that a Fund may use to execute trades. While the Fund may use special segregated accounts in lieu of the pre-trade check, relevant market practice with respect to special segregated accounts is continuing to evolve.

**Investing through Bond Connect (China and Hong Kong).** Certain Funds may invest in the China Interbank Bond Market (the "CIBM") through China's Bond Connect Program ("Bond Connect") subject to any applicable regulatory limits. Bond Connect is a bond trading and settlement linked program developed by the People's Bank of China ("PBOC"), Hong Kong Monetary Authority ("HKMA"), China Foreign Exchange Trade System and National Interbank Funding Centre ("CFETS"), China Central Depository and Clearing Co., Ltd. ("CCDC"), Shanghai Clearing House ("SCH"), Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and Central Moneymarkets Unit ("CMU"), with the aim of achieving mutual bond market access between China and Hong Kong. For the time being, this program allows eligible Hong Kong and overseas investors to invest in the bonds traded in the CIBM through the northbound trading of Bond Connect (the "Northbound Trade Link") only.

Eligible Hong Kong and overseas investors may use their own sources of Renminbi in the Chinese offshore market ("CNH") or convert foreign currencies into the Renminbi to invest in CIBM bonds under Bond Connect. A Fund will be exposed to any fluctuation in the exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and Renminbi in respect of such investments. Currently, there is no investment quota for the Northbound Trade Link.

By seeking to invest in the CIBM via Bond Connect, a Fund is subject to the following additional risks:

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*General Risk.* The relevant regulations are relatively untested and subject to change. There is no certainty as to how they will be applied, which could adversely affect a Fund. Bond Connect requires use of new information technology systems which may be subject to operational risk due to Bond Connect's cross-border nature. If the relevant systems fail to function properly, trading in the CIBM through Bond Connect could be disrupted.

*Market Risk.* A Fund investing in the CIBM is subject to liquidity, valuation and volatility risks. Market volatility and potential lack of liquidity due to possible low trading volume of certain bonds in the CIBM may result in prices of certain bonds traded in the CIBM fluctuating significantly. The bid and offer spreads of the prices of such bonds may be large, and the Fund may therefore incur significant trading and realization costs and may even suffer losses when selling such investments. In addition, Bond Connect is only available on days when markets in both the PRC and Hong Kong are open. As a result, prices of securities purchased through Bond Connect may fluctuate at times when a Fund is unable to add to or exit its position and, therefore, may limit the Fund's ability to trade when it would be otherwise attractive to do so.

To the extent that a Fund transacts in the CIBM, the Fund may also be exposed to risks associated with settlement procedures and default of counterparties. The counterparty which has entered into a transaction with the Fund may default in its obligation to settle the transaction by failure to deliver relevant securities or to make payment.

*Third Party Agent Risk.* Under the Northbound Trading Link, CFETS or other institutions recognized by PBOC (as the registration agents) shall apply for registration with PBOC for the eligible Hong Kong and overseas investors. In addition, CMU (as the offshore custody agent recognized by the HKMA) shall open a nominee account with CCDC/SCH (as the onshore custody agent) as nominee holder of the CIBM bonds purchased by Hong Kong and overseas investors through Bond Connect.

As the relevant filings, registration with PBOC, and account opening have to be carried out by an onshore settlement agent, offshore custody agent, registration agent or other third parties (as the case may be), a Fund is subject to the risks of default or errors on the part of such third parties.

*Operational Risk*. Bond Connect provides a new channel for investors from Hong Kong and overseas to access the CIBM directly. It is premised on the functioning of the operational systems of the relevant market participants. Market participants are able to participate in this program subject to meeting certain information technology capability, risk management and other requirements as may be specified by the relevant authorities.

The "connectivity" in Bond Connect requires routing of orders across the border. This requires the development of new information technology systems. There is no assurance that the systems of market participants will function properly or will continue to be adapted to changes and developments in both markets. In the event that the relevant systems fail to function properly, trading in the CIBM through Bond Connect could be disrupted. A Fund's ability to access the CIBM (and hence to pursue its investment strategy) may be adversely affected.

*Regulatory Risk.* The PBOC Bond Connect rules are departmental regulations having legal effect in China. However, the application of such rules is untested, and there is no assurance that Chinese courts will recognize such rules.

Bond Connect is novel in nature and is subject to regulations promulgated by regulatory authorities and implementation rules made by the relevant authorities in China and Hong Kong. Further, new regulations may be promulgated from time to time by the regulators in connection with operations and cross-border legal enforcement in connection with cross-border trades under Bond Connect.

The regulations are currently untested and there is no certainty as to how they will be applied. Moreover, the current regulations are subject to change. There can be no assurance that Bond Connect will not be abolished. A Fund which may invest in the CIBM through Bond Connect may be adversely affected as a result of such changes.

*Legal/Beneficial Ownership Risk.* Where CIBM bonds are held in custody on a cross-border basis there are specific legal and beneficial ownership risks linked to the compulsory requirements of CMU and CCDC/SCH. CIBM bonds will be held by CMU as a nominee holder of the bonds purchased by foreign investors through Bond Connect. The PBOC has made it clear that the ultimate investors are the beneficial owners of the relevant bonds and shall exercise their rights against the bond issuer through CMU as the nominee holder. While the distinct concepts of nominee holder and beneficial owner are referred to under PBOC rules or regulations, as well as other laws and regulations in China, the application of such rules is untested, and there is no assurance that Chinese courts will recognize such concepts. Therefore, although a Fund's ownership may be ultimately recognized, it may suffer difficulties or delays in enforcing its rights over CIMB bonds.

*Tax within China.* Uncertainties in the Chinese tax rules governing taxation of income and gains from investments in CIBM bonds through Bond Connect could result in unexpected tax liabilities for a Fund. A Fund's investments in CIBM bonds may cause the Fund to become subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by China.

If a Fund were considered to be a tax resident enterprise of China, it would be subject to Chinese corporate income tax at the rate of 25% on its worldwide taxable income. If a Fund were considered to be a non-tax resident enterprise with a "permanent establishment" in China, it would be subject to Chinese corporate income tax on the profits attributable to the permanent establishment. The Adviser

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intends to operate the Funds in a manner that will prevent them from being treated as tax resident enterprises of China and from having a permanent establishment in China. It is possible, however, that China could disagree with that conclusion, or that changes in Chinese tax law could affect the Chinese corporate income tax status of a Fund.

Unless reduced or exempted by the applicable tax treaties, China generally imposes withholding income tax at the rate of 10% on dividends, premiums, interest and capital gains originating in China and paid to a company that is not a resident of China for tax purposes and that has no permanent establishment in China.

The Ministry of Finance of China and the State Administration of Taxation of China issued Caishui No. 108 on November 7, 2018 ("Notice 108"), which states that foreign investors will be temporarily exempt from the withholding income tax on their gains derived from CIBM bond interest.

The Adviser or a Fund may also potentially be subject to Chinese value added tax at the rate of 6% on capital gains derived from trading of CIBM bonds and coupon interest income (if any). Notice 108 specifies that foreign investors will also be temporarily exempt from the value added tax exemption on their gains derived from CIBM bond interest. In addition, urban maintenance and construction tax (currently at rates ranging from 1% to 7%), educational surcharge (currently at the rate of 3%) and local educational surcharge (currently at the rate of 2%) (collectively, the "surtaxes") are imposed based on value added tax liabilities, so if the Adviser or a Fund were liable for value added tax it would also be required to pay the applicable surtaxes.

The temporary exemption of withholding tax and value added tax will continue during the period from November 7, 2021 through December 31, 2025. If, in the future, China begins to apply tax rules regarding the taxation of bond interest income derived by foreign investment in CIBM, and/or begins to collect withholding tax and other taxes on such investment, the Adviser or a Fund could be subject to such withholding tax and value added tax.

**Sanctions, Trade and Investment Restrictions Relating to PRC.** In recent years, various governmental bodies have considered and, in some cases, imposed sanctions, trade and investment restrictions and/or notification requirements targeting the PRC (inclusive of Hong Kong and Macau), and it is possible that additional restrictions may be imposed in the future. Given the complex and evolving relationship between the PRC and certain other countries, it is difficult to predict the impact of such restrictions on market conditions. Further, complying with such restrictions may prevent a Fund from pursuing certain investments, cause delays or other impediments with respect to consummating such investments, require notification of such investments to government authorities, require divestment or freezing of investments on unfavorable terms, render divestment of underperforming investments impracticable, negatively impact a Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective, prevent the Fund from receiving payments otherwise due it, require a Fund to obtain information about underlying investors, increase diligence and other similar costs to the Fund, render valuation of China-related investments challenging, or require a Fund to consummate an investment on terms that are less advantageous than would be the case absent such restrictions. Any of these outcomes could adversely affect the Fund's performance with respect to such investments, and thus a Fund's performance as a whole. New and contemplated sanctions, trade, and other investment restrictions and obligations could also have adverse impacts to a Fund in various and unpredictable ways. In addition, the Funds reserve the right to restrict an investor's ability to purchase Fund shares and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, to redeem existing shareholders as necessary or appropriate to facilitate compliance with such sanctions and other restrictions. Disruptions caused by such sanctions and other restrictions may also impact the PRC's economy, as well as the PRC and other issuers of securities in which a Fund is invested, and may result in the PRC imposing countermeasures which may also have adverse impacts on the Fund and its investments.

**U.S. PRC Relations.** International relations, such as the China-U.S. relationship regarding trade, currency exchange, and intellectual property protection, among other things, could also have implications with respect to capital flow and business operations. U.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions prompting changes in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, developments and investments in the PRC could adversely affect the performance of a Fund's investments. For example, in recent years, the U.S. federal government implemented an aggressive trade policy with respect to the PRC, including imposing tariffs on certain imports of the PRC, criticizing the PRC government for its trade policies, taking actions against individual PRC companies, imposing sanctions on certain officials of the Hong Kong government and the PRC central government and issuing executive orders that prohibit certain transactions with certain China-based companies and their respective subsidiaries. Recent events have added to uncertainty in such relations, including restrictions imposed by the U.S. government limiting the ability of U.S. persons to invest in certain Chinese companies and the ability of Chinese companies to engage in activities or transactions inside the U.S. In addition, the PRC government has implemented, and may further implement, measures in response to new trade policies, treaties and tariffs initiated by the U.S. government, for example, the passing of the Hong Kong national security law by the National People's Congress of China (the "National Security Law") which criminalizes certain offenses including subversion of the Chinese government and collusion with foreign entities. The National Security Law subsequently prompted the promulgation in the U.S. of the Hong Kong Autonomy Act and executive orders setting forth additional sanctions. The U.S. has also imposed sanctions on senior Chinese officials and certain employees of Chinese technology companies, adding a number of new Chinese companies to the Department of Commerce's Entity List. The United Kingdom also suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong and extended its arms embargo on China to Hong Kong. It is possible that additional sanctions, export controls and/or investment restrictions will be announced. Escalation of China-U.S. tensions resulting from these events and the retaliatory countermeasures that the national and state governments have taken and

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may take (including U.S. sanctions and anti-sanction laws in China), as well as other economic, social or political unrest in the future, could have a material adverse effect on or could limit the activities of the Adviser, a Fund or the companies in which a Fund has invested.

Certain U.S. states have proposed, recently enacted, or are in the process of adopting new legislation that restricts the ability of a wide range of governmental bodies and persons or entities from or domiciled in foreign countries of concern, as defined in the applicable U.S. state's laws (e.g., the People's Republic of China) (any such direct or indirect investor, a "Covered Investor") to directly or indirectly own or acquire interests in "real property" (e.g., land, buildings, fixtures, and all other improvements to land) located in the relevant states, subject to certain limited exceptions (such laws as in effect from time to time, the "State Real Estate Laws"). Certain investments made by a Fund may constitute investments in "real property" for purposes of these laws (such investments, "Restricted Investments"). The State Real Estate Laws may impose different thresholds on the ownership of Restricted Investments by Covered Investors. The impact of the State Real Estate Laws on a Fund and its investors may vary on a state-by-state basis, particularly to the extent that a state adopts an exemption from the ownership restrictions for commingled funds. Given the developing nature of the State Real Estate Laws, it is difficult to predict the full scope of their impact on a Fund's investments and investor base. Complying with such restrictions may prevent a Fund from pursuing certain investments, cause delays or other impediments with respect to consummating such investments, require notification of such investments to government authorities, require divestment or freezing of investments on unfavorable terms, negatively impact a Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective, prevent a Fund from receiving payments otherwise due it, require a Fund to obtain information about underlying investors or increase diligence and other similar costs to a Fund. Any of these outcomes could make it difficult for a Fund to act successfully on investment opportunities and may adversely affect a Fund's performance as a whole. The Funds reserve the right to restrict an investor's ability to purchase Fund shares and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, to redeem existing shareholders as necessary or appropriate to facilitate compliance with State Real Estate Laws.

The Funds intend to comply with the State Real Estate Laws to the extent applicable to their shareholder base, and may, to comply with such laws, request and report confidential information about a shareholder if required by the State Real Estate Laws and, if applicable, any underlying beneficial ownership, to applicable authorities if it is determined to be in the best interests of the Fund in light of the relevant laws or regulations or upon the request of regulators. Shareholders may be required to cooperate with the Adviser to facilitate compliance with the State Real Estate Laws.

**Derivatives Investments** 

The following additional investment strategy and risk information relates to each Fund that may invest in derivatives.

**Derivatives.** The SEC rule regulating the use of derivatives, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements and certain other transactions by registered investment companies requires a Fund to trade derivatives and other transactions that create future payment or delivery obligations (except reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions) subject to a value-at-risk ("VaR") leverage limit, certain derivatives risk management program and reporting requirements. Generally, these requirements apply unless a Fund qualifies as a "limited derivatives user," as defined in the rule. Under the rule, when a Fund trades reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions, including certain tender option bonds, it needs to aggregate the amount of indebtedness associated with the reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions with the aggregate amount of any other senior securities representing indebtedness when calculating the Fund's asset coverage ratio or treat all such transactions as derivatives transactions. The SEC also provided guidance in connection with the rule regarding use of securities lending collateral that may limit the Funds' securities lending activities. In addition, under the rule, a Fund is permitted to invest in a security on a when-issued or forward-settling basis, or with a non-standard settlement cycle, and the transaction will be deemed not to involve a senior security (as defined under Section 18(g) of the 1940 Act), provided that, (i) the Fund intends to physically settle the transaction and (ii) the transaction will settle within 35 days of its trade date (the "Delayed-Settlement Securities Provision"). A Fund may otherwise engage in when-issued, forward-settling and non-standard settlement cycle securities transactions that do not meet the conditions of the Delayed-Settlement Securities Provision so long as the Fund treats any such transaction as a "derivatives transaction" for purposes of compliance with the rule. Furthermore, under the rule, the Fund is permitted to enter into an unfunded commitment agreement, and such unfunded commitment agreement will not be subject to the asset coverage requirements under the 1940 Act, if the Fund reasonably believes, at the time it enters into such agreement, that it will have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet its obligations with respect to all such agreements as they come due. These requirements may limit the ability of a Fund to use derivatives and the other relevant transactions as part of its investment strategies. These requirements may increase the cost of a Fund's investments and cost of doing business, which could adversely affect investors. It is difficult to measure the effects of these requirements on the Funds. The Adviser intends to monitor developments and seek to manage the Funds in a manner consistent with achieving each Fund's investment objective, but there can be no assurance that it will be successful in doing so.

The CFTC and the various exchanges have established limits referred to as "speculative position limits" on the maximum net long or net short positions that any person may hold or control in a particular futures contract, option on futures contract, and in some cases, OTC transaction that is economically equivalent to certain futures or options contracts on physical commodities. The CFTC's adoption of new and amended position limits for 25 specified physical commodity futures and related options contracts traded on exchanges, other futures contracts and related options directly or indirectly linked to such 25 specified contracts, and OTC transactions that are economically equivalent to the 25 specified contracts is a fairly new development. In addition, the CFTC also recently modified the

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bona fide hedging exemption for which certain swap dealers were previously eligible. This development could limit the amount of speculative OTC transaction capacity each swap dealer would have available for a Fund. Trading limits are imposed on the number of contracts that any person may trade on a particular trading day. An exchange or the CFTC may order the liquidation of positions found to be in violation of these limits and may impose sanctions or restrictions. Position limits may adversely affect the market liquidity of the futures, options and economically equivalent derivatives in which the Funds may invest. It is possible that positions held by a Fund may have to be liquidated in order to avoid exceeding such limits. Such modification or liquidation, if required, could adversely affect the operations and performance of a Fund.

These requirements, even if not directly applicable to the Funds, including margin requirements, changes to the CFTC speculative position limits regime and mandatory clearing, may increase the cost of a Fund's investments and cost of doing business, which could adversely affect investors.

For purposes of a Fund's investment policy adopted pursuant to Rule 35d-1 under the 1940 Act, the Fund will count derivative instruments at notional value.

For purposes of other investment policies and restrictions, the Funds may value derivative instruments at market value, notional value or full exposure value (i.e., the sum of the notional amount for the contract plus the market value), or any combination of the foregoing (e.g., notional value for purposes of calculating the numerator and market value for purposes of calculating the denominator for compliance with a particular policy or restriction). For example, a Fund may value credit default swaps at full exposure value for purposes of the Fund's credit quality guidelines because such value in general better reflects the Fund's actual economic exposure during the term of the credit default swap agreement. As a result, a Fund may, at times, have notional exposure to an asset class (before netting) that is greater or less than the stated limit or restriction noted in the Fund's prospectus. In this context, both the notional amount and the market value may be positive or negative depending on whether the Fund is selling or buying protection through the credit default swap. The manner in which certain securities or other instruments are valued by the Funds for purposes of applying investment policies and restrictions may differ from the manner in which those investments are valued by other types of investors.

**Equity Linked Securities.** Equity linked securities are privately issued derivative securities which have a return component based on the performance of a single security, a basket of securities, or an index. A Fund may invest up to 10% of its net assets in equity linked securities. Equity linked securities may be considered illiquid. In some instances, investments in equity linked securities may be subject to the Fund's limitation on investments in investment companies.

**FLEX Options.** FLEX Options are customized option contracts available through national securities exchanges that are guaranteed for settlement by the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC"). FLEX Options are listed on a U.S. national securities exchange. FLEX Options provide investors with the ability to customize funds, securities and indices referenced by the options, exercise prices, exercise styles (i.e., American-style, exercisable any time prior to the expiration date, or European-style, exercisable only on the option expiration date) and expiration dates, while achieving price discovery in competitive, transparent auctions markets and avoiding the counterparty exposure of over-the-counter options positions. Each option contract entitles the holder thereof to purchase (for the call options) or sell (for the put options) shares of the reference asset at the strike price.

*Flex Options on Indices.* The FLEX Options in which the Funds invest are options on the price performance of an index, including the S&P 500 Price Return Index (the "S&P 500 Price Index"). An index fluctuates with changes in the market values of the securities included in the index. Options on indices give the holder the right to receive an amount of cash upon exercise of the option. Receipt of this cash amount will depend upon the closing level of the index upon which the option is based being greater than (in the case of a call) or less than (in the case of put) the exercise price of the option. Each of the options exchanges has established limitations governing the maximum number of call or put options on the same index that may be bought or written by a single investor, whether acting alone or in concert with others (regardless of whether such options are written on the same or different exchanges or are held or written on one or more accounts or through one or more brokers). Under these limitations, option positions of all investment companies advised by LFI are combined for purposes of these limits. Pursuant to these limitations, an exchange may order the liquidation of positions and may impose other sanctions or restrictions. These positions limits may restrict the number of listed options that the Funds may buy or sell. Puts and calls on indices are similar to puts and calls on securities or futures contracts except that all settlements are in cash and gain or loss depends on changes in the index in question rather than on price movements in individual securities or futures contracts. For example, if a Fund writes a call on the S&P 500 Price Index, it receives a premium and agrees that, prior to the expiration date, the purchaser of the call, upon exercise of the call, will receive from a Fund an amount of cash if the closing level of the S&P 500 Price Index upon which the call is based is greater than the exercise price of the call. The amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the call times a specified multiple (the "multiplier"), which determines the total value for each point of such difference. If a Fund buys a call on the S&P 500 Price Index, it pays a premium and has the same rights to such call as are indicated above. If a Fund buys a put on the S&P 500 Price Index, it pays a premium and has the right, prior to the expiration date, to require the seller of the put, upon a Fund's exercise of the put, to deliver to the Fund an amount of cash if the closing level of the S&P 500 Price Index upon which the put is based is less than the exercise price of the put, which amount of cash is determined by the multiplier, as described above for calls. If a Fund writes a put on an S&P 500 Price Index, it receives a premium and the purchaser of the put has the right, prior to the expiration date, to require the Fund to deliver to it an amount of cash equal to the difference between the closing level of the S&P 500 Price Index and the exercise price times the multiplier if the closing level is less than the exercise price. The value of an option, in general, will reflect, among other things, the current

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market value of the underlying investment, in the case of the Funds, the S&P 500 Price Index, the time remaining until expiration, the relationship of the exercise price to the market price of the underlying investment and general market conditions. Options that expire unexercised have no value.

*Risks of Options on Indices.* If a Fund has purchased an index option and exercises it before the closing index value for that day is available, it runs the risk that the level of the index may subsequently change. If such a change causes the exercised option to fall out of the money, a Fund will be required to pay the difference between the closing index value and the exercise price of the option (times the applicable multiplier) to the assigned writer.

*Correlation Risk.* The FLEX Options held by the Fund will be exercisable at the strike price only on their expiration date. Prior to the expiration date, the value of the FLEX Options will be determined based upon market quotations or using other recognized pricing methods, consistent with the Fund's valuation policy. Because a component of the FLEX option's value will be affected by, among other things, changes in the value of the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual and implied volatility of the Index and the remaining time until the FLEX Options expire, the value of the Fund's FLEX Options positions is not anticipated to increase or decrease at the same rate as the Index, and it is possible they may move in different directions, and as a result, the Fund's NAV may not increase or decrease at the same rate as the Index.

Similarly, the components of the option's value are anticipated to impact the effect of the Buffer on the Fund's NAV, which may not be in full effect prior to the expiration of the Options.

**Foreign Options and Futures Markets.** Options on U.S. Government securities, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward contracts and options on foreign currencies may be traded on foreign exchanges and over-the-counter in foreign countries. Such transactions are subject to the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in or the prices of foreign currencies or securities. The value of such positions also could be adversely affected by (1) other complex foreign political and economic factors, (2) lesser availability than in the United States of data on which to make trading decisions, (3) delays in a Fund's ability to act upon economic events occurring in foreign markets during non-business hours in the United States, (4) the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and margin requirements than in the United States, and (5) low trading volume.

Special risks are presented by internationally-traded options. Because of time differences between the United States and the various foreign countries, and because different holidays are observed in different countries, foreign options markets may be open for trading during hours or on days when U.S. markets are closed and vice versa. As a result, option premiums may not reflect the current prices of the underlying interest in the United States.

**Futures Contracts.** The Funds may enter into contracts for the purchase or sale for future delivery of fixed-income securities, foreign currencies or contracts based on financial indices, including interest rates or an index of U.S. Government securities, foreign government securities, equity securities, fixed-income securities or commodities. The buyer or seller of a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the buyer and seller are required to deposit initial margin for the benefit of a Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) when the contract is entered into and to maintain the required variation margin. In the event of the bankruptcy of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of the Fund, the Fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by FCM's other customers. The adviser will attempt to minimize this risk by careful monitoring of the creditworthiness of the FCMs with which the Fund does business.

The ordinary spreads between prices in the cash and futures markets are subject to distortions due to differences in the nature of those markets. First, all participants in the futures market are subject to initial margin and variation margin requirements. Rather than meeting additional variation margin requirements, investors may close out futures contracts through offsetting transactions, which can distort the normal price relationship between the cash and futures markets. Second, the liquidity of the futures market depends on participants entering into offsetting transactions rather than making or taking delivery. To the extent participants decide to make or take delivery, liquidity in the futures market could be reduced and prices in the futures market distorted. Third, from the point of view of speculators, the margin deposit requirements in the futures market are less onerous than margin requirements in the securities market. Therefore, increased participation by speculators in the futures market may cause temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of the foregoing distortions, a correct forecast of cash price trends by the adviser still may not result in a successful use of futures.

Because futures contracts are generally settled within a day from the date they are closed out, compared with a settlement period of three days for some types of securities, the futures markets may provide superior liquidity compared to the securities markets. Nevertheless, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. In addition, futures exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts and may halt trading if a contract's price fluctuates by more than the limit on a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached, it may be impossible for a Fund to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a futures contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, the Fund may not be able to promptly liquidate unfavorable futures positions and potentially could be required to continue to hold a futures position until the delivery date, regardless of changes in its value.

Although a Fund would deposit with the FCM margin consisting of cash and liquid assets, these assets would be available to a Fund immediately upon closing out the futures position, while settlement of securities transactions could take several days. However,

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because a Fund is required to post cash or other assets as margin that may otherwise be invested would be held uninvested or invested in liquid assets so long as the futures position remains open, a Fund's return could be diminished due to the opportunity losses of foregoing other potential investments.

Successful use of futures contracts as a hedge is subject to the ability of the adviser to correctly predict movements in the direction of interest rates or changes in market conditions. These predictions involve skills and techniques that may be different from those involved in the management of the portfolio being hedged. In addition, there can be no assurance that there will be a correlation between movements in the price of the underlying index or securities and movements in the price of the securities which are the subject of the hedge. A decision of whether, when and how to hedge involves the exercise of skill and judgment, and even a well-conceived hedge may be unsuccessful to some degree because of market behavior or unexpected trends in interest rates or markets.

Pursuant to rules adopted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), with respect to each Fund, the Investment Adviser has filed a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) and, therefore, is not subject to registration or regulation as a CPO under the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA). With respect to the Funds operating as "funds of funds," the Investment Adviser has also claimed relief from registration with the CFTC as a CPO under the CEA provided to fund-of-funds operators pursuant to CFTC No-Action Letter 12-38 and, therefore, is not currently subject to registration or regulation as a CPO under the CEA. For the Investment Adviser to remain eligible for the exclusion or the relief, the Fund must limit its direct and indirect exposure to CFTC regulated derivatives, including futures, options on futures and certain swaps, to a de minimis level. To the extent the Investment Adviser, with respect to any Fund, is or becomes, no longer eligible to claim an exclusion from CFTC regulation, the Fund may consider steps, such as substantial investment strategy changes, in order for the Investment Adviser to continue to qualify for exemption from CFTC regulation, or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation. With respect to Funds being operated as "funds of funds," when the temporary exemption expires (which will occur when specific regulatory guidance is issued by the CFTC), each Fund will evaluate whether the Investment Adviser continues to be eligible to claim an exclusion from CFTC regulation or if, considering any factors relevant based on the nature of the regulatory guidance when it is issued, the Investment Adviser should register as a CPO and operate under CFTC regulation. Consequently, these Funds may incur additional expenses relating to CFTC compliance.

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

Inflation-indexed bonds are fixed-income securities or other instruments whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation. Two structures are common. The U.S. Treasury and some other issuers use a structure that accrues inflation into the principal value of the bond. Most other issuers pay out the Consumer Price Index (CPI) accruals as part of a semi-annual coupon.

Inflation-indexed securities issued by the U.S. Treasury have maturities of five, ten or thirty years, although it is possible that securities with other maturities will be issued in the future. The U.S. Treasury securities pay interest on a semi-annual basis, equal to a fixed percentage of the inflation-adjusted principal amount. If the periodic adjustment rate measuring inflation falls, the principal value of inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and, consequently, the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds, even during a period of deflation. However, the current market value of the bonds is not guaranteed, and will fluctuate. A Fund may also invest in other inflation related bonds which may or may not provide a similar guarantee. If a guarantee of principal is not provided, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal. In addition, if a Fund purchases inflation-indexed bonds offered by foreign issuers, the rate of inflation measured by the foreign inflation index may not be correlated to the rate of inflation in the United States.

The value of inflation-indexed bonds is expected to change in response to changes in real interest rates. Real interest rates, in turn, are tied to the relationship between nominal interest rates and the rate of inflation. Therefore, if inflation were to rise at a faster rate than nominal interest rates, real interest rates might decline, leading to an increase in value of inflation-indexed bonds. In contrast, if nominal interest rates increased at a faster rate than inflation, real interest rates might rise, leading to a decrease in value of inflation-indexed bonds. There can be no assurance, however, that the value of inflation-indexed bonds will be directly correlated to changes in interest rates. While these securities are expected to be protected from long-term inflationary trends, short-term increases in inflation may lead to a decline in value. If interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to changes in currency exchange rates), investors in these securities may not be protected to the extent that the increase is not reflected in the bond's inflation measure. Any increase in the principal amount of an inflation-indexed bond will be considered taxable ordinary income, even though investors do not receive their principal until maturity.

Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.

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

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to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the value of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.

The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the security, currency, or other instrument to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying investments. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Common issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.

**Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies.** Currency futures contracts are similar to forward contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.

The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to those of options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A Fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a Fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a Fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a Fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the Fund's investments exactly over time.

Unlike transactions entered into by a Fund in futures contracts and options on futures contracts, certain options on foreign currencies and forward contracts are not traded on contract markets regulated by the CFTC or (with the exception of certain foreign currency options) by the SEC. Such instruments are traded through financial institutions acting as market-makers, although foreign currency options are also traded on certain national securities exchanges, such as the CBOE Options Exchanges, subject to SEC regulation. Similarly, options on currencies may be traded over-the-counter. In an over-the-counter trading environment, many of the protections afforded to exchange participants will not be available. For example, there are no daily price fluctuation limits, and adverse market movements could therefore continue to an unlimited extent over a period of time. Although the buyer of an option cannot lose more than the amount of the premium plus related transaction costs, this entire amount could be lost. Moreover, an option writer and a buyer or seller of futures or forward contracts could lose amounts substantially in excess of any premium received or initial margin or collateral posted due to the potential additional margin and collateral requirements associated with such positions.

Options on foreign currencies traded on national securities exchanges are within the jurisdiction of the SEC, as are other securities traded on such exchanges. As a result, many of the protections provided to traders on organized exchanges will be available with respect to such transactions. In particular, all foreign currency option positions entered into on a national securities exchange are cleared and guaranteed by the Options Clearing Corp. (OCC), thereby reducing the risk of counterparty default. Further, a liquid secondary market in options traded on a national securities exchange may be more readily available than in the over-the-counter market, potentially permitting a Fund to liquidate open positions at a profit before exercise or expiration, or to limit losses in the event of adverse market movements.

**Options on Futures Contracts.** A Fund may purchase and sell (write) call and put options on futures contracts and enter into closing transactions with respect to such options to terminate existing positions. A Fund may use options on futures contracts in lieu of writing or buying options directly on the underlying securities or purchasing and selling the underlying futures contracts. For example, to hedge against a possible decrease in the value of its portfolio securities, a Fund may purchase put options or write call options on futures contracts rather than selling futures contracts. Similarly, a Fund may purchase call options or write put options on futures contracts as a substitute for the purchase of futures contracts to hedge against a possible increase in the price of securities which the Fund expects to purchase. Such options generally operate in the same manner as options purchased or written directly on the underlying investments.

As with options on securities, the holder or writer of an option may terminate the position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected.

A Fund will be required to deposit initial margin and maintenance margin with respect to put and call options on futures contracts written by it pursuant to brokers' requirements similar to those described above.

**Options on Securities.** The Funds may purchase and sell (write) put and call options on securities that are traded on United States and foreign securities exchanges and over-the-counter and on indices of securities. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments,

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including specific securities, indices of securities prices, and futures contracts. The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.

The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if security prices fall substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).

The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if security prices fall. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if security prices do not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.

The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer of a put option assumes the obligation to pay the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a Fund will be required to make margin payments to a futures commission merchant (FCM) as described below for futures contracts.

If security prices rise, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If security prices remain the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If security prices fall, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.

Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same, fall, or rise less than the strike price. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer may generate an income stream and mitigate the effects of a price decline. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases in exchange for the upfront premium.

The successful use of a Fund's option strategies may depend on the ability of the adviser to forecast correctly market movements, where relevant to the strategy. For example, if the Fund were to write a call option based on the adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would fall, but the price were to rise instead, the Fund could be required to sell the security upon exercise at a price below the current market price. Similarly, if the Fund were to write a put option based on the adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would rise, but the price were to fall instead, the Fund could be required to purchase the security upon exercise at a price higher than the current market price. When aligned with a Fund's investment strategy, a Fund may sell call options on a regular rolling basis for income generation purposes and not for market direction or timing purposes.

When the Fund purchases an option, it runs the risk that it will lose its entire investment in the option in a relatively short period of time, unless the Fund exercises the option or enters into a closing sale transaction before the option's expiration. If the price of the underlying security does not rise (in the case of a call) or fall (in the case of a put) to an extent sufficient to cover the option premium and transaction costs, the Fund will lose part or all of its investment in the option. This contrasts with an investment by the Fund in the underlying security, since the Fund will not lose any of its investment in such security if the price does not change.

The effective use of options may also depend on a Fund's ability to terminate option positions at times when the adviser deems it desirable to do so. Although a Fund will take an option position only if the adviser believes there is a liquid secondary market for the option, there is no assurance that a Fund will be able to effect closing transactions at any particular time or at an acceptable price.

If a secondary market in options were to become unavailable, a Fund could no longer engage in closing transactions. Lack of investor interest might adversely affect the liquidity of the market for particular options or series of options. A market may discontinue trading of a particular option or options generally. In addition, a market could become temporarily unavailable if unusual events, such as volume in excess of trading or clearing capability, were to interrupt its normal operations.

A market may at times find it necessary to impose restrictions on particular types of options transactions, such as opening transactions. For example, if an underlying security ceases to meet qualifications imposed by the market or the OCC, new series of options on that security will no longer be opened to replace expiring series, and opening transactions in existing series may be prohibited. If an options market were to become unavailable, the Fund as a holder of an option would be able to realize profits or limit losses only by exercising the option, and the Fund, as option writer, would remain obligated under the option until expiration or exercise.

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Disruption in the markets for the securities underlying options purchased or sold by the Fund could result in losses on the option. If trading is interrupted in an underlying security, the trading of options on that security is normally halted as well. As a result, the Fund as purchaser or writer of an option will be unable to close out its positions until options trading resumes, and it may be faced with considerable losses if trading in the security reopens at a substantially different price. In addition, the OCC or other options markets may impose exercise restrictions. If a prohibition on exercise is imposed at the time when trading in the option has also been halted, the Fund as purchaser or writer of an option will be locked into its position until one of the two restrictions has been lifted. If the OCC were to determine that the available supply of an underlying security appears insufficient to permit delivery by the writers of all outstanding calls in the event of exercise, it may prohibit indefinitely the exercise of put options. The Fund, as holder of such a put option could lose its entire investment if the prohibition remained in effect until the put option's expiration and the Fund was unable either to acquire the underlying security or to sell the put option in the market.

**OTC Options.** Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of over-the-counter (OTC) options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are guaranteed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.

**Spreads and Straddles.** In addition to the options strategies described previously, a Fund may engage in spread transactions in which it purchases and writes a put or call option on the same underlying instrument, with the options having different exercise prices and/or expiration dates. A Fund may also engage in so-called straddles, in which it purchases or sells combinations of put and call options on the same instrument. Spread and straddle transactions require the Fund to purchase and/or write more than one option simultaneously. Accordingly, a Fund's ability to enter into such transactions and to liquidate its positions when necessary or deemed advisable may be more limited than if a Fund were to purchase or sell a single option. Similarly, costs incurred by a Fund in connection with these transactions will in many cases be greater than if a Fund were to purchase or sell a single option.

**Stock Index Futures.** A stock index futures contract does not require the physical delivery of securities, but merely provides for profits and losses resulting from changes in the market value of the contract to be credited or debited at the close of each trading day to the respective accounts of the parties to the contract. On the contract's expiration date, a final cash settlement occurs and the futures positions are simply closed out. Changes in the market value of a particular stock index futures contract reflect changes in the specified index of equity securities on which the future is based. Stock index futures may be used to hedge the equity portion of a Fund's securities portfolio with regard to market risk (involving the market's assessment of over-all economic prospects), as distinguished from stock-specific risk (involving the market's evaluation of the merits of the issuer of a particular security). By establishing an appropriate "short" position in stock index futures, a Fund may seek to protect the value of its portfolio against an overall decline in the market for equity securities. Alternatively, in anticipation of a generally rising market, a Fund can seek to avoid losing the benefit of apparently low current prices by establishing a "long" position in stock index futures and later liquidating that position as particular equity securities are in fact acquired. To the extent that these hedging strategies are successful, a Fund will be affected to a lesser degree by adverse overall market price movements, unrelated to the merits of specific portfolio equity securities, than would otherwise be the case.

**Structured Products.** A Fund may invest in structured products, including instruments such as credit-linked securities, commodity-linked notes and structured notes, which are potentially high-risk derivatives. For example, a structured product may combine a traditional stock, bond, or commodity with an option or forward contract. Generally, the principal amount, amount payable upon maturity or redemption, or interest rate of a structured product is tied (positively or negatively) to the price of some commodity, currency or securities index or another interest rate or some other economic factor (each a benchmark). The interest rate or (unlike most fixed-income securities) the principal amount payable at maturity of a structured product may be increased or decreased, depending on changes in the value of the benchmark. An example of a structured product could be a bond issued by an oil company that pays a small base level of interest with additional interest that accrues in correlation to the extent to which oil prices exceed a certain predetermined level. Such a structured product would be a combination of a bond and a call option on oil.

Structured products can be used as an efficient means of pursuing a variety of investment goals, including currency hedging, duration management, and increased total return. Structured products may not bear interest or pay dividends. The value of a structured product or its interest rate may be a multiple of a benchmark and, as a result, may be leveraged and move (up or down) more steeply and rapidly than the benchmark. These benchmarks may be sensitive to economic and political events, such as commodity shortages and currency devaluations, which cannot be readily foreseen by the purchaser of a structured product. Under certain conditions, the redemption value of a structured product could be zero. Thus, an investment in a structured product may entail significant market risks that are not associated with a similar investment in a traditional, U.S. dollar-denominated bond that has a fixed principal amount and pays a fixed rate or floating rate of interest. The purchase of structured products also exposes a Fund to the credit risk of the issuer of the structured product. These risks may cause significant fluctuations in the net asset value of a Fund.

Certain structured products may provide exposure to the commodities markets. These are derivative securities with one or more commodity-linked components that have payment features similar to commodity futures contracts, commodity options, or similar instruments (commodity-linked notes). Commodity-linked notes may be either equity or debt securities, leveraged or unleveraged, and have both security and commodity-like characteristics. A portion of the value of these instruments may be derived from the value

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of a commodity, futures contract, index or other economic variable. The purchase of commodity-linked notes will expose a Fund to the credit risk of the issuer of the commodity-linked product. Commodity-linked notes may also be more volatile, relatively less liquid, and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities and instruments or more traditional debt securities.

Structured notes are derivative debt instruments, the interest rate or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator (for example, a currency, security, commodity or index thereof). The terms of the instrument may be structured by the purchaser and the borrower issuing the note. The terms of structured notes may provide that in certain circumstances no principal is due at maturity, which may result in a loss of invested capital. Issuers of structured notes include corporations and banks. Structured notes may be positively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the unrelated indicator may produce an increase or a decrease in the interest rate or the value of the structured note at maturity may be calculated as a specified multiple of the change in the value of the unrelated indicator. Therefore, the value of such notes and securities may be very volatile. Structured notes may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the unrelated indicator. Structured notes also may be more volatile, relatively less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities and instruments or more traditional debt securities.

Certain issuers of structured products may be deemed to be investment companies as defined in the 1940 Act. As a result, a Fund's investments in these structured products may be subject to limits applicable to investments in investment companies and may be subject to restrictions contained in the 1940 Act.

**Swaps.** Swap agreements are two-party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors for periods ranging from a few weeks to more than one year. In a standard swap transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differential in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments, which may be adjusted for an interest factor. The gross returns to be exchanged or "swapped" between the parties are generally calculated with respect to a "notional amount," i.e., the return on or increase in value of a particular dollar amount invested at a particular interest rate, or in a "basket" of securities representing a particular index.

An interest rate swap is a contract in which two parties exchange different types of interest payment streams, pegged to an underlying notional principal amount. Another type of swap is an inflation swap in which one party transfers inflation risk to another party through an exchange of cash flows. One of the parties pays a fixed rate tied to a notional principal amount, while the other party pays a floating rate tied to an inflation index.

A cap is a contract for which the buyer pays a fee, or premium, to obtain protections against a rise in a particular interest rate above a certain level. For example, an interest rate cap may cover a specified principal amount of a loan over a designated time period, such as a calendar quarter. If the covered interest rate rises above the rate ceiling, the seller of the rate cap pays the purchaser an amount of money equal to the average rate differential times the principal amount times one-quarter. A floor is a contract in which the seller agrees to pay to the purchaser, in return for the payment of a premium, the difference between current interest rates and an agreed (strike) rate times the notional amount, should interest rates fall below the agreed level (the floor). A floor contract has the effect of a string of interest rate guarantees.

Swap transactions, caps and floors are typically net basis contracts (i.e., the two payment streams are netted out, with the Fund receiving or paying as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments). The net amount of the excess, if any, of a Fund's obligations over its entitlement with respect to each transaction will be calculated on a daily basis and an amount of cash or liquid assets having an aggregate net asset value at least equal to the accrued excess may be required to be posted as collateral with the counterparty as security for such obligations.

A Fund may enter into a credit default swap (CDS) contract, which is an instrument by which one party transfers to another party the financial risk of a certain credit event as it relates to a particular reference security or basket of securities (such as an index). In exchange for the protection given by the seller of the CDS contract, the purchaser of the protection agrees to pay the seller of the protection a periodic premium. The Fund might use CDS contracts to limit or to reduce the risk exposure of the Fund to defaults of the issuers of its holdings or to decreases in certain markets. The Fund might also sell protection and use CDS contracts to increase or vary exposure to certain securities or markets. As the seller of protection, in the event a credit event occurs, the seller of protection has the obligation to make the purchaser whole or pay an agreed upon amount in return for the transfer to the seller of protection of the reference securities.

CDS contracts do not involve netting, but require the payment of a premium by the purchaser of protection and if a credit event occurs, the delivery to the seller of protection of the reference securities, securities equal in value to the reference securities or the negotiated monetary value of the obligation. If a credit event occurs, the seller of protection has the obligation to make the purchaser of protection whole or pay an agreed upon amount. The Fund will post cash or other liquid assets as collateral to cover its obligations under the swap transaction.

A Fund may enter into currency swaps. Currency swaps are transactions in which one currency is simultaneously bought for a second currency on a spot basis and sold for the second currency on a forward basis. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the rights of a Fund and another party to make or receive payments in specified currencies, and typically require the delivery of the entire principal value of one designated currency in exchange for the other designated currency.

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The use of swaps is a highly specialized activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio transactions. Whether the Fund's use of these transactions will be successful in furthering its investment objective will depend on a sub-adviser's ability to predict correctly whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments.

A significant risk in swap transactions is the creditworthiness of the counterparty because the integrity of the transaction depends on the ability of the counterparty to meet its contractual obligations. If there is a default by the other party to such a transaction, the Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. In the event of a counterparty's (or its affiliate's) insolvency, a Fund's ability to exercise remedies, such as the termination of transactions, netting of obligations and realization on collateral, could be stayed or eliminated under special resolution regimes adopted in the United States, the EU and various other jurisdictions. Such regimes generally provide government authorities with broad authority to intervene when a financial institution is experiencing financial difficulty. In the EU, the regulatory authorities could reduce, eliminate or convert to equity the liabilities to a fund of a counterparty subject to such proceedings (sometimes referred to as a "bail in"). Currently, some transactions are required to be centrally cleared. Swap transactions that are not centrally cleared may be relatively less liquid than exchange-traded instruments and may be subject to margin requirements. Central clearing is expected to decrease counterparty risk by interposing the central clearinghouse as the counterparty to each of the parties to the original bi-lateral swap contract.

The Dodd-Frank Act sets forth a legislative framework for OTC derivatives, including financial instruments, such as swaps, in which the Funds may invest. Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Act grants significant authority to the SEC and the CFTC to regulate OTC derivatives and market participants, and requires clearing and exchange trading of many OTC derivatives transactions.

Provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act include capital and margin requirements and the mandatory use of clearinghouse mechanisms for many OTC derivative transactions. The CFTC, SEC and other federal regulators have adopted the rules and regulations enacting the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. However, swap dealers, major market participants and swap counterparties are experiencing, and will continue to experience, new and additional compliance burdens and associated costs. The Dodd-Frank Act and the rules promulgated thereunder may negatively impact a Fund's ability to meet its investment objective either through limits or requirements imposed on it or upon its counterparties. In particular, new position limits imposed on a Fund or its counterparties may impact that

Fund's ability to invest in futures, options and swaps in a manner that efficiently meets its investment objective.

**SEC Names Rule Requirement** 

**Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund.** The Fund, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its net assets (including borrowings for investment purposes) in equity and equity related securities of U.S. companies.

**Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage** 

The Funds' Adviser or sub-advisers (as applicable) (collectively referred to as the Adviser) are responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities and other investments for each Fund, and for the selection of brokers and dealers to effect the transactions and the negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any. Purchases and sales of securities on an exchange are effected through brokers who charge a commission for their services. A particular broker may charge different commissions according to such factors as the difficulty and size of the transaction. Transactions in foreign securities generally involve the payment of fixed brokerage commissions, which are generally higher than those in the United States. There is generally no stated commission in the case of securities traded in the over-the-counter markets, but the price paid by the Fund usually includes an undisclosed dealer commission or mark-up. In the U.S. Government securities market, securities are generally traded on a net basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the securities usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion, certain money market instruments may be purchased directly from an issuer, in which case no commissions or discounts are paid.

The Adviser currently provides investment advice to a number of other clients. The Adviser will allocate purchase and sale transactions among each of the Funds and other clients whose assets are managed in such manner as is deemed equitable. In making such allocations, among the major factors the Adviser considers are the investment objectives of the relevant Fund, the relative size of portfolio holdings of the same or comparable securities, the availability of cash for investment, the size of investment commitments generally held, and the opinions of the persons responsible for managing the Funds and other client accounts. Securities of the same issuer may be purchased, held, or sold at the same time by a Fund or other accounts or companies for which the Adviser provides investment advice (including affiliates of the Adviser, as the case may be).

On occasions when the Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund, as well as its other clients, the Adviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate such securities to be sold or purchased for a Fund with those to be sold or purchased for its other clients in order to obtain best execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Adviser in a manner it considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to all such clients, including a Fund. In some instances, the procedures may impact the price and size of the position obtainable for a Fund.

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In connection with effecting portfolio transactions, consideration will be given to securing the most favorable price and efficient execution. Within the framework of this policy, the reasonableness of commission or other transaction costs is a major factor in the selection of brokers and is considered together with other relevant factors, including financial responsibility, confidentiality (including trade anonymity), research and investment information and other services provided by such brokers. It is expected that, as a result of such factors, transaction costs charged by some brokers may be greater than the amounts other brokers might charge. The Adviser may determine in good faith that the amount of such higher transaction costs is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided.

The Board of Trustees will review the commissions and other transaction costs incurred from time to time and will receive reports regarding brokerage practices. The nature of the research services provided to the Adviser by brokerage firms varies from time to time but generally includes current and historical financial data concerning particular companies and their securities; information and analysis concerning securities markets and economic and industry matters; and technical and statistical studies and data dealing with various investment opportunities; and risks and trends, all of which the Adviser regards as a useful supplement of its own internal research capabilities.

The Adviser may, from time-to-time, direct trades to brokers which have provided specific brokerage or research services for the benefit of the clients of the Adviser; in addition, the Adviser may allocate trades among brokers that generally provide such services. Research services furnished by brokers are for the benefit of all the clients of the Adviser and not solely or necessarily for the benefit of the Funds. The Adviser believes that the value of research services received is not determinable and does not significantly reduce its expenses. A Fund does not reduce its fee to the Adviser by any amount that might be attributable to the value of such services.

**Brokerage and Research Services** 

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; $2535 | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; 4376 | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |

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**Purchases of Securities of "Regular" Brokers or Dealers** 

As of the fiscal year ended July 31, 2025, the Funds listed below held investments in securities of their regular broker dealers:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund Name** | **Regular Broker/Dealer** | **Aggregate Holdings**<br> **of Securities ($)**<br>|
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | Bank of America | &nbsp;&nbsp; $162123 |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | Goldman Sachs | &nbsp;&nbsp; $117343 |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | JPMorgan | &nbsp;&nbsp; $255150 |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | Morgan Stanley | &nbsp;&nbsp; $117695 |

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**No Commissions to Finance Distribution** 

The 1940 Act permits a Fund to use its selling brokers to execute transactions in portfolio securities only if the Fund or its adviser has implemented policies and procedures designed to ensure that the selection of brokers for portfolio securities transactions is not influenced by considerations relating to the sale of Fund shares. Accordingly, the Funds maintain, among other policies, a policy that prohibits them from directing to a broker-dealer in consideration for the promotion or sale of Fund shares: (a) Fund portfolio securities transactions; or (b) any commission or other remuneration received or to be received from the Fund's portfolio transactions effected through any other broker-dealer. The Funds have also established other policies and procedures designed to ensure that a Fund's brokerage commissions are not used to finance the distribution of Fund shares.

**Commission Recapture Program** 

The Funds do not participate in commission recapture programs.

**Portfolio Turnover** 

A portfolio turnover rate is the percentage computed by dividing the lesser of a Fund's purchases or sales of securities (excluding short-term securities) by the average market value of the Fund's portfolio securities. The Adviser intends to manage each Fund's assets by buying and selling securities to help attain its investment objective. This may result in increases or decreases in a Fund's current income available for distribution to its shareholders. While the Funds are not managed with the intent of generating short-term capital gains, each Fund may dispose of investments (including money market instruments) regardless of the holding period if, in the opinion of the Adviser, an issuer's creditworthiness or perceived changes in a company's growth prospects or asset value make selling them advisable. Such an investment decision may result in a high portfolio turnover rate during a given period, resulting in

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increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs on the sale of the securities and reinvestment in other securities. These effects of higher than normal portfolio turnover may adversely affect a Fund's performance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **2025** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; 193<br> %<br>|
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; 18<br> %<br>|

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**Trustees and Officers** 

The Board of Trustees ("Board of Trustees" or the "Board") oversees the management of the Funds and elects the Trust's officers. The Trustees of the Trust ("Trustees") have the power to amend the Trust's bylaws, to declare and pay dividends, and to exercise all the powers of the Trust except those granted to the shareholders. The Trustees hold their position until their resignation, retirement, or their successors are elected and qualified.

The Trust's officers are responsible for the Funds' day-to-day operations. Information pertaining to the Trustees and Executive Officers of the Trust is set forth below. The Trustee that is deemed an "interested person," as defined in the 1940 Act, is included in the table titled, "Interested Trustee." Trustees who are not interested persons are referred to as Independent Trustees.

The term Fund Complex includes the 2 series of the Trust, as well as the 112 series of the Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust, Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund and Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund.

**Interested Trustee** 

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address and**<br> **Year of Birth**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position(s)**<br> **Held With**<br> **the Funds**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal**<br> **Occupation(s)**<br> **during Past**<br> **Five Years**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Number of**<br> **Funds in**<br> **Fund**<br> **Complex**<br> **Overseen by**<br> **Trustee**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Board**<br> **Memberships**<br> **Held by Trustee**<br> **during Past Five**<br> **Years**<br>|
| **John Morriss**\*<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester <br> Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1967<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trustee, <br> President and <br> Board Chair<br>| Since October 2025 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Formerly: Senior Vice <br> President, Head of Public <br> and Private Fixed Income <br> at Fortitude Re.<br>| 114 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lincoln Bain Capital Total <br> Credit Fund since 2025 (1 <br> portfolio); Lincoln Partners <br> Group Royalty Fund since <br> 2025 (1 portfolio); Lincoln <br> Variable Insurance Products <br> Trust since 2025 (110 <br> portfolios)<br>|

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\*

Mr. Morriss is an interested person of the Trust because he is a Director and an Officer of Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation, the investment adviser to the Trust, and an officer of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, the parent company of the Trust's investment adviser.

**Independent Trustees** 

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address and**<br> **Year of Birth**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position(s)**<br> **Held With**<br> **the Funds**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal**<br> **Occupation(s)**<br> **during Past**<br> **Five Years**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Number of**<br> **Funds in**<br> **Fund**<br> **Complex**<br> **Overseen by**<br> **Trustee**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Board**<br> **Memberships**<br> **Held by Trustee**<br> **during Past Five**<br> **Years**<br>|
| **Thomas A. Leonard**<br> 1301 S. Harrison Street,<br> Fort Wayne, IN 46802<br> YOB: 1949<br>| Trustee | Since June 2024 | Retired | 4 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lincoln Bain Capital Total <br> Credit Fund since 2025 (1 <br> portfolio); Lincoln Partners <br> Group Royalty Fund since <br> 2025 (1 portfolio); Copeland <br> Capital Trust since 2010 (3 <br> portfolio); Lincoln Variable <br> Insurance Products Trust <br> retired 2024 (110 portfolios)<br>|

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address and**<br> **Year of Birth**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position(s)**<br> **Held With**<br> **the Funds**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal**<br> **Occupation(s)**<br> **during Past**<br> **Five Years**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Number of**<br> **Funds in**<br> **Fund**<br> **Complex**<br> **Overseen by**<br> **Trustee**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Board**<br> **Memberships**<br> **Held by Trustee**<br> **during Past Five**<br> **Years**<br>|
| **Joseph P. LaRocque**<br> 1301 S. Harrison Street,<br> Fort Wayne, IN 46802<br> YOB: 1967<br>| Trustee | Since June 2024 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Founder, Lighthouse Tax <br> Advisors; Independent <br> Director, Self-Employed; <br> Partner, Towson Tax & <br> Consulting; Managing <br> Director, Legg Mason <br> Global Asset Mgmt.<br>| 4 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lincoln Bain Capital Total <br> Credit Fund since 2025 (1 <br> portfolio); Lincoln Partners <br> Group Royalty Fund since <br> 2025 (1 portfolio); Director, <br> Franklin Templeton, <br> Luxembourg and Irish <br> UCITS Funds; Director, <br> Columbia Threadneedle UK <br> and Luxembourg UCITS <br> Funds<br>|
| **Thomas P. Sholes**<br> 1301 S. Harrison Street<br> Fort Wayne, IN 46802<br> YOB: 1964<br>| Trustee | Since January 2025 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managing Member, Veritas <br> Consulting Solutions; <br> Formerly: Managing <br> Director, BNY Mellon <br> Pershing<br>| 4 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lincoln Bain Capital Total <br> Credit Fund since 2025 (1 <br> portfolio); Lincoln Partners <br> Group Royalty Fund since <br> 2025 (1 portfolio)<br>|

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**Officers of the Trust** 

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address and**<br> **Year of Birth**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position(s)**<br> **Held With**<br> **the Funds**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal**<br> **Occupation(s)**<br> **during Past**<br> **Five Years**<br>|
| **Matthew L. Arnold**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1967<br>| Vice President | Since December 2023 | Vice President, Lincoln National Corporation |
| **Matthew T. Berger**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1982<br>| Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since June 2022; Formerly: Assistant Vice <br> President since June 2019<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company; Formerly: Assistant <br> Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company.<br>|
| **Paul T. Chryssikos**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1973<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Chief <br> Legal Officer and Assistant <br> Secretary<br>| Since October 2025 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, <br> Assistant Secretary, Chief Counsel, <br> Investment Management, Distribution and <br> Risk, Lincoln Financial Investments <br> Corporation.<br>|
| **Samuel K. Goldstein**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1976<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Deputy Chief <br> Legal Officer, and Secretary<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since October 2025; Formerly: Vice <br> President and Assistant Secretary since <br> June 2019<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Deputy Chief Legal Officer, <br> and Secretary, Lincoln Financial Investments <br> Corporation; Vice President, The Lincoln <br> National Life Insurance Company; Vice <br> President, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company <br> of New York; Vice President, Lincoln <br> National Corporation.<br>|
| **Gordon Huellmantel**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1976<br>| Senior Vice President | Since October 2025 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Director, Senior Vice President, Head of <br> Funds Management for Lincoln Financial <br> and Chief Operating Officer, Lincoln <br> Financial Investments Corporation; <br> Formerly: Senior Vice President, General <br> Account Investment Management Team.<br>|
| **James J. Hoffmayer**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1973<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Treasurer, and <br> Chief Accounting Officer<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since February 2024; Formerly: Assistant <br> Vice President since November 2021<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President and Treasurer, Lincoln <br> Financial Investments; Vice President and <br> Director of Separate Account Operations and <br> Mutual Fund Administration, The Lincoln <br> National Life Insurance Company; Formerly: <br> Assistant Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments; Managing Director, SEI; <br> Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, SEI <br> Family of Mutual Funds.<br>|

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address and**<br> **Year of Birth**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position(s)**<br> **Held With**<br> **the Funds**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served**<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal**<br> **Occupation(s)**<br> **during Past**<br> **Five Years**<br>|
| **Michael C. Hoppe**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1988<br>| Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since June 2022; Formerly: Assistant Vice <br> President since August 2018<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation; Formerly: <br> Assistant Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation.<br>|
| **Yun (Maria) Ma**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1978<br>| Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since June 2022; Formerly: Assistant Vice <br> President since August 2015<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation; Formerly: <br> Assistant Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation.<br>|
| **Jennifer M. Matthews**<br> 1301 S. Harrison Street<br> Fort Wayne, IN 46802<br> YOB: 1976<br>| Vice President | Since April 2018 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation; Vice President, <br> The Lincoln National Life Insurance <br> Company.<br>|
| **John Morriss**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1973<br>| President | Since October 2025 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Head of Public and <br> Private Fixed Income at Fortitude Re.<br>|
| **Colleen E. O' Leary**<br> 1301 S. Harrison Street<br> Fort Wayne, IN 46802<br> YOB: 1984<br>| Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since June 2022; Formerly: Assistant Vice <br> President since June 2018<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company; Formerly: Assistant <br> Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company.<br>|
| **Jay T. Shearon**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1972<br>| Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since March 2024; Formerly: Assistant Vice <br> President since December 2015<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assistant Vice President, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation, Lincoln Life & <br> Annuity Company of New York, The Lincoln <br> National Life Insurance Company; Formerly: <br> Assistant Vice President, Lincoln Variable <br> Insurance Products Trust.<br>|
| **John (Jack) A. Weston**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1959<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President and Chief <br> Compliance Officer<br>| Since May 2007 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, <br> Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation; <br> Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company.<br>|
| **Amber Williams**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1979<br>| Senior Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since March 2022; Formerly, Vice President <br> since May 2019<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President and Head of Client <br> Investment Strategies, Lincoln Financial <br> Investments Corporation; Senior Vice <br> President, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company <br> of New York; Senior Vice President, Lincoln <br> National Corporation; Senior Vice President, <br> The Lincoln National Life Insurance <br> Company; Formerly, Head of Product <br> Management, Nationwide Investment <br> Management Group.<br>|
| **Yajun (Alex) Zeng**<br> 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road<br> Radnor, PA 19087<br> YOB: 1982<br>| Vice President | Since April 2018 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Vice President and Managing Director, <br> Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation; <br> Vice President, The Lincoln National Life <br> Insurance Company.<br>|

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**Trustee Qualifications** 

The following is a brief description of the experience and attributes of each Trustee that led the Board to conclude that each Trustee is qualified to serve on the Trust's Board of Trustees. References to the experience and attributes of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and are not holding out the Board of Trustees or any Trustee as having any special expertise and shall not impose any greater responsibility or liability on any Trustee or on the Board of Trustees.

**Thomas A. Leonard.** Mr. Leonard has served as a Trustee of Lincoln Funds Trust since June 2024. Mr. Leonard retired from Pricewaterhouse Coopers, LLP in 2008, where he had served as Financial Services Industry Leader in the firm's Philadelphia office from 2000-2008 and from 1982-2008 as a Partner providing services to clients predominately in the asset management business with a focus on global fund complexes and insurance company retail and variable funds. Mr. Leonard is currently a board member of Copeland Capital Trust, Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund and Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund and was previously a board member of AlphaOne Capital, WT Mutual Fund and Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust. Since 2012, Mr. Leonard has served as

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a consultant to the FundVantage Trust. Mr. Leonard holds a B.S. in accounting from LaSalle University. Through his experience, Mr. Leonard provides the Board with accounting, auditing and financial services industry experience.

**Joseph P. LaRocque.** Mr. LaRocque has served as a Trustee of Lincoln Funds Trust since June 2024. Mr. LaRocque is a Certified Public Accountant and is the founder of Lighthouse Tax Advisors, a boutique US tax consulting firm. Mr. LaRocque also serves as an independent board member of Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund and Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund and several UCITS funds. Previously, Mr. LaRocque held various senior roles at Legg Mason Global Asset Management, including heading the organization's international product development and non-US distribution organizations and holding senior business roles. Prior to that, Mr. LaRocque was a Senior Manager in PricewaterhouseCoopers audit practice. Mr. LaRocque holds a bachelor's degree and MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. Through his experience, Mr. LaRocque provides the Board with accounting, auditing and financial services industry experience.

**John Morriss.** Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer for Lincoln Financial. In this role, Morriss provides executive leadership, strategic direction, and oversight of the company's general account, funds management and private markets investment strategies, with more than $300 billion in assets under management. He leads a team of investment professionals focused on portfolio construction, asset allocation, sub-advisor due diligence, and the development of equity, fixed income, and alternative investment strategies. He reports to Ellen Cooper, Chairman, President and CEO, and is a member of the company's Senior Management Committee.

Morriss has more than 30 years of investment experience. Prior to his current role at Lincoln, he served as Head of Public and Private Fixed Income at Fortitude Re, overseeing the organization's insurance-focused investment portfolios. Prior to joining Fortitude Re in 2020, he held the role of Senior Vice President of Fixed Income Investments at Lincoln for four years. Earlier he spent 18 years at TIAA, where he held leadership roles spanning structured finance research, international and high-yield credit, portfolio management, and fixed income research. He began his career as a currency trader at Chase Manhattan Bank.

Morriss holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the College of the Holy Cross and an MBA in Finance from New York University's Stern School of Business.

**Thomas P. Sholes**. Mr. Sholes has served as a Trustee of the Fund since January 2025. Mr. Sholes is the founder of Veritas Consulting Solutions which provides strategic advisory services to financial institutions and technology firms. Previously, Mr. Sholes held leadership roles at BNY Mellon Pershing (2010-2024) including Chief Strategy Officer/Head of Global Strategy and Product Management, Chairman and President of Lockwood Advisors and as a member of the BNY Mellon Pershing executive committee. Prior to that, Mr. Sholes held several senior positions with financial services firms, including PNC Global Investment Servicing and Federated Investors, Inc. Mr. Sholes also serves as an independent trustee of the Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund and Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund and is a member of the Investment Committee for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Mr. Sholes holds an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University and a bachelor's degree in finance from Pennsylvania State University. Mr. Sholes will provide the Board with product management, strategy and financial services industry experience.

**Board Oversight** 

The primary responsibility of the Board of Trustees is to represent the interests of the Trust's shareholders and to provide oversight of the management of the Funds. The Trust's day-to-day operations are managed by the adviser and other service providers who have been approved by the Board. The Board is currently composed of four trustees, three of whom are classified under the 1940 Act as "non-interested" persons of the Trust (Independent Trustees) and one of whom is classified as an interested person of the Trust (Trustee). The Interested Trustee serves as the Chairperson of the Board.

The Board has a Lead Independent Trustee that serves as the primary liaison between Trust management and the Independent Trustees. The Lead Independent Trustee is selected by the Independent Trustees and serves until a successor is selected. Mr. Leonard currently serves as the Lead Independent Trustee.

Generally, the Board acts by majority vote of all the Trustees, including a majority vote of the Independent Trustees if required by applicable law. The Board establishes the policies and reviews and approves contracts and their continuance. The Board regularly requests and/or receives reports from the investment adviser, the Trust's other service providers and the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer. The Board has established two standing committees and has delegated certain responsibilities to those committees. The Board and its committees meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the Trust's activities, review the Funds' expenses, oversee compliance with regulatory requirements, and review investment performance. The Independent Trustees are represented by independent legal counsel at Board meetings.

As part of its general oversight of the Trust, the Board is involved in the risk oversight of the Trust. The Board reviews the Funds' investment performance with the Adviser at each of its regularly scheduled quarterly Board meetings. In addition, the Board must approve any material changes to a Fund's investment policies or restrictions. With respect to compliance matters, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the annual compliance report required by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act and a quarterly report regarding the operation of the Trust's compliance policies and procedures and any material compliance issues that arose during the quarter and meets with the Audit Committee at its quarterly meetings.

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The Board considered the number of Funds in the Trust, the total assets of the Trust and the general nature of the Funds' investments and determined that its leadership structure is appropriate given the characteristics of the Trust.

**Board Committees** 

**Audit Committee.** The Board of Trustees has established an Audit Committee. The Audit Committee oversees the Funds' financial reporting process on behalf of the Board of Trustees and reports its activities to the Board. The Audit Committee assists and acts as a liaison with the Board of Trustees in fulfilling the Board's responsibility to shareholders of the Trust and others relating to oversight of Fund accounting, the Trust's systems of controls, and the quality and integrity of the financial statements, financial reports, and audit of the Trust. In addition, the Audit Committee oversees the Trust's accounting policies, financial reporting and internal control systems. The members of the Audit Committee include Independent Trustees: Thomas A. Leonard, Joseph P. LaRocque (Chair) and Thomas P. Sholes.

**Nominating and Governance Committee.** The Board of Trustees has established a Nominating and Governance Committee. The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, the identification, evaluation and nomination of potential independent trustee candidates to serve on the Board of Trustees. The Board has adopted a charter for the Nominating and Governance Committee setting forth such Committee's responsibilities. The members of the Nominating and Governance Committee are Independent Trustees: Thomas A. Leonard (Chair), Joseph P. LaRocque and Thomas P. Sholes. The Nominating and Governance Committee will accept trustee nominations from shareholders. Any such nominations should be sent to the Trust's Nominating and Governance Committee, c/o Lincoln Funds Trust, P.O. Box 182801, Columbus, OH 43218.

**Ownership of Securities** 

As of July 31, 2025, the Trustees and officers as a group owned positions that entitled them to give voting instructions with respect to less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each Fund. As of July 31, 2025, the dollar range of equity securities owned beneficially by each Trustee in the Funds and in any registered investment companies overseen by the Trustees within the same family of investment companies as the Funds is as follows:

**Interested Trustee** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Dollar Range of Equity Securities in the Funds** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity**<br> **Securities in All Registered Investment**<br> **Companies Overseen by Trustee in**<br> **Family of Investment Companies**<br>|
| John Morriss | None | None |

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**Independent Trustees** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Dollar Range of Equity Securities in the Funds** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity**<br> **Securities in All Registered Investment**<br> **Companies Overseen by Trustee in**<br> **Family of Investment Companies**<br>|
| Thomas A. Leonard | None | None |
| Joseph P. LaRocque | None | None |
| Thomas P. Sholes | None | None |

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**Compensation**

Below is an estimate of the aggregate amount of fees to be paid to each current Independent Trustee for the Trust's first fiscal period ending July 31, 2025:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Person, Position** | **Aggregate Compensation**<br> **from the Trust**<br>| **Total**<br> **Compensation**<br> **from the**<br> **Trust and Fund**<br> **Complex**<br>|
| **Joseph P. LaRocque**, Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; $36000 <br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; $36000 <br>|
| **Thomas A. Leonard**, Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; $36000 <br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; $36000 <br>|
| **Thomas P. Sholes**, Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; $16000 <br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; $16000 <br>|

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**Investment Adviser and Sub-Advisers** 

**Investment Adviser.** Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI" or the "Adviser") is the investment adviser to the Funds. LFI is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company ("Lincoln Life"). LFI's address is 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, Pennsylvania 19087. LFI (or its predecessors) has served as an investment adviser to mutual funds for over 30 years. Lincoln Life is an insurance company organized under Indiana Law and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln National Corporation ("LNC"). LNC is a publicly-held insurance holding company organized under Indiana law. Through its subsidiaries, LNC provides insurance and financial services nationwide.

Pursuant to the Investment Management Agreement, LFI manages each Fund's portfolio investments and reports to the Board of Trustees. Each Fund pays LFI a monthly fee equal to a percentage of the average daily net assets of that Fund. The aggregate annual rates of the fees payable by each Fund to LFI may vary according to the level of assets of that Fund.

For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2025, each Fund paid fees to LFI equal to the following aggregate annual rates, expressed as a percentage of average daily net assets of the Fund:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Aggregate Annual Rate as a** <br>**Percentage of Average Daily Net Assets**<br>|
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | 0.85<br> %<br>|
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | 0.85<br> %<br>|

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**Advisory Fees Paid by Each Fund** 

For the fiscal year ended July 31, the Funds paid the net amounts, as reflected in the table below, for investment advisory services:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **2024** | **2023** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; $71109<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; 109089<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |

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<sup>1</sup>

The Fund commenced operations on October 1, 2024.

**Expense Reimbursements** 

For the last three fiscal years ended July 31, LFI reimbursed the Funds, as reflected in the table below, under the applicable expense reimbursement agreement:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **2024** | **2023** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; $418076<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; 452873<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |

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<sup>1</sup>

The Fund commenced operations on October 1, 2024.

With respect to Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund, the Adviser has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (excluding AFFE) exceed 1.07% of the Fund's average daily net assets for the Class I shares (and 1.32% for the Class A shares). Any reimbursements made by the Adviser are subject to recoupment from the Fund within three years after the occurrence of the reimbursement, provided that such recoupment shall not be made if it would cause annual Fund operating expenses of a class of the Fund to exceed the lesser of (a) the expense limitation in effect at the time of the reimbursement, or (b) the current expense limitation in effect, if any. Both agreements will continue at least through July 31, 2026 and cannot be terminated before that date without the mutual agreement of the Fund's Board of Trustees and the Adviser.

With respect to Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund, the Adviser has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (excluding AFFE) exceed 1.10% of the Fund's average daily net assets for the Class I shares (and 1.35% for the Class A shares). Any reimbursements made by the Adviser are subject to recoupment from the Fund within three years after the occurrence of the reimbursement, provided that such recoupment shall not be made if it would cause annual Fund operating expenses of a class of the Fund to exceed the lesser of (a) the expense limitation in effect at the time of the reimbursement, or (b) the current expense limitation in effect, if any. Both agreements will continue at least through July 31, 2026 and cannot be terminated before that date without the mutual agreement of the Fund's Board of Trustees and the Adviser.

**Sub-Advisers.** As adviser, LFI is primarily responsible for investment decisions affecting each of the Funds under its management. For some Funds, LFI has delegated day-to-day portfolio management responsibility to investment management firms that serve as sub-advisers. Each sub-adviser makes investment decisions for its respective Fund in accordance with that Fund's investment objectives and places orders on behalf of that Fund to effect those decisions. With respect to the Funds that are sub-advised, LFI provides ongoing oversight, including review of returns on a relative and absolute basis, a sub-adviser's use of soft dollars, evaluation of execution quality and brokerage allocation and on-site compliance reviews.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Sub-Adviser** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. <br> 7 Bryant Park <br> New York, NY 10018<br>|
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | &nbsp;&nbsp; Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. <br> 7 Bryant Park <br> New York, NY 10018<br>|

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LFI, not the Funds, pays each sub-adviser a monthly fee equal to a percentage of the average daily net assets of the portion of the Fund for which the sub-adviser provides investment sub-advisory services. The aggregate annual rates of the fees that LFI pays to a sub-adviser may vary according to the level of assets the sub-adviser manages.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Aggregate Annual Rate as a** <br>**Percentage of Average Daily Net Assets**<br>|
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | 0.45<br> %<br>|
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | 0.45<br> %<br>|

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**Sub-Advisory Fees Paid by Each Fund** 

During the last fiscal year ended July 31, the following amounts were paid for investment sub-advisory services with respect to the management of each Fund. LFI, not the Fund, pays all sub-advisory fees owed.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **2024** | **2023** |
| Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; $37646<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |
| Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; 57753<br> <sup>1</sup><br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A | &nbsp;&nbsp; N/A |

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<sup>1</sup>

The Fund commenced operations on October 1, 2024.

**Service marks.** The Funds' service marks and the name "Lincoln" are used by the Funds with the permission of LNC, and their continued use is subject to LNC's right to withdraw this permission in the event LFI ceases to be the Funds' investment adviser.

**Fund Expenses.** Expenses specifically assumed by each Fund under its Investment Management Agreement include, among others, compensation and expenses of the Trustees who are not interested persons; custodian fees; independent auditor fees; brokerage commissions; legal and accounting fees; registration and other fees in connection with maintaining required Fund and share registration with the SEC and state securities authorities; and the expenses of printing and mailing updated prospectuses, proxy statements and shareholder reports to current contract owners.

**Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures.** The Board of Trustees intends to delegate to LFI or each Fund's sub-adviser (as applicable) responsibility for voting any proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Fund in accordance with the adviser's or sub-adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures. Summaries of the proxy voting policies and procedures to be followed on behalf of the Funds, including procedures to be used when a vote represents a conflict of interest, are attached hereto as Appendix B.

Information regarding how each Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 will be available, without charge, (1) by calling 866-436-8717 or on the Funds' website at https://www.lincolnfinancial.com/lft; and (2) on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

**Portfolio Managers** 

The following provides information regarding each portfolio manager's other accounts managed, material conflicts of interest, compensation, and any ownership of securities in a Fund. Each portfolio manager is referred to in this section as a "portfolio manager."

**Other Accounts Managed** 

The following chart lists certain information about types of other accounts for which each portfolio manager was primarily responsible as of July 31, 2025.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Adviser/Sub-Adviser**<br> *Portfolio Manager(s)*<br>| **Total Number of**<br> **Other Accounts**<br>| **Total Assets**<br> **(in millions)**<br> **of Other Accounts**<br>| **Number of Other**<br> **Accounts Paying**<br> **Performance Fees**<br>| **Total Assets**<br> **(in millions)**<br> **of Other Accounts**<br> **Paying Performance Fees**<br>|
| **Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.** |  |  |  |  |
| *Oscar Agra, CFA* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $73 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| *Kaarthi Chandrasegaram* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $4479 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| *Abdallah Guezour* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $1490 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $302 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| *Jeegar Jagani, CFA* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $4479 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| *Ghokhulan Manickavasagar* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $4479 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| *Malcolm Melville* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 5 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $551 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 1 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $309 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 2 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $408 |
| *Scott Thomson* |  |  |  |  |
| Registered Investment Companies | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Pooled Investment Vehicles | &nbsp;&nbsp; 15 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $4479 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |
| Other Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; 0 | &nbsp;&nbsp; $0 |

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**Material Portfolio Manager Conflicts of Interest** 

Actual or apparent conflicts of interest may arise when a portfolio manager of a mutual fund has day-to-day management responsibilities with respect to the portfolio assets of more than one investment account, such as other pooled investment vehicles (including mutual funds, private funds, etc.) or separately managed accounts (collectively, "Accounts").

Potential conflicts of interest may occur in connection with a portfolio manager's management of a fund named in this SAI (a "Fund"), on one hand, and the investments of another Account, on the other. LFI has policies and procedures that it believes reasonably address the conflicts associated with managing multiple Accounts. The management of multiple Accounts and a Fund may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, as a portfolio manager must allocate time and effort to multiple Accounts and the Fund. Material conflicts may exist between the investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of other Accounts managed by the portfolio manager such as when an Account sells (or buys) a security, while the Fund buys or holds (or sells) the same security. As a result, transactions executed for one Account may adversely affect the value of securities held by the Fund.

Material conflicts may exist in the allocation of investment opportunities between the Fund and other Accounts managed by the portfolio manager. LFI and each Fund's sub-adviser(s), if any, have adopted policies and procedures designed to allocate investments fairly across a Fund and other Accounts.

No Fund or other LFI managed Account with a strategy similar to any of the Funds charges a performance-based fee.

The information below relates solely to the Fund(s) managed by the particular adviser or sub-adviser.

**Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI")** 

*Subadvised Funds.* LFI manages certain Fund portfolio investments via a "manager of managers" structure, whereby LFI selects and oversees sub-advisers that, in turn, manage a Fund's portfolio investments, such as equity (stocks), fixed-income (bonds), and exchange-traded funds ("ETFs"). LFI conducts ongoing reviews of each sub-adviser's business practices and investment operations.

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The Funds' manager of managers structure, as well as Accounts not being charged performance-based fees, greatly reduces the potential for LFI Fund portfolio managers to face conflicts of interest regarding the management of other Accounts.

*Funds of Funds.* LFI provides direct asset management services for certain Funds known as "funds of funds." A Lincoln fund of funds invests assets in other mutual funds, including ETFs, funds managed by LFI (typically branded "Lincoln" funds), and funds managed by unaffiliated investment managers (collectively, underlying funds). LFI Fund portfolio managers maintain an asset allocation strategy for each Lincoln fund of funds and make decisions regarding allocations to underlying funds based on the investment objectives, policies, practices and other relevant investment considerations that the portfolio managers deem applicable.

LFI and the Funds generally rely on SEC Rule 12d1-4 to implement the fund of funds structure. LFI, as a fiduciary to each Fund, selects underlying funds that it believes are in a Fund's best interest based on a variety of factors.

LFI and its affiliates receive advisory and other fees from underlying Lincoln Funds for the management and other services that LFI and its affiliates provide to the Lincoln Funds. Similarly, unaffiliated investment managers and their affiliates receive advisory and/or other fees from the underlying funds they or their affiliates manage. The affiliated and unaffiliated underlying funds may have advisory fee rates and/or fee structures that are different than those of the Funds. A portfolio manager's management of Accounts with different advisory fee rates and/or fee structures may raise potential conflicts of interest by creating an incentive to favor higher fee Accounts.

As decision-makers for the Lincoln funds of funds, LFI portfolio managers have the authority and discretion to manage fund of funds' allocations to underlying funds. LFI's policy is for LFI portfolio managers to make decisions concerning the selection of underlying funds based on the best interests of each Fund and its shareholders, without regard to any revenue that LFI receives or might receive, directly or indirectly, from Funds for services provided by LFI or an LFI affiliate or from any Fund sub-adviser. At the same time, LFI expects to invest in affiliated underlying funds without considering or canvassing the universe of unaffiliated underlying funds available, even though there may (or may not) be one or more comparable unaffiliated underlying funds. In addition, LFI might have an interest in making an investment in an affiliated underlying fund, or in maintaining an existing investment in an affiliated underlying fund, in order to benefit that affiliated underlying fund (for example, by assisting the affiliated underlying fund in achieving or maintaining scale). Notwithstanding the foregoing, LFI is a fiduciary and is legally obligated to act in a Lincoln fund of fund's best interests when selecting underlying funds. The Funds have additional policies and procedures in place to comply with SEC rules concerning funds of funds.

*Cross Trades.* LFI portfolio managers do not manage Fund assets that may be included in cross-trades. Fund sub-advisers effect any such trades, and each sub-adviser has represented to LFI that it has procedures in place to comply with relevant SEC regulations.

*Multiple Accounts*. A Fund portfolio manager's management of multiple Accounts may result in the portfolio manager devoting unequal time and attention to the management of each Account. Although LFI does not track the time a portfolio manager spends on a single Fund, it does assess whether a portfolio manager has adequate time and resources to effectively manage all the Accounts for which he or she is responsible. LFI seeks to manage competing interests for the time and attention of portfolio managers and other LFI personnel.

*Personal Accounts*. Personal accounts of LFI investment personnel may give rise to potential conflicts of interest and must be maintained and conducted in accordance with LFI's code of ethics.

**Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (Schroders)** 

Whenever a portfolio manager of a Fund manages other accounts, potential conflicts of interest exist, including potential conflicts between the investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of the other accounts. For example, in certain instances, a portfolio manager may take conflicting positions in a particular security for different accounts, by selling a security for one account and continuing to hold it for another account. In addition, the fact that other accounts require the portfolio manager to devote less than all of his or her time to the Fund may be seen itself to constitute a conflict with the interest of the Fund.

Each portfolio manager may also execute transactions for another fund or account at the direction of such a fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a Fund. Securities selected for funds or accounts other than the Fund may outperform the securities selected for the Fund. Finally, if the portfolio manager identifies a limited investment opportunity that may be suitable for more than one fund or other account, the Fund may not be able to take full advantage of that opportunity due to an allocation of that opportunity across all eligible funds and accounts. Schroders' policies, however, require that portfolio managers allocate investment opportunities among accounts managed by them in an equitable manner over time. Orders are normally allocated on a pro rata basis, except that in certain circumstances, such as the small size of an issue, orders will be allocated among clients in a manner believed by Schroders to be fair and equitable over time. The structure of a portfolio manager's compensation may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. A portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management, which indirectly links compensation to sales. Also, potential conflicts of interest may arise since the structure of Schroders' compensation may vary from account to account.

Schroders has adopted certain compliance procedures that are designed to address these, and other, types of conflicts. However,

there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and every situation where a conflict arises.

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**Compensation Structures and Methods** 

Information regarding each portfolio manager's compensation is attached hereto as Appendix C.

**Beneficial Interest of Portfolio Managers** 

Information regarding securities of each Fund beneficially owned, if any, by portfolio managers is disclosed below. Portfolio managers are not required to own Fund shares, but may invest their personal assets in Fund shares in accordance with their individual investment goals. A portfolio manager's personal investment, or lack of investment, is not an indicator of that portfolio manager's confidence in, or commitment to, a particular Fund or its investment strategy.

As of the Funds' fiscal year ended July 31, 2025, no portfolio manager of any Fund beneficially owned shares of any Fund.

**Principal Underwriter** 

Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. (LFD), 130 North Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, Pennsylvania 19087, serves as the principal underwriter for the Trust Shares. LFD distributes shares of the Funds continuously but reserves the right to suspend or discontinue distribution on that basis. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any specific amount of Fund Shares. LFD is an affiliate of LFI, the Funds' investment adviser.

Class A shares of the Funds pay for distribution-related services pursuant to the Trust's Distribution and Service Plan (the "Distribution Plan"). Under the Distribution Plan, payments are made to LFD which then makes payments to financial intermediaries on a periodic basis as compensation for services the financial intermediaries provide and expenses they bear in connection with promoting, selling, and servicing Class A shares. LFD does not retain any of the fees paid to it by the Funds.

For fiscal year ended July 31, 2025, LFD received $26,318 in compensation from the Trust.

**Securities Lending** 

None of the Funds engaged in any securities lending for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2025.

**Code of Ethics** 

The Trust, LFI and LFD have each adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. The Board of Trustees has reviewed and approved these Codes of Ethics. Subject to certain limitations and procedures, these Codes permit personnel that they cover, including employees of LFI who regularly have access to information about securities purchased for the Funds, to invest in securities for their own accounts. This could include securities that may be purchased by Funds. The Codes are intended to prevent these personnel from taking inappropriate advantage of their positions and to prevent fraud on the Funds. The Trust's Code of Ethics requires reporting to the Board of Trustees of material compliance violations.

**Description of Shares** 

Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust formed on July 5, 2023, is an open-end management investment company.

The Trust is currently organized and operating under a Declaration of Trust and the provisions of Delaware law governing the operation of a Delaware statutory trust. The Board of Trustees ("Board" or the "Trustees") may amend the Declaration of Trust from time to time; provided, however, that any amendment which would materially and adversely affect shareholders of the Trust as a whole, or shareholders of a particular Fund, must be approved by the holders of a majority of the Shares of the Trust or the Fund, respectively. The Trustees may, without the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting shares (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act")) of the Trust or a Fund, by a vote of a majority of the Trustees or written instrument executed by a majority of their number then in office, terminate, liquidate or reorganize any Fund or any class of Shares of any such Fund at any time by written notice to affected shareholders. The Trust is a registered open-end management investment company.

The Trust is authorized to issue Shares of beneficial interest, and may divide the Shares into two or more series, each of which evidences a pro rata ownership interest in a different investment portfolio — a "Fund." The Trustees may, without seeking shareholder approval, create additional Funds at any time.

The Funds are authorized to issue Shares of beneficial interest in one or more classes. The Funds currently offer two classes of shares: Class A and Class I. The Trustees may, without seeking shareholder approval, create additional classes of one or more Funds at any time. Shares of each class of a Fund have no par value per share, are fully paid and nonassessable, and have no conversion

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rights. Shares of each class of a Fund represent proportionate interests in the assets of that Fund and have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the Shares of other classes of the Fund. Shares of each class of a Fund are entitled to the dividends and distributions earned on the assets belonging to the Fund that the Board declares. Class A Shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee of up to 0.25%. Class I Shares are not subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee. Unless otherwise indicated, "Shares" in this SAI refers to all classes of Shares of the Funds.

Rule 18f-2 under the 1940 Act provides that any matter required to be submitted to the holders of outstanding voting securities of an investment company such as the Trust shall not be deemed to have been effectively acted upon unless approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of each Fund affected by the matter. For purposes of determining whether the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund will be required in connection with a matter, a Fund will be deemed to be affected by a matter unless it is clear that the interests of each Fund in the matter are identical, or that the matter does not affect any interest of the Fund. Under Rule 18f-2, the approval of an investment advisory agreement or any change in investment policy would be effectively acted upon with respect to a Fund only if approved by a majority of the outstanding shares of that Fund. However, Rule 18f-2 also provides that the ratification of independent public accountants (for Funds having the same independent accountants), the approval of principal underwriting contracts, and the election of trustees may be effectively acted upon by shareholders of the Trust voting without regard to individual Funds. In such matters, all shares of the Trust have equal voting rights.

Unless otherwise required by the 1940 Act, ordinarily it will not be necessary for the Trust to hold annual meetings of shareholders. As a result, shareholders may not consider each year the election of Trustees or the appointment of auditors. However, the holders of at least 10% of the shares outstanding and entitled to vote may require the Trust to hold a special meeting of shareholders for purposes of removing a trustee from office. Shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the Trust's outstanding voting shares. In addition, the Board of Trustees will call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees if, at any time, less than a majority of the Trustees then holding office have been elected by shareholders.

**Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities**

As of November 3, 2025, Lincoln Life, an Indiana corporation, owned 50.43% of the Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund's total shares, 100.00% of the Fund's Class A shares and 1.77% of the Funds Class I shares, and 50.32% of the Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund's total shares, 100.00% of the Fund's Class A shares and 1.19% of the Funds Class I shares. Lincoln Life is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lincoln National Corporation.

As of November 3, 2025, Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation, owned 49.57% of the Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund's total shares and 98.23% of the Fund's Class I shares, and 49.68% of the Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund's total shares and 98.81% of the Fund's Class I shares.

**Rule 12b-1 Plan** 

Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Trust has adopted a distribution and service plan (Plan) for the Class A shares of each Fund. The Trust may pay others, out of the assets of Class A shares of each Fund, for activities primarily intended to sell such shares. The Trust would pay each third-party for these services pursuant to a written agreement with that third-party.

Payments made under the Plan may be used for, among other things: the printing of prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes; preparing and distributing sales literature and related expenses; advertisements; education of shareholders or dealers and their representatives; and other distribution-related expenses. Payments made under the Plan may also be used to pay dealers or others for, among other things: service fees as defined under FINRA rules; furnishing personal services or such other enhanced services as the Trust offering Class A shares may require; or maintaining customer accounts and records.

For the noted services, the Plan authorizes each Fund to pay a monthly fee ("Plan Fee") not to exceed 0.25% per annum of the average daily NAV of Class A shares of each Fund, respectively, as compensation or reimbursement for services rendered and/or expenses borne.

No "interested person", as defined in the 1940 Act, or Independent Trustee had or has a direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plan or any related agreement.

The Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, has determined that, in the exercise of reasonable business judgment and in light of its fiduciary duties, there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit each Fund. Each year, the Trustees must make this determination for the Plan to be continued. The Board of Trustees believes that the Plan will result in greater sales and/or fewer redemptions of Class A shares, which may benefit each Fund by reducing Fund expense ratios and/or by affording greater flexibility to portfolio managers. However, it is impossible to know for certain the level of sales and redemptions of shares that would occur in the absence of the Plan or under alternative distribution schemes.

For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2025, the Service Class shares of the Trust paid Plan Fees for compensation to broker-dealers of approximately $45,568.

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**Revenue Sharing** 

LFI and its affiliates, including LFD, and/or each Fund's sub-adviser may pay compensation at their own expense, including the profits from the advisory fees LFI receives from the Funds or the sub-advisory fees the sub-advisers receive from LFI, to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries (financial intermediaries) in connection with the sale or retention of Fund shares and/or shareholder servicing (distribution assistance). For example, LFD may pay additional compensation to financial intermediaries for various purposes, including, but not limited to, promoting the sale of Fund shares and the products that are funded by the Fund shares; access to their registered representatives; sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder processing services; and marketing and education support. Such payments are in addition to any distribution fees, service fees and/or transfer agency fees that may be payable by the Funds. The additional payments may be based on factors, including level of sales, the Funds' advisory fees, some other agreed upon amount, or other measures as determined from time to time.

A significant purpose of these payments is to increase sales of the Funds' shares and the products that contain the Funds. LFI and/or its affiliates may benefit from these payments of compensation to financial intermediaries through increased fees resulting from additional assets acquired through the sale of insurance products through such intermediaries.

**Valuation of Portfolio Securities** 

**Offering Price/NAV.** The offering price of a Fund's shares is based on the Fund's net asset value ("NAV") per share. A Fund determines its NAV per share by subtracting its liabilities (including accrued expenses and dividends payable) from its total assets (the value of the securities the Fund holds plus cash and other assets, including income accrued but not yet received) and dividing the result by the total number of Fund shares outstanding. A Fund determines its NAV per share as of close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") – normally 4:00 p.m. New York time, each business day.

In addition to the disclosure in each Fund's prospectus under the "Pricing of Fund Shares" section, the value of each Fund's investments is determined as follows:

**Foreign Equity Securities.** Foreign equity securities are generally valued based on their closing price on the principal foreign exchange for those securities, which may occur earlier than the NYSE close. A Fund then may adjust for market events, occurring between the close of the foreign exchange and the NYSE close. An independent statistical service has been retained to assist in determining the value of certain foreign equity securities. This service utilizes proprietary computer models to determine adjustments for market events. Quotations of foreign securities in foreign currencies and those valued using forward currency rates are converted into U.S. dollar equivalents.

**Over-the-Counter ("OTC") Investments.** OTC investments (including swaps and options) are generally valued by pricing services that use evaluated prices from various observable market and other factors. Certain forward foreign currency contracts are generally valued using the mean between broker-dealer bid and ask quotations, and foreign currency exchange rates.

**Exchange-Traded Futures, Options and Swaps.** Exchange-traded futures, options and swaps are normally valued at the reported settlement price determined by the relevant exchange. Exchange-traded futures, options and swaps for which no settlement prices are reported are generally valued at the mean between the most recent bid and ask prices obtained from pricing services, established market makers, or from broker-dealers.

**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure** 

The Trust's Board of Trustees has adopted policies and procedures designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding a Fund's portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders. In accordance with these policies and procedures, Fund management will make shareholders reports or other regulatory filings containing the Funds' portfolio holdings available free of charge to individual investors, institutional investors, intermediaries that distribute the Funds' shares, and affiliated persons of the Fund that make requests for such holdings information. Shareholder reports are available 60 days after the end of each semi-annual reporting period.

Each Fund will post all of its holdings to a publicly available website no earlier than 25 calendar days after quarter end. In addition, each Fund may post all of its holdings no earlier than 25 calendar days after inception, rebalance, or after any material changes are made to the holdings. At the time of the disclosure on the website, the portfolio holdings of these Funds will be deemed public.

Each Fund also may provide holdings information following the end of the quarterly reporting period under a confidentiality agreement to third-party service providers, including independent rating and ranking organizations, which conduct market analyses of the Fund's portfolio holdings against benchmarks or securities market indices. All such third parties must sign a confidentiality agreement agreeing to keep the non-public portfolio information strictly confidential and not to engage in trading on the basis of the information. These parties may disseminate the portfolio holdings information when the portfolio holdings are deemed to be public.

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The Sub-Adviser has ongoing arrangements with third parties to make available information about a Fund's portfolio holdings, such as portfolio analysis companies (i.e., BlackRock Aladdin) and proxy voting services (i.e., Glass, Lewis & Co). Such arrangements may change from time to time, including the third parties to which such information may be disclosed. Each unaffiliated third party must agree to keep the Fund's holdings information confidential. The Sub-Adviser does not receive compensation in connection with these arrangements.

Each Fund may provide, at any time, portfolio holdings information to: (a) Fund service providers and affiliates, such as the Funds' investment adviser, or sub-advisers, trading services providers, class action service provide, custodian, and independent registered public accounting firm, to the extent necessary to perform services for the Funds; and (b) state and federal regulators and government agencies as required by law or judicial process. These entities are subject to duties of confidentiality imposed by law, contract, or fiduciary obligations.

The Funds will disclose their portfolio holdings in public SEC filings. The Trust's Board of Trustees also may, on a case-by-case basis, authorize disclosure of the Funds' portfolio holdings, provided that, in its judgment, such disclosure is not inconsistent with the best interests of shareholders, or may impose additional restrictions on the dissemination of portfolio information.

Neither the Funds, the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser, nor any affiliate receive any compensation or consideration in connection with the disclosure of the Funds' portfolio holdings information.

The Funds are responsible for ensuring appropriate disclosure is made regarding these procedures in the Funds' prospectuses and/or SAI.

The Trust's Board of Trustees exercises oversight of these policies and procedures. Management for the Funds will inform the Trustees if any substantial changes to the procedures become necessary to ensure that the procedures are in the best interest of Fund shareholders. The officers will consider any possible conflicts between the interest of Fund shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Funds' investment adviser and other Fund affiliates, on the other. Moreover, the Funds' Chief Compliance Officer will address the operation of the Funds' procedures in the annual compliance review and will recommend any remedial changes to the procedures.

**Purchase and Redemption Information** 

You may purchase or redeem Fund shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares may be purchased or redeemed:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through your financial professional; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Through the Transfer Agent at 800-215-6280 and obtaining an account application.

**Custodian and Portfolio Accounting** 

All securities, cash and other similar assets of the Funds are currently held in custody by State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"). As custodian, State Street is responsible for the safekeeping of the Funds' assets and the appointment of any sub-custodian banks and clearing agencies. The custodian shall: receive and disburse money; receive and hold securities; transfer, exchange, or deliver securities; present for payment coupons and other income items, collect interest and cash dividends received, hold stock dividends, etc.; cause escrow and deposit receipts to be executed; register securities; and deliver to the Funds proxies, proxy statements, etc.

State Street also provides basic portfolio recordkeeping required for each Fund for regulatory and financial reporting purposes.

The mailing address for State Street is: One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.

**Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent** 

FIS Investor Services LLC will serve as transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent for the Trust and each Fund.

**Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm** 

The Board of Trustees has engaged Ernst & Young LLP, One Commerce Square, Suite 700, 2005 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, to serve as the Funds' Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. In addition to the audits of the Funds' financial statements, Ernst & Young LLP also reviews certain regulatory reports and performs other tax and advisory services when engaged to do so by the Trust.

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**Financial Statements** 

[Each Fund's most recent Form N-CSR to shareholders, which contains each Fund's audited financial statements, is incorporated](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0002015799/000139834425018720/fp0095488-1_ncsr.htm)[herein by reference.](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0002015799/000139834425018720/fp0095488-1_ncsr.htm)The audited financial statements and the reports for the year ended July 31, 2025, of Ernst & Young LLP thereon are incorporated by reference. We will provide a copy of each Fund's annual report, once available, on request and without charge. Either write: Lincoln Funds Trust, P.O. Box 182801, Columbus, OH 43218-2801 or call: 866-436-8717.

**Taxes**

Each Fund intends to continue to qualify for the special tax treatment afforded to regulated investment companies under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the "Code"). As long as a Fund so qualifies, the Fund (but not its shareholders) will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the part of its investment company taxable income and net realized capital gains that it distributes to its shareholders in years in which it distributes at least 90% of its investment company taxable income and at least 90% of its net tax-exempt interest income, if any, for the year. To qualify as a regulated investment company, a Fund must meet certain requirements regarding the source of its income and the composition and diversification of its assets. In the case of a Feeder Fund, such Fund may look to the underlying assets of the Master Portfolio in which it has invested for purposes of satisfying the asset diversification requirement and various other requirements of the Code applicable to regulated investment companies.

A Fund may be able to cure a failure to derive at least 90% of its income from the sources specified above or a failure to diversify its holdings in the manner described above by paying a tax, by disposing of certain assets, or by paying a tax and disposing of assets. If, in any taxable year, a Fund fails one of these tests and does not timely cure the failure, the Fund will be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and distributions to its shareholders will not be deductible by the Fund in computing its taxable income. Although in general the passive loss rules of the Code do not apply to regulated investment companies, such rules do apply to a regulated investment company with respect to items attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly-traded partnership. A Fund's investments in partnerships, including in qualified publicly-traded partnerships, may result in the Fund being subject to state, local, or non-U.S. income, franchise or withholding tax liabilities.

Each Fund intends to distribute substantially all of such income and gains. If, in any taxable year, a Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Code, notwithstanding the availability of certain relief provisions, such Fund would be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and all distributions from earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles) to its shareholders would be taxable as ordinary dividend income eligible for taxation at a reduced tax rate for non-corporate shareholders and the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders. Each Fund that is a series of a regulated investment company that consists of multiple series is treated as a separate corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and therefore is considered to be a separate entity in determining its treatment under the rules for regulated investment companies. Losses in one series of a regulated investment company do not offset gains in another, and the requirements (other than certain organizational requirements) for qualifying for regulated investment company status will be determined at the level of the individual series. In the following discussion, the term "Fund" means each individual series, if applicable.

The Code requires a regulated investment company to pay a nondeductible 4% excise tax to the extent the regulated investment company does not distribute, during each calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income, determined on a calendar year basis, and at least 98.2% of its capital gain net income, determined, in general, as if the regulated investment company's taxable year ended on October 31, plus certain undistributed amounts from the previous years. While each Fund intends to distribute its income and capital gains in the manner necessary to avoid imposition of the 4% excise tax, there can be no assurance that a sufficient amount of the Fund's taxable income and capital gains will be distributed to avoid entirely the imposition of the tax. In such event, a Fund will be liable for the tax only on the amount by which it does not meet the foregoing distribution requirements.

Net capital loss carryforwards may be applied against realized capital gains in each succeeding year, until they have been reduced to zero. In the event that the Fund were to experience an ownership change as defined under the Code, the Fund's loss carryforwards and other favorable tax attributes of the Fund, if any, may be subject to limitation.

Dividends paid by a Fund from its ordinary income or from an excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss (together referred to as "ordinary income dividends") are taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Distributions made from an excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss (including gains or losses from certain transactions in futures and options) ("capital gain dividends") are taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the shareholder has owned Fund shares. Distributions paid by a Fund that are reported as exempt-interest dividends will not be subject to regular U.S. federal income tax. Certain dividend income and long-term capital gains are eligible for taxation at a reduced rate that applies to non-corporate shareholders. Under these rules, the portion of ordinary income dividends constituting "qualified dividend income" when paid by a regulated investment company to a non-corporate shareholder may be taxable to such shareholder at long-term capital gain rates provided the shareholder has held the shares on which the dividend was paid for at least 61 days during the 121-day period that begins on the date that is 60 days before the date on which the shares become ex-dividend with respect to such dividend (or, in the case of certain accumulated dividends with respect to preferred stocks, the shareholder has held the shares on which the dividend was paid for at least 91 days during the 181-day period that begins on the date that is 90 days before the date on

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which the shares become ex-dividend with respect to such dividend). However, to the extent a Fund's distributions are derived from income on debt securities, certain types of preferred stock treated as debt for U.S. federal income tax purposes and short-term capital gains, such distributions will not constitute "qualified dividend income." In addition, distributions that are derived from securities lending income, such as substitute dividend payments, will not constitute "qualified dividend income."

A 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on the net investment income (which includes taxable dividends and redemption proceeds) of certain individuals, trusts and estates.

A Fund's net capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses) is not subject to the 90% distribution requirement for taxation as a regulated investment company, described above. If a Fund retains net capital gain, it is subject to tax on that gain, and may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gain in a written statement furnished to its shareholders, who will be required to include in income, as long-term capital gain, their proportionate shares of such undistributed net capital gain, will be deemed to have paid and may claim as a credit against their U.S. federal income tax liability (and as a refund to the extent it exceeds that liability) their proportionate shares of the tax paid by the Fund on that gain, and shall increase the tax basis of their shares in the Fund by the excess of the amount included in income over the amount allowed as a credit against their taxes.

Distributions in excess of a Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will first reduce the adjusted tax basis of a holder's shares and after such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, will constitute capital gains to such holder (assuming the shares are held as a capital asset). Distributions in excess of a Fund's minimum distribution requirements (or taxable income) but not in excess of a Fund's earnings and profits will be taxable to shareholders and will not constitute nontaxable returns of capital. A Fund's capital loss carryovers, if any, carried from taxable years beginning before 2011 do not reduce current earnings and profits even if such carryforwards reduce current year realized gains. In the case of a Fund with a non-calendar taxable year, a Fund's earnings and profits are allocated first to distributions made on or before December 31 of the taxable year, and then to distributions made after December 31 of the taxable year. Any loss upon the sale or exchange of Fund shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received by the shareholder.

Ordinary income and capital gain dividends are taxable to shareholders even if they are reinvested in additional shares of a Fund. Distributions by a Fund, whether from ordinary income or capital gains, generally will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations under the Code. If a Fund pays a dividend in January that was declared in the previous October, November or December to shareholders of record on a specified date in one of such months, then such dividend will be treated for tax purposes as being paid by the Fund and received by its shareholders on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared. In the case of a Fund with a non-calendar taxable year, if the Fund reports more capital gain dividends than it earns in such taxable year, then the Fund will reduce the amounts reported as capital gains. Where possible, such reduction will first be allocated to dividends made after December 31 of such taxable year. A Fund may elect to defer recognizing, until the following taxable year, certain net capital losses arising after October 31 of the current taxable year, and certain net ordinary losses arising after October 31 and/or December 31 of the current taxable year. This may have the effect of increasing the amount of dividends otherwise includible in the shareholder's income with respect to the current taxable year.

No gain or loss will be recognized by Investor C shareholders on the conversion to Investor A Shares. A shareholder's tax basis in the Investor A Shares acquired upon conversion will be the same as the shareholder's tax basis in the converted Investor C Shares and the holding period of the acquired Investor A Shares will include the holding period for the converted Investor C Shares.

A loss realized on a sale or exchange of shares of a Fund will be disallowed if other substantially identical shares are acquired (whether through the automatic reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within a 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date on which the shares are sold or exchanged. In such case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

A Fund is also generally required by law to report to each shareholder and to the IRS cost basis information for shares of the Fund acquired on or after January 1, 2012, and sold or redeemed after that date. This information includes the adjusted cost basis of the shares, the gross proceeds from disposition, and whether the gain or loss is long-term or short-term. The adjusted cost basis of shares will be based on the default cost basis reporting method selected by the Fund, unless a shareholder, before the sale or redemption, informs the Fund that it has selected a different IRS-accepted method offered by the Fund. These requirements, however, will not apply for investments through an IRA or other tax-advantaged account. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the best cost basis method for their tax situation, and to obtain more information about how these new cost basis reporting requirements apply to them. For shares of a Fund acquired before January 1, 2012, these new requirements will not apply, but the Fund will continue to report to the IRS the gross proceeds received by a shareholder from the sale or redemption of such shares.

Certain Funds may invest in derivative contracts such as options, futures contracts, forward contracts and swap agreements. The U.S. federal income tax treatment of a derivative contract may not be as favorable as a direct investment in the underlying security and may adversely affect the timing, character and amount of income the Fund realizes from its investments. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, Section 1256 contracts held by a Fund at the end of each taxable year (and, for purposes of the 4% excise tax, certain other dates as prescribed under the Code) are generally "marked-to-market," and unrealized gains or losses are treated as though they were realized, which may increase the amount that must be distributed to meet distribution requirements and avoid the excise tax. In addition, the tax treatment of certain

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derivative contracts, such as swap agreements, is unsettled and may be subject to future legislation, regulation or administrative pronouncements issued by the IRS. If such future guidance limits the Fund's ability to use derivatives, the Fund may have to find other ways of achieving its investment objectives.

A provision added to the Code by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act clarifies that certain swap agreements, including exchange-traded swap agreements, are treated as notional principal contracts rather than as Section 1256 contracts. This can affect the type of income earned by such swap agreements. Although all of the income on a notional principal contract is ordinary income, only some of the income on a Section 1256 contract is short-term capital gain, which is generally taxable at ordinary income rates. The rest is long-term capital gain, which may be taxable at more favorable rates than ordinary income. Recently proposed regulations interpret what types of swap agreements are to be treated as notional principal contracts rather than as Section 1256 contracts. When finalized, these regulations could result in the Fund having to treat more of its income on swap agreements and more of the distributions made to shareholders as ordinary income and less as long-term capital gains.

Certain Funds may invest in zero coupon U.S. Treasury bonds and other debt securities that are issued at a discount or provide for deferred interest. Even though a Fund receives no actual interest payments on these securities, it will be deemed to receive income equal, generally, to a portion of the excess of the stated redemption price of the securities over their issue price ("original issue discount") each year that the securities are held. Since the original issue discount income earned by a Fund in a taxable year may not be represented by cash income, the Fund may have to dispose of securities, which it might otherwise have continued to hold, or borrow to generate cash in order to satisfy its distribution requirements. In addition, a Fund's investment in foreign currencies or foreign currency denominated or referenced debt securities, certain asset-backed securities and contingent payment and inflation-indexed debt instruments also may increase or accelerate the Fund's recognition of income, including the recognition of taxable income in excess of cash generated by such investments.

Ordinary income dividends paid to shareholders who are nonresident aliens or foreign entities (other than pass-through entities to the extent owned by U.S. persons) generally will be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax under existing provisions of the Code applicable to foreign individuals and entities unless a reduced rate of withholding or a withholding exemption is provided under applicable treaty law. Capital gain dividends paid to shareholders that are nonresident aliens or foreign entities, if and to the extent properly reported as capital gain dividends, generally will not be subject to a 30% withholding tax, unless certain exceptions apply. Dividends derived by a regulated investment company from short-term capital gains and qualified net interest income (including income from original issue discount and market discount) and paid to shareholders who are nonresident aliens or foreign entities, if and to the extent properly reported as "short-term capital gain dividends" or "interest-related dividends", respectively, generally will not be subject to U.S. withholding tax. Where possible, the Funds intend to report such dividends as interest-related dividends or short-term capital gain dividends. However, depending on its circumstances, a Fund may report all, some or none of its potentially eligible dividends as interest-related or as short-term capital gain dividends, and/or treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as ineligible for this exemption from withholding. In order to qualify for this exemption from withholding, a foreign shareholder must comply with applicable certification requirements relating to its foreign status (including, in general, furnishing an IRS Form W-8BEN, IRS Form W-8BEN-E or substitute Form). In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if the Fund reports the payment as an interest-related or short-term capital gain dividend. Foreign shareholders should contact their intermediaries with respect to the application of these rules to their accounts. It is not possible to predict what portion, if any, of a Fund's distributions will be reported as interest-related dividends or short-term capital gain dividends under these rules.

Distributions to certain foreign shareholders by a Fund at least 50% of the assets of which are "U.S. real property interests" (as defined in the Code and Treasury regulations) at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the distributions, to the extent the distributions are attributable to gains from sales or exchanges of U.S. real property interests (including shares in certain "U.S. real property holding corporations" such as certain REITs, although exceptions may apply if any class of stock of such a corporation is regularly traded on an established securities market and the Fund has held no more than 5% of such class of stock at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the distributions), generally must be treated by such foreign shareholders as income effectively connected to a trade or business within the United States, which is generally subject to tax at the graduated rates applicable to U.S. shareholders, except for distributions to foreign shareholders that held no more than 5% of any class of stock of the Fund at any time during the previous one-year period ending on the date of the distributions. Such distributions may be subject to U.S. withholding tax and may require a foreign shareholder to file a U.S. federal income tax return. In addition, sales or redemptions of shares held by certain foreign shareholders in such a Fund generally will be subject to U.S. withholding tax and generally will require the foreign shareholder to file a U.S. federal income tax return, although exceptions may apply if more than 50% of the value of the Fund's shares are held by U.S. shareholders or the foreign shareholder selling or redeeming the shares has held no more than 5% of any class of stock of the Fund at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the sale or redemption.

Provided that more than 50% of the value of a Fund's stock is held by U.S. shareholders, redemptions and other distributions made in the form of U.S. real property interests (including shares in certain "U.S. real property holding corporations", although exceptions may apply if any class of stock of such a corporation is regularly traded on an established securities market and the Fund has held no more than 5% of such class of stock at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the distribution) generally will cause the Fund to recognize a portion of any unrecognized gain in the U.S. real property interests equal to the product of (i) the excess of

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fair market value of such U.S. real property interests over the Fund's adjusted bases in such interests and (ii) the greatest foreign ownership percentage of the Fund during the five-year period ending on the date of distribution.

Shareholders that are nonresident aliens or foreign entities are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in a Fund.

Separately, a 30% withholding tax is currently imposed on U.S.-source dividends, interest and other income items paid to (i) certain foreign financial institutions and investment funds, and (ii) certain other foreign entities. To avoid withholding, foreign financial institutions and investment funds will generally either need to (a) collect and report to the IRS detailed information identifying their U.S. accounts and U.S. account holders, comply with due diligence procedures for identifying U.S. accounts and withhold tax on certain payments made to noncomplying foreign entities and account holders or (b) if an intergovernmental agreement is entered into and implementing legislation is adopted, comply with the agreement and legislation. Other foreign entities will generally either need to provide detailed information identifying each substantial U.S. owner or certify there are no such owners.

Under certain provisions of the Code, some shareholders may be subject to a 24% withholding tax on ordinary income dividends, capital gain dividends and redemption payments ("backup withholding"). Generally, shareholders subject to backup withholding will be non-corporate shareholders for whom no certified taxpayer identification number is on file with the Fund or who, to the Fund's knowledge, have furnished an incorrect number. When establishing an account, an investor must certify under penalty of perjury that such number is correct and that such investor is not otherwise subject to backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amount withheld generally may be allowed as a refund or a credit against a shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the required information is timely forwarded to the IRS.

If a shareholder recognizes a loss with respect to a Fund's shares of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder in any single taxable year (or a greater amount in any combination of taxable years), the shareholder must file a disclosure statement on IRS Form 8886 with the IRS. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases exempted. That a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer's treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.

Dividends and interest received and capital gains realized by a Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. Tax conventions between certain foreign countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. Shareholders of a Fund more than 50% by value of the assets of which at the close of a taxable year are foreign securities may be able to claim U.S. foreign tax credits with respect to such foreign taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain requirements and limitations contained in the Code. For example, certain retirement accounts and certain tax-exempt organizations cannot claim foreign tax credits on investments in foreign securities held in a Fund. In addition, a foreign tax credit may be claimed with respect to withholding tax on payments with respect to a security only if the holder of the security meets certain holding period requirements. Both the shareholder and the Fund must meet these holding period requirements, and if a Fund fails to do so, it will not be able to "pass through" to shareholders the ability to claim a credit or a deduction for the related foreign taxes paid by the Fund. Further, to the extent that a Fund engages in securities lending with respect to a security paying income subject to foreign taxes, it may not be able to pass through to its shareholders the ability to take a foreign tax credit for those taxes. If a Fund satisfies the applicable requirements, such Fund will be eligible to file an election with the IRS pursuant to which shareholders of the Fund will be required to include their proportionate shares of such foreign taxes in their U.S. income tax returns as gross income, treat such proportionate shares as taxes paid by them, and deduct such proportionate shares in computing their taxable incomes or, alternatively, use them as foreign tax credits against their U.S. income taxes. No deductions for foreign taxes, however, may be claimed by noncorporate shareholders who do not itemize deductions. A shareholder that is a nonresident alien individual or a foreign corporation may be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the income resulting from a Fund's election described in this paragraph but may not be able to claim a credit or deduction against such U.S. tax for the foreign taxes treated as having been paid by such shareholder. A Fund will report annually to its shareholders the amount per share of such foreign taxes and other information needed to claim the foreign tax credit.

Certain transactions entered into by the Funds are subject to special tax rules of the Code that may, among other things, (a) affect the character of gains and losses realized, (b) disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, and (c) accelerate the recognition of income without a corresponding receipt of cash (with which to make the necessary distributions to satisfy distribution requirements applicable to regulated investment companies). Operation of these rules could, therefore, affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders. Special tax rules also may require a Fund to mark-to-market certain types of positions in its portfolio (i.e., treat them as sold on the last day of the taxable year), and may result in the recognition of income without a corresponding receipt of cash. Funds engaging in transactions affected by these provisions intend to monitor their transactions, make appropriate tax elections and make appropriate entries in their books and records to lessen the effect of these tax rules and avoid any possible disqualification from the special treatment afforded regulated investment companies under the Code.

If a Fund invests in underlying funds, the Fund's realized losses on sales of shares of underlying funds may be indefinitely or permanently deferred as "wash sales." Distributions of short-term capital gains by underlying funds will be recognized as ordinary income by the Fund and would not be offset by the Fund's capital loss carryforwards, if any. Capital loss carryforwards of underlying funds, if any, would not offset net capital gains of the Fund. Each of these effects is caused by the Fund's expected investment in the underlying

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funds and may result in distributions to Fund shareholders being of higher magnitudes and less likely to qualify for lower capital gain tax rates than if the Fund were to invest otherwise.

A Fund may take certain positions through a wholly-owned (or majority-owned), foreign subsidiary (the "Subsidiary"). It is expected that the Subsidiary will be a "controlled foreign corporation" and that all of its net income will be "subpart F income" for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If that is the case, the Fund will be required to report all of the Subsidiary's net income as ordinary income regardless of whether that income would be treated differently (for example, as capital gain) at the Subsidiary level and regardless of whether that income is distributed to the Fund. (Previously taxed income will not, however, be taxable again when distributed.) If a net loss is realized by the Subsidiary in any taxable year, the loss will generally not be available to offset the Fund's other income. It is not expected that the Subsidiary will be subject to an entity-level federal tax.

If a Fund purchases shares of an investment company (or similar investment entity) organized under foreign law, the Fund will generally be treated as owning shares in a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A Fund may be subject to U.S. federal income tax, and interest charges (at the rate applicable to tax underpayments) on tax liability treated as having been deferred with respect to certain distributions from such a company and on gain from the disposition of the shares of such a company (collectively referred to as "excess distributions"), even if such excess distributions are paid by the Fund as a dividend to its shareholders. However, a Fund may elect to "mark-to-market" at the end of each taxable year shares that it holds in PFICs. The election is made separately for each PFIC held and, once made, would be effective for all subsequent taxable years, unless revoked with consent from the IRS. Under this election, a Fund would recognize as ordinary income any increase in the value of its shares as of the close of the taxable year over their adjusted tax basis and as ordinary loss any decrease in such value, but only to the extent of previously recognized "mark-to-market" gains. By making the mark-to-market election, a Fund could avoid imposition of the interest charge with respect to excess distributions from PFICs, but in any particular year might be required to recognize income in excess of the distributions it received from PFICs.

If a Fund were to invest in a PFIC and elect to treat the PFIC as a "qualified electing fund" under the Code, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, the Fund would be required to include in income each year a portion of the ordinary earnings and net capital gains of the qualified electing fund, even if not distributed to the Fund, and such amounts would be subject to the 90% and excise tax distribution requirements described above. In order to make this election, the Fund would be required to obtain certain annual information from the PFICs in which it invests, which may be difficult or impossible to obtain.

In certain situations, a Fund may, for a taxable year, defer all or a portion of its net capital loss (or if there is no net capital loss, any net long-term or short-term capital loss) realized after October and its late-year ordinary loss (defined as the sum of the excess of post-October foreign currency and PFIC losses over post-October foreign currency and PFIC gains plus the excess of post-December ordinary losses over post-December ordinary income) until the next taxable year in computing its investment company taxable income and net capital gain, which will defer the recognition of such realized losses. Such deferrals and other rules regarding gains and losses realized after October (or December) may affect the tax character of shareholder distributions.

Shareholders of each Fund are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding specific questions as to federal, foreign, state or local taxes with respect to their Fund. Foreign investors should consider applicable foreign taxes in their evaluation of an investment in a Fund.

The foregoing general discussion of U.S. federal income tax consequences is based on the Code and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. Future legislative or administrative changes or court decisions may significantly change the conclusions expressed in this discussion, and any such changes or decisions may have a retroactive effect.

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**Appendix A — Long and Short-Term Bond/Credit Ratings** 

Certain of the Funds' investment policies and restrictions include reference to bond (long-term) and commercial paper (short-term) ratings. The following is a discussion of the rating categories of Moody's Investor Service, Inc. and Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC.

**<u>Background</u>** 

***Moody's*** 

Ratings assigned on Moody's global long-term and short-term rating scales are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations issued by non-financial corporates, financial institutions, structured finance vehicles, project finance vehicles, and public sector entities.

***S&P Global Ratings*** 

A Standard & Poor's issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program. The opinion reflects Standard & Poor's view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due.

**Long-Term Credit Ratings** 

Long-term ratings are generally the credit risk of fixed-income obligation with an original maturity of one year or more.

***Moody's*** 

Aaa - Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.

Aa - Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.

A - Obligations rated A are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.

Baa - Obligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.

Ba - Obligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.

B - Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.

Caa - Obligations rated Caa are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.

Ca - Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.

C - Obligations rated C are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.

***S&P Global Ratings*** 

AAA - An obligation rated 'AAA' has the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.

AA - An obligation rated 'AA' differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.

A - An obligation rated 'A' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong.

BBB – An obligation rated 'BBB' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

BB; B; CCC; CC; and C – Obligations rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', 'CC', and 'C' are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the least degree of speculation and 'C' the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.

D - An obligation rated 'D' is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or 30 calendar days. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to 'D' if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

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\*Ratings from 'AA' to 'CCC' may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the rating categories.

**Short-Term Credit Ratings** 

Short-term ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. In the U.S., for example, that means obligations with an original maturity of no more than 365 days — including commercial paper.

***Moody's*** 

P1 - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P2 - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P3 - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.

NP - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.

***S&P Global Ratings*** 

A-1 - A short-term obligation rated 'A-1' is rated in the highest category by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.

A-2 - A short-term obligation rated 'A-2' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.

A-3 - A short-term obligation rated 'A-3' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken an obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

B - A short-term obligation rated 'B' is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

C - A short-term obligation rated 'C' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

D - A short-term obligation rated 'D' is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to 'D' if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

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**Appendix B — Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures**

**Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation** 

**I. Introduction** 

The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of each series of Lincoln Funds Trust (collectively, the "Lincoln Funds") has adopted these Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (the "Policies and Procedures") to govern each Lincoln Fund's proxy voting. The Board has delegated implementation of these Policies and Procedures, and the responsibility for all proxy voting, or further delegation of proxy voting, to the Lincoln Funds' investment adviser, Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI").

LFI has adopted these Policies and Procedures to govern LFI's implementation of proxy voting for LFI's clients, which include the Lincoln Funds.

**II. Policies** 

LFI shall vote proxies for which it has discretionary authority in the best interests of its clients. Such clients may include the Lincoln Funds, non-Lincoln mutual funds, private funds, and separate accounts (collectively, "Clients").

Proxy voting decisions with respect to a Client's holdings shall be made in the manner LFI believes will most likely protect and promote such Client's long-term economic value. Absent unusual circumstances or specific instructions, LFI votes proxies on a particular matter with this fundamental premise on behalf of each Client, regardless of a Client's individual investment style or strategies.

In exercise voting authority LFI will comply with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Rule requires an investment adviser to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that the adviser votes client securities in the best interest of clients, which procedures must include how material conflicts are addressed;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclose to clients how they may obtain information about how the adviser voted with respect to their securities; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Describe to clients the adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures and, upon request, furnish a copy of the policies and procedures to the requesting client.

**III. Procedures** 

**A. Direct Investments** 

LFI may invest directly in equity and fixed income securities, and other types of investments. LFI will cast votes for proxies in accordance with the Client's proxy voting procedures or other direction. If the Client does not direct proxy voting in the Client's account, LFI will vote proxies in the Client's best interests, as determined by LFI. In making such determination, LFI may rely on analysis from proxy voting consultants or third-party proxy voting services. LFI will consider each proxy that it votes and evaluate it based on the particular facts and circumstances of that proxy. LFI may determine not to vote all or some shares eligible to vote if that course of action would be in the Client's best interests under the circumstances. Such circumstances could include, but are not limited to, cases where the cost of voting exceeds any expected benefits (e.g., foreign proxies), or where voting results in restrictions on trading.

**B. Sub-Advised Funds** 

LFI advises mutual funds and separate accounts that are offered through variable contracts and which are sub-advised by unaffiliated third-party sub-advisers ("sub-advised funds"). Each sub-advised fund delegates responsibility for voting proxies relating to the sub-advised fund's securities to the sub-adviser, subject to the Board's continued oversight. The sub-adviser votes all proxies relating to the sub-advised funds' portfolio securities and uses the sub-adviser's own proxy voting policies and procedures adopted in conformance with Rule 206(4)-6. LFI shall review each sub-adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Before a sub-adviser is retained, LFI's compliance staff will review the proposed sub-adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures and confirm that the sub-adviser will vote the proxies in the best interests of its clients.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Each quarter, LFI's compliance staff surveys each sub-adviser, via a compliance questionnaire, and reviews any reported changes or exceptions to their compliance policies and procedures, including proxy voting. LFI's compliance staff reviews these reported changes or exceptions and, if material, summarizes them and reports such event's to the sub-advised fund's board.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• During contract renewal of sub-advisory agreements for Clients that are registered mutual funds, LFI reviews the sub-adviser's responses to the Section 15(c) information request sent by Funds Management, which includes pertinent questions relating to the sub-adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures.

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**C. Funds of Funds** 

LFI advises certain funds of funds that invest substantially all of their assets in shares of other affiliated and/or unaffiliated mutual funds (each an "underlying fund"). A fund of funds may also invest directly in equity and fixed income securities and other types of investments.

When an underlying fund, whose shares are held by a fund of funds, solicits a shareholder vote on any matter, LFI shall vote such shares of the underlying fund in the same proportion as the vote of all other holders of shares of such underlying fund. This type of voting structure is commonly referred to as "mirror voting."

When a fund of funds invests directly in securities other than mutual funds, LFI shall follow the procedures outlined in "Direct Investments" above.

**D. Master-Feeder Funds** 

LFI advises certain master-feeder funds. A feeder fund does not buy investment securities directly. Instead, it invests in a master fund which in turn purchases investment securities. Each feeder fund has the same investment objective and strategies as its master fund.

If a master fund in a master-feeder structure calls a shareholder meeting and solicits proxies, the feeder fund (that owns shares of the master fund) shall seek voting instructions from the feeder fund's shareholders and will vote proxies as directed. Proxies for which no instructions are received shall be voted in accordance with mirror voting, in the same proportion as the proxies for which instructions were timely received from the feeder fund's shareholders.

Proxies for the portfolio securities owned by the master fund will be voted pursuant to the master fund's own proxy voting policies and procedures.

**E. Material Conflicts** 

In the event that LFI identifies a potential material conflict of interest between a Client and LFI, or any LFI-affiliated entity, LFI will advise the chief compliance officer ("CCO") of the potential conflict. The CCO then will convene an ad hoc committee which will include, without limitation, the CCO, legal counsel, and the president of LFI. The ad hoc committee will determine if an actual conflict exists, and if so, it will vote the proxy in accordance with the Client's best interests. If the conflict relates specifically to a Client that is a registered mutual fund, the CCO shall report to the fund's board, at its next regularly scheduled meeting, the nature of the conflict, how the proxy vote was cast, and the rationale for the vote.

**IV. Disclosure** 

**A. Form ADV** 

LFI shall disclose information regarding these Policies and Procedures as required in Item 17 of Form ADV, Part 2A. Among other things, LFI will disclose how Clients may obtain information about how LFI voted their portfolio securities and how Clients may obtain a copy of these Policies and Procedures.

**B. Statement of Additional Information (SAI)** 

Each of the Lincoln Funds shall include in its SAI a copy or a summary of these Policies and Procedures, and, if applicable, any sub-advisers' policies and procedures (or a summary of such policies and procedures).

**C. Annual Reports** 

Each of the Lincoln Funds shall disclose in its annual and semi-annual shareholder reports that a description of these Policies and Procedures, including any sub-adviser policies and procedures, and the Lincoln Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12 months ended June 30 are available on the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) website by calling a specified toll-free telephone number.

**D. Proxy Voting Record on Form N-PX** 

The Lincoln Funds annually will file their complete proxy voting record with the SEC on Form N-PX. Form N-PX shall be filed for the twelve months ended June 30 no later than August 31 of that year.

**V. Recordkeeping** 

LFI shall retain the following documents for not less than seven (7) years from the end of the year in which the proxies were voted, the first two (2) years at an on-site location:

(a) Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures;

(b) Proxy voting records (this requirement may be satisfied by a third party who has agreed in writing to do so);

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(c) A copy of any document that LFI, or an ad hoc committee convened for purposes of voting proxies, creates that was material in making its voting decision, or that memorializes the basis for such decision; and

(d) A copy of each written request from a Client, and any response to the Client, for information on how LFI voted the Client's proxies.

**Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.** 

**Proxy Voting Policy Summary** 

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("the Adviser") treats the voting of proxies as an important part of its management of client assets. It votes proxies in a manner that it deems to be in the best interest of its clients. This proxy voting policy outlines the approach taken by the Adviser to the responsible use of voting rights in companies on behalf of our clients.

**Proxy Voting Policy Requirements** 

Pursuant to its Proxy Voting policy, Schroders votes on all shares in publicly quoted equities except as described below. Schroders votes on all of its clients' shares covered by its policy, except in the following very limited circumstances:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where there are share blocking requirements over the shares and the Investment team considers that the ability to trade the shares is more important than the ability to vote, it may elect not to do so. In this case, Schroders' Corporate Governance team is consulted and must approve this decision.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where the relevant Corporate Governance team considers that costs associated with voting the shares (for example, the financial and/or administrative cost of providing additional documentation) may outweigh the value of the ability to vote.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where there are physical barriers to voting and/or timing issues. For example, where the Schroders proxy voting provider has not provided an electronic means to vote or has not provided their research (which enables Schroders to vote) more than one U.K. business day before the voting cut off.

**All voting is conducted as per Global and Regional Voting Guidelines adopted by the Schroders Group.** 

Schroders Global Voting Guidelines can be found Here. The Global Voting Guidelines set the minimum standards to be applied and are supported by the Regional Voting Guidelines, where applicable, which provide specific guidance on how to apply these locally. All voting is conducted in line with such Guidelines except in the circumstances described above.

Global and Regional Voting Guidelines are reviewed at least annually by regional Corporate Governance teams, with any material changes agreed with by the Compliance team.

**Corporate Governance teams are responsible for conducting the voting on shares covered by Schroders Proxy Voting policy.** 

Corporate Governance teams discuss and agree with the relevant Investment teams how to vote with respect to each issuer's shares covered by the policy with reference to the applicable Global and Regional Voting Guidelines, and any discussion and/or other engagement with each company. Once an agreement is reached, the relevant Corporate Governance team is responsible for voting accordingly.

**Schroders has the ability to conduct all voting electronically.** 

All voting is conducted via the electronic voting platform provided by Schroders proxy voting provider, unless there are specific operational reasons not to do so or Schroders attends the meeting in person.

**Voting Escalation Process** 

Where an agreement on how to vote the shares cannot be reached between the relevant Corporate Governance team and the relevant Investment team(s):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Corporate Governance team and the Investment team(s) will each write a memo setting out their views on the resolution, how they believe the shares should be voted and their rationale.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Corporate Governance team shall convene a meeting (electronically or physically) between the disagreeing parties and the Co-Head of Investment and Head of Equities who will adjudicate and make a decision on how to vote the shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Corporate Governance team will document this decision in writing and vote the shares in accordance with the decision.

For the avoidance of doubt, Schroders is not required to follow any recommendations made by the Schroders proxy voting provider, provided as part of its research.

**Conflicts of Interest** 

Schroders is responsible for monitoring and identifying situations that could give rise to a conflict of interest, including those that could give rise to a conflict of interest when voting at company meetings. Those responsible for monitoring and identifying situations

------

that could give rise to a conflict of interest are responsible for informing the Corporate Governance team of any potential conflicts in accordance with Schroders Group Conflicts of Interest Policy.

Where a potential conflict is identified with respect to an account on whose behalf the Corporate Governance team is voting, or the company being voted on, Schroders will typically follow the standard voting recommendations of the Schroders proxy voting provider.

Examples of potential conflicts of interest include, but are not limited to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where the company in question is a significant client, or part of the same group, as a significant client of Schroders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where the Schroders' employee making the voting decision is a director of, significant shareholder of, or has a position of influence at the company in question.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where a Schroders pie director or senior manager is a director of the company in question.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where Schroders pie or an affiliate is a shareholder of the company being voted on.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where there is a conflict of interest between one client and another client, or there is pressure to vote in a particular way due to a client request.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Where the Corporate Governance team votes on Schroders pie resolutions

There may be scenarios where it is in the best interest of a client to override the recommendations of the Schroders proxy voting provider. In such scenarios, Schroders will obtain approval for the decision from Schroders' the Head of Equities (or other relevant asset class) with the reason for such a vote being recorded in writing. In cases where a recommendation from the Schroders proxy voting provider is not available, Schroders will vote in what it considers to be the best interests of its clients.

**Corporate Actions** 

In the case of mergers, acquisitions or similar corporate actions where an account holds investments in both the target and the acquirer, Schroders acts in what it considers the best interests of its clients based on the information available at the time.

There may be other instances where different accounts, managed by the same or different Schroders fund managers, hold stocks on either side of a transaction. In these cases, the fund managers will each vote in the best interests of their respective clients. The Corporate Governance team will execute the votes on the instruction of the relevant Investment team(s).

------

**Appendix C — Compensation Structures and Methodologies of Portfolio Managers** 

The following describes the structure of, and the method(s) used to determine the different types of compensation (e.g., salary, bonus, deferred compensation, retirement plans and arrangements) for each Fund's portfolio manager as of each Fund's fiscal year ended July 31, 2025:

**Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI")** 

The equity programs are designed to position LFI to attract and retain the most talented individuals in the financial services industry by offering competitive programs that reward exceptional individual and company performance. Compensation of portfolio managers is not directly based on the performance of the funds or the value of assets held in the funds. Each portfolio manager's compensation consists of the following:

BASE SALARY: Each named portfolio manager receives a fixed base salary. The base salary is a combination of factors including experience, responsibilities, skills, expectations, and market considerations. Salary increases are awarded in recognition of the portfolio manager's individual performance and an increase or change in duties and responsibilities. Job expectations are reviewed annually to ensure that they are reflected in the performance objects of the portfolio manager.

ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN (AIP): Portfolio managers are eligible to receive annual variable incentive bonus. The AIP is a component of overall compensation based on company, division, and individual employee performance designed to link performance to pay.

LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN PROGRAM: From time to time long-term incentive equity awards are granted to certain key employees. Equity awards are generally granted in the form of Lincoln National Corporation restricted stock units that, once vested, settle in Lincoln National Corporation common stock.

DEFERRED COMPENSATION PROGRAM: A portion of the cash compensation paid to eligible LFI employees may be voluntarily deferred at their election for defined periods of time into an account that may be invested in mutual funds. The mutual fund investment options available in such accounts do not currently include LFI-advised funds.

**Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.** 

Schroders' methodology for measuring and rewarding the contribution made by portfolio managers combines quantitative measures with qualitative measures. The Fund's portfolio managers are compensated for their services to the Fund and to other accounts they manage in a combination of base salary and annual discretionary bonus, as well as the standard retirement, health and welfare benefits. A limited number of fund managers may also receive awards under a long-term incentive program, aimed at recognizing key talent and sustained performance and potential. In addition, certain employees, typically those in our Schroders Capital business, may also be eligible to participate in carried-interest sharing arrangements, which further enhance long-term retention and alignment to investment performance.

Base salary of Schroders employees is determined by reference to the level of responsibility inherent in the role and the skills and experience of the incumbent, and is benchmarked annually against market data to ensure that Schroders is paying competitively. Schroders reviews base salaries annually, targeting increases at lower earners, for whom fixed compensation comprises a more significant portion of total compensation, as well as employees whose roles have increased in scope materially during the year and those whose salary is behind market rates. At more senior levels, base salaries tend to be adjusted less frequently as the emphasis is increasingly on the discretionary bonus.

Schroders believes that a discretionary incentive scheme approach is preferable to the use of formulaic arrangements to ensure that good conduct and behaviors in line with the Schroders values are rewarded, to avoid reinforcing or creating conflicts of interest and to encourage a one team attitude. Any discretionary bonus is determined by a number of factors. At a macro level the total amount available to spend is a function of the compensation to revenue ratio achieved by Schroders globally. Schroders then assesses the performance of the division and of a management team to determine the share of the aggregate bonus pool that is spent in each area. This focus on "team" maintains consistency and minimizes internal competition that may be detrimental to the interests of Schroders' clients. For each team, Schroders considers a range of performance metrics including the performance of their Funds relative to competitors and to relevant benchmarks (which may be internally-and/or externally-based and are considered over a range of performance periods, including over one and three year periods), the level of Funds under management and the level of performance fees generated, if any. The portfolio managers' compensation for other accounts they manage may be based upon such accounts' performance. Non-financial performance metrics, including adherence to effective risk management, also form a significant part of the performance assessment process which is considered in determining the individual's bonus award. Schroders assesses each employee's performance across three key areas: Business Excellence, Behavioral Excellence and Conduct, taking into account factors such as leadership, contribution to other parts of the business, and identifying those whose behavior exemplifies our corporate values of excellence,

------

integrity, teamwork, passion, and innovation. For those employees receiving significant bonuses, a part may be deferred in the form of Schroders plc stock and fund-based awards of notional cash investments in a range of Schroders funds.

These deferrals vest over a period of three years or more and seek to ensure that the interests of employees are aligned with those of clients and shareholders.

------

**Part C - Other Information**

**<u>Item 28. Exhibits</u>**

Defined Terms for Exhibits:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Funds Trust ("LF Trust")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("LFD")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company ("Lincoln Life")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York ("Lincoln New York")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Post-Effective Amendment ("PEA")

Each of the following exhibits are incorporated by reference herein to the previously filed documents indicated, except as otherwise noted:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) *Declaration of Trust.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated September 29, 2023, previously filed with Form N-1A on April 5, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524088564/d675740dex99a2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [<u>Certificate of Trust, dated July 3, 2023, previously filed with Form N-1A on April 5, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524088564/d675740dex99a1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) *By-laws.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>By-laws of LF Trust, dated September 29, 2023, previously filed with Form N-1A on April 5, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524088564/d675740dex99b.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) N/A

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) *Investment Advisory Contracts.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Investment Management Agreement, dated June 12, 2024, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99d1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [<u>Amendment to Schedule A to the Investment Management Agreement, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99d1a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) *Sub-Advisory Contract.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [<u>Sub-Advisory Agreement dated June 12, 2024, between LFI and Schroder Investment Management North</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99d2a.htm) [<u>America Inc., previously filed with Form N-1A/A on July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99d2a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(3)* *Other Sub-Advisory Contracts.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [<u>Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated July 16, 2024, between LFI, Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund Cayman Ltd., and</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99d3a.htm) [<u>Schroder Investment Management North America Inc., previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99d3a.htm) [<u>27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99d3a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) *Underwriting Contracts.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Principal Underwriting Agreement, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99e1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) N/A

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) *Custodian Agreements.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Mutual Fund Custody and Services Agreement, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99g1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) *Other Material Contracts.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Fund Accounting and Financial Administration Agreement, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27,</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99h1.htm) [<u>2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99h1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [<u>Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 2, 2024, between LF Trust and LFI, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99h3.htm) [<u>July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99h3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [<u>Amendment to Schedule A of Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99h3a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [<u>Transfer Agency Agreement, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99h3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) *Legal Opinion.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Opinion and Consent of Counsel, Dechert LLP, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99i1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) *Other Opinions.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Powers of Attorney (LF Trust) dated November 24, 2025, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99j1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [<u>Powers of Attorney (LF Trust) dated November 26, 2025, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99j2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [<u>Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99j3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) N/A

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) N/A

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(m) *Rule 12b-1 Plan.*

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Distribution and Service Plan, pursuant to Rule 12b-1, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99m1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [<u>Distribution Services Agreement dated July 2, 2024, between LF Trust and LFD, previously filed with Form N-1A/A</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99m2.htm) [<u>on July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99m2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(n) *Rule 18f-3 Plan.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on September 27, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99n1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [<u>Amendment to the Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99n1a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(o) N/A

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(p) *Codes of Ethics.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [<u>Code of Ethics for LF Trust and LFI, previously filed with Form N-1A/A on July 8, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99p1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [<u>Code of Ethics for LFD, is filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99p2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [<u>Code of Ethics for Schroder Investment Management North America, Inc., is filed herewith</u>](d61338dex99p3.htm) .

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(q) [<u>Organizational Chart of Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99q.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(r) [<u>Organizational Chart of Schroder Investment Management North America, Inc., previously filed with Form N-1A/A on July 8,</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99r.htm) [<u>2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524176129/d203707dex99r.htm)

**<u>iXBRL Exhibits</u>** 

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| EX-101.INS | &nbsp;&nbsp; XBRL Instance Document — the instance document does not appear on the Interactive Data File because its XBRL <br> tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.<br>|
| EX-101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |
| EX-101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |
| EX-101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |
| EX-101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document. |
| EX-101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. |

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**<u>Item 29. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with Registrant</u>**

A diagram of all persons under common control with the Registrant is incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 of the Registration Statement of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company filed on Form N-1A/A (File No. 333- 278528) on July 8, 2024. See also "Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares" in the Prospectus disclosure forming Part A of this Registration Statement and "Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities" in the Statement of Additional Information disclosure forming Part B of this Registration Statement. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Schroder Investment Management North America, Inc. ("SIMNA") hold shares of the Trust related to seed contributions made at the Trust's inception.

No persons are controlled by the Registrant.

**<u>Item 30. Indemnification</u>**

As permitted by Sections 17(h) and 17(i) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act") and pursuant to Article VII, Section 2 of the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust (Exhibit 28(a) to the Registration Statement) and Article VI of the Trust's By-Laws (Exhibit 28(b) to the Registration Statement), officers, trustees, employees and agents of the Registrant will not be liable to the Registrant, any stockholder, officer, director, trustee, employee, agent or other person for any action or failure to act, except for bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties, and those individuals may be indemnified against liabilities in connection with the Registrant, subject to the same exceptions. Subject to the standards set forth in the governing instrument of the Trust, Section 3817 of Title 12, Part V, Chapter 38, of the Delaware Code permits indemnification of trustees or other persons from and against all claims and demands. The Independent Trustees have entered into an Indemnification Agreement with the Trust which obligates the Trust to indemnify the Independent Trustees in certain situations and which provides the procedures and presumptions with respect to such indemnification obligations.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933" Act) may be permitted to trustees, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC) such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer, or controlling person of the Registrant in connection with the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted against the Registrant by such trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the shares being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

------

The Registrant has purchased an insurance policy insuring its officers, trustees and directors against liabilities, and certain costs of defending claims against such officers and directors, to the extent such officers and directors are not found to have committed conduct constituting willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties. The insurance policy will also insure the Registrant against the cost of indemnification payments to officers and trustees under certain circumstances.

Section 9 of the Investment Management Agreements (Exhibits 28(d)(1) and (2) to the Registration Statement) limits the liability of Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI") to liabilities arising from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its respective duties or from reckless disregard by LFI of its respective obligations and duties under the Agreements. Certain other agreements to which the Trust is a party also contain indemnification provisions.

The Registrant hereby undertakes that it will apply the indemnification provisions of its By-Laws in a manner consistent with SEC Release No. 11330 so long as the interpretations of Sections 17(h) and 17(i) of the 1940 Act remain in effect and are consistently applied.

**<u>Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser</u>**

Information pertaining to any business and other connections of Registrant's adviser, LFI, is hereby incorporated by reference from the sections captioned "Investment Adviser" or "Investment Adviser and Subadviser" in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") disclosures forming Parts A and B, respectively, of this Registration Statement, and Item 7 of Part II of LFI's Form ADV filed separately with the SEC.

Information regarding any business and other connections of the Registrant's sub-advisers (collectively, the "Sub-Advisers") is incorporated by reference from the sections captioned "Investment Adviser and Subadvisers" of the Prospectus and SAI disclosures forming Parts A and B, respectively, of this Registration Statement and Item 7 of Part II of the Subadvisers' Forms ADV filed separately with the SEC. The Sub-Advisers include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.;

Information concerning the other businesses, professions, vocations, and employment of a substantial nature during the past two years of the directors and officers of LFI and the Sub-Advisers is incorporated by reference to Schedule A and Schedule D of LFI's Form ADV and the respective Forms ADV for the Sub-Advisers.

**<u>Item 32. Principal Underwriters</u>**

(a) Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("LFD") currently serves as principal underwriter for the Trust. LFD also serves as the principal underwriter for: Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account C; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account D; Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account E; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account F; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G; Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account H; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account J; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account K; Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account L; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account M; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account N; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account Q; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account R; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account S; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account T; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account W; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account Y; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account Z; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account JL-A; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account JF-H; Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account JF-I; and Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-A; Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-C.

LFD also serves as principal underwriter for: Lincoln Life & Annuity Variable Annuity Account L; Lincoln Life & Annuity Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JA-B; Lincoln Life & Annuity Flexible Premium Variable Life Account M; Lincoln New York Account N for Variable Annuities; LLANY Separate Account R for Flexible Premium Variable Life Insurance; LLANY Separate Account S for Flexible Premium Variable Life Insurance; Lincoln Life & Annuity Flexible Premium Variable Life Account Y; and Lincoln Life & Annuity Flexible Premium Variable Life Account Z.

(b) Directors and Principal Officers of Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc.:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Positions and Offices with Underwriter** | **Positions and Offices with Trust** |
| John C. Kennedy | Chief Executive Officer and President | N/A |
| Paul T. Chryssikos | Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, and Assistant Secretary | N/A |
| Adam M. Cohen | Senior Vice President and Treasurer | N/A |
| Ellen J. Duffy | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Daniel T. Faller | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Daniel P. Herr | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Kathleen B. Kavanaugh | Senior Vice President | N/A |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Positions and Offices with Underwriter** | **Positions and Offices with Trust** |
| Patrick J. Lefemine | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Aadil T. Lokhandwala | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Jared M. Nepa | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Thomas O'Neill | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Head of Financial <br> Institutions Group<br>| N/A |
| Christopher M. Reed | Senior Vice President and Assistant Treasurer | N/A |
| Timothy J. Seifert Sr. | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Richard D. Spenner | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Daniel P. Wellock | Senior Vice President | N/A |
| Claire H. Hanna | Secretary | N/A |

---

LFD's Principal Business address is 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor PA 19087.

(c) N/A

**<u>Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records</u>**

All accounts, books, and other documents required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the rules promulgated thereunder are maintained by the Adviser, LFI, 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, PA 19087 and 1301 South Harrison Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802, as well as the Subadvisers at:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schroder Investment Management North America Inc., 7 Bryant Park, New York, NY 10018.

Also, the Trust's administrator, The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, 1301 South Harrison Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802; the Trust's custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111; and the Trust's accounting services provider, State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.

**<u>Item 34. Management Services</u>**

Not applicable.

**<u>Item 35. Undertakings</u>**

Not applicable.

------

**SIGNATURE PAGE**

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 ("Securities Act") and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the city of Fort Wayne, and State of Indiana, on this 26<sup>th</sup> day of November, 2025.

---

| |
|:---|
| **LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST** |
| By: <u>/s/Gordon Huellmantel</u><br>Gordon Huellmantel<br> Senior Vice President<br>|

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in their capacities and on the date indicated above.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Signature** | **Title** |
| By: | /s/John Morriss\*<br>John Morriss<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; President and Trustee <br> (Principal Executive Officer)<br>|
| By: | /s/James Hoffmayer<br>James Hoffmayer<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp; Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer<br> (Principal Accounting Officer and Principal Financial Officer)<br>|
| /s/Thomas A. Leonard\*\*<br>Thomas A. Leonard | /s/Thomas A. Leonard\*\*<br>Thomas A. Leonard | Lead Independent Trustee |
| /s/Joseph P. LaRocque\*\*<br>Joseph P. LaRocque | /s/Joseph P. LaRocque\*\*<br>Joseph P. LaRocque | Trustee |
| /s/Thomas P. Sholes\*\*\*<br>Thomas P. Sholes | /s/Thomas P. Sholes\*\*\*<br>Thomas P. Sholes | Trustee |
| By: | <u>/s/Samuel K. Goldstein</u><br>Samuel K. Goldstein<br>| Attorney-in-Fact |

---

\*[<u>Pursuant to a Power of Attorney dated November 24, 2025, filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99j1.htm)

\*\*[<u>Pursuant to a Power of Attorney dated June 6, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2015799/000119312524228032/d785525dex99j1.htm)

\*\*\*[<u>Pursuant to a Power of Attorney dated November 26, 2025, filed herewith.</u>](d61338dex99j2.htm)

------

## Ex-99.D1A

**AMENDMENT TO** 

**SCHEDULE A** 

**INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT** 

THIS AMENDED SCHEDULE A lists the Funds for which the Investment Manager provides investment management services pursuant to the Investment Management Agreement dated:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund Name** | **Management Fee Schedule**<br> **(as a percentage of average daily net assets)** | **Effective Date** |
|  Lincoln Flexible Bond Fund | 0.55% | 1/1/2025 |
|  Lincoln Focused Equity Fund | 0.62% | 1/1/2025 |
|  Lincoln Global Equity Fund | 0.75% on first $1 billion | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.70% on next $1 billion |  |
|  | 0.65% on next $3 billion |  |
|  | 0.60% on next $5 billion |  |
|  | 0.55% above $10 billion |  |
|  Lincoln Income Fund | 0.39% | 1/1/2025 |
|  Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | 0.85% | 8/1/2024 |
|  Lincoln Low Duration US Government Fund | 0.50% on first $5 billion | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.44% on next $5 billion |  |
|  | 0.41% on next $5 billion |  |
|  | 0.38% above $15 billion |  |
|  Lincoln Market Leaders Value Fund | 0.55% on first $25 million | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.45% on next $75 million |  |
|  | 0.35% above $100 million |  |
|  Lincoln Mid Cap Growth Fund | 0.75% on first $1 billion | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.70% on next $1 billion |  |
|  | 0.65% on next $3 billion |  |
|  | 0.60% on next $5 billion |  |
|  | 0.55% above $10 billion |  |
|  Lincoln Sustainability Leaders Fund | 0.65% on first $1 billion | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.625% on next $1 billion |  |
|  | 0.60% above $2 billion |  |
|  Lincoln Tactical Dividend Income Fund | 0.75% on first $1 billion | 1/1/2025 |
|  | 0.725% on next $1 billion |  |
|  | 0.70% on next $3 billion |  |
|  | 0.675% on next $5B |  |
|  | 0.65% above $10 billion |  |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund Name** | **Management Fee Schedule**<br> **(as a percentage of average daily net assets)** | **Effective Date** |
|  Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | 0.85% | 8/1/2024 |
|  Lincoln U.S. Small Cap Equity Fund | 0.70% | 1/1/2025 |

---

<sup>1</sup> To the extent that a Fund invests all of its investable assets (i.e., securities and cash) in another registered investment company, the Trust will not pay the Investment Manager any fee pursuant to Section 4) of the Agreement.

*[Signature Page to Follow]*

------

The parties hereto have caused this SCHEDULE A to be signed by their duly authorized officers as of January 1, 2025 and effective in accordance with the dates noted above.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **LINCOLN FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS CORPORATION** | **LINCOLN FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS CORPORATION** | **LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST, on behalf of each of its series** | **LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST, on behalf of each of its series** |
| By: | /s/ Benjamin A. Richer | By: | /s/ James Hoffmayer |
| Name: | Benjamin A. Richer | Name: | James Hoffmayer |
| Title: | Senior Vice President | Title: | Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer |

---

## Ex-99.H3A

**AMENDMENT TO** 

**SCHEDULE A** 

**AMENDED AND RESTATED** 

**EXPENSE LIMITATION AGREEMENT** 

THIS SCHEDULE A lists the Funds and the Expense Limitation Amounts which are established pursuant to this Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement.

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **LFT FUND NAME** | **Share Class(es)** | **Expense Limit** | **EFFECTIVE<br>DATE** | **TERMINATION<br>DATE** |
|  Lincoln Flexible Bond Fund | Class A | 0.97% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 1.69% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.34% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 0.74% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.64% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Focused Equity Fund | Class A | 1.15% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class B | 1.90% |  |  |
|  | Class C | 1.90% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.40% |  |  |
|  | Class R6 | 0.74% |  |  |
|  | Class Y | 0.90% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Global Equity Fund | Class A | 1.30% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 2.03% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.55% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 0.95% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.90% |  |  |
|  | Class 1 | 1.11% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Income Fund | Class A | 0.76% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class B | 1.51% |  |  |
|  | Class C | 1.51% |  |  |
|  | Class M | 1.01% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.01% |  |  |
|  | Class R5 | 0.46% |  |  |
|  | Class R6 | 0.39% |  |  |
|  | Class Y | 0.51% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund | Class A | 1.32% | 08/01/2024 | 07/31/2026 |
|  | Class I | 1.07% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Low Duration U.S. Government Securities Fund | Class A | 0.84% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class A1 | 0.69% |  |  |
|  | Class C | 1.24% |  |  |
|  | Class R6 | 0.56% |  |  |
|  | Advisor Class | 0.59% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Market Leaders Value Fund | Class I | 0.53% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  Lincoln Mid Cap Growth Fund | Class A | 1.20% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 1.95% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.45% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 0.85% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.75% |  |  |

---

------

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **LFT FUND NAME** | **Share Class(es)** | **Expense Limit** | **EFFECTIVE<br>DATE** | **TERMINATION<br>DATE** |
|  Lincoln Sustainability Leaders Fund | Class A | 1.20% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 1.95% |  |  |
|  | Class FI | 1.20% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.45% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 0.85% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.75% |  |  |
|  Lincoln Tactical Dividend Income Fund | Class A | 1.19% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 1.94% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.50% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 0.95% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.85% |  |  |
|  Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund | Class A | 1.35% | 08/01/2024 | 07/31/2026 |
|  | Class I | 1.10% |  |  |
|  Lincoln U.S. Small Cap Equity Fund | Class A | 1.30% | 01/01/2025 | 02/01/2026 |
|  | Class C | 2.05% |  |  |
|  | Class FI | 1.30% |  |  |
|  | Class R | 1.55% |  |  |
|  | Class I | 1.00% |  |  |
|  | Class IS | 0.75% |  |  |

---

The parties hereto have caused this SCHEDULE A to be signed by their duly authorized officers as of January 1, 2025 and effective in accordance with the dates noted above.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **LINCOLN FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS CORPORATION** | **LINCOLN FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS CORPORATION** | **LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST, on behalf of each of its series** | **LINCOLN FUNDS TRUST, on behalf of each of its series** |
|  By: | /s/ Benjamin A. Richer | By: | /s/ James Hoffmayer |
|  Name: | Benjamin A. Richer | Name: | James Hoffmayer |
|  Title: | Senior Vice President | Title: | Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer |

---

## Ex-99.J1

**POWER OF ATTORNEY** 

I, the undersigned trustee of the Lincoln Funds Trust ("Trust"), hereby severally constitute and appoint Gordon Huellmantel, James Hoffmayer, Paul T. Chryssikos, Esq., Samuel K. Goldstein, Esq., and Christina E. Pron, Esq. as my true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power in each of them of substitution and resubstitution in my name, place and stead, to sign any and all Registration Statements of the Trust and any amendments or supplements thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (File No. 811-23952) and the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 (File No. 333-278528), on behalf of the Trust, granting unto each said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each said attorney-in-fact and agent may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This Power of Attorney was signed by me to be effective November 24, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **SIGNATURE** | **TITLE** |
| /s/ John Morriss |  |
| John Morriss | Chair & Trustee |

---

## Ex-99.J2

**POWER OF ATTORNEY** 

I, the undersigned trustee of the Lincoln Funds Trust ("Trust"), hereby severally constitute and appoint Gordon Huellmantel, James Hoffmayer, Paul T. Chryssikos, Esq., Samuel K. Goldstein, Esq., and Christina E. Pron, Esq. as my true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power in each of them of substitution and resubstitution in my name, place and stead, to sign any and all Registration Statements of the Trust and any amendments or supplements thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (File No. 811-23952) and the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 (File No. 333-278528), on behalf of the Trust, granting unto each said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each said attorney-in-fact and agent may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This Power of Attorney was signed by me to be effective November 26, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **SIGNATURE** | **TITLE** |
| /s/ Thomas P. Sholes |  |
| Thomas P. Sholes | Trustee |

---

## Ex-99.J3

**CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM** 

We consent to the references to our firm under the captions "Financial Highlights" in the Prospectuses and "Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" and "Financial Statements" in the Statements of Additional Information, each dated November 26, 2025, and each included in this Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement (Form N-1A, File No. 333-278528) of Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust") (the "Registration Statement").

We also consent to the incorporation by reference of our reports dated September 18, 2025, with respect to the financial statements and financial highlights of Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund and Lincoln U.S. Equity Income Maximizer Fund (two of the series constituting the Lincoln Funds Trust) (the "Funds") included in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders (Form N-CSR) for the period from October 1, 2025 (date of commencement of operations) to July 31, 2025, into this Registration Statement, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

November 26, 2025

## Ex-99.N1A

**Multiple Class Plan** 

Lincoln Funds Trust

WHEREAS, Lincoln Funds Trust (the "Trust") engages in business as an open-end management investment company and is registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act");

WHEREAS, shares of beneficial interest of the Trust are currently divided into a number of separate Trust series (each, a "Fund" and collectively, the "Funds"), and the shares of each Fund may, under the Trust's Declaration of Trust, be divided into classes;

WHEREAS, the Trust desires to create a multiple class plan (the "Plan") pursuant to Rule 18f-3 under the 1940 Act ("Rule 18f-3") which sets forth the provisions relating to the establishment of multiple classes of Shares for the Funds;

WHEREAS, the Plan has been approved by a majority of the members of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons," as defined in the 1940 Act, of the Trust ("Independent Trustees");

WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees has determined that the Plan, including the allocation of expenses, is in the best interests of the Trust as a whole, each Fund of the Trust, and each class of Shares offered by the Funds; and

WHEREAS, to the extent that a subject matter set forth in this Plan is covered by the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust or By-Laws, such Agreement and Declaration of Trust or By-Laws will control in the event of any inconsistencies with this Plan.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Trust hereby adopts, on behalf of the Funds, the Plan, in accordance with Rule 18f-3, on the following terms and conditions:

**CLASSES** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Each Fund may issue its shares of beneficial interest in twelve classes: Class 1 shares, Class A shares, Class A1 shares, Class Advisor shares, Class B shares, Class C shares, Class FI shares, Class I shares, Class IS shares, Class M shares, Class R shares, Class R5 shares, Class R6 shares, and Class Y shares (each a "Class" and collectively, the "Classes"). Each class is subject to such investment minimums and other conditions of eligibility as are set forth in the Funds' registration statements or prospectuses and statements of additional information as from time to time in effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Shares of each class of a Fund shall represent an equal pro rata interest in such Fund and, generally, shall have identical voting, dividend, liquidation, and other rights, preferences, powers, restrictions, limitations, qualifications and terms and conditions, except that, with respect to each Fund:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) each Class shall have a different arrangement for shareholder services or the distribution of securities or both, and shall pay all of the expenses of that arrangement;

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) each Class may pay a different share of other expenses, not including advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the Trust's assets, if these expenses are actually incurred in a different amount by that Class, or if the Class receives services of a different kind or to a different degree than other Classes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) each class shall have exclusive voting rights on any matter submitted to shareholders that relates solely to it or its distribution and/or servicing arrangement;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) each class shall have separate voting rights on any matter submitted to shareholders in which the interests of one class differ from the interests of any other class; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) Except as otherwise permitted under Rule 18f-3 under the 1940 Act, each Class shall have the same rights and obligations as each other Class.

In addition, each class of shares shall have the features described below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. The Trust retains sole discretion in determining share class availability for any Fund, and the Trust retains discretion in determining whether Fund shares shall be offered either directly or through certain financial intermediaries, or on certain financial intermediary platforms.

**RULE 12b-1 PLANS** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. In accordance with the distribution and service plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act ("Rule 12b-1") by the Trust on behalf of the Class A shares, Class A1 shares, Class B shares, Class C shares, Class FI shares, Class M shares, and Class R shares (the "12b-1 Plan"), the Trust shall pay Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. (the "Distributor") or others providing distribution services a monthly fee not to exceed an amount per annum of a Fund's average daily net assets represented by such Class shares, as applicable and as described in the Fund's registration statement, as may be determined by the Board of Trustees from time to time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. The 12b-1 Plan may be used to pay the Distributor or others to assist in the promotion and distribution of the applicable Class shares. Payments made under the 12b-1 Plan may be used for, among other things, the printing of prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes; preparing and distributing sales literature and related expenses; advertisements; education of shareholders or dealers and their representatives; and other distribution-related expenses. Payments made under the 12b-1 Plan also may be used to pay the Distributor, dealers or others for, among other things, service fees as defined under rules adopted by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA); furnishing personal services or such other enhanced services as the Trust may require; or maintaining customer accounts and records.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6. The Trust has not adopted any plan under Rule 12b-1 for the other share classes of the Funds.

**ADMINISTRATIVE FEES** 

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7. The Trust has entered into an Administration Agreement with The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company ("Lincoln Life"), pursuant to which Lincoln Life provides or procures various administrative services. The fees payable by each class of shares of each Fund are set forth in the Administration Agreement, as may be amended by the Board of Trustees from time to time. The fees may vary among different Funds and share classes as provided in the Administration Agreement.

**ALLOCATION OF EXPENSES** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8. The Trust shall allocate to each class of shares of a Fund any fees and expenses incurred by the Trust in connection with the distribution or servicing of such class of shares under a Rule 12b-1 plan, if any, adopted for such class. In addition, the Trust reserves the right, subject to approval by the Board of Trustees, to allocate fees and expenses of the following nature to a particular class of shares of a Fund (to the extent that such fees and expenses actually vary among each class of shares or vary by types of services provided to each class of shares of the Fund):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The expenses of transfer agency and recordkeeping services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Securities and Exchange Commission and blue sky registration or qualification fees;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Printing and postage expenses related to printing and distributing class-specific materials, such as shareholder reports, prospectuses and proxies to current shareholders of a particular class or to regulatory authorities with respect to such class of shares;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Audit or accounting fees or expenses relating solely to such class of shares;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) The expenses of administrative services relating solely to such class of shares;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) Litigation or other legal expenses relating solely to such class of shares;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) Trustees' fees and expenses incurred as a result of issues relating solely to such class of shares; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) Other expenses subsequently identified and determined to be properly allocated to such class of shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9. All expenses incurred by a Fund will be allocated to each class of shares of such Fund on the basis of the net asset value of each such class in relation to the net asset value of the Fund, except for any expenses that are allocated to a particular class of shares of such Fund as described in paragraph 8 above.

**ALLOCATION OF INCOME AND GAINS** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10. Income and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of a Fund will be allocated to each class of shares of such Fund on the basis of the net asset value of each such class in relation to the net asset value of the Fund.

------

**CONVERSIONS** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11. Shares of any class of a Fund may be convertible for shares of the same class of another Fund according to the terms and conditions related to conversion privileges set forth in the Fund's current prospectus and statement of additional information, as they may be amended from time to time.

**EXCHANGES** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12. Shares of any class of a Fund may be exchangeable for shares of the same class of another Fund according to the terms and conditions related to transfer privileges set forth in the Fund's current prospectus and statement of additional information, as they may be amended from time to time.

**WAIVERS AND REIMBURSEMENTS** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13. Expenses may be waived or reimbursed by any investment adviser to the Trust or any other provider of services to the Trust without the prior approval of the Board of Trustees, provided such waiver is consistent with applicable requirements under the 1940 Act and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

**OTHER PROVISIONS** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14. Each class of shares will vote separately with respect to any Rule 12b-1 plan related to that class.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15. On an ongoing basis, the Board of Trustees, pursuant to their fiduciary responsibilities under the 1940 Act and otherwise, will monitor each Fund for the existence of any material conflicts between the interests of all the classes of shares offered by such Fund. The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, shall take such action as is reasonably necessary to eliminate any such conflict that may develop with respect to a Fund's classes of shares. The management and/or the investment adviser of each Fund shall be responsible for alerting the Board to any material conflicts that arise.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16. The Board of Trustees shall not be liable for any obligations of the Trust or any Fund under this Plan, and the Funds' transfer agent or any other person, in asserting any rights or claims under this Plan, shall look only to the assets and property of the Trust or such Fund(s) in settlement of such rights or claims, and not any member of the Board of Trustees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17. All material amendments to this Plan must be approved by a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Independent Trustees.

Dated: December 9, 2024

## Ex-99.P2

**CODE OF ETHICS** 

**Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc.,** 

**as Principal Underwriter for Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund, Lincoln Funds Trust, Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund, and Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust** 

**CREDO** 

***It is the duty of all Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("<u>LFD</u>") employees, officers, and directors to always conduct themselves with integrity. In the interest of this credo, all Access Persons' (as defined below) personal transactions will be conducted consistent with this Code of Ethics (this "Code") and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or any abuse of an individual's position of trust and responsibility with LFD. The fundamental standard of this Code is that LFD personnel should not take any inappropriate advantage of their position with LFD.***

The purpose of this Code is to comply with Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "<u>1940 Act</u>"), which applies to LFD in its capacity as principal underwriter to Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund, Lincoln Funds Trust, Lincoln Partners Group Royalty Fund, and Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust (collectively, the "<u>Trusts</u>"). LFD may from time to time adopt such interpretations of this Code as it deems appropriate. Except as provided under this Code, all reports of securities transactions and any other information provided to LFD or the Trusts pursuant to this Code shall be treated as confidential.

**I.**  **<u>Definitions</u>** 

(A) "<u>Access Person</u>" means any director, officer or general partner of LFD who, in the ordinary course of business, makes, participates in or obtains information regarding, the purchase or sale of Covered Securities (as defined below) by the Trusts, or whose functions or duties in the ordinary course of business relate to the making of any recommendation to the Trusts regarding the purchase or sale of Covered Securities.

(B) "<u>Automatic Investment Plan</u>" means a program in which regular periodic purchases (or withdrawals) are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. An Automatic Investment Plan includes a dividend reinvestment plan.

Revised – 10/25

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(C) "<u>Beneficial Ownership</u>" is to be determined in the same manner as it is for purposes of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "<u>Exchange Act</u>"), and Rule 16a-1(a)(2) thereunder. A person should consider themselves the Beneficial Owner of securities in which they have a direct or indirect pecuniary interest. In addition, a person should consider themselves the Beneficial Owner of securities held by their spouse, domestic partner, dependent children, any person who shares their home, or other persons (including trusts, partnerships, corporations and other entities) by reason of any contract, arrangement, understanding or relationship that provides them with sole or shared voting or investment power.

(D) "<u>Control</u>" shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Section 2(a)(9) of the 1940 Act, which defines "Control" as the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of a company. The issue of influence or Control is a question of fact, which must be determined based on all relevant facts and circumstances.

(E) "Covered Security" shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Section 2(a)(36) of the 1940 Act, except that it shall not include: Direct obligations of the Government of the United States; Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, savings accounts, commercial paper and high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements; and shares issued by open-end investment companies.

(F) An "Initial Public Offering" means an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the issuer of which, immediately before registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

(G) A "Security Held or to be Acquired" by the Trusts means any Covered Security which, within the most recent fifteen days, (i) is or has been held by the Trusts, or (ii) is being or has been considered by the Trusts or the Trusts' investment adviser for purchase by the Trusts, and any option to purchase or sell, and any security convertible into or exchangeable for, such Covered Security.

**II.**  **<u>Standards of Conduct and Compliance with Laws</u>** 

No Access Person shall, in connection with the purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, by such Access Person of a Security Held or to be Acquired by the Trusts:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud the Trusts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Make any untrue statement of a material fact to the Trusts or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to
make the statements made to the Trusts, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Engage in any act, practice or course of business that operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit on the
Trusts; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Engage in any manipulative practice with respect to the Trusts.

**III.**  **<u>Prohibited Activities</u>** 

The following prohibitions apply to Access Persons:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Insider Trading**: Insider trading is a prohibited practice of trading in securities based on material
nonpublic information. All Access Persons are prohibited from trading, either personally or on behalf of others (including family), on material nonpublic information or from communicating material nonpublic information to others. These individuals
are also prohibited from giving advice based on inside information.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Purchase of Initial Public Offerings**: All Access Persons are prohibited from purchasing Initial Public
Offerings.

Revised – 10/25

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Engage In Prohibited Sales and Marketing Practices**: Certain sales practices are specifically prohibited by
various federal and state laws, and the NAIC Model Unfair Trade Practices Act, which has been adopted by many states. Among the sales practices in which Access Persons may not engage are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Churning;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Twisting;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Switching;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Arranging for credit;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bashing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Deceptive practices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fraud;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• High pressure tactics;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Rebating; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unfair trade practices.

Engaging in any of the prohibited activities set forth above may subject an Access Person to sanction, including a fine, suspension or termination.

**IV.**  **<u>Reporting Obligations</u>** 

(A) Distribution of Code of Ethics. Each Access Person shall be provided with a copy of this Code within ten days
of such person becoming an Access Person and shall be provided with a copy of a revised Code within ten days of the effective date of any amendments to this Code. Each Access Person shall sign a written acknowledgment within ten days of receiving
this Code and any amendments hereto, which shall affirm such Access Person's receipt and understanding of the Code.

(B) Reports Required. Unless excepted by Section IV(C), every Access Person must submit to LFD the following
reports:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Initial Holdings Reports. No later than ten days after the person becomes an Access Person, a report including
at least the following information (which information must be current as of a date no more than forty-five days prior to the date the person becomes an Access Person):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The title, number of shares and principal amount of each Covered Security in which the Access Person had any
direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership when the person became an Access Person;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person maintained an account in which any
securities were held for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person as of the date the person became an Access Person; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person.

Revised – 10/25

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Quarterly Transaction Reports. No later than thirty days after the end of a calendar quarter, a report
including at least the following information:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) With respect to any transaction during the quarter in a Covered Security in which the Access Person had any
direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) The date of the transaction, the title, the interest rate and maturity date (if applicable), the number of
shares and the principal amount of each Covered Security involved;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) The nature of the transaction (*i.e.*, purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) The price of the Covered Security at which the transaction was effected;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) The name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) With respect to any account established by the Access Person in which any securities were held during the
quarter for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) The name of the broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person established the account;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) The date the account was established; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) The date the report is submitted by the Access Person.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Annual Holdings Reports. Annually, the following information (which information must be current as of a date no
more than forty-five days before the report is submitted):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The title, number of shares and principal amount of each Covered Security in which the Access Person had any
direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person maintains an account in which any securities
are held for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person.

(C) Exceptions from Reporting Requirements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) A person need not make a report under Section IV(B) with respect to transactions effected for, and Covered
Securities held in, any account over which the person has no direct or indirect influence or Control (See Section I(D) for the definition of "Control").

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) An Access Person need not make a quarterly transaction report under Section IV(B)(2) if the report would
duplicate information contained in broker trade confirmations or account statements received by LFD with respect to the Access Person in the time period required by Section IV(B)(2) if all of the information required by that Section is contained in
the broker trade confirmations or account statements, or in the records of LFD. All broker trade confirmations and account statements that are printed on paper shall be organized in a manner that allows easy access to and retrieval of any particular
confirmation or statement.

Revised – 10/25

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) An Access Person need not make a report to LFD under Section IV(B) if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) LFD is not an affiliated person of the Trusts (unless the Trust is a unit investment trust) or any investment
adviser of the Trusts; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) LFD has no officer, director or general partner who serves as an officer, director or general partner of the
Trusts or of any investment adviser of the Trusts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) An Access Person need not make a report to LFD under Section IV(B) if such individual is an Access Person based
on their affiliation with Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation, the Trusts' investment adviser ("LFI"), and complies with the reporting requirements set forth in LFI's Code of Ethics. LFD will obtain acknowledgement and
confirmation from LFI annually that such Access Persons have not violated LFI's Code of Ethics.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) An Access Person need not make a quarterly transaction report under Section IV(B)(2) with respect to
transactions effected pursuant to an Automatic Investment Plan.

(D) Annual Report to Board of Trustees

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) No less frequently than annually, LFD will furnish to the Trusts' Boards of Trustees, and the Boards of
Trustees will consider a written report that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Describes any issues arising under this Code or related procedures since the last report to the Boards of
Trustees, including, but not limited to, information about material violations of this Code or related procedures and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Certifies that LFD has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from violating this
Code.

**V.**  **<u>Reporting Violations</u>** 

LFD's supervisory principals shall report to LFD's Chief Compliance Officer (the "CCO") any apparent violations of the prohibitions or reporting requirements contained in this Code. The CCO will review the reports made and determine whether or not this Code has been violated and shall determine what sanctions, if any, should be imposed in addition to any that may already have been imposed.

The CCO will advise the Trusts' Boards of Trustees of any issues arising under this Code or related procedures, including, but not limited to, information about material violations of this Code and related procedures and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations.

Revised – 10/25

------

**VI.**  **<u>Records</u>** 

LFD shall maintain records in the manner and to the extent set forth below and shall make such records available to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "<u>SEC</u>") and any representative of the SEC for reasonable periodic, special or other examination:

(A) A copy of this Code and any other LFD code of ethics that is in effect, or at any time within the past five
years was in effect, shall be maintained in an easily accessible place;

(B) A record of any violation of this Code, and of any action taken as a result of the violation, shall be
maintained in an easily accessible place for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurs;

(C) A copy of each report made by an Access Person as required by Section IV(B), including any information provided
in lieu of the Quarterly Transaction Reports pursuant to Section IV(C)(2), shall be maintained for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which the report is made or the information is provided, the first two years in an easily
accessible place;

(D) A record of all persons, currently or within the past five years, who are or were required to make reports
under Section IV(B), or who are or were responsible for reviewing these reports, shall be maintained in an easily accessible place; and

(E) A copy of each report required by Section IV(D) must be maintained for at least five years after the end of the
fiscal year in which it is made, the first two years in an easily accessible place.

Revised – 10/25

## Ex-99.P3

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

**SCOPE AND PURPOSE** 

This Code of Ethics (the "Code") for Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. ("SIMNA Inc." or the "Adviser"), is required by The Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The Code applies to all officers, directors and full-time employees of the Adviser ("Access Persons"). Certain part-time employees and consultants to the Adviser may also be deemed as Access Persons and subject to this Code depending on the length of their employment contract and/or their access to sensitive client and/or investment information. Sections of this Code also apply to any persons who work for the firm in a Financial Operations Principal ("FINOPs") capacity. FINOPs are offsite persons who are associated with the firm's affiliated broker dealer, Schroder Fund Advisors LLC ("SFA"). These individuals are deemed "Associated Persons" rather than Access Persons.

In carrying out their job responsibilities, all Access Persons or Associated Persons must, at a minimum, comply with all applicable legal requirements, including applicable securities laws. In addition, all Access Persons or Associated Persons must: maintain professional integrity and behave with ethical conduct; place the interests of clients and the integrity of the investment profession above their own personal interests; use professional judgment when engaging in all professional activities and encourage peers to do the same; and behave in a manner that reflects well on themselves and Schroders.

Any breach by an Access Person or Associated Person of the laws, regulations and procedures outlined in the Code will be deemed to be a violation of the terms of his or her employment and may result in disciplinary action and/or dismissal, in addition to any other penalties or liabilities resulting from such violation.

**PERSONAL TRADING** 

**All employees deemed to be Access Persons** are subject to the restrictions contained in this Code with respect to their transactions in Covered Securities.

The below securities are considered Covered Securities, and therefore applicable to the personal trading restrictions and reporting policies contained herein:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Stocks

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bonds

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) - see page 3 for more details

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Closed end mutual funds

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Derivatives of Covered Securities, including options

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 1 |

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

The below securities are **<u>NOT</u>** considered to be Covered Securities, and therefore, are **<u>NOT</u>** required to be reported to Compliance:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• US open end mutual funds that are not Schroders Funds (see Appendix D for more detail)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Money market funds

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Derivatives of non-covered securities (*i.e*., index futures)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unit investment trusts that are invested exclusively in open-end funds
that are not Schroders Funds

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Direct obligations of the U.S. Government (*i.e*., Treasuries).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, currencies, repurchase agreements and
other high quality short-term debt instruments<sup>1</sup> Cryptocurrencies

**Please note that Access Persons are required to report ALL brokerage accounts that hold or have *<u>the ability to</u>* hold Covered Securities.** 

**PRECLEARANCE** 

Covered Securities require preclearance approval before being traded. *Please see Appendix C for in-depth breakdown, including exceptions.* 

**Some key notes on preclearance:** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Preclearance is obtained via an electronic form on the MyCompliance system

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Preclearance expires at the end of the <u>same</u> business day that it is requested

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Preclearance for securities listed on non-US exchanges is valid until the
close of business on the following business day to compensate for different time zones

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• It is Schroders' policy to discourage excessive personal trading by Access Persons. As such, <u>all Access Persons are limited to 40 personal trades in Covered Securities per quarter</u>  **<u>.</u>** <u>Covered securities which don't require preclearance are not counted towards this limit.</u> 

Preclearance approval can be influenced by a variety of factors, including: the sensitivity of the position of the person submitting the request, principal amount of the trade, market capitalization, and trading or investment activity in the security for the benefit of clients. When submitting a preclearance request, you are required to attest that you are not in possession of any inside or material non-public information and that the requested trade does not conflict with any pending client orders that you are aware of.

<u>NOTE: If you fail to accurately pre-clear a transaction in a Covered Security, you may be fined and/or be subjected to a personal trading suspension. Violations of this Policy will be reported to senior management and will result in reprimands that could affect your employment with Schroders.</u> 

<sup>1</sup> High quality short-term debt instruments mean any instrument having a maturity at issuance of less than 366 days and which is rated in one of the highest two rating categories by a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization, or which is unrated but is of comparable quality. 

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 2.0 |

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

**Exchange traded products (ETPs):** 

Non-Schroders managed exchange traded products and derivatives of these securities are exempt from preclearance and the Holding Policy. Schroders managed ETPs are subject to both preclearance and the Holding Policy.

Please note that investments in single name ETPs are <u>prohibited</u>.

**A special note on the Hartford-Schroders Private Opportunities Fund:** 

In addition to preclearance, under Section 16 of the Exchange Act of 1934, these funds require additional reporting to Hartford and the SEC. Failure to comply with these preclearance and reporting requirements may result in regulatory violations. Please remember to preclear any transaction in these funds and reach out to Compliance with any questions or issues.

**The following transactions do <u>not</u> require pre-clearance**:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Transactions in an account over which the Access Person has no influence or control such as where investment
discretion is delegated in writing to an independent fiduciary ("Managed Account" – see page 6).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Transactions which are non-volitional on the part of the Access Person
(e.g., receipt of securities pursuant to a stock dividend or merger, a gift or inheritance). However, the volitional sale of securities acquired in a non-volitional manner requires pre-clearance. <sup>2</sup>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Purchases of the securities of an issuer through an automatic investment plan which makes periodic purchases (or
withdrawals) automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. An automatic investment plan includes a dividend reinvestment plan ("DRIP")<sup>3</sup>. Any such plans should be reported to Compliance prior to them commencing. Any transactions in such a plan other than according to a predetermined schedule are subject to pre-clearance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The receipt or exercise of rights issued by an issuer on a pro rata basis to all holders of a class of security
and the sale of such rights are permitted without pre-clearance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Tender of shares already held into an offer if the tender offer is open on the same terms to all holders of the
securities covered by the offer.

<sup>2</sup> This may include where options are exercised against a call written by the Access Person or where securities are exchanged for cash or other securities as part of a business transaction.

<sup>3</sup> Please note that the Access Person must speak with Compliance prior to setting up a Dividend Reinvestment Plan. While these automated transactions are not subject to preclearance, special rules relating to the holding policy may be in effect for some of these transactions. Please speak with Compliance for more detail. 

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 3.0 |

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Conversion of convertible securities or participation in exchange offers provided that the conversion or offer is
available on the same terms to all holders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Transactions in collective investment schemes offered by plans that qualify under Section 529 of the
Internal Revenue Code.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Transactions which are automatically exercised as part of a stop-loss or limit order, provided that the
parameters of stop-loss or limit order are placed when the initial trade is initiated.<sup>4</sup>

**Additional Restrictions for Investment Staff:** 

Investment Staff are required to inform Compliance via the My Compliance system when a trade request is within their own Investment Universe, irrespective of the size of the request. The Investment Universe is defined at the issuer level, for example if an investment staff member invests in the equity of an issuer for a fund, it inherently includes the debt of the same issuer, and vice versa.

Investment Universe includes investments in relation to which the individual or others on the same desk have undertaken research or analysis on the security or issuer as part of that desk's coverage, whether or not it has been held in a client portfolio, in the last 12 months, or in the case of dealers, within the dealing desk's scope of responsibility.

Additionally, Investment Staff are required to inform Compliance via the My Compliance system when a trade request is in a fund managed by their desk, irrespective of the size of the request.

Research Analysts, Research Associates and other staff involved in the production of internal investment research (including their PCAs), are prohibited from personal trading in an issuer (and its issues) or fund which they cover, in the five business days prior, and the five business days following the issuance of research reports covering that issuer or fund.

When pre-clearing personal account trades in My Compliance, Investment staff must attest that they have not and will not issue a research document in the five business days prior and the five business days following, in the financial instrument in which they are seeking pre-clearance.

<sup>4</sup> Please note that the use of Stop Loss limits within the 60-day holding period are permitted ONLY if the details of the Stop Loss Order are disclosed to Compliance at the time of the preclearance request.

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 4.0 |

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

**INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS** 

If you wish to purchase an initial public offering, you must obtain permission from the Chief Compliance Officer. In such cases, an Access Person would submit a trade request via MyCompliance which will be routed for Compliance review. Once approved, the Access Person will receive a notice from the MyCompliance system.

**HOLDING PERIODS** 

All Access Persons are strongly advised against short-term trading and are prohibited from making trades that expose them to material open-ended liabilities. This includes CFD investing, spread betting and leveraged account management without putting an appropriate stop-loss mechanism in place. <u>Short selling in Covered Securities is prohibited.</u>

Any Access Persons who appear to have established a pattern of short-term trading may be subject to additional restrictions or penalties including, but not limited to, a limit or ban on future personal trading activity and a requirement to disgorge profits on short-term trades.

**All Covered Securities are subject to a <u>60-calendar day holding period</u>. Securities may not be sold within 60 days of any purchase in the security, regardless of how long ago the initial investment was made. <u>First in, first out does not apply</u>. The Chief Compliance Officer has exemptive authority to override the 60-day holding policy for good cause shown.** 

Schroders plc shares purchased in the market (rather than forming part of a remuneration award) are subject to a one-year holding period.

Please note that while Schroders Funds ("Reportable Funds" – Listed in Appendix D) are NOT subject to preclearance, they ARE subject to this 60-day holding policy.

**A NOTE ON OPTIONS** 

Options trading is subject to the aforementioned preclearance and 60 day holding policies. Further detail follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Listed Call Options: You may purchase a listed call option only if the call option has a period to expiration of
at least 60 days from the date of purchase and you hold the call option for at least 60 days prior to sale. If you choose to exercise the option, you must also hold the underlying security delivered pursuant to the exercise for 60 days.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Covered Calls: You may sell (or "write") a call option only if you have held the underlying security
(in the corresponding quantity) for at least 60 days.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 5.0 |

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SIMNA INC. CODE OF ETHICS

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Listed Put Options: You may purchase a listed put option only if the put option has a period to expiration of at
least 60 days from the date of purchase and you hold the put option for at least 60 days prior to sale.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If you purchase a put option on a security you already own, you may only exercise the put once you have held the
underlying security for 60 days.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Selling Puts: You may sell (or "write") a put only if you have held the underlying security (in the
corresponding quantity) for at least 60 days.

**COVERED ACCOUNTS** 

A Covered Account is an account in which you are capable of purchasing Covered Securities, or an account in which you own a beneficial interest (except where you have no influence or control). This includes IRA accounts as well as any 401k account held from a former employer that holds a Covered Security, such as stock. **Covered Accounts are covered by this policy and are subject to the aforementioned preclearance and holding policies.**

*Accounts held by your spouse (including their IRA or 401k accounts), minor children and other members of your immediate family (children, stepchildren, grandchildren, parents, stepparents, grandparents, siblings, in-laws and adoptive relationships) who share your household are also considered Covered Accounts, as are any other accounts over which you exercise investment discretion. In addition, accounts maintained by your domestic partner*<sup>5</sup> *are Covered Accounts under this Policy*.

<u>All US-based personnel</u> are required to maintain their Covered Accounts at an Approved Broker as listed in Appendix B unless otherwise exempted for unique circumstances. If an Access Person is permitted to maintain a Covered Account with a non-Approved Broker, the Access Person assumes the responsibility to manually report their transactions in Covered Securities and upload quarterly account statements directly in the MyCompliance system.

<u>Persons on secondment</u> from London or other offices may apply to Compliance for a waiver of the requirement to maintain their Covered Accounts at a US Approved Broker.

Robo-Advisors are only permissible only if they are Managed Accounts (more below). Apps which allow you to select specific covered securities for transactions (excluding Robinhood) are not permitted.

<sup>5</sup> A domestic partner is defined as someone that you have a personal relationship with and that you share a household with, share assets, such as personal banking accounts, brokerage accounts, with and/or share housing or childcare expenses with. If you are unsure as to whether this definition is applicable to you, please consult a member of the Compliance team. 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 6.0 |

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**MANAGED ACCOUNTS** 

A Managed Account is an account over which the Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control. **Managed Accounts are still considered Covered Accounts and must be reported to Compliance.** Compliance cannot approve a Managed Account until an official discretionary letter from the broker is received which expressly states that the Access Person does not have any investment discretion. Compliance must have a discretionary letter on file *for each Managed Account* and will request an updated letter periodically. It is the employee's responsibility to ensure the broker provides these updated letters. <u>Access Persons with managed accounts will also be required to complete an annual attestation confirming that they did not direct any investment decisions during the year.</u>

Since the Access Person does not have any investment discretion on Managed Accounts, transactions in these accounts are **<u>not</u>** subject to the preclearance and holding policies; however, Compliance will conduct periodic reviews to check the transactions in Managed Accounts against the Global Stop List.

**A special note on Managed Accounts:** 

Managed Accounts must be held with an Approved Broker unless you have previously been given an exemption by Compliance. For new hires, any accounts that the Access Person has held prior to employment at Schroders that must be held with a broker outside of the Approved Brokers list must first receive approval from the Chief Compliance Officer, or their delegate.

**OPENING A NEW COVERED ACCOUNT** 

Employees must receive written approval from Compliance before opening a covered account with a broker. This rule applies to all new covered accounts, whether or not the employee already holds other approved accounts with the same broker. This rule also applies to Managed Accounts.

**PRIVATE SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS AND TAX SHELTERS** 

No Access Person or Associated Person may participate in any type of private placement or tax shelter without obtaining the advance consent of their direct supervisor and the Chief Compliance Officer. This request should be submitted electronically through MyCompliance and the system will route it for compliance review. Line manager approval must then be sent to the Compliance team via email. Only passive investments (without operational, management or promotional duties) may be permitted.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 7.0 |

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Additional capital calls of an already approved private vehicle and/or exiting a private placement or tax shelter, whether by sale or redemption, do not need to be approved but must be reported to Compliance in the Access Person's next quarterly transactions report.

No Access Person or Associated Person who is a Registered Representative licensed with FINRA under the supervision of SFA may receive selling compensation in connection with a private securities transaction or tax shelter not offered through SFA. Any Access Person or Associated Person engaged in selling activity other than in connection with his or her duties as a Registered Representative must obtain prior permission in writing from his or her supervisor and the Chief Compliance Officer.

**REPORTING REQUIREMENTS** 

All personnel are required to complete various filings that are due at certain times of the year. Access Persons will receive notification of these filings and their respective deadlines via MyCompliance. Failure to comply with these time sensitive filings will result in a violation of the Code of Ethics.

**INITIAL REPORTING** 

No later than 10 calendar days after joining the Adviser, each Access Person must provide Compliance with a list of every Covered Security that they own. The information provided must be current as of a date no more than 45 days prior and must include the title of the security; the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP; and the number of shares owned (for equities) or principal amount (for debt securities). Access Persons may provide account statements in place of a written list.

**Unless approved by the Chief Compliance Officer, all new Access Persons who maintain Covered Account(s) with brokers that are <u>not</u> on the list of Approved Brokers will have to move their accounts within a reasonable timeframe established by Compliance upon their hire. The Chief Compliance Officer will only allow an Access Person to keep a Covered Account with a broker outside of the Approved Brokers list in extenuating circumstances**. In such instances, the Access Person owns the responsibility of manually reporting all transactions in Covered Securities and uploading quarterly statements into the MyCompliance system.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 8.0 |

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**QUARTERLY REPORTS** 

No later than 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter, each Access Person will provide Compliance with a report of all transactions in Covered Securities in the quarter. All information requested on the form issued via MyCompliance must be provided.

Please note that transactions in shares of Reportable Funds<sup>6</sup> must be reported at this time.

**ANNUAL REPORTS** 

Within 45 days after the end of the calendar year, each Access Person must report all their holdings in Covered Securities as of December 31 of that year. All information requested on the form issued via MyCompliance must be provided.

**KNOWLEDGE OF THE CODE AND ANNUAL CERTIFICATION** 

Each Access Person is responsible for understanding the provisions of this Code. Access Persons will certify, at least annually, that they have reviewed the current version of this Code and has complied with its standards. The Code is maintained on the internal Compliance website.

**SELF-REPORTING OF VIOLATIONS** 

Access Persons and Associated Persons have an obligation to review their own trading to ensure that they have acted in compliance with the provisions of this Code. To the extent that such person determines that they have executed a transaction not in compliance with this Code, that person has an obligation to promptly report the violation to the Chief Compliance Officer.

**GRANTING OF EXCEPTIONS** 

The Chief Compliance Officer may, on a case-by-case basis, grant exceptions to any provision under this Code for good cause. Any such exceptions and the reasons for granting them will be maintained in writing by the Chief Compliance Officer and presented to the Board of Directors of the Adviser at the next scheduled meeting.

<sup>6</sup> Transactions in Reportable Funds in the Schroders 401(k) and SERP plans do not need to be reported as Compliance monitors this information outside of the MyCompliance system.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 9.0 |

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Adopted: October 1, 1995

Amended: May 15, 1996

May 1, 1997

June 12, 1998

June 2, 1999

March 14, 2000

August 14, 2001

June 23, 2003

October 23, 2003

December 9, 2003

May 11, 2004

January 14, 2005

December 5, 2005

March 6, 2006

September 14, 2007

September 14, 2009

March 9, 2010

June 12, 2012

June 18, 2013

June 12, 2014

May 20, 2015

September 30, 2015

May 1, 2017

December 31, 2017

May 1, 2019

April 30, 2020

September 14, 2021

August 20, 2025

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 10.0 |

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**APPENDIX A OF THE CODE OF ETHICS – APPROVERS** 

In the event that the MyCompliance system is not accessible, the US Compliance team is authorized to preclear personal transactions.

Compliance email: <u>ussimcomp@schroders.com</u>

MyCompliance: <u>https://my.schroders.com/SitePages/Start.aspx</u> (under the "Apps" section)

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 11.0 |

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**APPENDIX B OF THE CODE OF ETHICS – APPROVED BROKERS** 

Alliance Bernstein

Charles Schwab

Citibank

E\*Trade

Fidelity

Goldman Sachs

Interactive Brokers

JP Morgan Securities / Private Bank

Lending Club<sup>7</sup>

Merrill Lynch

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

Robinhood

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

TD Ameritrade

Vanguard

Wells Fargo

<sup>7</sup> Lending Club (and other peer-to-peer lending accounts) where the employee is the lender must be disclosed via the "Outside Activity" section of MyCompliance. Please note that these accounts require line manager approval prior to being opened.

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 12.0 |

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**APPENDIX C OF THE CODE OF ETHICS – RULE SET** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Security Type** | **Requires**<br> **preclearance?** | **Subject to 60 day**<br> **holding period?** |
| Equities | Yes | Yes |
| Non-Schroders managed Exchange Traded Products, except for single name ETPs | No | No |
| Schroders managed ETPs | Yes | Yes |
| Single name ETPs | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Derivatives (if the underlying security is covered) | Yes | Yes |
| Fixed Income securities (including state/local/municipal bonds) | Yes | Yes |
| US Open ended Mutual Funds - (other than Reportable Funds) | No | No |
| Non-US Open ended Mutual Funds - (Not managed by the Adviser or an affiliated<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;adviser) | Yes | Yes |
| Reportable Funds and Non-US funds managed by Schroders (outside of your<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Schroders 401k) | No | Yes |
| Closed end Funds | Yes | Yes |
| Initial Public Offerings | Yes | Yes |
| Private Placements | Yes | n/a |
| Cryptocurrencies | No | No |
| Non-volitional dividend reinvestment transactions and corporate action elections for<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;which formal public documents are issued | No | n/a |
| Schroders plc shares, purchased outside of a remuneration package | Yes | Yes, one year |
| Direct obligations of the US Government | No | No |
| Banker's acceptances, commercial paper, repurchase agreements, bitcoins, currencies | No | No |
| Crowdfunding & Crowdsourcing – non security based | No | No |
| Crowdfunding & Crowdsourcing – security based | Yes | Yes |

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 13.0 |

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**APPENDIX D OF THE CODE OF ETHICS – REPORTABLE FUNDS** 

<u>Affiliated Investment Companies Advised by SIMNA Inc.</u>

The Swiss Helvetia Fund, Inc.

<u>U.S. Investment Companies Sub-Advised by SIMNA Inc.</u> <u>(and their wholly owned subsidiaries, if any)</u>

Brighthouse Funds Trust I – Schroders Global Multi-Asset Portfolio

<u>Schroders Global Multi-Asset Portfolio, Ltd.</u> <u>(wholly owned subsidiary)</u>

<u>Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II – Variable Portfolio – Partners International Core Equity Fund</u>

<u>Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II – Strategic Advisers</u><u><sup>®</sup></u> <u>Emerging Markets Fund</u>

<u>Guardian Variable Products Trust – Guardian International Equity VIP Fund</u>

<u>Harbor Funds II – Embark Commodity Strategy Fund</u>

<u>Harbor Embark Cayman Fund V Ltd. (wholly owned subsidiary)</u>

<u>Hartford Funds Exchange-Traded Trust – Hartford Schroders Commodity Strategy ETF</u>

<u>Hartford Schroders Cayman Commodity Strategy Fund, Ltd. (wholly owned subsidiary)</u>

<u>Hartford Funds Exchange-Traded Trust – Hartford Schroders Tax-Aware Bond ETF</u>

The Hartford Mutual Funds, Inc. – Hartford Climate Opportunities Fund

The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders China A Fund

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Diversified Emerging Markets Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Diversified Growth Fund</u><u> </u>

<u>Hartford Schroders Cayman Diversified Growth Fund, Ltd. (wholly owned subsidiary)</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Emerging Markets Equity Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Emerging Markets Multi-Sector Bond Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders International Contrarian Value Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders International Multi-Cap Value Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders International Stock Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Sustainable Core Bond Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Sustainable International Core Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders Tax-Aware Bond Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders US MidCap Opportunities Fund</u>

<u>The Hartford Mutual Funds II, Inc. – Hartford Schroders US Small Cap Opportunities Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Inflation Plus Fund Cayman Ltd. (wholly owned subsidiary)</u>

<u>Lincoln US equity Income Maximizer Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP American Century Select Mid Cap Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP BlackRock Dividend Value Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Blended Large Cap Growth Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Blended Mid Cap Managed Volatility Fund</u>

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 14.0 |

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<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP ClearBridge Franklin Select Large Cap Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Dimensional International Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Dimensional U.S. Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Fidelity Institutional AM</u><u><sup>®</sup></u> <u>Select Core Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Franklin Templeton Global Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Invesco Select Equity Income Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP JPMorgan Select Mid Cap Value Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP MFS International Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP Multi-Manager Global Equity Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP SSGA Global Tactical Allocation Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP SSGA International Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP SSGA Large Cap Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust – LVIP SSGA SMID Cap Managed Volatility Fund</u>

<u>Mercer Funds – Mercer Emerging Markets Equity Fund</u> 

<u>Morgan Stanley Pathway Funds – International Equity Fund</u> 

<u>NYLI VP Schroders Mid Cap Opportunities Portfolio</u> 

<u>PFM Multi-Manager Series Trust – PFM Multi-Manager International Equity Fund</u>

<u>Russell Institutional Funds LLC – Core Bond Fund</u> 

<u>Russell Investment Company – Strategic Bond Fund</u> 

<u>Russell Investment Company – Investment Grade Bond Fund</u> 

<u>Russell Investment Funds – Strategic Bond Fund</u> 

<u>SunAmerica Series Trust – SA Schroders VCP Global Allocation Portfolio</u> 

<u>Seasons Series Trust – SA Multi-Managed International Equity Portfolio</u> 

<u>Seasons Series Trust – SA Multi-Managed Small Cap Portfolio</u> 

<u>Vanguard Variable Insurance Funds – International Portfolio</u> 

<u>Vanguard Whitehall Funds – Vanguard International Explorer<sup>™</sup> Fund</u> 

<u>Vanguard World Fund – Vanguard International Growth Fund</u> 

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 15.0 |

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**APPENDIX E OF THE CODE OF ETHICS – INSIDER TRADING POLICY** 

It is a violation of United States federal law and a serious breach of the Adviser's policies for any Access or associated person to trade in, or recommend trading in, the securities of an issuer for their personal gain, or on behalf of the firm or its clients, while in possession of material, non-public information ("MNPI") which may come into their possession either in the course of performing their duties, or through a breach of any duty of trust and confidence.

Such violations could subject you, the Adviser, and its affiliates, to significant civil and criminal liability, including the imposition of monetary penalties, and could also result in irreparable harm to the reputation of the Adviser. Tippees (i.e., persons who receive MNPI) may also be held liable if they trade or pass along such information to others.

Further, it is a violation of anti-fraud provisions of the Advisers Act for Access Persons or Associated Persons who are aware of transactions being considered for clients, or are aware of the portfolio holdings in the reportable funds to which the Adviser (or an affiliate) acts an adviser, to disclose such information to a party who has "no need to know" or to trade on such information for personal gain by, among other things, front-running or market timing.

The US Insider Trading and Securities Fraud Enforcement Act of 1988 ("ITSFEA") requires all broker-dealers and investment advisers to establish and enforce written policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent misuse of MNPI.

The provisions of ITSFEA apply both to trading while in possession of such information, and to communicating such information to others who might trade on it improperly.

**MATERIALITY** 

Material information about transactions that the Adviser undertakes on behalf of clients is proprietary to the firm. Use of that information by Access and associated persons in personal securities dealings—or communication of the information to others with the expectation that they will trade—violates the duties that Access and associated persons owe to the Adviser and its clients.

Information that Access Persons and Associated Persons obtain through research, or through communications with issuers on behalf of the Adviser, belongs to the Adviser and may not be used in connection with personal securities transactions other than in compliance with the personal securities transactions provisions of this Code of Ethics.

Where Access Persons or Associated Persons receive information from issuers or research providers that they believe is material and non-public in the course of their duties for the Adviser, they must immediately notify the Chief Compliance Officer.

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 16.0 |

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Information which emanates from outside an issuer, but may affect the market price of an issuer's securities, can also be MNPI. For example, material, non-public information can originate within the Adviser itself. This would include knowledge of activities or plans of an affiliate, or knowledge of securities transactions that are being considered or executed by the Adviser itself on behalf of clients.

MNPI can also be obtained from knowledge about a client that a person has discovered in their dealings with that client. MNPI pertaining to a particular issuer could also involve information about another issuer that has a material relationship to the issuer, such as a major supplier's decision to increase its prices. Moreover, non-public information relating to portfolio holdings in a Reportable Fund should not be used to market-time or engage in other activities that are detrimental to the Reporting Fund and its shareholders.

In addition, Rule 14e-3 under the Exchange Act makes it unlawful to buy or sell securities while in possession of material information relating to a tender offer, if the person buying or selling the securities knows, or has reason to know, that the information is non-public and has been acquired, directly or indirectly, from the person making, or planning to make, the tender offer, from the target company, or from any officer, director, partner or employee or other person acting on behalf of either the bidder or the target company.

This rule prohibits not only trading, but also the communication of MNPI relating to a tender offer to another person in circumstances under which it is reasonably foreseeable that the communication will result in a trade by someone in possession of the MNPI. All staff is subject to the Global Market Abuse Policy which provides further guidance on what may be regarded as abusive behaviors.

**PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** 

Please see Compliance's <u>Market Abuse Policy</u> located on the Compliance intranet page for prohibitions regarding persons who acquire MNPI.

**PENALTIES** 

Penalties for trading on or communicating MNPI are severe, both for the individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their employers. Under the law, a person can be subject to some or all of the penalties below, even if s/he does not personally benefit from the violation. Penalties include:

1) civil injunctions;

2) disgorgement of profits;

3) treble damages – fines for the Access Person or Associated Person who committed the violation, of up to 3 times the profit gained or loss avoided, whether or not the person actually benefited;

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| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 17.0 |

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4) fines for the employer or other controlling person of up to the greater of $1,000,000, or 3 times the profit gained or loss avoided; and 

5) imprisonment.

**SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR TRADING IN SCHRODERS PLC** 

Special restrictions apply to trading in the securities of Schroders plc because staff, by virtue of their employment, may be deemed to have MNPI:

1. Securities of Schroders plc will not be purchased for any client account without the permission of that client,
and then only if permitted by applicable law.

2. Personal securities transactions in the securities of Schroders plc are subject to blackout periods and other
restrictions which are outlined in the UK Staff Dealing Rules. These can be found on the Group Compliance intranet page. A trade request must be submitted via MyCompliance and approved by the UK Corporate Secretariat prior to trading.

**STOP LIST** 

Schroders maintains a Global Stop List that includes company securities for which one or more persons at the Adviser and its affiliates may hold price sensitive information. The Stop List locally is maintained by the US Compliance team.

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|:---|:---|
| **CODE OF ETHICS**<br> EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2017, REVISED APRIL 2020, SEPTEMBER 2021, August 2025 | 18.0 |

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## Ex-99.Q

Exhibit (q)

LINCOLN NATIONAL CORPORATION ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Lincoln National Corporation ("LNC") (Dom: Indiana; Function: Holding Company)

• First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company (Dom: Indiana; Function: Insurance Company)

• Jefferson-Pilot Investments, Inc. (Dom: North Carolina; Function: Real Estate)

• Lincoln Investment Management Company (Dom: Delaware; Function: Investment Advisor)

• Lincoln Financial Reinsurance Company of Vermont (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

• Lincoln Financial Insurance Agency Incorporated (Dom: New Hampshire; Function: Insurance Agency)

• Lincoln Financial Limited Liability Company I (Dom: Delaware; Function: General Business Co.)

• Lincoln National Management Corporation (Dom: Pennsylvania; Function: Management Co.)

• Lincoln National Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Limited (Dom: Barbados; Function: Reinsurance Co.)

• Lincoln Pinehurst Reinsurance Company (Bermuda) Limited (Dom: Bermuda; Function: Reinsurance Co.)

• Lincoln Insurance Services Limited (Dom: England; Function: Holding Co.)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln SBP Trustee Limited (Dom: England)

• The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company ("LNL") (Dom: Indiana; Function: Insurance Company)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Bain Capital Total Credit Fund (50% ownership) (Registrant)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• LFD Insurance Agency, Limited Liability Company (Dom: Delaware; Function: Insurance Agency)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. (Dom: Connecticut; Function: Broker/Dealer)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation (Dom: Tennessee; Function: Investment Advisor)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Investment Solutions, Inc. (Dom: Delaware; Function: Investment Holdings)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York (Dom: New York; Function: Insurance Company)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Westfield Assigned Benefits Company (Dom: Ohio; Function: Insurance Agency)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of South Carolina (Dom: South Carolina; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont I (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont III (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont IV (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont V (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VI (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VII (Dom: Vermont; Function: Reinsurance Captive)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Retirement Services Company, LLC (Dom: Indiana; Function: Recordkeeping)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Financial Group Trust Company, Inc. (Dom: New Hampshire; Function: Trust Company)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lincoln Assignment Corporation (Dom: Delaware; Function: Structured Settlements)

\* All ownership 100% except as noted.