# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001547580
**File Stem:** 0001193125-26-100588
**Filing Date:** 2026-3
**Character Count:** 1085372
**Document Hash:** 00fc954dec3f22fcac300ab22895fce1
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-26-100588.hdr.sgml**: 20260311

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-26-100588

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 485APOS

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 5

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260311

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260310

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Victory Portfolios II
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001547580

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0630

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485APOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1940 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 811-22696
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26740932

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 4900 TIEDEMAN ROAD, 4TH FLOOR
- **CITY:** BROOKLYN
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 44144
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 216-898-2411

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 4900 TIEDEMAN ROAD, 4TH FLOOR
- **CITY:** BROOKLYN
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 44144

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Compass EMP Funds Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20120417
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Victory Portfolios II
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001547580

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0630

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485APOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-181176
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26740931

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 4900 TIEDEMAN ROAD, 4TH FLOOR
- **CITY:** BROOKLYN
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 44144
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 216-898-2411

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 4900 TIEDEMAN ROAD, 4TH FLOOR
- **CITY:** BROOKLYN
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 44144

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Compass EMP Funds Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20120417

**Securities Act Registration No. 333-181176**

**Investment Company Act Registration No. 811-22696**

**As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 2026**

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**U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION**

**Washington, D.C. 20549**

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**FORM N-1A**

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT**

**UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933**

☒

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**Pre-Effective Amendment No. ___**

**Post-Effective Amendment No. 137**

**and/or**

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT**

**UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940**

☒

**Amendment No. 138**

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**Victory Portfolios II**

**(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)**

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**15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256**

**(Address of Principal Executive Offices)**

**(877) 660-4400**

**(Area Code and Telephone Number)**

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**With copy to:** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Thomas Dusenberry** <br> **Victory Portfolios II**<br> **15935 La Cantera Parkway**<br> **San Antonio, Texas 78256**<br>| **Jay G. Baris**<br> **Matthew J. Kutner**<br> **Sidley Austin LLP**<br> **787 Seventh Avenue**<br> **New York, New York 10019**<br>|

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It is proposed that this filing will become effective:

☐

Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)

☐

On (date), pursuant to paragraph (b)

☐

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

☐

On (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

☐

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

☒

On (May 26, 2026) 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

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![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state in which the offer or sale is not permitted.

Subject to Completion \| Preliminary Prospectus

**[ ], 2026**

Prospectus

VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF ()

Listed and traded on:

The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined whether this Prospectus is accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

VictorySharesLiterature.com

866-376-7890

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![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

**Table of Contents**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **[Fund Summary](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_1)** | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Objective](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Fund Fees and Expenses](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Investment Strategy](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_2) | 2  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_3) | 3  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Performance](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_13) | 13  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Management of the Fund](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_13) | 13  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_13) | 13  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Tax Information](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_13) | 13  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_14)<br> [Intermediaries](#xx_edc4cf6a-c702-4531-b62c-f07d7f7b406d_14)<br>| 14  |
| **[Additional Fund Information](#xx_098d898b-250b-457b-8fbd-482c18aec910_1)** | 15  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investments](#xx_098d898b-250b-457b-8fbd-482c18aec910_4) | 18  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Additional Investment Strategies and Related Risks](#xx_098d898b-250b-457b-8fbd-482c18aec910_10) | 24  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Risk Factors](#xx_28218612-3096-4cc2-8698-74ce9e8c11e7_1) | 25  |
| **[Organization and Management of the Fund](#xx_ed7ba5ae-e77d-4152-8c5b-6d4ec7f07f8e_1)** | 44  |
| **[Investing with Victory](#xx_9df20739-edcc-4ddb-a9d1-77e85723ea59_1)** | 45  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Share Price](#xx_9df20739-edcc-4ddb-a9d1-77e85723ea59_1) | 45  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [How to Buy and Sell Shares](#xx_9df20739-edcc-4ddb-a9d1-77e85723ea59_3) | 47  |
| **[Distribution and Service Plan](#xx_d54fa2bd-7647-434f-9c55-8256ce420f82_1)** | 49  |
| **[Distributions and Taxes](#xx_0f9789f4-efb3-48d9-84f1-a275d7c1b7b8_1)** | 50  |
| **[Other Information](#xx_1ceecd16-8486-4443-ab6f-95b567b7c64e_1)** | 53  |
| **[Financial Highlights](#xx_608eb3f1-c5d9-4801-a810-5db3689a3438_1)** | 55 |

---

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**VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary**

**Investment Objective**

The VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF (the "Fund") seeks total return, including high current income.

**Fund 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 example below**.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Shareholder Fees**<br> (fees paid directly from your investment) <br>| **None** |

---

Annual Fund Operating Expenses

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

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Management Fees | 0.39% |
| Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> <br>| [ ]% |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | [ ]% |
| Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursements<sup>2</sup> <br>| [()]% |
| **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursements**<sup>2</sup> | 0.45% |

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<sup>1</sup>

Estimated for the current fiscal year.

<sup>2</sup>

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") has contractually agreed to waive its management fee and/or reimburse expenses so that the total annual fund operating expenses (excluding certain items such as interest, taxes, and brokerage commissions) do not exceed 0.45% through at least October 31, 2027. The Adviser is permitted to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to three years after the date of the waiver or reimbursement, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limits in effect at the time of (a) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (b) the recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount. This agreement may only be terminated by the Fund's Board of Trustees.

**Example:**

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The example assumes that (1) you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell or continue to hold all of your shares at the end of the period, (2) your investment has a 5% return each year, and (3) the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. The amounts shown reflect any fee waiver/expense reimbursement in place through its expiration date. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based upon these assumptions your costs would be:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| $[ ] | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $[ ] |

---

**Portfolio Turnover:**

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. Because the Fund has not yet commenced investment operations, no portfolio turnover information is available at this time.

**1**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

**Principal Investment Strategy**

The Fund employs a flexible investment approach that selects investments from a broad range of issuers and segments of the U.S. and non-U.S. fixed-income markets, such as investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds, U.S. and non-U.S. government bonds, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities. As a secondary component of its overall strategy, the Fund's portfolio management team uses derivatives in an effort to limit credit and interest rate risks.

In pursuing the Fund's investment objective, the Fund seeks to generate returns that have low correlation to traditional equity and fixed income markets over the long term. The Fund is actively managed and does not seek to follow any particular index, nor is it constrained to invest in the securities included in the Fund's benchmark index. The Fund allocates its assets among global fixed income sectors based on current market conditions and uses risk hedges to limit volatility arising from interest rate and credit spread movements.

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in fixed-income investments. Fixed-income investments may include instruments and obligations of U.S. and non-U.S. corporate and other non-governmental entities, debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or non-U.S. governmental entities, mortgage-related or mortgage-backed securities (including commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"), collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), and "sub-prime" mortgages), asset-backed securities, floating-rate loans, convertible securities, preferred securities, Treasury Inflation Protected Securities ("TIPS"), and other inflation-linked debt securities, subordinated debt securities, insurance-linked securities, municipal debt securities, and securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in fixed income investments. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities, which could increase transaction costs.

Under normal circumstances, the Fund may invest a substantial portion of its assets in asset-backed securities and mortgage-related securities, including CMBS, CMOs, and other mortgage-related securities issued by private issuers. The Fund's investments in mortgage-related securities may include instruments whose underlying assets allow "balloon payments" or negative amortization payments. Balloon payments allow mortgage borrowers to pay a substantial portion of the balance at maturity, which can shorten the average life of the mortgage-backed instrument. A negative amortization payment means that a borrower's mortgage payment is insufficient to cover the amount of interest owed, and the difference is added to the principal of the loan due at maturity. This can result from a payment cap feature of a mortgage.

The Fund invests in securities of any maturity and duration. The maturity of a fixed-income security is a measure of the time remaining until final payment on the security is due. Duration seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a fixed income security to changes in interest rates. Unlike maturity, duration takes into account interest payments that occur throughout the course of holding the bond. The longer a portfolio's duration, the more sensitive it will be to changes in interest rates. For example, if the Fund has a two-year duration, then all other things being equal, the Fund will decrease in value by two percent if interest rates rise one percent.

The Fund's investments may have fixed or variable principal payments and all types of interest rate and dividend payment and reset terms, including fixed rate, adjustable rate, floating rate, zero coupon, when-issued, delayed delivery, to be announced and forward commitment, contingent, deferred, payment in kind, and auction rate features.

**2**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade at the time of purchase or determined to be of equivalent quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. The Fund's investments in debt securities rated below investment grade may include securities that are in default.

The Fund may invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers, including securities of issuers in emerging markets.

**Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund**

The Fund's investments are subject to the following principal risks:

**Market Risk** —The market prices of securities or other assets held by the Fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political, or regulatory conditions, political instability, recessions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, weather or climate events, armed conflict, market disruptions caused by tariffs, trade disputes, sanctions or other government actions, or other factors or adverse investor sentiment. If the market prices of the Fund's securities and assets fall, the value of your investment will go down. A change in financial condition or other event affecting a single issuer or market may adversely impact securities markets as a whole.

In the past decade, financial markets throughout the world have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. Governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Events that have contributed to these market conditions include, but are not limited to, major cybersecurity events; geopolitical events (including wars, terror attacks and economic sanctions); measures to address budget deficits; downgrading of sovereign debt; changes in oil and commodity prices; dramatic changes in currency exchange rates; global pandemics; and public sentiment. Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability, may continue for some time.

Raising the ceiling on U.S. government debt has become increasingly politicized. Any failure to increase the total amount that the U.S. government is authorized to borrow could lead to a default on U.S. government obligations, with unpredictable consequences for economies and markets in the United States and elsewhere. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments, impair the Fund's ability to satisfy redemption requests, and negatively impact the Fund's performance. In addition, inflation, rising interest rates, global supply chain disruptions, and other market events could adversely affect the companies or issuers in which the Fund invests. Following the commencement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical, or other events or conditions.

Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the United States. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. U.S. Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental or central bank actions, including increases or decreases in interest rates, or contrary actions by different governments, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Fund invests. Policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and these and other events affecting global markets, such as the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (commonly known as "Brexit"), potential trade imbalances with China or other countries or sanctions

**3**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

or other government actions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies (or their countermeasures), may contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

The United States and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs (or the threat of tariffs), investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities, potentially leading to significant losses for the Fund. For example, the United States has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. The U.S. government has prohibited U.S. persons, such as the Fund, from investing in Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. These and possible future restrictions could limit the Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. Moreover, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict. If the political climate between the United States and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines, or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Fund's assets may go down.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, armed conflicts such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, terrorism, natural disasters, infectious illness or public health issues, cybersecurity events, supply chain disruptions, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, and other circumstances in one country or region could have profound impacts on other countries or regions and on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to the countries or regions directly affected, the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments may be negatively affected. The Fund may experience a substantial or complete loss on any security or derivative position.

**High-Yield or "Junk" Bond Risk** — Debt securities that are below investment grade, called "junk bonds," are speculative, have a higher risk of default or are already in default, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events and negative sentiments, and may become illiquid. These risks are more pronounced for securities that are already in default.

**Duration Risk** — Duration seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a fixed income security to changes in interest rates. The longer a portfolio's duration, the more sensitive it will be to changes in interest rates. The Fund's average portfolio maturity may be greater than the Fund's average portfolio duration, and, accordingly, the Fund may be more sensitive to changes in yield or interest rates. A portfolio with negative duration may increase in value when interest rates rise, and generally incurs a loss when interest rates and yields fall. The assumptions that are made about a security's features and options when calculating duration may prove to be incorrect. Duration is calculated by the Fund's Adviser, is not an exact measurement and may not reliably predict the Fund's or a particular security's price sensitivity to changes in yield or interest rates. The Fund's Adviser may not be successful in its efforts to limit sensitivity to interest rate changes.

**Interest Rate Risk** —The market prices of the Fund's fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities. Duration is a measure of a fixed income security's sensitivity to changes in interest rates. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a fund's portfolio with a portfolio

**4**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security's maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security's sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called "credit spread"). In general, the longer its maturity the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up or "widens," the value of the security generally will go down.

Rising interest rates can lead to increased default rates, as issuers of floating rate securities find themselves faced with higher payments. Unlike fixed rate securities, floating rate securities generally will not increase in value if interest rates decline. Changes in interest rates also will affect the amount of interest income the Fund earns on its floating rate investments.

**Credit Risk** — If an issuer or guarantor of a security held by the Fund or a counterparty to a financial contract with the Fund defaults on its obligation to pay principal and/or interest, has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment will typically decline. The values of lower-quality debt securities tend to be particularly sensitive to these changes. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The values of securities also may decline for a number of other reasons that relate directly to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services, as well as the historical and prospective earnings of the issuer and the value of its assets. The Fund also could be delayed or hindered in its enforcement of rights against an issuer, guarantor or counterparty.

**Prepayment or Call Risk** — Many issuers have a right to prepay their securities. If interest rates fall, an issuer may exercise this right. If this happens, the Fund will not benefit from the rise in market price that normally accompanies a decline in interest rates, and will be forced to reinvest prepayment proceeds at a time when yields on securities available in the market are lower than the yield on the prepaid security. The Fund also may lose any premium it paid on the security.

**Extension Risk** — During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the security's duration and reduce the value of the security.

**Liquidity Risk** — Some securities and derivatives held by the Fund may be or become impossible or difficult to purchase, sell or unwind, particularly during times of market turmoil. An instrument's liquidity may be affected by reduced trading volume, a relative lack of market makers or legal restrictions, and illiquid securities and derivatives also may be difficult to value. Markets may become illiquid quickly. Liquidity risk may be magnified in an environment of rising interest rates or widening credit spreads. During times of market turmoil, there have been, and may be, no buyers or sellers for securities in entire asset classes. If the Fund is forced to sell an illiquid asset or unwind a derivative position to meet redemption requests or other cash needs, or to try to limit losses, the Fund may be forced to sell at a substantial loss or may not be able to sell at all. The Fund may not receive its proceeds from the sale of certain securities for an extended period (for example, several weeks or even longer). In extreme cases, this may constrain the Fund's ability to meet its obligations (including obligations to redeeming shareholders).

**Derivatives Risk** — Using swaps, futures, and other derivatives can increase Fund losses and reduce opportunities for gains when market prices, interest rates, or the derivative instruments themselves behave in a way not anticipated by the Fund. Using derivatives may increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value and may not provide the result intended. Derivatives may have a leveraging effect on the Fund. Some derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Derivatives are generally subject to the risks applicable to the assets, rates,

**5**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

indices or other indicators underlying the derivative. Changes in a derivative's value may not correlate well with the referenced asset or metric. The Fund also may have to sell assets at inopportune times to satisfy its obligations. Derivatives may be difficult to sell, unwind or value, and the counterparty may default on its obligations to the Fund. Use of derivatives or similar instruments may not be as favorable as a direct investment in an underlying investment and may adversely affect the amount, timing and character of income distributed to shareholders. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, certain derivatives are subject to mark-to-market or straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"). If such provisions are applicable, there could be an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by the Fund. The U.S. government and foreign governments have adopted and implemented or are in the process of adopting and implementing regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, margin and reporting requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance or disrupt markets.

**Credit Default Swap Risk** — Credit default swap contracts, a type of derivative instrument, involve special risks and may result in losses to the Fund. Credit default swaps may in some cases be illiquid, and they increase credit risk since the Fund has exposure to the issuer of the referenced obligation and either the counterparty to the credit default swap or, if it is a cleared transaction, the brokerage firm through which the trade was cleared and the clearing organization that is the counterparty to that trade.

**Credit Default Swap Index Risk** — The Fund may invest in credit default swap index products ("CDX") (swaps based on a portfolio of credit default swaps with similar characteristics, such as credit default swaps on high-yield bonds) in an effort to obtain exposure to a diversified portfolio of credits or to hedge against existing credit risks. CDX have similar risks as other credit default swaps contracts. The use of CDX is subject to the risk that the Fund's counterparty will default on its obligations. Investments in CDX are also subject to credit risk with respect to the issuers of the underlying reference obligations in the index, liquidity risk and operational risks. The Fund will also normally indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX in addition to the expenses of the Fund.

**Structured Securities Risk** — Structured securities may behave in ways not anticipated by the Fund, or they may not receive the tax, accounting or regulatory treatment anticipated by the Fund.

**Risks of Investing in Inverse Floating Rate Obligations** — The interest rate on inverse floating rate obligations will generally decrease as short-term interest rates increase, and increase as short-term rates decrease. Due to their leveraged structure, the sensitivity of the market value of an inverse floating rate obligation to changes in interest rates is generally greater than a comparable long-term bond issued by the same issuer and with similar credit quality, redemption and maturity provisions. Inverse floating rate obligations may be volatile and involve leverage risk.

**Leveraging Risk** — The value of your investment may be more volatile and other risks tend to be compounded if the Fund borrows or uses derivatives or other investments, such as ETFs, that have embedded leverage. Leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the Fund's underlying assets and creates a risk of loss of value on a larger pool of assets than the Fund would otherwise have, potentially resulting in the loss of all assets. Engaging in such transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations. New derivatives regulations require the Fund, to the extent it uses derivatives to a material extent, to, among other things, comply with certain overall limits on leverage. These regulations may limit the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategies and may not be effective to mitigate the Fund's risk of loss from derivatives.

**6**

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

**Portfolio Selection Risk** — The Adviser's judgment about the quality, relative yield, relative value or market trends affecting a particular sector or region, market segment, security, industry or about interest rates or other market factors may prove to be incorrect or may not produce the desired results, or there may be imperfections, errors or limitations in the models, tools and information used by the Adviser.

**U.S. Treasury Obligations Risk** — The market value of direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury may vary due to changes in interest rates. In addition, changes to the financial condition or credit rating of the U.S. government may cause the value of the Fund's investments in obligations issued by the U.S. Treasury to decline.

**U.S. Government Agency Obligations Risk** — The Fund invests in obligations issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government. Government-sponsored entities such as the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") and the Federal Home Loan Banks ("FHLBs"), although chartered or sponsored by Congress, are not funded by congressional appropriations and the debt and mortgage-backed securities issued by them are neither guaranteed nor issued by the U.S. government. The maximum potential liability of the issuers of some U.S. government obligations may greatly exceed their current resources, including any legal right to support from the U.S. government. Such debt and mortgage-backed securities are subject to the risk of default on the payment of interest and/or principal, similar to debt of private issuers. Although the U.S. government has provided financial support to FNMA and FHLMC in the past, there can be no assurance that it will support these or other government-sponsored entities in the future.

**Mortgage-Related and Asset-Backed Securities Risk** — The value of mortgage-related securities and asset-backed securities including commercial mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage-backed securities, and credit risk transfer securities, will be influenced by factors affecting the assets underlying such securities. As a result, during periods of declining asset value, difficult or frozen credit markets, swings in interest rates, or deteriorating economic conditions, mortgage-related and asset-backed securities may decline in value, face valuation difficulties, become more volatile and/or become illiquid. Mortgage-backed securities tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than other types of debt securities. These securities are also subject to interest rate, prepayment and extension risks. Some of these securities may receive little or no collateral protection from the underlying assets and are thus subject to the risk of default. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage-backed investments offered by non-governmental issuers and those that include so-called "sub-prime" mortgages. The structure of some of these securities may be complex and there may be less available information than for other types of debt securities. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults, the Fund may become the holder of underlying assets at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or may be sold only at a loss. For debt instruments secured by specific assets, those assets are often the sole source of principal and interest payments for the instrument. Should those assets underperform expectations or decline in value, the Fund could experience shortfalls in principal and interest.

**Risks of Instruments that Allow for Balloon Payments or Negative Amortization Payments** — Certain debt instruments allow for balloon payments or negative amortization payments. Such instruments permit the borrower to avoid paying currently a portion of the interest accruing on the instrument. In the case of negative amortization payments, the amount of unpaid interest is added to the remaining principal amount due at maturity. While these features make the debt instrument more affordable to the borrower in the near term, they increase the risk that the borrower will be unable to make the resulting higher payment or payments that become due at the maturity of the loan.

**Risks of Investing in Loans** — Floating rate loans and similar investments may be illiquid or less liquid than other investments and difficult to value.The value of collateral, if any, securing a floating rate loan can decline or may be insufficient to meet the issuer's obligations or may be difficult to liquidate. Market quotations for these securities may be volatile and/or subject to large spreads between bid and ask prices. No active trading market may exist for many floating rate loans, and

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

many loans are subject to restrictions on resale. Any secondary market may be subject to irregular trading activity and extended trade settlement periods. In particular, loans may take longer than seven days to settle, potentially leading to the sale proceeds of loans not being available to meet redemption requests for a substantial period of time after the sale of the loans. To the extent that sale proceeds of loans are not available, the Fund may sell securities that have shorter settlement periods or may access other sources of liquidity to meet redemption requests. There is less readily available, reliable information about most senior loans than is the case for many other types of securities.The adviser's decision not to receive material, non-public information about an issuer of a loan either held by, or considered for investment by, the fund, under normal circumstances could place it at a disadvantage, relative to other loan investors, in assessing a loan or the loan's issuer, and adversely affect the fund's investment performance. Loans may not be considered "securities," and purchasers, such as the Fund therefore may not be entitled to rely on the anti-fraud protections afforded by federal securities laws.

**Risks of Investing in Insurance-Linked Securities** — The Fund could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an insurance-linked security, and the right to additional interest and/or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events may include natural or other perils of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. The Fund may also invest in insurance-linked securities that are subject to "indemnity triggers." An indemnity trigger is a trigger based on the actual losses of the ceding sponsor (i.e., the party seeking reinsurance). Insurance-linked securities subject to indemnity triggers are often regarded as being subject to potential moral hazard, since such insurance-linked securities are triggered by actual losses of the ceding sponsor and the ceding sponsor may have an incentive to take actions and/or risks that would have an adverse effect on the Fund. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur and, accordingly, insurance-linked securities carry significant risk. In addition to the specified trigger events, insurance-linked securities may expose the Fund to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences. Certain insurance-linked securities may have limited liquidity, or may be illiquid. The Fund has limited transparency into the individual contracts underlying certain insurance-linked securities, which may make the risk assessment of such securities more difficult. Certain insurance-linked securities may be difficult to value.

**Risks of Subordinated Securities** — A holder of securities that are subordinated or "junior" to more senior securities of an issuer is entitled to payment after holders of more senior securities of the issuer. Subordinated securities are more likely to suffer a credit loss than non-subordinated securities of the same issuer, any loss incurred by the subordinated securities is likely to be proportionately greater, and any recovery of interest or principal may take more time. As a result, even a perceived decline in creditworthiness of the issuer is likely to have a greater impact on subordinated securities than more senior securities.

**Municipal Securities Risk** — The municipal bond market can be susceptible to unusual volatility, particularly for lower-rated and unrated securities. Liquidity can be reduced unpredictably in response to overall economic conditions or credit tightening. Municipal issuers may be adversely affected by rising health care costs, increasing unfunded pension liabilities, and by the phasing out of federal programs providing financial support. Unfavorable conditions and developments relating to projects financed with municipal securities can result in lower revenues to issuers of municipal securities, potentially resulting in defaults. Issuers often depend on revenues from these projects to make principal and interest payments. The value of municipal securities can also be adversely affected by changes in the financial condition of one or more individual municipal issuers or insurers of municipal issuers, regulatory and political developments, tax law changes or other legislative actions, and by uncertainties and public perceptions concerning these and other factors. Municipal issuers may be more susceptible to downgrades or defaults during recessions or similar periods of economic stress. Financial difficulties of municipal issuers may continue or get worse, particularly in the event of

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

political, economic or market turmoil or a recession. To the extent the Fund invests significantly in a single state, city, territory (including Puerto Rico), or region, or in securities the payments on which are dependent upon a single project or source of revenues, or that relate to a sector or industry, including health care facilities, education, tobacco settlement revenue, and industrial development, the Fund will be more susceptible to associated risks and developments.

**Risks of Zero Coupon Bonds, Payment in Kind, Deferred and Contingent Payment Securities** — These securities may be more speculative and may fluctuate more in value than securities which pay income periodically and in cash. In addition, although the Fund receives no periodic cash payments on such securities, the Fund is deemed for tax purposes to receive income from such securities, which applicable tax rules generally require the Fund to distribute to shareholders to retain its status as a regulated investment company and avoid being subject to U.S. federal income and excise tax. Such distributions may be taxable when distributed to shareholders.

**Risks of Non-U.S. Investments** — Investing in non-U.S. issuers, or in U.S. issuers that have significant exposure to foreign markets, may involve unique risks compared to investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are more pronounced for issuers in emerging markets or to the extent that the Fund invests significantly in one region or country. These risks may include different financial reporting practices and regulatory standards, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, changes in economic, political, regulatory and social conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, auditing and financial recordkeeping requirements,tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law, and investment and repatriation restrictions. Investors in foreign countries often have limited rights and few practical remedies to pursue shareholder claims. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Dividends and interest received by the Fund and capital gains recognized by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries and may decrease the Fund's return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Emerging market economies tend to be less diversified than those of more developed countries. They typically have fewer medical and economic resources than more developed countries and thus they may be less able to control or mitigate the effects of a pandemic. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security.

A number of countries in the European Union ("EU") have experienced, and may continue to experience, severe economic and financial difficulties. In addition, the United Kingdom has withdrawn from the EU (commonly known as "Brexit"). The range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes of Brexit cannot be fully known but could be significant, potentially resulting in increased volatility, illiquidity and potentially lower economic growth in the affected markets, which will adversely affect the Fund's investments.

Sanctions or other government actions against certain countries could negatively impact the Fund's investments in securities that have exposure to those countries. Circumstances that impact one country could have profound impacts on other countries and on global economies or markets. China and other developing market countries are potentially subject to heightened degrees of economic, political and social instability. The U.S. government has imposed restrictions on U.S. investor participation in certain Chinese investments. These matters could adversely affect China's economy. In addition, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict that could adversely impact the economies of China and other Asian countries, disrupt supply chains, and severely affect global economies and markets.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

In response to military action in Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries, issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Russia has taken retaliatory actions, including preventing repatriation of capital by United States and other investors. Since then, Russian securities have lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant market disruptions, including in certain markets, industries and sectors, such as the oil and natural gas markets, and negatively affected global supply chains, food supplies, inflation and global growth. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia's military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Fund investments, on Fund performance and the value of an investment in the Fund.

**Equity Securities Risk** — Equity securities are subject to the risk that stock prices may rise and fall in periodic cycles and may perform poorly relative to other investments. This risk may be greater in the short term. Equity securities represent an ownership interest in an issuer, rank junior in a company's capital structure to debt securities and consequently may entail greater risk of loss than debt securities. Equity securities have the lowest priority, and the greatest risk, with respect to dividends and any liquidation payments in the event of an issuer's bankruptcy.

**Equity-Linked Notes Risk** — Equity-linked notes ("ELNs") may not perform as expected and could cause the fund to realize significant losses including its entire principal investment. Investments in ELNs often have risks similar to their underlying reference securities, which may include market risk and, as applicable, risks of non-U.S. investments and currency risks. In addition, since ELNs are in note form, ELNs are also subject to certain risks of fixed income securities, such as interest rate and credit risks. Investments in ELNs are also subject to liquidity risk, which may make ELNs difficult to sell and value. In addition, ELNs may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with the underlying reference securities or a fixed income investment.

**Risks of Convertible Securities** — The market values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. A downturn in equity markets may cause the price of convertible securities to decrease relative to other fixed income securities.

**Preferred Stocks Risk** — Preferred stocks may pay fixed or adjustable rates of return. Preferred stocks are subject to issuer-specific and market risks applicable generally to equity securities. In addition, a company's preferred stocks generally pay dividends only after the company makes required payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. Thus, the value of preferred stocks will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects. The market value of preferred stocks generally decreases when interest rates rise. Also, the market prices of preferred stocks are more sensitive to changes in the issuer's creditworthiness than are the prices of debt securities. Generally, under normal circumstances, preferred stocks do not carry voting rights. Preferred stocks may trade less frequently and in a more limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than other securities. Preferred stocks of smaller companies may be more vulnerable to adverse developments than preferred stocks of larger companies.

**Risks of Investing in Other Funds** — Investing in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") and closed-end funds, subjects the Fund to the risks of investing in the underlying securities or assets held by those funds. When investing in another fund, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the underlying fund's expenses, including management fees, in addition to its own expenses. ETFs and closed-end funds are bought and sold based on market prices and can

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

trade at a premium or a discount to the ETF's or closed-end fund's net asset value. Such funds may trade at a discount for an extended period and may not ever realize their net asset value.

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is new and has no history of operations for investors to evaluate.

**Portfolio Turnover Risk** — If the Fund does a lot of trading, it may incur additional operating expenses, which would reduce performance. A higher level of portfolio turnover may also cause shareholders to incur a higher level of taxable income or capital gains.

**Market Segment Risk** — To the extent the Fund emphasizes, from time to time, investments in a market segment, the Fund will be subject to a greater degree to the risks particular to that segment, and may experience greater market fluctuation than a fund without the same focus.

**Valuation Risk** — Nearly all of the Fund's investments are valued using a fair value methodology. The sales price the Fund could receive for any particular portfolio investment may differ from the Fund's valuation of the investment, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in thin or volatile markets. These differences may increase significantly and affect Fund investments more broadly during periods of market volatility. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares may receive fewer or more shares or lower or higher redemption proceeds than they would have received if the securities had not been fair-valued or if a different valuation methodology had been used. The ability to value the Fund's investments may also be impacted by technological issues and/or errors by pricing services or other third party service providers.

**Redemption Risk** — The Fund may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, accelerate taxable gains and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have, or accelerate transaction costs, which could cause the value of your investment to decline.

**Large Shareholder Risk** — Certain large shareholders, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's shares. The actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder is permitted to invest in the Fund, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

**Cybersecurity Risk** — Cybersecurity failures by and breaches of the Adviser, transfer agent, the Distributor, custodian, Fund accounting agent or other service providers may disrupt Fund operations, interfere with the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, prevent Fund shareholders from purchasing, redeeming or exchanging shares or receiving distributions or receiving timely information regarding the Fund or their investment in the Fund, cause loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information, and result in financial losses to the Fund and its shareholders, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. New ways to carry out cyber attacks continue to develop. Therefore, there is a chance that some risks have not been identified or prepared for, or that an attack may not be detected, which puts limitations on the Fund's ability to plan for or respond to a cyber attack.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

**Expense Risk** — Your actual costs of investing in the Fund may be higher than the expenses shown in "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" for a variety of reasons. For example, expense ratios may be higher than those shown if overall net assets decrease. Net assets are more likely to decrease and Fund expense ratios are more likely to increase when markets are volatile.

Please note that there are many other factors that could adversely affect your investment and that could prevent the Fund from achieving its goals.

An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — Many of the Fund's underlying securities trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

You may lose money by investing in the Fund. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.

By itself, the Fund does not constitute a complete investment plan and should be considered a long-term investment for investors who can afford to weather changes in the value of their investment.

**Investment Performance**

No performance information is presented since the Fund does not yet have a full calendar year

of performance. Performance data for the Fund is available online at vcm.com or by calling 866-376-7890. A fund's performance is not necessarily an indication of how that fund will perform

in the future.

**Management of the Fund**

**Investment Adviser**

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") serves as the Fund's investment adviser. The portfolio managers jointly and primarily responsible for day-to-day management of the Fund are members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise.

**Portfolio Management** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Title** | **Tenure with the Fund** |
| Jonathan Scott, CFA | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President and <br> Director of Multi-Sector Fixed <br> Income of Pioneer Investments<br>| Since July 2026 |
| Jonathan M. Duensing, CFA | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Managing Director and <br> Director of Fixed Income<br>| Since July 2026 |
| Jeffrey C. Galloway, CFA | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President and Senior <br> Credit Analyst <br>| Since July 2026 |

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**Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares**

The Fund will issue and redeem shares at NAV only in large blocks of 25,000 shares (each block of shares is called a "Creation Unit"). Creation Units are issued and redeemed for cash and/or in-kind for securities by Authorized Participants ("APs") that have entered into agreements with the Fund's distributor. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares are not redeemable securities of the Fund.

Shares of the Fund are listed for trading on the Exchange. Individual shares may only be purchased and sold in the secondary market through a broker or dealer at a market price. Because shares of the Fund trade at market prices rather than NAV, shares may trade at a price that is greater than (a premium), at, or less than (a discount) NAV. An investor may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay to purchase shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for shares (ask) when buying or selling shares in the secondary market (the "bid-ask spread").

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads, visit vcm.com.

**Tax Information**

The Fund's distributions generally are taxable as ordinary income, qualified dividend income, or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes may be imposed on withdrawals from tax-deferred arrangements. A sale of shares may result in a capital gain or loss.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF Summary

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

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

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Additional Fund Information

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The **VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF** (the "Fund") is organized as an exchange-traded fund ("ETF").

The Fund has an investment objective to seek total return, including high current income and is non-fundamental. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The Fund's Board of Trustees (the "Board") may change this investment objective without shareholder approval. The Fund will provide shareholders notice of any such change.

**Principal Investment Strategies**

The Fund employs a flexible investment approach that selects investments from a broad range of issuers and segments of the U.S. and non-U.S. fixed income markets, such as investment grade and high yield corporate bonds, U.S. and non-U.S. government bonds, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities. As a secondary component of its overall strategy, the Fund's portfolio management team uses derivatives in an effort to limit credit and interest rate risks.

In pursuing the Fund's investment objective, the Fund seeks to generate returns that have low correlation to traditional equity and fixed income markets over the long term. The Fund is actively managed and does not seek to follow any particular index, nor is it constrained to invest in the securities included in the Fund's benchmark index. The Fund allocates its assets among global fixed income sectors based on current market conditions and uses risk hedges to limit volatility arising from interest rate and credit spread movements.

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in fixed-income investments. Fixed-income investments may include instruments and obligations of U.S. and non-U.S. corporate and other non-governmental entities, debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities or non-U.S. governmental entities, mortgage-related or mortgage-backed securities (including commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"), collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and "sub-prime" mortgages), asset-backed securities, floating-rate loans, convertible securities, preferred securities, TIPS and other inflation-linked debt securities, subordinated debt securities, insurance-linked securities, municipal debt securities and securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in fixed income investments. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

The Fund's 80% investment policy is non-fundamental, and the Board may change this policy without shareholder approval upon at least 60 days' written notice to shareholders.

The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities, which would increase transaction costs.

Under normal circumstances, the Fund may invest a substantial portion of its assets in asset-backed securities and mortgage-related securities, including CMBS, CMOs and other mortgage-related securities issued by private issuers. The Fund's investments in mortgage-related securities may include instruments whose underlying assets allow "balloon payments" or negative amortization payments. Balloon payments allow mortgage borrowers to pay a substantial portion of the balance at maturity, which can shorten the average life of the mortgage-backed instrument. A negative amortization payment means that a borrower's mortgage payment is insufficient to cover the amount of interest owed, and the difference is added to the principal of the loan due at maturity. This can result from a payment cap feature of a mortgage.

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Additional Fund Information

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The Fund invests in securities of any maturity and duration. The maturity of a fixed income security is a measure of the time remaining until final payment on the security is due. Duration seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a fixed income security to changes in interest rates. Unlike maturity, duration takes into account interest payments that occur throughout the course of holding the bond. The longer a portfolio's duration, the more sensitive it will be to changes in interest rates. For example, if the Fund has a two year duration, then all other things being equal, the Fund will decrease in value by two percent if interest rates rise one percent. The assumptions that are made about a security's features and options when calculating duration may prove to be incorrect. Duration is calculated by the Adviser, is not an exact measurement and may not reliably predict the Fund's or a particular security's price sensitivity to changes in yield or interest rates.

The Fund's investments may have fixed or variable principal payments and all types of interest rate and dividend payment and reset terms, including fixed rate, adjustable rate, floating rate, zero coupon, when-issued, delayed delivery, to be announced and forward commitment, contingent, deferred, payment in kind and auction rate features.

The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade at the time of purchase or determined to be of equivalent quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. The Fund's investments in debt securities rated below investment grade may include securities that are in default.

The Fund may invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers, including securities of issuers in emerging markets.

The Fund may invest in equity-linked notes ("ELNs") and other equity-linked securities. ELNs are hybrid structured investments that combine the characteristics of one or more reference equity securities (usually a single stock, a basket of stocks or a stock index) and a derivative that provides current payments at stated rates.

The Fund may invest in equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, rights, warrants, depositary receipts, master limited partnerships, equity interests in real estate trusts ("REITs") and other equity interests. The Fund may invest in equity securities as a consequence of holding debt of the same issuer or when the Adviser believes they offer income, the potential for capital gains or other portfolio management purposes.

The Adviser may use (but is not required to use in any given situation) derivatives, including interest rate futures, credit default swaps and credit default swap index products ("CDX") (swaps based on a portfolio of credit default swaps with similar characteristics, such as credit default swaps on high-yield bonds), and forward foreign currency contracts, primarily to manage the Fund's average duration, credit, and currency exposures. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of purposes, including: in an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market price of securities, interest rates or currency exchange rates; as a substitute for purchasing or selling securities; to attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative; to manage portfolio characteristics; and as a cash flow management technique. The Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations. The Fund may hold non-U.S. currency and may hold cash or other short-term investments.

The Adviser considers both broad economic and issuer specific factors in selecting investments. In assessing the appropriate maturity, credit quality and sector weightings of the portfolio, the Adviser considers a variety of factors that are expected to influence economic activity and interest rates. The Fund's allocation among the segments of the fixed income markets depends upon the Adviser's outlook for economic, interest rate and political trends. At any given time, the Fund may have a substantial amount of its assets in any one of such segments. The Adviser seeks to provide exposure to those areas

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Additional Fund Information

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of the fixed income market that the Adviser anticipates will provide value, while seeking to minimize exposure to those areas it anticipates will provide less value. The Adviser does not manage the Fund specific to any index or benchmark.

The Adviser selects individual securities to buy and sell based upon such factors as a security's yield, liquidity and rating, an assessment of credit quality, and sector and issuer diversification. The Adviser also employs fundamental research to assess an issuer's credit quality, taking into account financial condition and profitability, future capital needs, potential for change in rating, industry outlook, the competitive environment and management ability. The Adviser also makes investment decisions based on technical factors such as price momentum, market sentiment, and supply or demand imbalances.

The Fund may consider various non-financial ratings or factors, where applicable, through quantitative models or qualitative assessment. The significance these considerations have on security selection varies widely, as the analysis is inherently subjective. Further, the consideration of such factors may not apply to certain instruments and the considerations of such factors is only a part of the investment process.

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Investments

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**The following describes the types of securities the Fund may purchase under normal market conditions to achieve its principal investment strategy. The Fund's assets may be invested in, among other things, any of the following tax-exempt securities, except as otherwise noted:**

**Investment-Grade Securities**

A debt security is considered investment-grade if it is:

<sup>◼</sup>

Rated BBB or higher at the time of purchase by Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC;

<sup>◼</sup>

Rated the equivalent rating by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization; or

<sup>◼</sup>

Determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser.

Securities in the lowest category of investment-grade (i.e., BBB) are considered to have speculative characteristics. An investor can still lose significant amounts when investing in investment-grade securities.

**Below-Investment-Grade Securities ("Junk Bonds")**

The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade or, if unrated, of equivalent quality as determined by the Adviser. A debt security is below investment grade if it is rated BB or lower by Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC or the equivalent rating by another nationally recognized statistical rating organization or determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. Below-investment-grade debt securities involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility and are less liquid, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher quality debt securities. Below-investment-grade securities also may be more difficult to value.

**Debt Rating Considerations**

For purposes of the Fund's credit quality policies, if a security receives different ratings from nationally recognized statistical rating organizations, the Fund will use the rating chosen by the portfolio manager as most representative of the security's credit quality. The ratings of nationally recognized statistical rating organizations represent their opinions as to the quality of the securities that they undertake to rate and may not accurately describe the risks of the securities. A rating organization may have a conflict of interest with respect to a security for which it assigns a quality rating. In addition, there may be a delay between a change in the credit quality of a security or other asset and a change in the quality rating assigned to the security or other asset by a rating organization. If a rating organization changes the quality rating assigned to one or more of the Fund's securities, the Adviser will consider if any action is appropriate in light of the Fund's investment objective and policies. These ratings are used as criteria for the selection of portfolio securities, in addition to the Adviser's own assessment of the credit quality of potential investments.

**U.S. Government Securities**

The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. U.S. government securities are obligations of, or guaranteed by, the U.S. government, its agencies or government-sponsored entities. U.S. government securities include obligations: directly issued by or supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, like Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates; supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, like those of the Federal Home Loan Banks ("FHLBs"); supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase the agency's securities, like those of the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"); or supported only by the credit of the issuer itself, like the Tennessee Valley Authority. U.S. government securities include issues by non-governmental entities (like financial institutions) that carry direct guarantees from U.S. government agencies. U.S. government securities

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include zero coupon securities that make payments of interest and principal only upon maturity and which therefore tend to be subject to greater volatility than interest-bearing securities with comparable maturities.

Although the U.S. government guarantees principal and interest payments on securities issued by the U.S. government and some of its agencies, such as securities issued by GNMA, this guarantee does not apply to losses resulting from declines in the market value of these securities. Some of the U.S. government securities that the Fund may hold are not guaranteed or backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, such as those issued by FNMA and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC").

**Municipal Securities**

The Fund may invest in debt securities and other obligations issued by or on behalf of states, counties, municipalities, territories and possessions of the United States and the District of Columbia and their authorities, political subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities. Although municipal securities are issued by qualifying issuers, payments of principal and interest on municipal securities may be derived solely from revenues from certain facilities, mortgages or private industries, and may not be backed by the issuers themselves.

**Non-U.S. Investments**

The Fund may invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers, including securities of emerging markets issuers. Non-U.S. issuers are issuers that are organized and have their principal offices outside of the United States. Non-U.S. securities may be issued by non-U.S. governments, banks or corporations, or private issuers, and certain supranational organizations, such as the World Bank and the European Union. The Fund considers emerging market issuers to include issuers organized under the laws of an emerging market country, issuers with a principal office in an emerging market country, issuers that derive at least 50% of their gross revenues or profits from goods or services produced in emerging market countries or sales made in emerging market countries, or issuers that have at least 50% of their assets in emerging market countries. Emerging markets generally will include, but not be limited to, countries included in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging + Frontier Markets Index.

**Asset-Backed Securities**

The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities represent participations in, or are secured by and payable from, assets such as installment sales or loan contracts, leases, credit card receivables and other categories of receivables. The Fund's investments in asset-backed securities may include derivative and structured securities.

The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities issued by special entities, such as trusts, that are backed by a pool of financial assets. The Fund may invest in collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), which include collateralized bond obligations ("CBOs"), collateralized loan obligations ("CLOs") and other similarly structured securities. A CDO is a trust backed by a pool of fixed income securities. The trust typically is split into two or more portions, called tranches, which vary in credit quality, yield, credit support and right to repayment of principal and interest. Lower tranches pay higher interest rates but represent lower degrees of credit quality and are more sensitive to the rate of defaults in the pool of obligations. Certain CDOs may use derivatives, such as credit default swaps, to create synthetic exposure to assets rather than holding such assets directly.

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**Mortgage-Backed Securities**

The Fund may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may be issued by private issuers, by government-sponsored entities, such as FNMA or FHLMC, or by agencies of the U.S. government, such as GNMA. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect participation in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. The Fund's investments in mortgage-related securities may include mortgage derivatives and structured securities.

The Fund may invest in collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"). A CMO is a mortgage-backed bond that is issued in multiple classes, each with a specified fixed or floating interest rate and a final scheduled distribution date. The holder of an interest in a CMO is entitled to receive specified cash flows from a pool of underlying mortgages or other mortgage-backed securities. Depending upon the class of CMO purchased, the holder may be entitled to payment before the cash flow from the pool is used to pay holders of other classes of the CMO or, alternatively, the holder may be paid only to the extent that there is cash remaining after the cash flow has been used to pay other classes. A subordinated interest may serve as a credit support for the senior securities purchased by other investors.

The Fund may invest in commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"). CMBS are subject to the risks generally associated with mortgage-backed securities. CMBS may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and are subject to risk of default on the underlying mortgages. CMBS issued by non-government entities may offer higher yields than those issued by government entities, but also may be subject to greater volatility than government issues. CMBS react differently to changes in interest rates than other bonds and the prices of CMBS may reflect adverse economic and market conditions. Small movements in interest rates (both increases and decreases) may quickly and significantly reduce the value of CMBS. The commercial mortgages underlying certain commercial mortgage-backed securities generally allow all or a substantial portion of the loan balance to be paid at maturity, commonly known as a balloon payment.

The Fund may invest in credit risk transfer securities. Credit risk transfer securities are a type of mortgage-related security that transfers the credit risk related to certain types of mortgage-backed securities to the owner of the credit risk transfer security. Credit risk transfer securities are commonly issued by government-sponsored enterprises ("GSEs"), such as FNMA or FHLMC, but may also be issued by private entities such as banks or other financial institutions. Credit risk transfer securities issued by GSEs are unguaranteed and unsecured fixed or floating rate general obligations and are typically issued at par and have stated final maturities. In addition, GSE-issued credit risk transfer securities are structured so that: (i) interest is paid directly by the issuing GSE; and (ii) principal is paid by the issuing GSE in accordance with the principal payments and default performance of a pool of residential mortgage loans acquired by the GSE. In this regard, holders of GSE credit risk transfer securities receive compensation for providing credit protection to the GSE and, when a specified level of losses on the underlying mortgage loans occurs, the principal balance and certain payments owed to the holders of such GSE credit risk transfer securities may be reduced.

In the event that a GSE fails to pay principal or interest on its credit risk transfer securities or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such credit risk transfer securities have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans and will generally receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders in such a scenario. The risks associated with an investment in credit risk transfer securities are different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by FNMA and FHLMC, or other GSE or issued by a private issuer, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in these securities could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default.

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**Floating Rate Investments**

Floating rate investments are securities and other instruments with interest rates that adjust or "float" periodically based on a specified interest rate or other reference and include adjustable rate mortgages ("ARMs"), floating rate loans, repurchase agreements, money market securities and shares of money market and short-term bond funds.

**Floating Rate Loans**

Floating rate loans are provided by banks and other financial institutions to large corporate customers in connection with recapitalizations, acquisitions, and refinancings. These loans are generally acquired as a participation interest in, or assignment of, loans originated by a lender or other financial institution. These loans are rated below investment grade. The rates of interest on the loans typically adjust periodically by reference to a base lending rate, such as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), a designated U.S. bank's prime or base rate or the overnight federal funds rate, plus a premium. Some loans reset on set dates, typically every 30 to 90 days, but not to exceed one year. Other loans reset periodically when the underlying rate resets.

In most instances, the Fund's investments in floating rate loans hold a senior position in the capital structure of the borrower. Having a senior position means that, if the borrower becomes insolvent, senior debtholders, like the Fund, will be paid before subordinated debtholders and stockholders of the borrower. Senior loans typically are secured by specific collateral.

Floating rate loans typically are structured and administered by a financial institution that acts as an agent for the holders of the loan. Loans can be acquired directly through the agent, by assignment from another holder of the loan, or as a participation interest in the loan. When the Fund is a direct investor in a loan, the Fund may have the ability to influence the terms of the loan, although the Fund does not act as the sole negotiator or originator of the loan. Participation interests are fractional interests in a loan issued by a lender or other financial institution. When the Fund invests in a loan participation, the Fund does not have a direct claim against the borrower and must rely upon an intermediate participant to enforce any rights against the borrower.

**Subordinated Securities**

The Fund may invest in securities that are subordinated or "junior" to more senior securities of the issuer. The investor in a subordinated security of an issuer is entitled to payment after other holders of debt in that issuer.

**Insurance-Linked Securities**

The Fund may invest in insurance-linked securities ("ILS"). The Fund could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an ILS, and the right to additional interest or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events, generally, are hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural events of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur, and accordingly, ILS carry significant risk. The Fund is entitled to receive principal and interest and/or dividend payments so long as no trigger event occurs of the description and magnitude specified by the instrument. In addition to the specified trigger events, ILS may expose the Fund to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences.

The Fund's investments in ILS may include event-linked bonds. ILS also may include securities issued by special purpose vehicles ("SPVs") or similar instruments structured to comprise a portion of a reinsurer's catastrophe-oriented business, known as quota share instruments (sometimes referred to

**21**

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as reinsurance sidecars), or to provide reinsurance relating to specific risks to insurance or reinsurance companies through a collateralized instrument, known as collateralized reinsurance. Structured reinsurance investments also may include industry loss warranties ("ILWs"). A traditional ILW takes the form of a bilateral reinsurance contract, but there are also products that take the form of derivatives, collateralized structures, or exchange-traded instruments. The Fund may invest in interests in pooled entities that invest primarily in ILS.

Where the ILS are based on the performance of underlying reinsurance contracts, the Fund has limited transparency into the individual underlying contracts, and therefore must rely upon the risk assessment and sound underwriting practices of the insurer and/or reinsurer. Accordingly, it may be more difficult for the Adviser to fully evaluate the underlying risk profile of the Fund's structured reinsurance investments, and therefore the Fund's assets are placed at greater risk of loss than if the Adviser had more complete information. Structured reinsurance instruments generally will be considered illiquid securities by the Fund.

**Zero Coupon Securities**

The Fund may invest in zero coupon securities. Zero coupon securities are debt instruments that do not pay interest during the life of the security but are issued at a discount from the amount the investor will receive when the issuer repays the amount borrowed (the face value). The discount approximates the total amount of interest that would be paid at an assumed interest rate.

**Derivatives**

The Fund may, but is not required to, use futures and options on securities, indices swaps and other derivatives. A derivative is a security or instrument whose value is determined by reference to the value or the change in value of one or more securities, indices or other financial instruments. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of purposes, including:

◼

In an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market prices of securities, interest rates, or currency exchange rates

◼

As a substitute for purchasing or selling securities

◼

To attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative

◼

To manage portfolio characteristics (for example, the duration or credit quality of the Fund's portfolio)

◼

As a cash flow management technique

The Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations.

**Inverse Floating Rate Obligations**

The Fund may invest in inverse floating rate obligations (a type of derivative instrument). The interest rate on inverse floating rate obligations will generally decrease as short-term interest rates increase, and increase as short-term rates decrease. Due to their leveraged structure, the sensitivity of the market value of an inverse floating rate obligation to changes in interest rates is generally greater than a comparable long-term bond issued by the same issuer and with similar credit quality, redemption, and maturity provisions. Inverse floating rate obligations may be volatile and involve leverage risk.

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**Cash Management and Temporary Investments**

Normally, the Fund invests substantially all of its assets to meet its investment objective. The Fund may invest the remainder of its assets in money market funds, securities with remaining maturities of less than one year or cash equivalents, including overnight repurchase agreements, or may hold cash. For temporary defensive purposes, including during periods of unusual cash flows, the Fund may depart from its principal investment strategies and invest part or all of its assets in these securities or may hold cash. The Fund may adopt a defensive strategy when the Adviser believes securities in which the Fund normally invests have special or unusual risks or are less attractive due to adverse market, economic, political or other conditions. During such periods, it may be more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

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Additional Investment Strategies and Related Risks

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***In addition to the principal investment strategies and related risks discussed in this prospectus, the Fund may also use other techniques, including the following non-principal investment strategies and related risks.*** 

**Repurchase Agreements**

In a repurchase agreement, the Fund purchases securities from a broker/dealer or a bank, called the counterparty, upon the agreement of the counterparty to repurchase the securities from the Fund at a later date, and at a specified price. The repurchase price is generally higher than the purchase price paid by the Fund, with the difference being income to the Fund. The securities purchased serve as the Fund's collateral for the obligation of the counterparty to repurchase the securities. If the counterparty does not repurchase the securities, the Fund is entitled to sell the securities, but the Fund may not be able to sell them for the price at which they were purchased, thus causing a loss. Additionally, if the counterparty becomes insolvent, there is some risk that the Fund will not have a right to the securities, or the immediate right to sell the securities.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreements and Borrowing**

The Fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements pursuant to which the Fund transfers securities to a counterparty in return for cash, and the Fund agrees to repurchase the securities at a later date and for a higher price. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the other party may fail to return the securities in a timely manner or at all. The Fund could lose money if it is unable to recover the securities and the value of the collateral held by the Fund, including the value of the investments made with cash collateral, is less than the value of the securities. These events could also trigger adverse tax consequences for the Fund. Reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings by the Fund, are a form of leverage and may make the value of an investment in the Fund more volatile and increase the risks of investing in the Fund. The Fund also may borrow money from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes. The Fund may borrow up to 33 1∕3% of its total assets. Entering into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowing transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so in order to satisfy its obligations.

**Short-Term Trading**

The Fund usually does not trade for short-term profits. The Fund will sell an investment, however, even if it has only been held for a short time, if it no longer meets the Fund's investment criteria. If the Fund does a lot of trading, it may incur additional operating expenses, which would reduce performance, and could cause shareholders to incur a higher level of taxable income or capital gains and a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than long-term capital gains, which generally are taxed at higher rates.

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***You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective.*** 

**Market Risk** — The market prices of securities or other assets held by the Fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political, or regulatory conditions, political instability, recessions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, weather or climate events, armed conflict, market disruptions caused by tariffs, trade disputes, sanctions or other government actions, or other factors or adverse investor sentiment. If the market prices of the Fund's securities and assets fall, the value of your investment will go down. A change in financial condition or other event affecting a single issuer or market may adversely impact securities markets as a whole.

Changes in market conditions may not have the same impact on all types of securities. The value of securities may also fall due to specific conditions that affect a particular sector of the securities market or a particular issuer. In the past decade, financial markets throughout the world have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. Governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Events that have contributed to these market conditions include, but are not limited to, major cybersecurity events; geopolitical events (including wars, terror attacks and economic sanctions); measures to address budget deficits; downgrading of sovereign debt; changes in oil and commodity prices; dramatic changes in currency exchange rates; global pandemics; and public sentiment. The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent variants on economies, markets, industries and individual issuers is not known. Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability, may continue for some time.

Raising the ceiling on U.S. government debt has become increasingly politicized. Any failure to increase the total amount that the U.S. government is authorized to borrow could lead to a default on U.S. government obligations, with unpredictable consequences for economies and markets in the United States and elsewhere. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments, impair the Fund's ability to satisfy redemption requests, and negatively impact the Fund's performance. In addition, inflation, rising interest rates, global supply chain disruptions and other market events could adversely affect the companies or issuers in which the Fund invests. Following the commencement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events, or conditions.

Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the United States. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. U.S. Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental or central bank actions, including increases or decreases in interest rates, or contrary actions by different governments, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Fund invests. Policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and these and other events affecting global markets, such as the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (commonly known as "Brexit"), potential trade imbalances with China or other countries, or sanctions or other government actions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies (or their

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countermeasures), may contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

The United States and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs (or the threat of tariffs), investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities, potentially leading to significant losses for the Fund. For example, the United States has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. The U.S. government has prohibited U.S. persons, such as the Fund, from investing in Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. These and possible future restrictions could limit the Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. Moreover, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict. If the political climate between the United States and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines, or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Fund's assets may go down.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, armed conflicts such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, terrorism, natural disasters, infectious illness or public health issues, cybersecurity events, supply chain disruptions, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, and other circumstances in one country or region, could have profound impacts on other countries or regions and on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to the countries or regions directly affected, the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments may be negatively affected. The Fund may experience a substantial or complete loss on any security or derivative position.

Until recently, a commonly used reference rate for floating rate securities was LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate). ICE Benchmark Administration, the administrator of LIBOR, has ceased publication of most LIBOR settings on a representative basis. Actions by regulators have resulted in the establishment of alternative reference rates to LIBOR in most major currencies. In the United States, a common benchmark replacement is based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, including certain spread adjustments and benchmark replacement conforming changes, although other benchmark replacements (with or without spread adjustments) may be used in certain transactions. The impact of the transition from LIBOR on the Fund's transactions and financial markets generally cannot yet be determined. The transition away from LIBOR may lead to increased volatility and illiquidity in markets for instruments that have relied on LIBOR and may adversely affect the Fund's performance.

**High Yield or "Junk" Bond Risk** — Debt securities that are below investment grade, called "junk bonds," are speculative, have a higher risk of default or are already in default, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher grade securities and may involve major risk of exposure to adverse conditions and negative sentiments. These securities have a higher risk of issuer default because, among other reasons, issuers of junk bonds often have more debt in relation to total capitalization than issuers of investment grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events and negative sentiments. These risks are more pronounced for securities that are already in default. The Fund may not receive interest payments on defaulted securities and may incur costs to protect its investment. In addition, defaulted securities involve the substantial risk that principal will not be repaid. Changes in economic conditions or developments regarding the

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individual issuer are more likely to cause price volatility and weaken the capacity of such securities to make principal and interest payments than is the case for higher grade debt securities. The value of lower-quality debt securities often changes in response to company, political, or economic developments and can decline significantly over short as well as long periods of time or during periods of general or regional economic difficulty. Junk bonds may also be less liquid than higher-rated securities, which means that the Fund may have difficulty selling them at times, and it may have to apply a greater degree of judgment in establishing a price for purposes of valuing Fund shares. Junk bonds generally are issued by less creditworthy issuers. Issuers of junk bonds may have a larger amount of outstanding debt securities relative to their assets than issuers of investment grade bonds. In the event of an issuer's bankruptcy, claims of other creditors may have priority over the claims of junk bond holders, leaving few or no assets available to repay junk bond holders. The Fund may incur expenses to the extent necessary to seek recovery upon default or to negotiate new terms with a defaulting issuer. Junk bonds frequently have redemption features that permit an issuer to repurchase the security from the Fund before it matures. If the issuer redeems junk bonds, the Fund may have to invest the proceeds in bonds with lower yields and may lose income.

**Duration Risk** — Duration seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a fixed income security to changes in interest rates. The longer a portfolio's duration, the more sensitive it will be to changes in interest rates. The Fund's average portfolio maturity may be greater than the Fund's average portfolio duration, and, accordingly, the Fund may be more sensitive to changes in yield or interest rates. A portfolio with negative duration may increase in value when interest rates rise, and generally incurs a loss when interest rates and yields fall. The assumptions that are made about a security's features and options when calculating duration may prove to be incorrect. Duration is calculated by the Adviser, is not an exact measurement and may not reliably predict the Fund's or a particular security's price sensitivity to changes in yield or interest rates. The Adviser may not be successful in its efforts to limit sensitivity to interest rate changes.

**Interest Rate Risk** — The market prices of the Fund's fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. When interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities and therefore the value of your investment in the Fund, generally falls. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a fund's portfolio with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal.

A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. A change in interest rates will not have the same impact on all fixed income securities. Generally, the longer the maturity or duration of a fixed income security, the greater the impact of a rise in interest rates on the security's value. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security's maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security's sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called "credit spread"). In general, the longer its maturity the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up or "widens," the value of the security will generally go down. Calculations of duration and maturity may be based on estimates and may not reliably predict a security's price sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Moreover, securities can change in value in response to other factors, such as credit risk. In addition, different interest rate measures (such as short- and long-term interest rates and U.S. and foreign interest rates), or interest rates on different types of securities or securities of different issuers, may not necessarily change in the same amount or in the same direction. When interest rates go down, the income received by the Fund, and the Fund's yield, may decline. Also, when interest rates decline, investments made by the Fund may pay a lower interest rate, which would reduce the income received and distributed by the Fund.

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Certain fixed income securities pay interest at variable or floating rates. Variable rate securities tend to reset at specified intervals, while floating rate securities may reset whenever there is a change in a specified index rate. In most cases, these reset provisions reduce the impact of changes in market interest rates on the value of the security. However, some securities do not track the underlying index directly, but reset based on formulas that may produce a leveraging effect; others may also provide for interest payments that vary inversely with market rates. The market prices of these securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. Yield generated by the Fund may decline due to a decrease in market interest rates.

The values of securities with floating interest rates generally are less sensitive to interest rate changes but may decline in value if their interest rates do not rise as much, or as quickly, as prevailing interest rates. In addition, rising interest rates can also lead to increased default rates, as issuers of floating rate securities find themselves faced with higher payments. Further, in the case of some instruments, if the underlying reference interest rate does not move by at least a prescribed increment, no adjustment will occur in the floating rate instrument's interest rate. This means that, when prevailing interest rates increase, a corresponding increase in the instrument's interest rate may not result and the instrument may decline in value. Similarly, certain floating rate obligations have an interest rate floor feature, which prevents the interest rate payable by the security from dropping below a specified level as compared to a reference interest rate. Such a floor protects the Fund from losses resulting from a decrease in the reference interest rate below the specified level. However, if the reference interest rate is below the floor, there will be a lag between a rise in the reference interest rate and a rise in the interest rate payable by the obligation, and the Fund may not benefit from increasing interest rates for a significant amount of time. Unlike fixed rate securities, floating rate securities generally will not increase in value if interest rates decline. Changes in interest rates also will affect the amount of interest income the Fund earns on its floating rate investments. Unlike fixed rate securities, when prevailing interest rates decrease, the interest rate payable on floating rate investments will decrease.

The interest rates of some floating rate obligations adjust only periodically. Between the times that interest rates on floating rate obligations adjust, the interest rate on those obligations may not correlate to prevailing rates, which will affect the value of the loans and may cause the net asset values of the Fund's shares to fluctuate.

**Credit Risk** — If an obligor (such as the issuer itself or a party offering credit enhancement) for a security held by the Fund fails to pay, otherwise defaults, is perceived to be less creditworthy, becomes insolvent or files for bankruptcy, a security's credit rating is downgraded or the credit quality or value of an underlying asset declines, the value of your investment could decline. The values of lower-quality debt securities tend to be particularly sensitive to these changes. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The values of securities also may decline for a number of other reasons that relate directly to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services, as well as the historical and prospective earnings of the issuer and the value of its assets. If the Fund enters into financial contracts (such as certain derivatives, repurchase agreements, reverse repurchase agreements, and when-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions), the Fund will be subject to the credit risk presented by the counterparty. In addition, the Fund may incur expenses and suffer delays in an effort to protect the Fund's interests or to enforce its rights. A security may change in price for a variety of reasons. For example, floating rate securities may have final maturities of ten or more years, but their effective durations will tend to be very short. If there is an adverse credit event, or a perceived change in the issuer's creditworthiness, these securities could experience a far greater negative price movement than would be predicted by the change in the security's yield in relation to their effective duration. The Fund evaluates the credit quality of issuers and counterparties prior to investing in securities. Credit risk is broadly gauged by the credit ratings of the securities in which the Fund invests. However,

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ratings are only the opinions of the companies issuing them and are not guarantees as to quality. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade (Baa/BBB) may possess certain speculative characteristics.

**Prepayment or Call Risk** — Many fixed income securities give the issuer the option to prepay or call the security prior to its maturity date. Issuers often exercise this right when interest rates fall. Accordingly, if the Fund holds a fixed income security that can be prepaid or called prior to its maturity date, it will not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities generally experience when interest rates fall. Upon prepayment of the security, the Fund also would be forced to reinvest the proceeds at then current yields, which would be lower than the yield of the security that was prepaid or called. In addition, if the Fund purchases a fixed income security at a premium (at a price that exceeds its stated par or principal value), the Fund may lose the amount of the premium paid in the event of prepayment.

**Extension Risk** — During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the security's duration and reduce the value of the security.

To the extent the Fund invests significantly in mortgage-related and asset-backed securities, its exposure to extension risks may be greater than if it invested in other fixed income securities.

**Liquidity Risk** — Liquidity risk is the risk that particular investments, or investments generally, may be or become impossible or difficult to purchase or sell. Although most of the Fund's securities and other investments must be liquid at the time of investment, securities and other investments may become illiquid after purchase by the Fund, particularly during periods of market turmoil or due to adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Liquidity and value of investments can deteriorate rapidly. Markets may become illiquid when, for instance, there are few, if any, interested buyers and sellers or when dealers are unwilling to make a market for certain securities or when dealer market-making capacity is otherwise reduced. During times of market turmoil, there have been, and may be, no buyers for securities in entire asset classes, including U.S. Treasury securities. A lack of liquidity or other adverse credit market conditions may affect the Fund's ability to sell the securities in which it invests or to find and purchase suitable investments. When the Fund holds illiquid investments, the Fund may be harder to value, especially in changing markets. If the Fund is forced to sell or unwind an illiquid investment to meet redemption requests or for other cash needs, or to try to limit losses, the Fund may suffer a substantial loss or may not be able to sell at all. The Fund may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, which could cause the value of your investment to decline. In addition, when there is illiquidity in the market for certain securities and other investments, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in illiquid securities, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain sector. Further, certain securities, once sold, may not settle for an extended period (for example, several weeks or even longer). The Fund will not receive its sales proceeds until that time, which may constrain the Fund's ability to meet its obligations (including obligations to redeeming shareholders). Liquidity risk may be magnified in an environment of rising interest rates or widening credit spreads in which investor redemptions from fixed income mutual funds may be higher than normal. If an auction fails for an auction rate security, there may be no secondary market for the security and the Fund may be forced to hold the security until the security is refinanced by the issuer or a secondary market develops. To the extent the Fund holds a material percentage of the outstanding debt securities of an issuer, this practice may impact adversely the liquidity and market value of those investments.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

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<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — The Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — The Fund's underlying securities may trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

**Derivatives Risk** — Using swaps, futures, and other derivatives exposes the Fund to special risks and costs and may result in losses to the Fund, even when used for hedging purposes. Using derivatives can increase losses and reduce opportunities for gain when market prices, interest rates, or the derivative instruments themselves, behave in a way not anticipated by the Fund, especially in abnormal market conditions. Using derivatives can have a leveraging effect (which may increase investment losses) and increase the Fund's volatility, which is the degree to which the Fund's share price may fluctuate within a short time period. Certain derivatives, such as writing (selling) put options, have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Derivatives generally are subject to the risks applicable to the assets, rates, indices, or other indicators underlying the derivative. If changes in a derivative's value do not correspond to changes in the value of the Fund's other investments or do not correlate well with the underlying assets, rate or index, the Fund may not fully benefit from, or could lose money on, or could experience unusually high expenses as a result of, the derivative position. The other parties to certain derivative transactions present the

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same types of credit risk as issuers of fixed income securities. Derivatives also tend to involve greater liquidity risk and they may be difficult to value. The Fund may be unable to terminate or sell its derivative positions. In fact, many over-the-counter derivatives will not have liquidity beyond the counterparty to the instrument. The Fund also may have to sell assets at inopportune times to satisfy its obligations. Use of derivatives or similar instruments may not be as favorable as a direct investment in an underlying investment and may adversely affect the amount, timing and character of income distributed to shareholders. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, certain derivatives are subject to mark-to-market or straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"). If such provisions are applicable, there could be an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by the Fund. Risks associated with the use of derivatives are magnified to the extent that an increased portion of the Fund's assets are committed to derivatives in general or are invested in just one or a few types of derivatives.

Investments by the Fund in structured securities, a type of derivative, raise certain tax, legal, regulatory and accounting issues that may not be presented by direct investments in securities. These issues could be resolved in a manner that could hurt the performance of the Fund. Swap agreements and options to enter into swap agreements ("swaptions") tend to shift the Fund's investment exposure from one type of investment to another. For example, the Fund may enter into interest rate swaps, which involve the exchange of interest payments by the Fund with another party, such as the exchange of floating rate payments for fixed interest payments with respect to a notional amount of principal. If an interest rate swap intended to be used as a hedge negates a favorable interest rate movement, the investment performance of the Fund would be less than it would have been if the Fund had not entered into the interest rate swap.

The risk of writing put options is that the Fund may be unable to terminate its 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 the Fund has written. In such a case, the Fund must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes and must continue to set aside assets to cover its position. Upon the exercise of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund is not entitled to the gains in excess of the strike price, if any, on securities underlying the options.

The U.S. government and foreign governments have adopted and implemented or are in the process of adopting and implementing regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, margin and reporting requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation of derivatives may make derivatives more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance or disrupt markets. The Fund may be exposed to additional risks as a result of the additional regulations. The extent and impact of the regulations are not yet fully known and may not be for some time.

The Fund will be required to maintain its positions with a clearing organization through one or more clearing brokers. The clearing organization will require the Fund to post margin and the broker may require the Fund to post additional margin to secure the Fund's obligations. The amount of margin required may change from time to time. In addition, cleared transactions may be more expensive to maintain than over-the-counter transactions and may require the Fund to deposit larger amounts of margin. The Fund may not be able to recover margin amounts if the broker has financial difficulties. Also, the broker may require the Fund to terminate a derivatives position under certain circumstances. This may cause the Fund to lose money. The Fund's ability to use certain derivative instruments currently is limited by Commodity Futures Trading Commission rules.

**Credit Default Swap Risk** — Credit default swap contracts, a type of derivative instrument, involve heightened risks and may result in losses to the Fund. Credit default swaps may in some cases be illiquid and difficult to value, and they increase credit risk since the Fund has exposure to both the

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issuer of the referenced obligation and the counterparty to the credit default swap. If the Fund buys a credit default swap, it will be subject to the risk that the credit default swap may expire worthless, as the credit default swap would only generate income in the event of a default on the underlying debt security or other specified event. As a buyer, the Fund would also be subject to credit risk relating to the seller's payment of its obligations in the event of a default (or similar event). If the Fund sells a credit default swap, it will be exposed to the credit risk of the issuer of the obligation to which the credit default swap relates. As a seller, the Fund would also be subject to leverage risk, because it would be liable for the full notional amount of the swap in the event of default (or similar event). Swaps may be difficult to unwind or terminate. Certain index-based credit default swaps are structured in tranches, whereby junior tranches assume greater default risk than senior tranches. The absence of a central exchange or market for swap transactions may lead, in some instances, to difficulties in trading and valuation, especially in the event of market disruptions. Relatively recent legislation requires certain swaps to be executed through a centralized exchange or regulated facility and be cleared through a regulated clearinghouse. Although this clearing mechanism is generally expected to reduce counterparty credit risk, it may disrupt or limit the swap market and may not result in swaps being easier to trade or value. As swaps become more standardized, the Fund may not be able to enter into swaps that meet its investment needs. The Fund also may not be able to find a clearinghouse willing to accept the swaps for clearing. In a cleared swap, a central clearing organization will be the counterparty to the transaction. The Fund will assume the risk that the clearinghouse may be unable to perform its obligations.

**Credit Default Swap Index Risk** — The Fund may invest in credit default swap index products ("CDX") (swaps based on a portfolio of credit default swaps with similar characteristics, such as credit default swaps on high-yield bonds) in an effort to obtain exposure to a diversified portfolio of credits or to hedge against existing credit risks. CDX have similar risks as other credit default swaps contracts. The use of CDX is subject to the risk that the Fund's counterparty will default on its obligations. Investments in CDX are also subject to credit risk with respect to the issuers of the underlying reference obligations in the index, liquidity risk and operational risks. The Fund will also normally indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX in addition to the expenses of the Fund.

**Structured Securities Risk** — The structured securities in which the Fund invests are a type of derivative instrument. The payment and credit qualities of these instruments derive from the underlying assets and the terms of the particular security, and they may behave in ways not anticipated by the Fund. Some of these instruments may have the effect of increasing the Fund's exposure to interest rate, market or credit risk, even if they are not primarily intended for these purposes. Distributions from collateral securities may not be adequate to make interest or other payments, and the quality of the collateral may decline in value or default. Investments in structured securities raise certain tax, legal, regulatory and accounting issues that may not be presented by direct investments in the underlying assets. These issues could be resolved in a manner that could hurt the performance of the Fund. Certain structured securities are thinly traded or have limited trading markets. The structured securities may be subordinate to other classes.

**Risks of Investing in Inverse Floating Rate Obligations** — The interest rate on inverse floating rate obligations will generally decrease as short-term interest rates increase, and increase as short-term rates decrease. Due to their leveraged structure, the sensitivity of the market value of an inverse floating rate obligation to changes in interest rates is generally greater than a comparable long-term bond issued by the same issuer and with similar credit quality, redemption and maturity provisions. Inverse floating rate obligations may be volatile and involve leverage risk.

**Leveraging Risk** — The value of your investment may be more volatile and other risks tend to be compounded if the Fund borrows or uses derivatives or other investments, such as ETFs, that have embedded leverage. Leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the Fund's underlying assets and creates a risk of loss of value on a larger pool of assets than the Fund

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would otherwise have, potentially resulting in the loss of all assets. Engaging in such transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations. New derivatives regulations require the Fund, to the extent it uses derivatives to a material extent, to, among other things, comply with certain overall limits on leverage. These regulations may limit the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategies and may not be effective to mitigate the Fund's risk of loss from derivatives.

**Portfolio Selection Risk** — The Adviser's judgment about the quality, relative yield, relative value or market trends affecting a particular sector or region, market segment, security, industry or about interest rates or other market factors may prove to be incorrect or may not produce the desired results, or there may be imperfections, errors or limitations in the models, tools and information used by the Adviser.

**U.S. Treasury Obligations Risk** — The market value of direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury may vary due to changes in interest rates. In addition, changes to the financial condition or credit rating of the U.S. government may cause the value of the Fund's investments in obligations issued by the U.S. Treasury to decline.

**U.S. Government Agency Obligations Risk** — The Fund invests in obligations issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government. Government-sponsored entities such as FNMA, FHLMC and the FHLBs, although chartered or sponsored by Congress, are not funded by congressional appropriations and the debt and mortgage-backed securities issued by them are neither guaranteed nor issued by the U.S. government. The maximum potential liability of the issuers of some U.S. government obligations may greatly exceed their current resources, including any legal right to support from the U.S. government. Such debt and mortgage-backed securities are subject to the risk of default on the payment of interest and/or principal, similar to debt of private issuers. Although the U.S. government has provided financial support to FNMA and FHLMC in the past, there can be no assurance that it will support these or other government-sponsored entities in the future.

**Mortgage-Related and Asset-Backed Securities Risk** — The repayment of certain mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities depends primarily on the cash collections received from the issuer's underlying asset portfolio and, in certain cases, the issuer's ability to issue replacement securities. As a result, there could be losses to the Fund in the event of credit or market value deterioration in the issuer's underlying portfolio, mismatches in the timing of the cash flows of the underlying asset interests and the repayment obligations of maturing securities, or the issuer's inability to issue new or replacement securities. Mortgage-backed securities tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than other types of debt securities. These securities are also subject to interest rate, prepayment and extension risks. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults, the investors in a security held by the Fund may become the holders of underlying assets at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or may be sold only at a loss. In the event of a default, the value of the underlying collateral may be insufficient to pay certain expenses, such as litigation and foreclosure expenses, and inadequate to pay any principal or unpaid interest. The risk of default is generally higher in the case of mortgage-backed investments offered by private issuers and those that include so-called "sub-prime" mortgages. Privately issued mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are not traded on an exchange and may have a limited market. Without an active trading market, these securities may be particularly difficult to value given the complexities in valuing the underlying collateral.

Certain mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities may pay principal only at maturity or may represent only the right to receive payments of principal or interest on the underlying obligations, but not both. The value of these types of instruments may change more than the value of debt securities that pay both principal and interest during periods of changing interest rates. Principal only instruments generally increase in value if interest rates decline, but are also subject to the risk of prepayment. Interest only instruments generally increase in value in a rising interest rate environment

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when fewer of the underlying obligations are prepaid. Interest only instruments could lose their entire value in a declining interest rate environment if the underlying obligations are prepaid.

Unlike mortgage-related securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies and instrumentalities, mortgage-related securities issued by private issuers do not have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee (but may have other credit enhancement), and may, and frequently do, have less favorable collateral, credit risk or other characteristics. The Fund may invest in other mortgage-related securities, including mortgage derivatives and structured securities. These securities typically are not secured by real property. Because these securities have embedded leverage features, small changes in interest or prepayment rates may cause large and sudden price movements. These securities also can become illiquid and difficult to value in volatile or declining markets. Privately issued mortgage-related securities are also not subject to the same underwriting requirements for the underlying mortgages that are applicable to those mortgage-related securities that have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee. Privately issued mortgage-related securities are not traded on an exchange and there may be a limited market for the securities, especially when there is a perceived weakness in the mortgage and real estate market sectors. Without an active trading market, mortgage-related securities held in the Fund's portfolio may be particularly difficult to value because of the complexities involved in assessing the value of the underlying mortgage loans.

Mortgage-backed securities are particularly susceptible to prepayment and extension risks, because prepayments on the underlying mortgages tend to increase when interest rates fall and decrease when interest rates rise. Prepayments may also occur on a scheduled basis or due to foreclosure. When market interest rates increase, mortgage refinancings and prepayments slow, which lengthens the effective duration of these securities. As a result, the negative effect of the interest rate increase on the market value of mortgage-backed securities is usually more pronounced than it is for other types of fixed income securities, potentially increasing the volatility of the Fund. Conversely, when market interest rates decline, while the value of mortgage-backed securities may increase, the rates of prepayment of the underlying mortgages tend to increase, which shortens the effective duration of these securities. Mortgage-backed securities are also subject to the risk that the underlying borrowers will be unable to meet their obligations.

At times, some of the mortgage-backed securities in which the Fund may invest will have higher than market interest rates and therefore will be purchased at a premium above their par value. Prepayments may cause losses on securities purchased at a premium.

The value of mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities may be affected by changes in credit quality or value of the mortgage loans or other assets that support the securities. In addition, for mortgage-backed securities, when market conditions result in an increase in the default rates on the underlying mortgages and the foreclosure values of the underlying real estate are below the outstanding amount of the underlying mortgages, collection of the full amount of accrued interest and principal on these investments may be less likely. Certain types of real estate may be adversely affected by changing usage trends, such as office buildings as a result of work-from-home practices and commercial facilities as a result of an increase in online shopping, which could in turn result in defaults and declines in value of mortgage-backed securities secured by such properties.

The Fund may invest in CMOs. Principal prepayments on the underlying mortgage loans may cause a CMO to be retired substantially earlier than its stated maturity or final distribution date. If there are defaults on the underlying mortgage loans, the Fund will be less likely to receive payments of principal and interest, and will be more likely to suffer a loss. This risk may be increased to the extent the underlying mortgages include sub-prime mortgages. As market conditions change, and particularly during periods of rapid or unanticipated changes in market interest rates, the attractiveness of a CMO

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class and the ability of the structure to provide the anticipated investment characteristics may be significantly reduced. Such changes can result in volatility in the market value, and in some instances reduced liquidity, of a CMO class.

The Fund may invest in credit risk transfer ("CRT") securities. CRT securities are unguaranteed and unsecured fixed income securities issued by government-sponsored or private entities that transfer the credit risk related to certain types of mortgage-backed securities to the holder of the CRT security. In the event of an issuer default, the holder of a CRT security has no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans. In addition, if the underlying mortgage loans default, the principal of the holders of the CRT security is used to pay back holders of the mortgage-backed securities. As a result, all or part of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to the Fund. Therefore, the Fund could lose all or part of its investments in credit risk transfer securities in the event of default by the underlying mortgage loans.

The Fund may invest in commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"). CMBS are subject to the risks generally associated with mortgage-backed securities. CMBS may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and are subject to risk of default on the underlying mortgages. CMBS issued by non-government entities may offer higher yields than those issued by government entities, but also may be subject to greater volatility than government issues. CMBS react differently to changes in interest rates than other bonds and the prices of CMBS may reflect adverse economic and market conditions. Small movements in interest rates (both increases and decreases) may quickly and significantly reduce the value of CMBS.

Asset-backed securities are structured like mortgage-backed securities and are subject to many of the same risks. The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its security interest in the underlying assets or to otherwise recover from the underlying obligor may be limited. Certain asset-backed securities present a heightened level of risk because, in the event of default, the liquidation value of the underlying assets may be inadequate to pay any unpaid principal or interest.

**Risks of Instruments That Allow for Balloon Payments or Negative Amortization Payments** — Certain debt instruments allow for balloon payments or negative amortization payments. Such instruments permit the borrower to avoid paying currently a portion of the interest accruing on the instrument. In the case of negative amortization payments, the amount of unpaid interest is added to the remaining principal amount due at maturity. While these features make the debt instrument more affordable to the borrower in the near term, they increase the risk that the borrower will be unable to make the resulting higher payment or payments that become due at the maturity of the loan.

**Risks of Investing in Loans** — Floating rate loans and similar investments may be illiquid or less liquid than other investments and difficult to value. The value of collateral, if any, securing a floating rate loan can decline or may be insufficient to meet the issuer's obligations or may be difficult to liquidate. In the event of a default, the Fund may have difficulty collecting on any collateral and would not have the ability to collect on any collateral for an uncollateralized loan. Further, the Fund's access to collateral, if any, may be limited by bankruptcy law. Market quotations for these securities may be volatile and/or subject to large spreads between bid and ask prices. No active trading market may exist for many floating rate loans, and many loans are subject to restrictions on resale. Any secondary market may be subject to irregular trading activity and extended trade settlement periods. In particular, loans may take longer than seven days to settle, potentially leading to the sale proceeds of loans not being available to meet redemption requests for a substantial period of time after the sale of the loans. To the extent that sale proceeds of loans are not available, the Fund may sell securities that have shorter settlement periods or may access other sources of liquidity to meet redemption requests. During periods of heightened redemption activity or distressed market conditions, the Fund may seek to obtain expedited trade settlement, which will generally incur additional costs (although expedited trade settlement will not always be available). If the Fund invests in loans that contain fewer or less restrictive constraints on the borrower than certain other types of loans ("covenant-lite" loans), it may

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have fewer rights against the borrowers of such loans, including fewer protections against the possibility of default and fewer remedies in the event of default. An economic downturn generally leads to a higher non-payment rate, and a loan may lose significant value before a default occurs. There is less readily available, reliable information about most floating rate loans than is the case for many other types of securities. Normally, the Adviser will seek to avoid receiving material, non-public information about the issuer of a loan either held by, or considered for investment by, the Fund, and this decision could place it at a disadvantage, relative to other loan investors, in assessing a loan or the loan's issuer, and adversely affect the Fund's investment performance. Because affiliates of the Adviser may participate in the primary and secondary market for senior loans, limitations under applicable law may restrict the Fund's ability to participate in structuring a senior loan or to acquire some senior loans, or affect the timing or price of such acquisition. Loans may not be considered "securities," and purchasers, such as the Fund, therefore may not be entitled to rely on the anti-fraud protections afforded by federal securities laws.

**Risks of Investing in Insurance-Linked Securities** — The Fund could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an insurance-linked security, and the right to additional interest and/or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events may include natural or other perils of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. Natural perils include disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, windstorms, fires, floods and other weather-related occurrences, as well as mortality or longevity events. Non-natural perils include disasters resulting from human-related activity such as commercial and industrial accidents or business interruptions. Major natural disasters (such as in the cases of Super Typhoon Goni in the Philippines in 2020, monsoon flooding in China in 2020, Hurricane Irma in Florida and the Caribbean in 2017, Super Storm Sandy in 2012, Hurricane Ian in Florida in 2022, Palisades and Eaton fires in 2025 and Central Texas floods in 2025) or commercial and industrial accidents (such as aviation disasters and oil spills) can result in significant losses, and investors in ILS with exposure to such natural or other disasters may also experience substantial losses. If the likelihood and severity of natural and other large disasters increase, the risk of significant losses to reinsurers may increase. Typically, one significant triggering event (even in a major metropolitan area) will not result in financial failure to a reinsurer. However, a series of major triggering events could cause the failure of a reinsurer. Similarly, to the extent the Fund invests in ILS for which a triggering event occurs, losses associated with such event will result in losses to the Fund and a series of major triggering events affecting a large portion of the ILS held by the Fund will result in substantial losses to the Fund. The Fund may also invest in insurance-linked securities that are subject to "indemnity triggers." An indemnity trigger is a trigger based on the actual losses of the ceding sponsor (i.e., the party seeking reinsurance). Insurance-linked securities subject to indemnity triggers are often regarded as being subject to potential moral hazard, since such insurance-linked securities are triggered by actual losses of the ceding sponsor and the ceding sponsor may have an incentive to take actions and/or risks that would have an adverse effect on the Fund. For example, a ceding sponsor might inflate its total claims paid above the ILS trigger level, in order to share its losses with investors in the ILS. Thus, bonds with indemnity triggers may be subject to moral hazard, because the trigger depends on the ceding sponsor to properly identify and calculate losses that do and do not apply in determining whether the trigger amount has been reached. In short, "moral hazard" refers to this potential for the sponsor to influence bond performance, as payouts are based on the individual policy claims against the sponsor and the way the sponsor settles those claims. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur and, accordingly, insurance-linked securities carry significant risk. In addition to the specified trigger events, insurance-linked securities may expose the Fund to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences. Insurance-linked securities are also subject to the risk that the model used to calculate the probability of a trigger event was not accurate and underestimated the likelihood of a trigger

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event. Insurance-linked securities may provide for extensions of maturity in order to process and audit loss claims in those cases when a trigger event has, or possibly has, occurred. Certain insurance-linked securities may have limited liquidity, or may be illiquid. Upon the occurrence or possible occurrence of a trigger event, and until the completion of the processing and auditing of applicable loss claims, the Fund's investment in an insurance-linked security may be priced using fair value methods. Lack of a liquid market may impose the risk of higher transaction costs and the possibility that the Fund may be forced to liquidate positions when it would not be advantageous to do so. Certain insurance-linked securities represent interests in baskets of underlying reinsurance contracts. The Fund has limited transparency into the individual contracts underlying such securities and therefore must rely on the risk assessment and sound underwriting practices of the insurer and/or reinsurer. Certain insurance-linked securities may be difficult to value.

**Risks of Subordinated Securities** — A holder of securities that are subordinated or "junior" to more senior securities of an issuer is entitled to payment after holders of more senior securities of the issuer. Subordinated securities are more likely to suffer a credit loss than non-subordinated securities of the same issuer, any loss incurred by the subordinated securities is likely to be proportionately greater, and any recovery of interest or principal may take more time. If there is a default, bankruptcy or liquidation of the issuer, most subordinated securities are paid only if sufficient assets remain after payment of the issuer's non-subordinated securities. As a result, even a perceived decline in creditworthiness of the issuer is likely to have a greater impact on subordinated securities than more senior securities.

**Municipal Securities Risk** — The municipal bond market can be susceptible to unusual volatility, particularly for lower-rated and unrated securities. Liquidity can be reduced unpredictably in response to overall economic conditions or credit tightening. Municipal issuers may be adversely affected by rising health care costs, increasing unfunded pension liabilities and by the phasing out of federal programs providing financial support. Unfavorable conditions and developments relating to projects financed with municipal securities can result in lower revenues to issuers of municipal securities, potentially resulting in defaults. Issuers often depend on revenues from those projects to make principal and interest payments. The value of municipal securities can also be adversely affected by changes in the financial condition of one or more individual municipal issuers or insurers of municipal issuers, regulatory and political developments, tax law changes or other legislative actions, and by uncertainties and public perceptions concerning these and other factors. Municipal issuers may be more susceptible to downgrades or defaults during recessions or similar periods of economic stress. Financial difficulties of municipal issuers may continue or get worse, particularly in the event of political, economic or market turmoil or a recession. To the extent the Fund invests significantly in a single state, city, territory (including Puerto Rico), or region, or in securities the payments on which are dependent upon a single project or source of revenues, or that relate to a sector or industry, the Fund will be more susceptible to associated risks and developments.

**Risks of Zero Coupon Bonds, Payment in Kind, Deferred and Contingent Payment Securities** — Zero coupon bonds (which do not pay interest until maturity) and payment in kind securities (which pay interest in the form of additional securities) may be more speculative and may fluctuate more in value than securities which pay income periodically and in cash. Payment in kind securities are usually less volatile than zero coupon bonds, but more volatile than cash pay securities. These securities are more likely to respond to changes in interest rates than interest-bearing securities having similar maturities and credit quality. The higher interest rates of payment in kind securities reflect the payment deferral and increased credit risk associated with these instruments, and payment in kind instruments generally represent a significantly higher credit risk than coupon bonds. These securities are more sensitive to the credit quality of the underlying issuer. Payment in kind securities may be difficult to value because their continuing accruals require continuing judgments about the collectability of the deferred payments and the value of any associated collateral. Deferred interest securities are obligations that generally provide for a period of delay before the regular payment of interest begins

**37**

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and are issued at a significant discount from face value. The interest rate on contingent payment securities is determined by the outcome of an event, such as the performance of a financial index. If the financial index does not increase by a prescribed amount, the Fund may receive no interest.

Unlike bonds that pay interest throughout the period to maturity, the Fund generally will realize no cash until maturity and, if the issuer defaults, the Fund may obtain no return at all on its investment. In addition, although the Fund receives no periodic cash payments on such securities, the Fund is deemed for tax purposes to receive income from such securities, which applicable tax rules generally require the Fund to distribute to shareholders to retain its status as a regulated investment company and avoid being subject to U.S. federal income and excise tax. Such distributions may be taxable when distributed to shareholders and, in addition, could reduce the Fund's reserve position and require the Fund to sell securities and incur a gain or loss at a time it may not otherwise want in order to provide the cash necessary for these distributions.

**Risks of Non-U.S. Investments** — Investing in non-U.S. issuers, or in U.S. issuers that have significant exposure to foreign markets, may involve unique risks compared to investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are more pronounced for issuers in emerging markets or to the extent that the Fund invests significantly in one region or country. These risks may include:

<sup>◼</sup>

Less information about non-U.S. issuers or markets may be available due to less rigorous disclosure or accounting standards and auditing and financial recordkeeping requirements, or regulatory practices

<sup>◼</sup>

Many non-U.S. markets are smaller, less liquid and more volatile. In a changing market, the Adviser may not be able to sell the Fund's securities at times, in amounts and at prices it considers reasonable

<sup>◼</sup>

Adverse effect of currency exchange rates or controls on the value of the Fund's investments, or its ability to convert non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars

<sup>◼</sup>

The economies of non-U.S. countries may grow at slower rates than expected or may experience a downturn or recession

<sup>◼</sup>

Economic, political, regulatory and social developments such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, terrorism, armed conflicts and other geopolitical events, and the impact of tariffs and other restrictions on trade or economic sanctions, nationalization or expropriation of assets, arbitrary application of laws and regulations, or lack of rule of law, may adversely affect the securities markets

<sup>◼</sup>

There may be significant obstacles to obtaining information necessary for investigations into or litigation against issuers located in or operating in certain foreign markets, particularly emerging market countries, and shareholders may have limited legal remedies. It may be difficult for the Fund to pursue claims or enforce judgments against a foreign bank, depository or issuer of a security, or any of their agents, in the courts of a foreign country

<sup>◼</sup>

The value of the Fund's foreign investments may also be affected by foreign tax laws, special U.S. tax considerations and restrictions on receiving the investment proceeds from a foreign country. Dividends and interest received by the Fund and capital gains recognized by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries and may decrease the Fund's return

<sup>◼</sup>

Some markets in which the Fund may invest are located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters that could result in a significant adverse impact on the economies of those countries and investments made in those countries

<sup>◼</sup>

It is often more expensive for the Fund to buy, sell and hold securities in certain foreign markets than in the United States

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Risk Factors

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<sup>◼</sup>

A governmental entity may delay, or refuse or be unable to pay, interest or principal on its sovereign debt due 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

<sup>◼</sup>

Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. In addition, depositary receipts may not pass through voting and other shareholder rights, and may be less liquid than the underlying securities listed on an exchange

<sup>◼</sup>

A number of countries in the European Union ("EU") have experienced, and may continue to experience, severe economic and financial difficulties. Additional EU member countries may also fall subject to such difficulties. A number of countries in Europe have suffered terror attacks, and additional attacks may occur in the future. In addition, the range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes of Brexit cannot be fully known but could be significant, potentially resulting in increased volatility, illiquidity and potentially lower economic growth in the affected markets, which will adversely affect the Fund's investments, particularly in euro-denominated securities and derivative contracts, securities of issuers located in the EU or with significant exposure to EU issuers or countries

<sup>◼</sup>

China and other developing market countries are potentially subject to heightened degrees of economic, political and social instability. Markets in China and other Asian countries are relatively new and undeveloped. China's economic health is largely dependent upon exports, and may be dependent upon the economies of other Asian countries. Investments in Chinese and other Asian issuers could be adversely affected by changes in government policies, or trade or political disputes with major trading partners, including the U.S. China's growing trade surplus with the U.S. has given rise to trade disputes and the imposition of tariffs. The United States has also restricted the sale of certain goods to China. In addition, the U.S. government has imposed restrictions on U.S. investor participation in certain Chinese investments. These matters could adversely affect China's economy. China's central government exercises significant control over China's economy and may intervene in the financial markets, such as by imposing trading restrictions, and investments in Chinese issuers could be adversely affected by changes in government policies. The Chinese economy could be adversely affected by supply chain disruptions. An economic slowdown in China could adversely affect economies of other emerging market countries that trade with China, as well as companies operating in those countries. Economies of Asian countries and Asian issuers could be adversely affected by regional security threats. In addition, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict that could adversely impact the economies of China and other Asian countries, disrupt supply chains, and severely affect global economies and markets

<sup>◼</sup>

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, which regulates auditors of U.S. public companies, may, from time to time, be unable to inspect audit work papers in certain foreign or emerging market countries. Investors in foreign countries often have limited rights and few practical remedies to pursue shareholder claims, including class actions or fraud claims, and the ability of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice and other authorities to bring and enforce actions against foreign issuers or foreign persons is limited

<sup>◼</sup>

If one or more stockholders of a supranational entity such as the World Bank fail to make necessary additional capital contributions, the entity may be unable to pay interest or repay principal on its debt securities

**39**

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Risk Factors

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<sup>◼</sup>

Sanctions or other government actions against certain countries could negatively impact the Fund's investments in securities that have exposure to those countries

<sup>◼</sup>

In response to military action in Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Russia has taken retaliatory actions, including preventing repatriation of capital by U.S. and other investors. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant market disruptions, including in certain markets, industries and sectors, such as the oil and natural gas markets, and negatively affected global supply chains, food supplies, inflation and global growth. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia's military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Fund investments, on Fund performance and the value of an investment in the Fund

<sup>◼</sup>

Circumstances that impact one country could have profound impacts on other countries and on global economies or markets

Additional risks of investing in emerging markets include:

<sup>◼</sup>

The extent of economic development, political stability, market depth, infrastructure, capitalization and regulatory oversight can be less than in more developed markets. Emerging market economies tend to be less diversified than those of more developed countries. They typically have fewer medical and economic resources than more developed countries and thus they may be less able to control or mitigate the effects of a pandemic

<sup>◼</sup>

Emerging market countries may experience rising interest rates, or, more significantly, rapid inflation or hyperinflation

<sup>◼</sup>

The Fund could experience a loss from settlement and custody practices in some emerging markets. Less developed markets are more likely to experience problems with the clearing and settling of trades and the holding of securities by local banks, agents, and depositories. Settlement of trades in these markets can take longer than in other markets and the Fund may not receive its proceeds from the sale of certain securities for an extended period (possibly several weeks or even longer)

<sup>◼</sup>

The possibility that a counterparty may not complete a currency or securities transaction

<sup>◼</sup>

Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility

**Equity Securities Risk** — Equity securities are subject to the risk that stock prices may rise and fall in periodic cycles and may perform poorly relative to other investments. This risk may be greater in the short term. Equity securities represent an ownership interest in an issuer, rank junior in a company's capital structure to debt securities and consequently may entail greater risk of loss than fixed income securities. Equity securities have the lowest priority, and the greatest risk, with respect to dividends and any liquidation payments in the event of an issuer's bankruptcy.

**Equity-Linked Notes Risk** — Investments in equity-linked notes ("ELNs") often have risks similar to their underlying reference securities, which may include market risk and, as applicable, risks of non-U.S. investments and currency risks. In addition, since ELNs are in note form, ELNs are also subject to certain risks of fixed income securities, such as interest rate and credit risks. If the prices of the reference securities move in an unexpected manner, then the Fund may not achieve the anticipated benefits of an investment in an ELN, and may suffer losses, which could be significant and could include the Fund's entire principal investment. An investment in an ELN is also subject to

**40**

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Risk Factors

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counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the ELN will default or become bankrupt and the Fund will have difficulty being repaid, or fail to be repaid, the principal amount of, or income from, its investment. Investments in ELNs are also subject to liquidity risk, which may make ELNs difficult to sell and value. The liquidity of an unlisted ELN is normally determined by the willingness of the issuer to make a market in the ELN. While the Fund will seek to purchase ELNs only from issuers that it believes to be willing to, and capable of, repurchasing the ELN at a reasonable price, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to sell the ELN at such price or at all. This may impair the Fund's ability to enter into other transactions at a time when doing so might be advantageous. In addition, ELNs may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with the underlying reference securities or a fixed income investment.

**Risks of Convertible Securities** — Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar quality. As with all fixed income securities, the market values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security approaches or exceeds the conversion price, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Convertible securities rank senior to common stocks in an issuer's capital structure and consequently entail less risk than the issuer's common stock. The value of a synthetic convertible security will respond differently to market fluctuations than a traditional convertible security because a synthetic convertible security is composed of two or more separate securities or instruments, each with its own market value. If the value of the underlying common stock or the level of the index involved in the convertible component falls below the exercise price of the warrant or option, the warrant or option may lose all value.

**Preferred Stocks Risk** — Preferred stocks may pay fixed or adjustable rates of return. Preferred stocks are subject to issuer-specific and market risks applicable generally to equity securities. In addition, a company's preferred stocks generally pay dividends only after the company makes required payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. Thus, the value of preferred stocks will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects. The market value of preferred stocks generally decreases when interest rates rise. Also, the market prices of preferred stocks are more sensitive to changes in the issuer's creditworthiness than are the prices of debt securities. Generally, under normal circumstances, preferred stocks do not carry voting rights. Preferred stocks may trade less frequently and in a more limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than other securities. Preferred stocks of smaller companies may be more vulnerable to adverse developments than preferred stocks of larger companies.

**Risks of Investing in Other Funds** — Investing in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") and closed-end funds, subjects the Fund to the risks of investing in the underlying securities or assets held by those funds. When investing in another fund, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the underlying fund's expenses, including management fees, in addition to its own expenses. ETFs and closed-end funds are bought and sold based on market prices and can trade at a premium or a discount to the ETF's or closed-end fund's net asset value. Such funds may trade at a discount for an extended period and may not ever realize their net asset value.

**Portfolio Turnover Risk** — If the Fund does a lot of trading, it may incur additional operating expenses, which would reduce performance. A higher level of portfolio turnover may also cause shareholders to incur a higher level of taxable income or capital gains.

**41**

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Risk Factors

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**Repurchase Agreement Risk** — In the event that the other party to a repurchase agreement defaults on its obligations, the Fund may encounter delay and incur costs before being able to sell the security. Such a delay may involve loss of interest or a decline in price of the security. In addition, if the Fund is characterized by a court as an unsecured creditor, it would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and interest involved in the transaction.

**Market Segment Risk** — To the extent the Fund emphasizes, from time to time, investments in a market segment, the Fund will be subject to a greater degree to the risks particular to that segment, and may experience greater market fluctuation, than a fund without the same focus.

**Valuation Risk** — Many factors may influence the price at which the Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ – higher or lower – from the Fund's valuation of the investment, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. These differences may increase significantly and affect Fund investments more broadly during periods of market volatility. Nearly all of the Fund's investments are valued using fair value methodologies. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares may receive fewer or more shares, or lower or higher redemption proceeds, than they would have received if the securities had not been fair-valued or if a different valuation methodology had been used. Fixed income securities typically are valued using fair value methodologies. The value of foreign securities, certain fixed income securities and currencies, as applicable, may be materially affected by events after the close of the markets on which they are traded, but before the Fund determines its net asset value. The ability to value the Fund's investments may also be impacted by technological issues and/or errors by pricing services or other third party service providers.

**Redemption Risk** — The Fund may experience periods of heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, accelerate taxable gains and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have or accelerate transaction costs, particularly during periods of declining or illiquid markets. Redemption risk is greater to the extent that the Fund has investors with large shareholdings, short investment horizons, or unpredictable cash flow needs. In addition, redemption risk is heightened during periods of overall market turmoil.

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is a new ETF with limited to no history of operations for investors to evaluate. Investors in the Fund bear the risk that the Fund may not be successful in implementing its investment strategies, may be unable to implement certain of its investment strategies or may fail to attract sufficient assets, any of which could result in the Fund being liquidated and terminated at any time without shareholder approval and at a time that may not be favorable for all shareholders. Such a liquidation could have negative tax consequences for shareholders and may cause shareholders to incur expenses of liquidation.

**Large Shareholder Risk** — Certain large shareholders, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's shares. The actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder is permitted to invest in the Fund, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

**42**

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Risk Factors

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**Cybersecurity Risk** — Cybersecurity failures by and breaches of the Adviser, transfer agent, the Distributor, custodian, Fund accounting agent or other service providers may disrupt Fund operations, interfere with the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, prevent Fund shareholders from purchasing, redeeming or exchanging shares or receiving distributions or receiving timely information regarding the Fund or their investment in the Fund, cause loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information, and result in financial losses to the Fund and its shareholders, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Substantial costs may be incurred in order to prevent any cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result. New ways to carry out cyber attacks continue to develop. Therefore, there is a chance that some risks have not been identified or prepared for, or that an attack may not be detected, which puts limitations on the Fund's ability to plan for or respond to a cyber attack.

**Cash Management Risk** — The value of the investments held by the Fund for cash management or temporary defensive purposes may be affected by market risks, changing interest rates and by changes in credit ratings of the investments. To the extent that the Fund has any uninvested cash, the Fund would be subject to credit risk with respect to the depository institution holding the cash. If the Fund holds cash uninvested, the Fund will not earn income on the cash and the Fund's yield will go down. During such periods, it may be more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

***To learn more about the Fund's investments and risks, you should obtain and read the SAI. Please note that there are many other factors that could adversely affect your investment and that could prevent the Fund from achieving its goals.***

**43**

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Organization and Management of the Fund

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The Fund's Board has the overall responsibility for overseeing the management of the Fund.

**The Investment Adviser**

The Adviser serves as the investment adviser to each of the Victory Funds pursuant to an investment advisory agreement and oversees the operations of the Fund according to investment policies and procedures adopted by the Board. The Adviser is a New York corporation that is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). As of March 31, 2026, the Adviser managed and advised assets totaling in excess of $[ ] billion for individual and institutional clients. The Adviser's principal address is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256.

A discussion regarding the basis of the Board's approval of the Fund's Advisory Agreement will be available in the Fund's Form N-CSRS filing for the year ended December 31, 2026.

The Adviser is a diversified global asset manager comprised of multiple investment teams, referred to as investment franchises, each of which employs an independent approach to investing. Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise, is responsible for the day-to-day investment management of the Fund.

Advisory fees to be paid annually, before waivers, will be equal to the following:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund**  | **Advisory Fee**  |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0.39% |

---

See "Fund Fees and Expenses" for information about any contractual agreement by the Adviser to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses with respect to the Fund. From time to time, the Adviser also may voluntarily waive fees and/or reimburse expenses in amounts exceeding those required to be waived or reimbursed under any contractual agreement that may be in place with respect to the Fund.

**Portfolio Management**

Day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio is the responsibility of Jonathan Scott, CFA, Jonathan M. Duensing, CFA, and Jeffrey C. Galloway, CFA. Messrs. Scott, Duensing, and Mr. Galloway are supported by the fixed income team. Members of this team manage other Victory Funds investing primarily in fixed-income securities.

Mr. Scott, Senior Vice President and Director of Multi-Sector Fixed Income of Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser, and the predecessor investment adviser in 2008. Mr. Scott joined the fixed income team in 2012 and has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since July 2026. He is a CFA<sup>®</sup> charterholder.

Mr. Duensing, Senior Managing Director, Director of Fixed Income and Portfolio Manager at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser, and the predecessor investment adviser in 1996. Prior to 2021, Mr. Duensing was Director of Investment Grade Corporates and Senior Portfolio Manager. Mr. Duensing has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since July 2026. He is a CFA<sup>®</sup> charterholder.

Mr. Galloway, Senior Vice President, Senior Credit Analyst and Portfolio Manager at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser, and the predecessor investment adviser in 2006. Mr. Galloway has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since July 2026. He is a CFA<sup>®</sup> charterholder.

*The Fund's SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' method of compensation, other accounts they manage, and any ownership interests they may have in the Fund.*

**44**

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Investing with Victory

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Share Price

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The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund generally is determined at 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on each day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. In the event of an emergency or other disruption in trading on the NYSE, the Fund's NAV will be determined based upon the close of the NYSE. The NAV is computed by determining the aggregate market value of all assets of the Fund, less its liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| NAV= | Total Assets - Liabilities |
| NAV= | Number of Shares Outstanding |

---

The NAV takes into account the expenses and fees of the Fund, including management, administration, and distribution fees (if any), which are accrued daily. The determination of NAV for the Fund for a particular day is applicable to all applications for the purchase of shares, as well as all requests for the redemption of shares, received by the Fund (or an authorized broker or agent, or its authorized designee) before the close of trading on the NYSE on that day. The NYSE is closed on weekends, most national holidays, and Good Friday.

Generally, the Fund's investments are valued each day at the last quoted sales price on each investment's primary exchange. Investments traded or dealt in upon one or more exchanges (whether domestic or foreign) for which market quotations are readily available and not subject to restrictions against resale shall be valued at the last quoted sales price on the primary exchange or, in the absence of a sale on the primary exchange, at the last bid on the primary exchange. Securities primarily traded in the National Association of Securities Dealers' Automated Quotation System ("Nasdaq") National Market System for which market quotations are readily available shall be valued using the Nasdaq Official Closing Price. If market quotations are not readily available, investments will be valued at their fair market value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with procedures approved by the Board and evaluated by the Board as to the reliability of the fair value method used. In these cases, the Fund's NAV will reflect certain portfolio investments' fair value rather than their market price. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for an investment is materially different than the value that could be realized upon the sale of that investment. The fair value prices can differ from market prices when they become available or when a price becomes available.

The Fund may use independent pricing services to assist in calculating the value of the Fund's securities or other assets. In addition, market prices for foreign securities are not determined at the same time of day as the NAV for the Fund. In computing the NAV, the Fund values foreign securities held by the Fund at the latest closing price on the exchange in which they are traded immediately prior to closing of the NYSE. Prices of foreign securities quoted in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at current rates. The value of the Fund's securities may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase and redeem the Fund's shares if the Fund has portfolio securities that primarily are traded in foreign markets that are open on weekends or other days when the Fund does not price its shares. If events materially affecting the value of a security in the Fund's portfolio, particularly foreign securities, occur after the close of trading on a foreign market but before the Fund prices its shares, the security will be valued at fair value. For example, if trading in a portfolio security is halted and does not resume before the Fund calculates its NAV, the Adviser may need to price the security using the Fund's fair value pricing guidelines. Without a fair value price, short-term traders could take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity and dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Fair valuation of the Fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of the Fund's NAV by short-term traders. The determination of fair value involves subjective

**45**

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Share Price

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judgments. As a result, using fair value to price a security may result in a price materially different from the prices used by other funds to determine NAV, or from the price that may be realized upon the actual sale of the security.

With respect to any portion of the Fund's assets that are invested in one or more open-end management investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act"), the Fund's NAV is calculated based upon the NAVs of those open-end management investment companies, and the prospectuses for these companies explain the circumstances under which those companies will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.

Short-term debt obligations with remaining maturities in excess of 60 days are valued at current market prices, as discussed above. Short-term debt obligations with 60 days or less remaining to maturity are, unless conditions indicate otherwise, amortized to maturity based on their cost to the Fund if acquired within 60 days of maturity or, if already held by the Fund on the 60th day, based on the value determined on the 61st day.

**Premium/Discount Information**

Since investors will buy and sell shares of the Fund in secondary market transactions through brokers at market prices, the Fund's shares will trade at market prices. The market price of shares may be greater than, equal to, or less than NAV. Market forces of supply and demand, economic conditions and other factors may affect the trading prices of shares of the Fund.

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads visit vcm.com.

**46**

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How to Buy and Sell Shares

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Shares of the Fund will be listed for trading on the Exchange under the ticker symbol listed on the cover of this Prospectus. Share prices are reported in dollars and cents per share. Shares can be bought and sold on the secondary market throughout the trading day like other publicly traded shares, and shares typically trade in blocks of less than a Creation Unit. There is no minimum investment required. Shares may only be purchased and sold on the secondary market when the Exchange is open for trading.

When buying or selling shares through a broker, you will incur customary brokerage commissions and charges. The commission is often a fixed amount and may be a significant proportional cost for investors seeking to buy or sell smaller amounts of shares. You may also pay some or all of the spread between the bid and the offered price in the secondary market on each leg of a round trip (purchase and sale) transaction. The spread varies over time for shares of the Fund based on the Fund's trading volume and market liquidity, and is generally lower if the Fund's shares have more trading volume and market liquidity and higher if the Fund's shares have little trading volume and market liquidity.

Only an Authorized Participant ("AP") may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the Fund. The Fund's APs are institutions and large investors, such as market makers or other large broker-dealers, which have entered into a Participation Agreement with the Fund's distributor to undertake the responsibility of obtaining or selling the underlying assets needed to purchase or redeem, respectively, Creation Units of the Fund. APs may acquire shares directly from the Fund, and APs may tender their shares for redemption directly to the Fund, at NAV per share only in large blocks, or Creation Units, of 25,000 shares. Purchases and redemptions directly with the Fund must follow the Fund's procedures, which are described in the SAI.

The Fund may liquidate and terminate at any time without shareholder approval.

**Share Trading Prices**

The trading prices of the Fund's shares in the secondary market generally differ from the Fund's daily NAV and are affected by market forces such as the supply of and demand for shares and shares of underlying investments held by the Fund, economic conditions, and other factors.

**Book Entry**

Shares are held in book entry form, which means that no stock certificates are issued. The Depository Trust Company ("DTC") or its nominee is the record owner of all outstanding shares of the Fund and is recognized as the owner of all shares for all purposes.

Investors owning shares are beneficial owners as shown on the records of DTC or its participants. DTC serves as the securities depository for all shares. Participants in DTC include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and other institutions that directly or indirectly maintain a custodial relationship with DTC. As a beneficial owner of shares, you are not entitled to receive physical delivery of stock certificates or to have shares registered in your name, and you are not considered a registered owner of shares. Therefore, to exercise any right as an owner of shares, you must rely upon the procedures of DTC and its participants. These procedures are the same as those that apply to any other securities that you hold in book entry or "street name" form.

**Frequent Purchases and Redemptions of Fund Shares**

The Fund's shares can only be purchased and redeemed directly from the Fund by APs in Creation Units. Direct trading by APs is critical to ensuring that the Fund's shares trade at or close to NAV. The cash to be contributed to (or received from) the Fund in connection with a Creation Unit generally is negligible compared to the total amount of the trade. The Fund with exposure to non-U.S. securities employs fair valuation pricing to minimize arbitrage opportunities that attempt to exploit the differences between a security's market quotation and its fair value. In addition, the Fund imposes

**47**

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How to Buy and Sell Shares

------

transaction fees on purchases and redemptions of shares to cover the custodial and other costs incurred by the Fund in effecting trades. These fees increase if an investor substitutes cash in part or in whole for securities, reflecting the fact that the Fund's trading costs increase in those circumstances.

Trading of the Fund's shares by individual shareholders occurs on the secondary market. Because the secondary market trades do not directly involve the Fund, it is unlikely those trades would cause the harmful effects of market timing, including dilution, disruption of portfolio management, increases in the Fund's trading costs and the realization of capital gains.

Given this structure, the Board has determined that it is not necessary to monitor for frequent in-kind purchases and redemptions of shares or market timing activity by the APs or on the shares' secondary market.

**Other Payments to Financial Intermediaries**

If you purchase Fund shares through an investment professional, a broker dealer, or other financial intermediary, the Fund may pay for sub-transfer agent, recordkeeping and/or similar administrative services. In addition, Victory Capital (and its affiliates) may make substantial payments out of its own resources, including the profits from the advisory fees Victory Capital receives from the Fund, to affiliated and unaffiliated dealers or other investment professionals and service providers for distribution, administrative and/or shareholder servicing activities. Victory Capital also may reimburse the distributor (or the distributor's affiliates) for making these payments. Some of these distribution-related payments may be made to dealers or other investment professionals for marketing, promotional or related expenses; these payments are often referred to as "revenue sharing." In some circumstances, these types of payments may create an incentive for a dealer or investment professional or its representatives to recommend or offer shares of the Fund to its customers. You should ask your dealer or investment professional for more details about any such payments it receives.

**48**

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Distribution and Service Plan

------

The Fund has adopted a distribution and service plan ("Plan") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Fund is authorized to pay distribution fees to the distributor and other firms that provide distribution and shareholder services ("Service Providers"). If a Service Provider provides these services, the Fund may pay fees at an annual rate not to exceed 0.25% of average daily net assets, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.

No distribution or service fees are currently paid by the Fund and there are no current plans to impose these fees. In the event Rule 12b-1 fees were charged, over time they would increase the cost of an investment in the Fund.

**49**

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Distributions and Taxes

------

Unlike interests in conventional mutual funds, which typically are bought and sold from and to the fund only at closing NAVs, the Fund's shares are traded throughout the day in the secondary market on a national securities exchange on an intra-day basis and are created and redeemed in-kind and/or for cash in Creation Units at each day's next calculated NAV. In-kind arrangements are designed to protect ongoing shareholders from the adverse effects on the Fund's portfolio that could arise from frequent cash redemption transactions. In a conventional mutual fund, redemptions can have an adverse tax impact on taxable shareholders if the mutual fund needs to sell portfolio securities to obtain cash to meet net fund redemptions. These sales may generate taxable gains for the ongoing shareholders of the mutual fund, whereas the shares' in-kind redemption mechanism generally will not lead to a tax event for the Fund or its ongoing shareholders.

**Taxes on Distributions**

The Fund ordinarily declares and pays dividends from net investment income, if any, monthly, and net realized capital gains, if any, annually. The Fund may make additional distributions, if necessary, to comply with U.S. federal tax requirements and avoid U.S. federal income or excise tax. Dividends from the Fund's net long-term capital gains, if any, in excess of net short-term capital losses (capital gain dividends) that are properly designated as such are taxable to you as long-term capital gains (at the 20% maximum rate referred to above for non-corporate shareholders) regardless of how long you have held the Fund's shares. Dividends from the Fund's net investment income, including net short-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to you as ordinary income (other than qualified dividend income). Dividends from the Fund's qualified dividend income (i.e., dividends received on stock of most domestic and certain foreign corporations), if any, that are properly designated as such are taxable to non-corporate shareholders at long-term capital gain rates, provided that the Fund and the shareholder satisfy certain holding period and other requirements. The Fund's dividends also may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to corporations, subject to similar restrictions.

Distributions in cash may be reinvested automatically in additional whole shares only if the broker through whom you purchased shares makes such option available.

In general, your distributions are subject to U.S. federal income tax when they are paid, whether you take them in cash or reinvest them in the Fund (if that option is available). Distributions reinvested in additional shares of the Fund through the means of a dividend **r**einvestment service, if available, will be taxable to shareholders acquiring the additional shares to the same extent as if such distributions had been received in cash.

Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of (and in reduction of) your basis in the shares and any excess amount will be treated as capital gain.

Certain U.S. shareholders, including individuals and estates and trusts, are subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a portion of their "net investment income," which should include dividends from the Fund and net gains from the disposition of shares of the Fund.

If at the time a shareholder purchases shares of the Fund, the value of shares reflects undistributed net investment income, recognized net capital gain, or unrealized appreciation in the value of the assets of the Fund, distributions of such amounts will be taxable to the shareholder in the manner described above, although such distributions economically constitute a return of capital to the shareholder.

As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in shares will be taxed. The tax information in this Prospectus is provided as general information. You should consult your own tax professional about the tax consequences of an investment in shares.

**50**

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Distributions and Taxes

------

Unless your investment in shares is made through a tax-exempt entity or tax-deferred retirement account, such as an individual retirement account, you need to be aware of the possible tax consequences when:

◼

The Fund makes distributions,

◼

You sell your shares listed on the Exchange, and

◼

You purchase or redeem Creation Units (if applicable).

If you are a nonresident alien individual, foreign trust or estate, foreign corporation or foreign partnership, the Fund's ordinary income dividends may be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Exchange-Listed Share Sales**

Any capital gain or loss realized upon a sale of shares generally is treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for one year or less. The ability to deduct capital losses from sales of shares may be limited.

A nonresident alien individual and a foreign corporation generally is exempt from U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gains realized on the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund, but certain exceptions apply under which such shareholders may be subject to U.S. federal tax on such sale or other disposition. See the section titled "TAXES–Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Purchase and Redemption of Creation Units**

An AP who exchanges securities for Creation Units generally will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the market value of the Creation Units at the time of the exchange and the sum of the AP's aggregate basis in the securities surrendered plus any cash it pays. An AP who exchanges Creation Units for securities generally will recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the exchanger's basis in the Creation Units and the sum of the aggregate market value of the securities received plus any cash equal to the difference between the NAV of the shares being redeemed and the value of the securities. However, a loss realized by an AP upon an exchange of securities for Creation Units may not be deducted currently under the rules governing "wash sales" or for other reasons. Persons exchanging securities should consult their own tax advisor with respect to whether wash sale rules apply and when a loss might be deductible.

Any capital gain or loss realized on the purchase or redemption of Creation Units generally will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered to purchase the Creation Units or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for one year or less.

If you purchase or redeem Creation Units, you will be sent a confirmation statement showing how many shares you purchased or sold and at what price. See "TAXES" in the SAI for a description of the requirement regarding basis determination methods applicable to share redemptions and the Fund's obligation to report basis information to the IRS.

**Backup Withholding**

By law, the Fund is required to withhold 24% of your distributions and proceeds if you have not provided the Fund with a correct Social Security number or other taxpayer identification number and in certain other situations.

**51**

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Distributions and Taxes

------

**Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act**

Under the "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act," unless certain foreign entities comply with certain IRS requirements that generally require them to report information regarding U.S. persons investing in, or holding accounts with, such entities, a 30% U.S. withholding tax may apply to dividends paid by the Fund to such entities. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**IRA Distribution Withholding Disclosure**

We generally must withhold federal income tax at a rate of 10% of the taxable portion of your distribution, and if you live in a state that requires state income tax withholding, at your state's tax rate. However, you may elect not to have withholding apply or to have income tax withheld at a higher rate. Any withholding election that you make will apply to any subsequent distribution unless and until you change or revoke the election. If you wish to make a withholding election, or change or revoke a prior withholding election, call 866-376-7890, and form W-4P (OMB No. 1545-0074 withholding certificate for pension or annuity payments) will be sent electronically.

If you do not have a withholding election in place by the date of a distribution, federal income tax will be withheld from the taxable portion of your distribution at a rate of 10%. If you must pay estimated taxes, you may be subject to estimated tax penalties if your estimated tax payments are not sufficient and sufficient tax is not withheld from your distribution.

The foregoing discussion summarizes some of the possible consequences under current federal tax law of an investment in the Fund. It is not a substitute for personal tax advice. The foregoing discussion also does not discuss any state, local, or non-U.S. tax consequences associated with an investment in the Fund. The tax information in this Prospectus is based on tax law in effect on the date of this Prospectus and it does not address any proposals to modify such tax laws. Consult your personal tax advisor about the potential tax consequences of an investment in the shares under all applicable tax laws.

For more specific information, please consult your tax adviser.

**52**

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Other Information

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**Investments by Investment Companies**

Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act restricts investments by investment companies in the securities of other investment companies, including shares of the Fund. Registered investment companies are permitted to invest in the Fund beyond the limits set forth in Section 12(d)(1) as permitted by any rules and regulations adopted under applicable law, including that such investment companies enter into an agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund.

**Continuous Offering**

The method by which Creation Units of shares are created and traded may raise certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units of shares are issued and sold by the Fund on an ongoing basis, a "distribution," as such term is used in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), may occur at any point. Broker-dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery requirement and liability provisions of the Securities Act.

For example, a broker-dealer firm or its client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after placing an order with the distributor, breaks them down into constituent shares and sells the shares directly to customers or if it chooses to couple the creation of a supply of new shares with an active selling effort involving solicitation of secondary market demand for shares. A determination of whether one is an underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act must take into account all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the broker-dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that could lead to a characterization as an underwriter.

Broker-dealer firms should also note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are effecting transactions in shares, whether or not participating in the distribution of shares, generally are required to deliver a prospectus. This is because the prospectus delivery exemption in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act is not available in respect of such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the 1940 Act. As a result, broker-dealer firms should note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are participating in a distribution (as contrasted with engaging in ordinary secondary market transactions) and thus dealing with the shares that are part of an overallotment within the meaning of Section 4(a)(3)(C) of the Securities Act, will be unable to take advantage of the prospectus delivery exemption provided by Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act. For delivery of prospectuses to exchange members, the prospectus delivery mechanism of Rule 153 under the Securities Act is only available with respect to transactions on a national exchange.

**Dealers effecting transactions in the Fund's shares, whether or not participating in this distribution, generally are required to deliver a Prospectus. This is in addition to any obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as underwriters.**

**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure**

A description of the Fund's policies regarding disclosure of the securities in the Fund's portfolio is found in the Statement of Additional Information. The Fund's portfolio is disclosed daily on the Fund's website at www.VictorySharesLiterature.com. Shareholders also may request portfolio holdings schedules at no charge by calling toll free 866-376-7890.

**53**

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Other Information

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**Shareholder Communications**

In order to eliminate duplicate mailings to an address at which two or more shareholders with the same last name reside, the Victory Funds may send only one copy of any shareholder reports, financial statements, proxy statements, prospectuses and their supplements, unless you have instructed us to the contrary. You may request that the Victory Funds send these documents to each shareholder individually by calling the Victory Funds at 866-376-7890, and they will be delivered promptly.

While this Prospectus and the SAI of the Trust describe pertinent information about the Trust and the Fund, neither this Prospectus nor the SAI represents a contract between the Trust or the Fund and any shareholder.

**Other Disclosures**

Victory Capital means Victory Capital Management Inc., the investment adviser of the VictoryShares ETFs. VictoryShares ETFs are distributed by Victory Capital Services, Inc. ("VCS"), an affiliate of Victory Capital. VCS is a member of FINRA.

**54**

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Financial Highlights

------

Because the Fund had not commenced operations prior to the date of this prospectus, financial highlights are not available.

**55**

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

4900 Tiedeman Road,

4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

**Statement of Additional Information (SAI):** The SAI contains more information about the Fund's operations, investment restrictions, policies, and practices. The SAI is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus, which means that it is legally part of this Prospectus, even if you do not request a copy.

**Annual/Semi Annual Reports and Form N-CSR/Form N-CSRS:** Annual and semi annual reports contain more information about the Fund's investments and the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during the most recent fiscal period. The Fund's Form N-CSR and Form N-CSRS filings contain the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements.

**How to Obtain Information:** You may obtain a free copy of the SAI, annual and semi annual reports and other information such as Fund financial statements and ask questions about the Fund or your accounts, online at VictorySharesLiterature.com, by contacting the Fund at the following address or telephone number, or by contacting your financial intermediary.

**By telephone:**

Call VictoryShares at

866-376-7890

**By mail:**

VictoryShares

4900 Tiedeman Road, 4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

You also can get information about the Fund (including the SAI, other reports and other information such as Fund financial statements) from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the SEC's Edgar database at sec.gov, or after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request sent to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

Investment Company Act File Number 811-22696

VS-PAC_ETF-PRO (07/26)

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state in which the offer or sale is not permitted.

Subject to Completion \| Preliminary Prospectus

**[ ], 2026**

Prospectus

VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF ()

Listed and traded on:

The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined whether this Prospectus is accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

VictorySharesLiterature.com

866-376-7890

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

**Table of Contents**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **[Fund Summary](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_1)** | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Objective](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Fund Fees and Expenses](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Investment Strategy](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_2) | 2  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_3) | 3  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Performance](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_8) | 8  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Management of the Fund](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_8) | 8  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_8) | 8  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Tax Information](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_9) | 9  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_9)<br> [Intermediaries](#xx_b33a326c-2d0b-4fa2-844e-b353ade2ed3d_9)<br>| 9  |
| **[Additional Fund Information](#xx_c2f5820e-3d61-43cd-a500-7872b4fd6232_1)** | 10  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investments](#xx_c2f5820e-3d61-43cd-a500-7872b4fd6232_3) | 12  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Risk Factors](#xx_cd0372b3-4b2e-48ed-8513-9071d0f0eb8b_1) | 20  |
| **[Organization and Management of the Fund](#xx_dd76be2e-ff96-495a-887c-9dd16a07aedd_1)** | 31  |
| **[Investing with Victory](#xx_9a95554d-cb28-4c88-8d51-cf75b04096b5_1)** | 32  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Share Price](#xx_9a95554d-cb28-4c88-8d51-cf75b04096b5_1) | 32  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [How to Buy and Sell Shares](#xx_9a95554d-cb28-4c88-8d51-cf75b04096b5_3) | 34  |
| **[Distribution and Service Plan](#xx_f4700054-1b3e-41a4-8c3d-3aa4062db555_1)** | 36  |
| **[Distributions and Taxes](#xx_4bcfbe2c-cba2-4706-a5d0-4de2c0c8e9e0_1)** | 37  |
| **[Other Information](#xx_84a991f7-eb5a-4688-a7bc-896699e1be55_1)** | 40  |
| **[Financial Highlights](#xx_d6b5b60d-189d-4eb1-a284-9010fca5da01_1)** | 42 |

---

------

**VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary**

**Investment Objective**

The VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF (the "Fund") seeks a high level of total return consisting of income and capital appreciation.

**Fund 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 example below**.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Shareholder Fees**<br> (fees paid directly from your investment) <br>| **None** |

---

Annual Fund Operating Expenses

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

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Management Fees | 0.15% |
| Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> <br>| [ ]% |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | [ ]% |
| Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursements<sup>2</sup> <br>| [()]% |
| **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursements**<sup>2</sup> | 0.19% |

---

<sup>1</sup>

Estimated for the current fiscal year.

<sup>2</sup>

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") has contractually agreed to waive its management fee and/or reimburse expenses so that the total annual fund operating expenses (excluding certain items such as interest, taxes, and brokerage commissions) do not exceed 0.19% through at least October 31, 2027. The Adviser is permitted to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to three years after the date of the waiver or reimbursement, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limits in effect at the time of (a) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (b) the recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount. This agreement may only be terminated by the Fund's Board of Trustees.

**Example:**

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The example assumes that (1) you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell or continue to hold all of your shares at the end of the period, (2) your investment has a 5% return each year, and (3) the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. The amounts shown reflect any fee waiver/expense reimbursement in place through its expiration date. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based upon these assumptions your costs would be:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| $[ ] | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $[ ] |

---

**Portfolio Turnover:**

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. Because the Fund has not yet commenced investment operations, no portfolio turnover information is available at this time.

**1**

------

VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

**Principal Investment Strategy**

Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in a portfolio of mortgage-related instruments. Mortgage-related instruments include agency and non-agency mortgage-backed securities ("MBS"), such as commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"), residential mortgage-backed securities ("RMBS"), and uniform mortgage-backed securities ("UMBS"), collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), including private and multi-class structures, stripped mortgage-backed securities, mortgage pass-through securities, credit risk transfer securities ("CRTs"), and other securities or instruments representing an interest in or secured by or related to mortgages, including asset-backed securities and securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in mortgage-related instruments. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

Agency MBS are issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises, including mortgage pass-through securities representing interests in pools of mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA"), the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"). MBS and other mortgage-related investments may be structured such that payments consist of interest-only ("IO"), principal-only ("PO") or principal and interest. The Fund may also invest in structured investments including credit linked notes ("CLNs"), adjustable rate mortgage loans ("ARMs"), and custodial receipts. [The Fund may invest a substantial amount of its assets in "sub-prime" mortgage-related securities.] The Fund may invest in mortgage pass-through securities including securities eligible to be sold on the "to-be-announced" or TBA market. The Fund may enter into dollar rolls, in which the Fund sells mortgage-backed securities including mortgage TBAs and at the same time contracts to buy back very similar securities on a future date. MBS include credit risk transfer securities, which transfer the credit risk related to the MBS to the buyer of the security. Credit risk transfer securities are fixed or floating-rate unsecured general obligations issued by FNMA, FHLMC, or other government sponsored or private entities. Although mortgage-related instruments typically represent pools of loans, in some cases they may consist of one large loan that is securitized and sold to capital market investors.

The Fund also may invest in other fixed income instruments and obligations of U.S. and non-U.S. corporate and other non-governmental entities, debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or non-U.S. governmental entities, and other asset-backed securities, including collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs") and collateralized loan obligations ("CLOs").

The Fund invests in securities of any maturity and duration. The maturity of a fixed income security is a measure of the time remaining until final payment on the security is due. The Fund's investments may have fixed or variable principal payments and all types of interest rate and dividend payment and reset terms, including fixed rate, adjustable rate, floating rate, zero coupon, when-issued, delayed delivery, to be announced and forward commitment, contingent, deferred, payment in kind and auction rate features.

The Fund will invest primarily in securities rated investment grade (that is, securities rated Baa3/BBB- or higher, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable credit quality by the Adviser). The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade at the time of purchase or determined to be of equivalent quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. The Fund's investments in debt securities rated below investment grade may include securities that are in default.

**2**

------

VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

The Adviser may use (but is not required to use in any given situation) derivatives, including interest rate futures, credit default swaps, and credit default swap index products ("CDX") (swaps based on a portfolio of credit default swaps with similar characteristics, such as credit default swaps on high-yield bonds), and forward foreign currency contracts, primarily to manage the Fund's average duration, credit, and currency exposures. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of purposes, including: in an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market price of securities, interest rates or currency exchange rates; as a substitute for purchasing or selling securities; to attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative; to manage portfolio characteristics; and as a cash flow management technique. The Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations. The Fund may hold [non-U.S. currency and may] hold cash or other short-term investments.

The Adviser considers both broad economic and issuer specific factors in selecting investments. In assessing the appropriate maturity, credit quality and sector weightings of the portfolio, the adviser considers a variety of factors that are expected to influence economic activity and interest rates. The Fund's allocation among investments depends upon the adviser's outlook for economic, interest rate and political trends. At any given time, the fund may have a substantial amount of its assets in any one of such segments. The Adviser seeks to provide exposure to those areas of the fixed income market that the investment adviser anticipates will provide value, while seeking to minimize exposure to those areas it anticipates will provide less value. The Adviser does not manage the Fund specific to any index or benchmark.

The Adviser selects individual securities to buy and sell based upon such factors as a security's yield, liquidity and rating, an assessment of credit quality, and sector and issuer diversification. The Adviser also employs fundamental research to assess an issuer's credit quality, taking into account financial condition and profitability, future capital needs, potential for change in rating, industry outlook, the competitive environment, and management ability. The Adviser also makes investment decisions based on technical factors such as price momentum, market sentiment, and supply or demand imbalances.

The Fund may seek to earn additional income through lending its securities to certain qualified broker-dealers and institutions in an amount equal to up to one-third of its total assets as determined at the time of the loan origination.

**Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund**

The Fund's investments are subject to the following principal risks:

**Mortgage-Related and Asset-Backed Securities Risk** — The value of mortgage-related securities and asset-backed securities will be influenced by factors affecting the assets underlying such securities. As a result, during periods of declining asset value, difficult or frozen credit markets, swings in interest rates, or deteriorating economic conditions, mortgage-related and asset-backed securities may decline in value, face valuation difficulties, become more volatile and/or become illiquid. Mortgage-backed securities tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than other types of debt securities. These securities are also subject to interest rate, prepayment and extension risks. Some of these securities may receive little or no collateral protection from the underlying assets and are thus subject to the risk of default. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage-backed investments offered by non-governmental issuers and those that include so-called "sub-prime" mortgages. The structure of some of these securities may be complex and there may be less available information than for other types of debt securities. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults, the Fund may become the holder of underlying assets at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or may be sold only at a loss. For debt instruments secured by specific assets, those assets are often the sole source of principal and interest payments for the instrument. Should those assets underperform expectations or decline in value, the Fund could experience shortfalls in principal and interest.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

**Market Risk** —The market prices of securities or other assets held by the Fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political, or regulatory conditions, political instability, recessions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, weather or climate events, armed conflict, market disruptions caused by tariffs, trade disputes, sanctions or other government actions, or other factors or adverse investor sentiment. If the market prices of the Fund's securities and assets fall, the value of your investment will go down. A change in financial condition or other event affecting a single issuer or market may adversely impact securities markets as a whole.

In the past decade, financial markets throughout the world have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. Governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Events that have contributed to these market conditions include, but are not limited to, major cybersecurity events; geopolitical events (including wars, terror attacks and economic sanctions); measures to address budget deficits; downgrading of sovereign debt; changes in oil and commodity prices; dramatic changes in currency exchange rates; global pandemics; and public sentiment. Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability, may continue for some time.

Raising the ceiling on U.S. government debt has become increasingly politicized. Any failure to increase the total amount that the U.S. government is authorized to borrow could lead to a default on U.S. government obligations, with unpredictable consequences for economies and markets in the United States and elsewhere. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments, impair the Fund's ability to satisfy redemption requests, and negatively impact the Fund's performance. In addition, inflation, rising interest rates, global supply chain disruptions, and other market events could adversely affect the companies or issuers in which the Fund invests. Following the commencement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical, or other events or conditions.

Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the United States. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. U.S. Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental or central bank actions, including increases or decreases in interest rates, or contrary actions by different governments, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Fund invests. Policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and these and other events affecting global markets, such as the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (commonly known as "Brexit"), potential trade imbalances with China or other countries or sanctions or other government actions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies (or their countermeasures), may contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

The United States and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs (or the threat of tariffs), investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities, potentially leading to significant losses for the Fund. For example, the United States has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. The U.S. government has prohibited U.S. persons, such as the Fund, from investing in Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. These and possible future restrictions could limit the Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. Moreover, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict. If the political climate between the United States and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines, or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Fund's assets may go down.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, armed conflicts such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, terrorism, natural disasters, infectious illness or public health issues, cybersecurity events, supply chain disruptions, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, and other circumstances in one country or region could have profound impacts on other countries or regions and on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to the countries or regions directly affected, the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments may be negatively affected. The Fund may experience a substantial or complete loss on any security or derivative position.

**High-Yield or "Junk" Bond Risk** — Debt securities that are below investment grade, called "junk bonds," are speculative, have a higher risk of default or are already in default, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events and negative sentiments, and may become illiquid. These risks are more pronounced for securities that are already in default.

**Derivatives Risk** — Using swaps, futures, and other derivatives can increase Fund losses and reduce opportunities for gains when market prices, interest rates, or the derivative instruments themselves behave in a way not anticipated by the Fund. Using derivatives may increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value and may not provide the result intended. Derivatives may have a leveraging effect on the Fund. Some derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Derivatives are generally subject to the risks applicable to the assets, rates, indices or other indicators underlying the derivative. Changes in a derivative's value may not correlate well with the referenced asset or metric. The Fund also may have to sell assets at inopportune times to satisfy its obligations. Derivatives may be difficult to sell, unwind or value, and the counterparty may default on its obligations to the Fund. Use of derivatives or similar instruments may not be as favorable as a direct investment in an underlying investment and may adversely affect the amount, timing and character of income distributed to shareholders. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, certain derivatives are subject to mark-to-market or straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"). If such provisions are applicable, there could be an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by the Fund. The U.S. government and foreign governments have adopted and implemented or are in the process of adopting and implementing regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, margin and reporting requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance or disrupt markets.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — The Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — Many of the Fund's underlying securities trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

**Large Shareholder Risk** — Certain large shareholders, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's shares. The actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder is permitted to invest in the Fund, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is new and has no history of operations for investors to evaluate.

**Portfolio Turnover Risk** — Higher portfolio turnover ratios resulting from additional purchases and sales of portfolio securities generally will result in higher transaction costs and Fund expenses and may result in the realization of taxable capital gains, including short-term capital gains, which generally are taxed to shareholders at ordinary income tax rates.

**Credit Risk Transfer Securities Risk** — Credit risk transfer securities are unguaranteed and unsecured debt securities issued by government sponsored enterprises and therefore are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans. As a result, in the event that a government sponsored enterprise fails to pay principal or interest on its credit risk transfer securities or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such credit risk transfer securities have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans and will generally receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders in such a scenario. The risks associated with an investment in credit risk transfer securities are different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"), or other government sponsored enterprise or issued by a private issuer, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in these securities could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default.

**Risks of Investing in Collateralized Debt Obligations** — Investment in a collateralized debt obligation ("CDO") is subject to the credit, subordination, interest rate, valuation, prepayment, extension and other risks of the obligations underlying the CDO and the tranche of the CDO in which the Fund invests. CDOs are subject to liquidity risk. Synthetic CDOs are also subject to the risks of investing in derivatives, such as credit default swaps, and leverage risk.

**Credit Linked Notes Risk —** Investment in a credit linked note ("CLN") is subject to the risks of the obligations underlying the CLN, including but not limited to market risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, default risk and, in some cases, foreign currency risk. A holder of a CLN also bears counterparty risk or the risk that the issuer of the CLN will default or become bankrupt and not make timely payment of principal and interest. CLNs may be less liquid than other investments and therefore harder to dispose of at the desired time and price. In addition, CLNs may be leveraged and, as a result, small changes in the value of the obligations underlying the CLN may produce disproportionate losses for the holder of a CLN.

**Custodial Receipts Risk —** Custodial receipts are securities that evidence ownership of future interest payments and/or principal payments on a basket of securities which underlie the custodial receipts in connection with programs sponsored by banks and brokerage firms. Custodial receipts are held in custody by a bank on behalf of the owners of the custodial receipts. Investment in a custodial receipt is subject to the risks of the obligations underlying the custodial receipt, including but not limited to credit risk and market risk. In addition, custodial receipts may be less liquid than other investments and therefore harder to dispose of at the desired time and price.

**U.S. Government Agency Obligations Risk** — The Fund invests in obligations issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government. Government-sponsored entities such as the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") and the Federal Home Loan Banks ("FHLBs"), although chartered or sponsored by Congress, are not funded by congressional appropriations and the debt and mortgage-backed securities issued by them are neither guaranteed nor issued by the U.S. government. The maximum potential liability of the issuers of some U.S. government obligations may greatly exceed their current resources, including any legal right to support from the U.S. government. Such debt and mortgage-backed securities are subject to the risk of default on the payment of interest and/or principal, similar to debt of private issuers. Although the U.S.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

government has provided financial support to FNMA and FHLMC in the past, there can be no assurance that it will support these or other government-sponsored entities in the future.

**Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions Risk** — The benefits to the Fund from mortgage dollar roll transactions depend upon the Adviser's ability to forecast mortgage prepayment patterns on different mortgage pools. The Fund may lose money if, during the period between the time it agrees to the forward purchase of the mortgage securities and the settlement date, these securities decline in value due to market conditions or prepayments on the underlying mortgages.

**Credit Default Swap Risk** — Credit default swap contracts, a type of derivative instrument, involve special risks and may result in losses to the Fund. Credit default swaps may in some cases be illiquid, and they increase credit risk since the Fund has exposure to the issuer of the referenced obligation and either the counterparty to the credit default swap or, if it is a cleared transaction, the brokerage firm through which the trade was cleared and the clearing organization that is the counterparty to that trade.

You may lose money by investing in the Fund. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.

By itself, the Fund does not constitute a complete investment plan and should be considered a long-term investment for investors who can afford to weather changes in the value of their investment.

**Investment Performance**

No performance information is presented since the Fund does not yet have a full calendar year

of performance. Performance data for the Fund is available online at vcm.com or by calling 866-376-7890. A fund's performance is not necessarily an indication of how that fund will perform

in the future.

**Management of the Fund**

**Investment Adviser**

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") serves as the Fund's investment adviser. The portfolio managers jointly and primarily responsible for day-to-day management of the Fund are members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise.

**Portfolio Management** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Title**  | **Tenure with the Fund**  |
| Tyler Patla | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Deputy <br> Director of Core Fixed Income <br> and Director of Agency <br> Mortgages, Portfolio Manager <br>| Since June 2026 |
| Robert W. Aufdenspring, CFA | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President, Portfolio <br> Manager<br>| Since June 2026 |

---

**Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares**

The Fund will issue and redeem shares at NAV only in large blocks of 25,000 shares (each block of shares is called a "Creation Unit"). Creation Units are issued and redeemed for cash and/or in-kind for securities by Authorized Participants ("APs") that have entered into agreements with the Fund's distributor. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares are not redeemable securities of the Fund.

Shares of the Fund are listed for trading on the Exchange. Individual shares may only be purchased and sold in the secondary market through a broker or dealer at a market price. Because shares of the Fund trade at market prices rather than NAV, shares may trade at a price that is greater than (a

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VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF Summary

premium), at, or less than (a discount) NAV. An investor may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay to purchase shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for shares (ask) when buying or selling shares in the secondary market (the "bid-ask spread").

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads, visit vcm.com.

**Tax Information**

The Fund's distributions generally are taxable as ordinary income, qualified dividend income, or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes may be imposed on withdrawals from tax-deferred arrangements. A sale of shares may result in a capital gain or loss.

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

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

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Additional Fund Information

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The **VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgaged-Backed Securities ETF** (the "Fund") is organized as an exchange-traded fund ("ETF").

The Fund has an investment objective to seek a high level of total return consisting of income and capital appreciation and is non-fundamental. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The Fund's Board of Trustees (the "Board") may change this investment objective without shareholder approval. The Fund will provide shareholders notice of any such change.

**Principal Investment Strategies**

Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in a portfolio of mortgage-related instruments. Mortgage-related instruments include agency and non-agency mortgage-backed securities ("MBS"), such as commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"), residential mortgage-backed securities ("RMBS"), and uniform mortgage-backed securities ("UMBS"), collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), including private and multi-class structures, stripped mortgage-backed securities, mortgage pass-through securities, credit risk transfer securities ("CRTs"), and other securities or instruments representing an interest in or secured by or related to mortgages, including asset-backed securities and securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in mortgage-related instruments. The Fund's 80% investment policy is non-fundamental, and the Board may change this policy without shareholder approval upon at least 60 days' written notice to shareholders. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

Agency MBS are issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises, including mortgage pass-through securities representing interests in pools of mortgage loans issued or guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA"), the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"). MBS and other mortgage-related investments may be structured such that payments consist of interest-only ("IO"), principal-only ("PO") or principal and interest. The Fund may also invest in structured investments including credit linked notes ("CLNs"), adjustable rate mortgage loans ("ARMs"), and custodial receipts. [The Fund may invest a substantial amount of its assets in "sub-prime" mortgage-related securities.] The Fund may invest in mortgage pass-through securities including securities eligible to be sold on the "to-be-announced" or TBA market. The Fund may enter into dollar rolls, in which the Fund sells mortgage-backed securities including mortgage TBAs and at the same time contracts to buy back very similar securities on a future date. MBS include credit risk transfer securities, which transfer the credit risk related to the MBS to the buyer of the security. Credit risk transfer securities are fixed or floating-rate unsecured general obligations issued by FNMA, FHLMC, or other government sponsored or private entities. Although mortgage-related instruments typically represent pools of loans, in some cases they may consist of one large loan that is securitized and sold to capital market investors.

The Fund also may invest in other fixed income instruments and obligations of U.S. and non-U.S. corporate and other non-governmental entities, debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or non-U.S. governmental entities, and other asset-backed securities, including collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs") and collateralized loan obligations ("CLOs").

The Fund invests in securities of any maturity and duration. The maturity of a fixed income security is a measure of the time remaining until final payment on the security is due. The Fund's investments may have fixed or variable principal payments and all types of interest rate and dividend payment and

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Additional Fund Information

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reset terms, including fixed rate, adjustable rate, floating rate, zero coupon, when-issued, delayed delivery, to be announced and forward commitment, contingent, deferred, payment in kind and auction rate features.

The Fund will invest primarily in securities rated investment grade (that is, securities rated Baa3/BBB- or higher, or if unrated, determined to be of comparable credit quality by the Adviser). The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade at the time of purchase or determined to be of equivalent quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. The Fund's investments in debt securities rated below investment grade may include securities that are in default.

The Adviser may use (but is not required to use in any given situation) derivatives, including interest rate futures, credit default swaps, and credit default swap index products ("CDX") (swaps based on a portfolio of credit default swaps with similar characteristics, such as credit default swaps on high-yield bonds), and forward foreign currency contracts, primarily to manage the Fund's average duration, credit, and currency exposures. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of purposes, including: in an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market price of securities, interest rates or currency exchange rates; as a substitute for purchasing or selling securities; to attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative; to manage portfolio characteristics; and as a cash flow management technique. The Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations. The Fund may hold [non-U.S. currency and may] hold cash or other short-term investments.

The Adviser considers both broad economic and issuer specific factors in selecting investments. In assessing the appropriate maturity, credit quality and sector weightings of the portfolio, the adviser considers a variety of factors that are expected to influence economic activity and interest rates. The Fund's allocation among investments depends upon the adviser's outlook for economic, interest rate and political trends.

The Adviser selects individual securities to buy and sell based upon such factors as a security's yield, liquidity and rating, an assessment of credit quality, and sector and issuer diversification. The Adviser also employs fundamental research to assess an issuer's credit quality, taking into account financial condition and profitability, future capital needs, potential for change in rating, industry outlook, the competitive environment, and management ability. The Adviser also makes investment decisions based on technical factors such as price momentum, market sentiment, and supply or demand imbalances.

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Investments

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**The following describes the types of securities the Fund may purchase under normal market conditions to achieve its principal investment strategy. The Fund's assets may be invested in, among other things, any of the following securities, except as otherwise noted:**

**Asset-Backed Securities**

The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities represent participations in, or are secured by and payable from, assets such as installment sales or loan contracts, leases, credit card receivables and other categories of receivables. The Fund's investments in asset-backed securities may include derivative and structured securities.

The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities issued by special entities, such as trusts, that are backed by a pool of financial assets. The Fund may invest in collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), which include collateralized bond obligations ("CBOs"), collateralized loan obligations ("CLOs") and other similarly structured securities. A CDO is a trust backed by a pool of fixed income securities. The trust typically is split into two or more portions, called tranches, which vary in credit quality, yield, credit support and right to repayment of principal and interest. Lower tranches pay higher interest rates but represent lower degrees of credit quality and are more sensitive to the rate of defaults in the pool of obligations. Certain CDOs may use derivatives, such as credit default swaps, to create synthetic exposure to assets rather than holding such assets directly.

**Below-Investment-Grade Securities ("Junk Bonds")**

The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade or, if unrated, of equivalent quality as determined by the Adviser. A debt security is below investment grade if it is rated BB or lower by Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC or the equivalent rating by another nationally recognized statistical rating organization or determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. Below-investment-grade debt securities involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility and are less liquid, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher quality debt securities. Below-investment-grade securities also may be more difficult to value.

**Cash Management and Temporary Investments**

Normally, the Fund invests substantially all of its assets to meet its investment objective. The Fund may invest the remainder of its assets in money market funds, securities with remaining maturities of less than one year or cash equivalents, including overnight repurchase agreements, or may hold cash. For temporary defensive purposes, including during periods of unusual cash flows, the Fund may depart from its principal investment strategies and invest part or all of its assets in these securities or may hold cash. The Fund may adopt a defensive strategy when the Adviser believes securities in which the Fund normally invests have special or unusual risks or are less attractive due to adverse market, economic, political or other conditions. During such periods, it may be more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

**Credit Risk Transfer Securities** 

The Fund may invest in credit risk transfer securities ("CRTs"). CRTs are unguaranteed and unsecured debt securities that are commonly issued by a government sponsored entity ("GSE"). The Fund may also invest in CRTs that are issued by private entities, such as banks or other financial institutions. CRTs issued by private entities are structured similarly to those issued by a GSE and are generally subject to the same types of risks, including mortgage, credit, prepayment, liquidity, and valuation risks.

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Investments

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**Exchange-Traded Funds** 

The Fund may invest in ETFs, including affiliated ETFs. ETFs are typically open-end investment companies that are traded on a national securities exchange. ETFs typically incur fees, such as investment advisory fees and other operating expenses that are separate from those of the Fund, which will be indirectly paid by the Fund. As a result, the cost of investing in the Fund may be higher than the cost of investing directly in the underlying ETFs and may be higher than other ETFs or mutual funds that invest directly in stocks and bonds. Since ETFs are traded on an exchange at market prices that may vary from the NAV of their underlying investments, there may be times when ETFs trade at a premium or discount. In the case of affiliated ETFs, unless waived, the Adviser will earn fees both from the Fund and from the underlying ETF, with respect to assets of the Fund invested in the underlying ETF. The Fund is also subject to the risks associated with the securities in which the ETF invests.

**Floating Rate Obligations** 

The Fund may invest in securities with floating rates of interest which, under certain limited circumstances, may have varying principal amounts. Floating rate securities pay interest at rates that are adjusted periodically according to a specified formula, usually with reference to some interest rate index or market interest rate (the "underlying index"). The floating interest rate tends to decrease the security's price sensitivity to changes in interest rates. These types of securities are relatively long-term instruments that often carry demand features permitting the holder to demand payment of principal at any time or at specified intervals prior to maturity. Inverse floating rate securities ("Inverse Floaters") are debt instruments whose interest bears an inverse relationship to the interest rate on another security. A rise in the reference rate of an inverse floater will cause a drop in the interest rate paid by the inverse floater, while a drop in the reference rate of the inverse floater will cause an increase in the interest rate paid on the inverse floater. Inverse Floaters may exhibit greater price volatility than a fixed rate obligation with similar credit quality. Similar to floating rate obligations, effective use of inverse floaters requires skills different from those needed to select most portfolio securities.

**Illiquid Securities**

Up to 15% of the Fund's net assets may be invested in illiquid securities, which are securities that the Fund reasonable expects cannot 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 securities.

**Interest Rate Futures Contracts** 

Interest rate futures contracts, including futures contracts on U.S. Treasuries, Eurodollars and other futures contracts that provide interest rate exposure, are typically exchange-traded, are typically used to obtain interest rate exposure in order to manage duration and hedge interest rate risk. An interest rate futures contract is a bilateral agreement where one party agrees to accept and the other party agrees to make delivery of a specified security, as called for in the agreement at a specified date and at an agreed upon price. Generally, Treasury interest rate futures contracts are closed out or rolled over prior to their expiration date.

**Leverage** 

Leverage occurs when the Fund increases its assets available for investment using reverse repurchase agreements, when-issued, delayed delivery, forward commitment transactions, or other similar transactions. The Fund may use leverage for investment purposes by entering into reverse repurchase agreement transactions and using the cash made available from these transactions to make additional investments in fixed-income securities in accordance with the Fund's principal strategies. In addition, other investment techniques, such as certain derivative transactions, can create a leveraging effect.

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Investments

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**Mortgage-Backed Securities**

The Fund may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may be issued by private issuers, by government-sponsored entities, such as FNMA or FHLMC, or by agencies of the U.S. government, such as GNMA. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect participation in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. The Fund's investments in mortgage-related securities may include mortgage derivatives and structured securities.

The Fund may invest in collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"). A CMO is a mortgage-backed bond that is issued in multiple classes, each with a specified fixed or floating interest rate and a final scheduled distribution date. The holder of an interest in a CMO is entitled to receive specified cash flows from a pool of underlying mortgages or other mortgage-backed securities. Depending upon the class of CMO purchased, the holder may be entitled to payment before the cash flow from the pool is used to pay holders of other classes of the CMO or, alternatively, the holder may be paid only to the extent that there is cash remaining after the cash flow has been used to pay other classes. A subordinated interest may serve as a credit support for the senior securities purchased by other investors.

The Fund may invest in commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"). CMBS are subject to the risks generally associated with mortgage-backed securities. CMBS may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and are subject to risk of default on the underlying mortgages. CMBS issued by non-government entities may offer higher yields than those issued by government entities, but also may be subject to greater volatility than government issues. CMBS react differently to changes in interest rates than other bonds and the prices of CMBS may reflect adverse economic and market conditions. Small movements in interest rates (both increases and decreases) may quickly and significantly reduce the value of CMBS. The commercial mortgages underlying certain commercial mortgage-backed securities generally allow all or a substantial portion of the loan balance to be paid at maturity, commonly known as a balloon payment.

The Fund may invest in credit risk transfer securities. Credit risk transfer securities are a type of mortgage-related security that transfers the credit risk related to certain types of mortgage-backed securities to the owner of the credit risk transfer security. Credit risk transfer securities are commonly issued by government-sponsored enterprises ("GSEs"), such as FNMA or FHLMC, but may also be issued by private entities such as banks or other financial institutions. Credit risk transfer securities issued by GSEs are unguaranteed and unsecured fixed or floating rate general obligations and are typically issued at par and have stated final maturities. In addition, GSE-issued credit risk transfer securities are structured so that: (i) interest is paid directly by the issuing GSE; and (ii) principal is paid by the issuing GSE in accordance with the principal payments and default performance of a pool of residential mortgage loans acquired by the GSE. In this regard, holders of GSE credit risk transfer securities receive compensation for providing credit protection to the GSE and, when a specified level of losses on the underlying mortgage loans occurs, the principal balance and certain payments owed to the holders of such GSE credit risk transfer securities may be reduced.

In the event that a GSE fails to pay principal or interest on its credit risk transfer securities or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such credit risk transfer securities have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans and will generally receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders in such a scenario. The risks associated with an investment in credit risk transfer securities are different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by FNMA and FHLMC, or other GSE or issued by a private issuer, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in these securities could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default.

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Investments

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**Mortgage Dollar Rolls** 

Repurchase transactions in which the Fund may agree to sell a mortgage-backed security for settlement on one date and buy back the same security for settlement on a later date at a lower price.

**Options on Futures Contracts** 

An option on a futures contract gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell a futures contract at a specified price on or before a specified date. Futures contracts and options on futures are standardized and traded on designated exchanges.

**Options on Securities and Indices** 

The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on securities and indices. A put option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying security during the option period. A call option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying security at any time during the option period. The premium paid to the writer is the consideration for undertaking the obligations under the option contract.

A put option on an index gives the holder the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the underlying index is less than the exercise price of the option. A call option on an index gives the holder the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the underlying index is greater than the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option, expressed in dollars multiplied by a specified number. Thus, unlike options on individual securities, all settlements are in cash, and gain or loss depends on price movements in the particular market represented by the index generally, rather than the price movements in individual securities.

**Options on Swap Contracts** 

The Fund may enter into options on swap agreements, commonly referred to as "swaptions." A swaption is a contract that gives a purchaser the right, but not the obligation, to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel, or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement, at some designated future time on specified terms. Swaptions can be used for a variety of purposes, including to manage the Fund's overall exposure to changes in interest or foreign currency exchange rates and credit quality; as an efficient means of adjusting the Fund's exposure to certain markets; in an effort to enhance income or total return or protect the value of portfolio securities; to serve as a cash management tool; and to adjust portfolio duration or credit risk.

**Pass Through Securities** 

Pass-through securities (such as mortgage-and asset-backed securities) are debt securities that normally give the issuer an option to pay cash at a coupon payment date or give the holder of the security a similar bond with the same coupon rate and a face value equal to the amount of the coupon payment that would have been made. In the pass-through structure, principal and interest payments on the underlying securities (less servicing fees) are passed through to shareholders on a pro rata basis. These securities involve prepayment risk. In that case, the Fund may have to reinvest the proceeds from the securities at a lower rate. Potential market gains on a security subject to prepayment risk may be more limited than potential market gains on a comparable security that is not subject to prepayment risk.

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Investments

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**Portfolio Turnover** 

Portfolio turnover rates generally are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions. Changes may be made to the Fund's portfolio, consistent with the Fund's investment objective and policies, when portfolio management believes such changes are in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders. Short-term transactions may result from the purchase of a security in anticipation of relatively short-term gains, liquidity needs, securities having reached a price or yield objective, changes in interest rates or the credit standing of an issuer, or by reason of economic or other developments not foreseen at the time of the initial investment decision. The Fund also may sell one security and simultaneously purchase the same or a comparable security to take advantage of short-term differentials in bond yields or securities prices. Portfolio turnover is affected by market conditions, changes in the size of the Fund (including due to purchases and redemptions of Creation Units), the nature of the Fund's investments, and the investment style of portfolio management. Due to the nature of the securities in which it invests, the Fund may have relatively high portfolio turnover compared to other funds.

**Private Placements and Other Exempt Securities** 

Private placements are securities that are subject to legal and/or contractual restrictions on their sales. Private placements and other securities exempt from certain registration requirements may not be sold to the public unless certain conditions are met, which may include registration under the applicable securities laws. These securities may not be listed on an exchange and may have no active trading market. Investments in securities exempt from certain registration requirements may include securities issued through private offerings without registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") pursuant to Regulation S or Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Offerings of Regulation S securities may be conducted outside of the United States. Although Regulation S and Rule 144A securities may be resold in privately negotiated transactions, the amounts received from these sales could be less than those originally paid by the Fund.

**REITs and Real Estate-Related Securities** 

The Fund may invest in equity and debt securities of real estate-related companies. These securities may include common stocks, preferred stocks, and other securities, including, but not limited to, mortgage-backed securities, real estate-backed securities, securities of real estate investment trusts ("REITs") and similar REIT-like entities (such as real estate operation companies ("REOCs")). A REIT is an entity that invests in real estate-related projects, such as properties, mortgage loans, and construction loans. REITs are often categorized as equity REITs, mortgage REITs, and hybrid REITs. An equity REIT, the most common type of REIT, invests primarily in the fee ownership of land and buildings. An equity REIT derives its income primarily from rental income but may also realize capital gains or losses by selling real estate properties in its portfolio that have appreciated or depreciated in value. A mortgage REIT invests primarily in mortgages on real estate, which may secure construction, development, or long-term loans. A mortgage REIT generally derives its income from interest payments on the credit it has extended. A hybrid REIT combines the characteristics of equity REITs and mortgage REITs, generally by holding both ownership interests and mortgage interests in real estate.

Similar to REITs, REOCs are publicly traded real estate companies that typically engage in the development, management or financing of real estate, such as homebuilders, hotel management companies, land developers and brokers. REOCs, however, have not elected (or are not eligible) to be taxed as a REIT. The reasons for not making such an election include the (i) availability of tax-loss carry-forwards, (ii) operation in non-REIT-qualifying lines of business, and (iii) ability to retain earnings. Instead, REOCs are generally structured as "C" corporations under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and, as a result, are not required to distribute any portion of their income. In this regard, although REOCs do not receive the same favorable tax treatment that is accorded to

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Investments

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REITs, REOCs are typically subject to fewer restrictions than REITs, including the ability to retain and/or reinvest funds from operations and more flexibility in terms of the real estate investments they can make.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreements and Borrowing**

The Fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements pursuant to which the Fund transfers securities to a counterparty in return for cash, and the Fund agrees to repurchase the securities at a later date and for a higher price. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the other party may fail to return the securities in a timely manner or at all. The Fund could lose money if it is unable to recover the securities and the value of the collateral held by the Fund, including the value of the investments made with cash collateral, is less than the value of the securities. These events could also trigger adverse tax consequences for the Fund. Reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings by the Fund, are a form of leverage and may make the value of an investment in the Fund more volatile and increase the risks of investing in the Fund. The Fund also may borrow money from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes. The Fund may borrow up to 33 1∕3% of its total assets. Entering into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowing transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so in order to satisfy its obligations.

**Securities Lending**

To enhance the return on its portfolio, the Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and financial institutions to realize additional income under guidelines adopted by the Board. Each loan will be secured continuously by collateral in the form of cash, securities issued by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities.

**Short Positions** 

The Fund may invest in short positions for hedging purposes using interest rate futures, swaps, forward contracts, options and also through the short sale of portfolio securities, including ETFs. A short sale is generally a transaction in which the Fund sells a security it does not own or have the right to acquire (or that it owns but does not wish to deliver) in anticipation that the market price of that security will decline. To complete the transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund is then obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of replacement. A short sale is subject to the risk that if the price of the security sold short increases in value, the Fund will incur a loss because it will have to replace the security sold short by purchasing it at a higher price. In addition, the Fund may not always be able to close out a short position at a particular time or at an acceptable price. A lender may request, or market conditions may dictate, that the securities sold short be returned to the lender on short notice, and the Fund may have to buy the securities sold short at an unfavorable price. If this occurs at a time that other short sellers of the same security also want to close out their positions, it is more likely that the Fund will have to cover its short sale at an unfavorable price and potentially reduce or eliminate any gain, or cause a loss, as a result of the short sale. Because there is no upper limit to the price a borrowed security may reach prior to closing a short position, the Fund's losses are potentially unlimited in a short sale transaction. The Fund's gains and losses will also be decreased or increased, as the case may be, by the amount of any dividends, interest, or expenses, including transaction costs and borrowing fees, the Fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale. Such payments may result in the Fund having higher expenses than a fund that does not engage in short sales and may negatively affect the Fund's performance.

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Investments

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The Fund may enter into a derivatives transaction to obtain short investment exposure to an underlying reference asset. If the value of the underlying reference asset on which the Fund has obtained a short investment exposure increases, the Fund will incur a loss. This potential loss is theoretically unlimited. A short exposure through a derivative also exposes the Fund to credit risk, counterparty risk, and leverage risk.

**Swap Agreements** 

The Fund may utilize swap agreements such as credit default, interest rate, and total return swaps, as a means to hedge its portfolio against adverse movements in securities prices, the rate of inflation, or interest rates. Swap agreements are two-party contracts to exchange one set of cash flows for another. Swap agreements entail the risk that a party will default on its payment obligations to the Fund. If the other party to a swap defaults, the Fund would risk the loss of the net amount of the payments that it contractually is entitled to receive. If the Fund utilizes a swap at the wrong time or judges market conditions incorrectly, the swap may result in a loss to the Fund and reduce the Fund's total return.

*Index Credit Default Swaps.* The Fund may invest in index credit default swaps ("CDX"). A CDX is a swap on an index of credit default swaps. CDXs allow an investor to manage credit risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities (such as credit default swaps or a commercial mortgage-backed index) in a more efficient manner than transacting in a single-name credit default swap. If a credit event occurs in one of the underlying companies, the protection is paid out via the delivery of the defaulted bond by the buyer of protection in return for a payment of notional value of the defaulted bond by the seller of protection or it may be settled through a cash settlement between the two parties. The underlying company is then removed from the index. New series of CDXs are issued on a regular basis.

Commercial mortgage-backed securities index swaps ("CMBX") are a type of index credit default swap that are made up of tranches of commercial mortgage-backed securities rather than credit default swaps. CMBX involve a pay-as-you go settlement process designed to capture non-default events that affect the cash flow to the underlying mortgage-backed securities tranche.

*Interest Rate Swaps.* The Fund may enter into interest rate swaps, which involve the exchange by two parties of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest (*e.g.*, an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments). Interest rate swaps are generally entered into on a net basis. Interest rate swaps do not involve the delivery of securities, other underlying assets, or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with respect to interest rate swaps is limited to the net amount of interest payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to make.

**TBA Commitments** 

The Fund typically will enter into "to be announced" or "TBA" commitments. TBA commitments are forward agreements for the purchase or sale of securities, including mortgage-backed securities, for a fixed price, with payment and delivery on an agreed upon future settlement date. The specific securities to be delivered are not identified at the trade date. However, delivered securities must meet industry-accepted "good delivery" standards, which include specified terms, for issuer, rate, and mortgage terms. At the time the TBA commitment is made, the transaction is recorded and thereafter the value of such securities is reflected each day in determining the Fund's NAV. Because the Fund generally is not required to pay for the security until the settlement date, if the Fund remains substantially fully invested at a time when TBA commitment purchases are outstanding, the purchases may result in a form of leverage.

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Investments

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**U.S. Government Securities**

The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. U.S. government securities are obligations of, or guaranteed by, the U.S. government, its agencies or government-sponsored entities. U.S. government securities include obligations: directly issued by or supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, like Treasury bills, notes and bonds and Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") certificates; supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, like those of the Federal Home Loan Banks ("FHLBs"); supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase the agency's securities, like those of the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"); or supported only by the credit of the issuer itself, like the Tennessee Valley Authority. U.S. government securities include issues by non-governmental entities (like financial institutions) that carry direct guarantees from U.S. government agencies. U.S. government securities include zero coupon securities that make payments of interest and principal only upon maturity and which therefore tend to be subject to greater volatility than interest-bearing securities with comparable maturities.

Although the U.S. government guarantees principal and interest payments on securities issued by the U.S. government and some of its agencies, such as securities issued by GNMA, this guarantee does not apply to losses resulting from declines in the market value of these securities. Some of the U.S. government securities that the Fund may hold are not guaranteed or backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, such as those issued by FNMA and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC").

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Risk Factors

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***You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective.*** 

**Affiliated Underlying Fund Risk** — The Adviser may invest in certain affiliated ETFs as investments for the Fund. The Adviser will generally receive fees for managing such funds, in addition to the fees paid to the Adviser by the Fund. The payment of such fees by affiliated funds creates a conflict of interest when selecting affiliated funds for investment in the Fund. The Adviser, however, is a fiduciary to the Fund and its shareholders and is legally obligated to act in its best interest when selecting affiliated funds. In addition, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive and/or reimburse a portion of the Fund's management fee in an amount equal to the management fee it earns as an investment adviser to any of the affiliated ETFs with respect to the Fund's investment in such ETF, less certain operating expenses.

**Counterparty Risk** — Fund transactions involving a counterparty are subject to the risk that the counterparty or a third party will not fulfill its obligation to the Fund ("counterparty risk"). Counterparty risk may arise because of the counterparty's financial condition (i.e., financial difficulties, bankruptcy, or insolvency), market activities and developments, or other reasons, whether foreseen or not. A counterparty's inability to fulfill its obligation may result in significant financial loss to the Fund. The Fund may be unable to recover its investment from the counterparty or may obtain a limited recovery, and/or recovery may be delayed. The Fund may be exposed to counterparty risk to the extent it participates in lending its securities to third parties and/or cash sweep arrangements whereby the Fund's cash balance is invested in one or more types of cash management vehicles or in time deposits. In addition, the Fund may be exposed to counterparty risk through its investments in certain securities, including, but not limited to, repurchase agreements, debt securities, and derivatives (including various types of forwards, swaps, futures, and options). The Fund intends to enter into financial transactions with counterparties that the Adviser believes to be creditworthy at the time of the transaction. There is always the risk that the Adviser's analysis of a counterparty's creditworthiness is incorrect or may change due to market conditions. To the extent that the Fund focuses its transactions with a limited number of counterparties, it will have greater exposure to the risks associated with one or more counterparties.

**Credit Quality Risk** — The Fund is subject to the risks associated with the credit quality of the issuers of fixed-income securities. Credit quality measures the likelihood that the issuer or borrower will meet its obligations on a bond. One of the fundamental risks is credit risk, which is the risk that an issuer will be unable to make principal and interest payments when due, or default on its obligations. Higher credit risk may negatively impact the Fund's returns and yield.

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Many fixed-income securities receive credit ratings from services such as Standard & Poor's, Fitch, and Moody's. These services assign ratings to securities by assessing the likelihood of issuer default. The lower a bond issue is rated by an agency, the more credit risk it is considered to represent. Lower rated instruments and securities generally pay interest at a higher rate to compensate for the associated greater risk. Interest rates can fluctuate in response to economic or market conditions, which can result in a fluctuation in the price of a security and impact the Fund's return and yield. If a security has not received a rating, the Fund must rely upon the Adviser's credit assessment, which if incorrect can also impact the Fund's returns and yield.

**Credit Risk Transfer Securities Risk** — CRT securities are unguaranteed and unsecured debt securities commonly issued by a government sponsored entity. CRTs are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans so investors such as the Fund have no recourse to the underlying mortgage loans. The risks associated with CRTs are different from the risks associated with investments in mortgage-backed securities issued by government sponsored entities or private issuers because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors.

Additional risks associated with investments in CRTs may include valuation risk, mortgage credit risk, liquidity risk, and prepayment risk.

**Custodial Receipts Risk** — Custodial receipts are securities that evidence ownership of future interest payments and/or principal payments on a basket of securities which underlie the custodial receipts in connection with programs sponsored by banks and brokerage firms. Custodial receipts are held in custody by a bank on behalf of the owners of the custodial receipts. Investment in a custodial receipt is subject to the risks of the obligations underlying the custodial receipt, including but not limited to credit risk and market risk. In addition, custodial receipts may be less liquid than other investments and therefore harder to dispose of at the desired time and price.

**Cybersecurity Risk** — Cybersecurity failures by and breaches of the Adviser, transfer agent, the Distributor, custodian, Fund accounting agent or other service providers may disrupt Fund operations, interfere with the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, prevent Fund shareholders from purchasing, redeeming or exchanging shares or receiving distributions or receiving timely information regarding the Fund or their investment in the Fund, cause loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information, and result in financial losses to the Fund and its shareholders, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Substantial costs may be incurred in order to prevent any cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result. New ways to carry out cyber attacks continue to develop. Therefore, there is a chance that some risks have not been identified or prepared for, or that an attack may not be detected, which puts limitations on the Fund's ability to plan for or respond to a cyber attack.

**Derivatives Risks** — Derivatives can be volatile and involve similar risks to those as the underlying referenced securities or assets. Gains or losses from a derivative investment can be substantially greater than the derivative's original cost, and can therefore involve leverage. Leverage may cause the Fund to be more volatile than if it had not used leverage because leverage can exaggerate the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of securities and other instruments held by the Fund.

The Fund may use futures, options, swap agreements (such as interest rate, credit default, and total return swaps), and other derivative instruments individually or in combination to "hedge" or protect its portfolio from adverse movements in securities prices and interest rates. There is no guarantee that portfolio management's use of derivative investments will benefit the Fund. The Fund's performance could be worse than if the Fund had not used such instruments. Use of such investments may instead increase risk to the Fund, rather than reduce risk. Derivatives can be complex instruments and may involve analysis that differs from that required for other investment types used by the Fund. If the value of a derivative does not correlate well with the particular market or other asset class to which the derivative is intended to provide exposure, the derivative may not produce the anticipated result.

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Derivatives can also reduce the opportunity for gain or result in losses by offsetting positive returns in other investments. Derivatives entail the risk that the counterparty will default on its payment obligations. If the counterparty to a derivative transaction defaults, the Fund would risk the loss of the net amount of the payments that it contractually is entitled to receive. To the extent the Fund enters into short derivative positions, the Fund may be exposed to risks similar to those associated with short sales.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — The Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — The Fund's underlying securities may trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

**Fixed-Income Securities Risk** — Typically, the values of fixed-income securities change inversely with prevailing interest rates. Therefore, a fundamental risk of fixed-income securities is interest rate risk, which is the risk that the value of such securities will generally decline as prevailing interest rates

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rise, which may cause the Fund's NAV to likewise decrease. How specific fixed-income securities may react to changes in interest rates will depend on the specific characteristics of each security.

For example, while securities with longer maturities and durations tend to produce higher yields, they also tend to be more sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates and are therefore more volatile than shorter-term securities and are subject to greater market fluctuations as a result of changes in interest rates. However, calculations of maturity and duration may be based on estimates and may not reliably predict a security's price sensitivity to changes in interest rates. In addition, different interest rate measures (such as short- and long-term interest rates and U.S. and non-U.S. interest rates), or interest rates on different types of securities or securities of different issuers, may not necessarily change in the same amount or in the same direction. Investments in fixed-income securities with very low or negative interest rates may diminish the Fund's yield and performance.

Fixed-income securities are also subject to credit risk, which is the risk that the credit strength of an issuer of a fixed-income security will weaken and/or that the issuer will be unable to make timely principal and interest payments and that the security may go into default. In addition, there is prepayment risk, which is the risk that during periods of falling interest rates, certain debt obligations may be paid off quicker than originally anticipated, which may cause the Fund to reinvest its assets in securities with lower yields, resulting in a decline in the Fund's income or return potential. Fixed-income securities may also be subject to valuation risk and liquidity risk. Valuation risk is the risk that one or more of the fixed-income securities in which the Fund invests are priced differently than the value realized upon such security's sale. In times of market instability, valuation may be more difficult. Valuation may also be affected by changes in the issuer's financial strength, the market's perception of such strength, or in the credit rating of the issuer of the security. Liquidity risk is the risk that fixed-income securities may be difficult or impossible to sell at the time that portfolio management would like or at the price portfolio management believes the security is currently worth. Consequently, the Fund may have to accept a lower price to sell a security, sell other securities to raise cash, or give an investment opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on the Fund's performance. In unusual market conditions, even normally liquid securities may be affected by a degree of liquidity risk. To the extent the Fund invests in fixed-income securities in a particular industry or economic sector, its share values may fluctuate in response to events affecting that industry or sector. Securities underlying mortgage- and asset-backed securities, which may include subprime mortgages, also may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk, valuation risk, and liquidity risk. To the extent that the Fund invests in derivatives tied to fixed-income securities, the Fund may be more substantially exposed to these risks than a fund that does not invest in such derivatives. The market for certain fixed-income securities may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Similarly, the amount of assets deemed illiquid remaining within the Fund may also increase, making it more difficult to meet shareholder redemptions and further adversely affecting the value of the Fund.

**Floating Rate Obligations Risk** — The Fund may invest in floating rate obligations with interest rates that reset regularly, maintaining a fixed spread over a stated reference rate. The interest rates on floating rate obligations typically reset quarterly, although rates on some obligations may adjust at other intervals. Unexpected changes in the interest rates on floating rate obligations could result in lower income to the Fund. In addition, the secondary market on which floating rate obligations are traded may be less liquid than the market for investment grade securities or other types of income-producing securities, which may have an adverse impact on their market price. There is also a potential that there is no active market to trade floating rate obligations, that there may be restrictions on their transfer, or that the issuer may default. As a result, the Fund may be unable to sell floating rate obligations at the desired time or may be able to sell only at a price less than fair market value. In addition, if movements in interest rates are incorrectly anticipated, the Fund could lose money, or its NAV could decline by the use of Inverse Floaters.

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**High-Yield Bond Risk** — High-yield bonds (or "junk" bonds) are bonds rated below investment grade by the primary rating agencies such as Standard & Poor's, Fitch, and Moody's or are unrated bonds of similar quality. The value of lower quality bonds generally is more dependent on credit risk than investment grade bonds. Issuers of high-yield bonds may not be as strong financially as those issuing bonds with higher credit ratings and are more vulnerable to real or perceived economic changes, political changes, or adverse developments specific to the issuer. In addition, the junk bond market can experience sudden and sharp price swings.

The secondary market on which high-yield securities are traded is less liquid than the market for investment grade securities. The lack of a liquid secondary market may have an adverse impact on the market price of the security. Additionally, it may be more difficult to value the securities because valuation may require more research, and elements of judgment may play a larger role in the valuation because there is less reliable, objective data available.

**Index Credit Default Swaps Risk** — If the Fund holds a long position in a CDX, the Fund would indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX. By investing in CDXs, the Fund could be exposed to illiquidity risk, counterparty risk, and credit risk of the issuers of the underlying loan obligations and of the CDX markets. If there is a default by the CDX counterparty, the Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. CDXs also bear the risk that the Fund will not be able to meet its obligation to the counterparty.

**Inflation Risk** — Inflation creates uncertainty over the future real value of an investment (the value after adjusting for inflation). The real value of certain assets or real income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund's assets and distributions may decline. This risk is more prevalent with respect to debt securities held by the Fund. Inflation rates may change frequently and drastically as a result of various factors, including unexpected shifts in the domestic or global economy. Moreover, the Fund's investments may not keep pace with inflation, which may result in losses to Fund shareholders or adversely affect the real value of shareholders' investment in the Fund. Fund shareholders' expectation of future inflation can also impact the current value of the Fund's portfolio, resulting in lower asset values and potential losses. This risk may be elevated compared to historical market conditions because of recent monetary policy measures and the current interest rate environment.

**Interest Rate Risk** — Generally, a fixed-income security will increase in value when prevailing interest rates fall and decrease in value when prevailing interest rates rise. Longer-term securities are generally more sensitive to interest rate changes than shorter-term securities, but they generally offer higher yields to compensate investors for the associated risks. High-yield bond prices and floating rate debt security prices are generally less directly responsive to interest rate changes than investment grade issues or comparable fixed rate securities, and may not always follow this pattern. An increase in interest rates may cause the value of fixed-income securities held by a Fund to decline. A Fund may be subject to a greater risk of rising interest rates due to inflationary trends and the effect of government fiscal and monetary policy initiatives and resulting market reaction to those initiatives. Variable and floating rate securities may increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a lesser degree than fixed-income securities.

**Interest Rate Futures Risk** — The Fund's investments in interest rate futures entail the risk that the Fund's portfolio management's prediction of the direction of interest rates is wrong, and the Fund could incur a loss. In addition, due to the possibility of price distortions in the interest rate futures market, a correct forecast of general interest rate trends by portfolio management may not result in the successful use of interest rate futures.

**Interest Rate Swaps Risk** — The Fund's use of interest rate swaps involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions. Interest rate swaps may result in potential losses if interest rates do not move as expected or if the counterparties are unable to satisfy their obligations.

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Risk Factors

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**Large Shareholder Risk** — Certain large shareholders, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's shares. The actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder is permitted to invest in the Fund, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

**Leverage Risk** — Engaging in transactions using leverage or those having a leveraging effect subjects the Fund to certain risks. These risks may be heightened if the Fund invests all, or a significant portion of its assets in futures, forwards, swaps, and other types of derivatives. Leverage can magnify the effect of any gains or losses, causing the Fund to be more volatile than if it had not been leveraged. Through the use of leverage, the Fund's total investment exposure could exceed the value of its portfolio securities and its investment performance could be dependent on securities not directly owned by the Fund. In addition, the Fund's assets that are used as collateral to secure short sale transactions may decrease in value while the short positions are outstanding, which may force the Fund to use its other, additional assets to meet its collateral requirements.

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is new with limited to no history of operations for investors to evaluate. Investors in the Fund bear the risk that the Fund may not be successful in implementing its investment strategies, may be unable to implement certain of its investment strategies or may fail to attract sufficient assets, any of which could result in the Fund being liquidated and terminated at any time without shareholder approval and at a time that may not be favorable for all shareholders. Such a liquidation could have negative tax consequences for shareholders and may cause shareholders to incur expenses of liquidation.

**Liquidity Risk** — The Fund may invest in securities or instruments that do not trade actively or in large volumes, and may make investments that are less liquid than other investments. Also, the Fund may make investments that may become less liquid in response to market developments or adverse investor perceptions. Investments that are illiquid or that trade in lower volumes may be more difficult to value. When there is no willing buyer and investments cannot be readily sold at the desired time or price, the Fund may have to accept a lower price or may not be able to sell the security or instrument at all. Investments in foreign securities, particularly those of issuers located in emerging market countries, tend to have greater exposure to liquidity risk than domestic securities. In unusual market conditions, even normally liquid securities may be affected by a degree of liquidity risk (i.e., if the number and capacity of traditional market participants is reduced). An inability to sell one or more portfolio positions can adversely affect the Fund's value or prevent the Fund from being able to take advantage of other investment opportunities. Liquidity risk may be increased to the extent that the Fund invests in other securities exempt from certain registration requirements that are deemed to be illiquid investments.

**Market Risk** — The value of the Fund's portfolio may decrease if the value of one or more issuers in the Fund's portfolio decreases. Further, regardless of how well individual companies or securities perform, the value of the Fund's portfolio could also decrease if there are deteriorating economic or market conditions, including, but not limited to, a decline in commodities prices, or if the market favors different types of securities than the types of securities in which the Fund invests. If the value of the Fund's portfolio decreases, the Fund's NAV will also decrease, which means if you sell your shares in the Fund you may lose money. Market risk may affect a single issuer, industry, economic sector, or the market as a whole. The increasing interconnectivity between global economies and financial

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Risk Factors

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markets increases the likelihood that events or conditions in one region or financial market may adversely impact issuers in a different country, region or financial market. Social, political, economic and other conditions and events, such as natural disasters, health emergencies (e.g., epidemics and pandemics), terrorism, war, conflicts, including related sanctions, social unrest, financial institution failures, and economic recessions could reduce consumer demand or economic output, result in market closures, travel restrictions and/or quarantines, and generally have a significant impact on the global economies and financial markets.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Armed Conflict Risk** — Recent such examples include conflict, loss of life, and a disaster connected to ongoing armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine in Europe and Hamas and Israel in the Middle East. The extent and duration of each conflict, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in each region are impossible to predict, but could be significant and have a severe adverse effect, including significant negative impacts on the United States and broader global economy and the markets for certain securities and commodities.

**Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions Risk** — The benefits to the Fund from mortgage dollar roll transactions depend upon the Adviser's ability to forecast mortgage prepayment patterns on different mortgage pools. The Fund may lose money if, during the period between the time it agrees to the forward purchase of the mortgage securities and the settlement date, these securities decline in value due to market conditions or prepayments on the underlying mortgages.

**Mortgage- and Asset-Backed Securities Risk** — Rising interest rates tend to extend the duration of, or reduce the rate of prepayments on, both commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS") and residential mortgage-backed securities ("RMBS"), making them more sensitive to changes in interest rates ("extension risk"). As a result, in a period of rising interest rates, the price of mortgage-backed securities may fall, causing the Fund to exhibit additional volatility. Mortgage-backed securities are also subject to prepayment risk. When interest rates decline, borrowers may pay off their mortgages sooner than expected. This can reduce the Fund's returns because the Fund will have to reinvest that money at lower prevailing interest rates. Investments in certain mortgage-backed securities, including those comprised of subprime mortgages, may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk, valuation risk, and liquidity risk than various other types of fixed-income securities. Additionally, although mortgage-backed securities are generally supported by some form of government or private guarantee and/or insurance, there is no assurance that guarantors or insurers will meet their obligations.

CMBS are subject to certain other risks. The market for CMBS developed more recently than that for RMBS and is relatively small in terms of outstanding principal amount of issues compared to the RMBS market. CMBS are also subject to risks associated with a lack of standardized terms, shorter maturities than residential mortgage loans, and payment of all or substantially all of the principal at maturity, rather than regular amortization of principal. Moreover, the type and use of a particular commercial property may add to the risk of CMBS investments. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances are more likely to have an adverse impact on mortgage-backed securities secured by loans on commercial properties than on those secured by residential properties.

Similarly, the value of the Fund's investments in asset-backed securities may be adversely affected by changes in interest rates, factors concerning the interests in and structure of the issuer or originator of the receivables, the creditworthiness of the entities that provide any supporting letters of credit, surety bonds, or other credit or liquidity enhancements, and/or the market's assessment of the quality of the underlying assets. Generally, the originating bank or credit provider is neither the obligor nor the guarantor of the security, and interest and principal payments ultimately depend upon payment of the underlying loans by individuals. The Fund could incur a loss if the underlying loans are not paid. In addition, most asset-backed securities are subject to prepayment risk in a declining interest rate environment. The impact of prepayments on the value of asset-backed securities may be difficult to

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Risk Factors

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predict and may result in greater volatility. Rising interest rates tend to extend the duration of asset-backed securities, making them more volatile and sensitive to changing interest rates.

**Risks of Instruments that Allow for Balloon Payments or Negative Amortization Payments** — Certain debt instruments allow for balloon payments or negative amortization payments. Such instruments permit the borrower to avoid paying currently a portion of the interest accruing on the instrument. In the case of negative amortization payments, the amount of unpaid interest is added to the remaining principal amount due at maturity. While these features make the debt instrument more affordable to the borrower in the near term, they increase the risk that the borrower will be unable to make the resulting higher payment or payments that become due at the maturity of the loan.

**Newly Issued Securities Risk** — The credit obligations in which the Fund invests may include newly issued securities, or "new issues," such as initial debt offerings. New issues may have a magnified impact on the performance of the Fund during periods in which it has a small asset base. The impact of new issues on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's returns. New issues may not be consistently available to the Fund for investing, particularly as the Fund's asset base grows. Certain new issues, such as initial debt offerings, may be volatile in price due to the absence of a prior trading market, limited quantities available for trading and limited information about the issuer. The Fund may hold new issues for a short period of time. This may increase the Fund's portfolio turnover and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. In addition, new issues can experience an immediate drop in value after issuance if the demand for the securities does not continue to support the offering price.

**Operational Risk** — An investment in the Fund can involve operational risks arising from factors such as processing errors, human errors, inadequate or failed internal or external processes, failures in systems and technology, changes in key personnel, technology and/or service providers, and errors caused by third party service providers. Among other things, these errors or failures, as well as other technological issues, may adversely affect the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, process fund orders, execute portfolio trades or perform other essential tasks in a timely manner, including over a potentially extended period of time. These errors or failures may also result in a loss or compromise of information, regulatory scrutiny, reputational damage or other events, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Fund. Implementation of business continuity plans by the Fund, the Adviser or third-party service providers in response to disruptive events such as cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, natural disasters, epidemics and pandemics, terrorism, conflicts and social unrest may increase these operational risks to the Fund. While the Fund seeks to minimize such events through internal controls and oversight of third-party service providers, there is no guarantee that the Fund will not suffer losses if such events occur.

**Options on Futures Contracts Risk** — The amount of risk that the Fund assumes when it purchases an option on a futures contract is the premium paid for the option, plus related transaction costs. In order to profit from an option purchased, it may be necessary to exercise the option and to liquidate the underlying futures contract subject to the risks of the availability of a liquid offset market. The seller of an option on a futures contract is subject to the risks of commodity futures trading, including the requirement of initial and variation margin payments, as well as the additional risk that movements in the price of the option may not correlate with movements in the price underlying security, index, currency, or futures contracts.

**Options on Securities Indices Risk** — Options on indices may, depending on circumstances, involve greater risk than options on securities. Because index options are settled in cash, when the Fund writes a call on an index it may not be able to provide in advance for its potential settlement obligations by acquiring and holding the underlying securities. If the Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options it has written, the Fund will not be able to sell the underlying securities or dispose of assets held in a segregated account until the options expire or

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are exercised. Similarly, if the Fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it will have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities.

**Options on Swap Contracts Risk** — Because the use of options on swap contracts, or "swaptions," generally does not involve the delivery of securities or other underlying assets or principal, the risk of loss with respect to swaptions generally is limited to the net amount of payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to make. There is also a risk of a default by the other party to a swaption, in which case the Fund may not receive the net amount of payments that it contractually is entitled to receive. Entering into a swaption contract involves, to varying degrees, the elements of credit, market, and interest rate risk, associated with both option contracts and swap contracts.

**Portfolio Management Risk** — The Fund is an actively managed investment portfolio and is therefore subject to the risk that the investment strategies and research process employed for the Fund may fail to produce the intended results. Although the Fund seeks to provide long-term positive returns, market conditions or implementation of the Fund's investment process may result in losses, and the Fund may not meet its investment objective. As such, there can be no assurance of positive "absolute" return. The Fund may underperform its benchmark index or other funds with similar investment objectives.

**Private Placements and Other Exempt Securities Risk** — Investments in private placements and other securities exempt from certain registration requirements could decrease the Fund's liquidity profile or prevent the Fund from disposing of them promptly at advantageous prices. Private placements and other securities exempt from certain registration requirements may be less liquid than other investments because such securities may not always be readily sold in broad public markets and may have no active trading market. As a result, they may be difficult to value because market quotations may not be readily available. Transaction costs may be higher for these securities, and the Fund may get only limited information about the issuer of a private placement or other securities exempt from certain registration requirements.

**REIT Risk** — To the extent that the Fund holds REITs and REIT-like entities, it may be subject to the additional risks associated with REITs and REIT-like investments. REITs and REIT-like entities are subject to heavy cash flow dependency to allow them to make distributions to their shareholders. The prices of equity REITs are affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, changes in capital markets and interest rates, management skill in running a REIT, and the creditworthiness of the REIT. The prices of mortgage REITs are affected by the quality of any credit they extend, the creditworthiness of the mortgages they hold, as well as by the value of the property that secures the mortgages. In addition, mortgage REITs (similar to direct investments in mortgage-backed securities) are subject to prepayment risk. Equity REITs and mortgage REITs are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, and self-liquidation. There is also the risk that borrowers under mortgages held by a REIT or lessees of a property that a REIT owns may be unable to meet their obligations to the REIT. In the event of a default by a borrower or lessee, the REIT may incur substantial costs associated with protecting its investments. While equity REITs and mortgage REITs may provide exposure to a large number of properties, such properties may be concentrated in a particular industry, region, or housing type, making such investments more vulnerable to unfavorable developments to economic or market events. Certain "special purpose" REITs in which the Fund may invest focus their assets in specific real property sectors, such as hotels, shopping malls, nursing homes, or warehouses, and are therefore subject to the specific risks associated with adverse developments in these sectors. The Fund's shareholders will indirectly bear their proportionate share of the REIT's expenses, in addition to their proportionate share of the Fund's expenses. The value of investments in REOCs will generally be affected by the same factors that adversely affect REIT investments; however, REOCs may also be adversely affected by income streams derived from businesses other than real estate ownership.

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Risk Factors

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Additionally, a REIT that fails to comply with federal tax requirements affecting REITs may be subject to federal income taxation, or the federal tax requirement that a REIT distribute substantially all of its net income to its shareholders may result in a REIT having insufficient capital for future expenditures. REITs are also subject to certain provisions under federal tax law and the failure of a company to qualify as a REIT could have adverse consequences for the Fund, including significantly reducing the return to the Fund on its investment in such company.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreement Risk** — Reverse repurchase agreements are transactions in which the Fund sells a security and simultaneously commits to repurchase that security from the buyer, such as a bank or broker-dealer, at an agreed upon price on an agreed upon future date. The repurchase price consists of the sale price plus an incremental amount reflecting the interest cost to the Fund on the proceeds it has received from the initial sale. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the value of securities that the Fund is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. Additionally, such transactions are only advantageous if the interest cost to the Fund of the reverse repurchase transaction is less than the cost of obtaining the cash otherwise. Interest costs on the proceeds received in a reverse repurchase agreement may exceed the return received on the investments made by the Fund with those proceeds, resulting in reduced returns to shareholders. When the Fund enters into a reverse repurchase agreement, it is subject to the risk that the buyer (counterparty) may default on its obligations to the Fund. In the event of such a default, the Fund may experience delays, costs, and losses, all of which may reduce returns to shareholders. Investing reverse repurchase proceeds may also have a leveraging effect on the Fund's portfolio. The Fund's use of leverage can magnify the effect of any gains or losses, causing the Fund to be more volatile than if it had not been leveraged. There is no assurance that any leveraging strategy used by the Fund will be successful.

**Secondary Market Trading Risk** — The net asset value of the Fund's shares will generally fluctuate with changes in the market value of the Fund's securities holdings. However, the Fund's shares trade on a national securities exchange at prices above or below their most recent net asset value. The "market price" for a share of the Fund fluctuates continuously throughout the national securities exchange's trading day and is based on supply and demand for the Fund's shares. The market price of the Fund's shares may not track the Fund's net asset value, which is only calculated at the end of each business day.

A potential investor in the Fund will likely also incur the cost of the "spread" (the difference between the bid price and the ask price for a share of the Fund). The spread varies over time for a share of the Fund. This cost is generally smaller for a fund with significant daily trading volumes and larger for funds with smaller daily trading volumes.

Additionally, during a "flash crash," the market price of the Fund's shares may decline suddenly and significantly, resulting in the Fund's shares trading at a substantial discount to its net asset value. Such a decline may not reflect the performance of the Fund's securities holdings. Flash crashes may also cause APs and other market makers to limit or cease trading in Fund shares, which may result in a further increase in the variance between market prices of the Fund's shares and their net asset value. Shareholders could suffer significant losses to the extent that they sell Fund shares during a flash crash.

**Structured Note Risk** — 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. 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

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indicator. Therefore, the value of such notes 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, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities and instruments or more traditional debt securities.

**Subordinated Securities Risks** — A holder of securities that are subordinated or "junior" to more senior securities of an issuer is entitled to payment after holders of more senior securities of the issuer. Subordinated securities are more likely to suffer a credit loss than non-subordinated securities of the same issuer, any loss incurred by the subordinated securities is likely to be proportionately greater, and any recovery of interest or principal may take more time. As a result, even a perceived decline in creditworthiness of the issuer is likely to have a greater impact on subordinated securities than more senior securities.

**Sub-Prime Mortgage-Related Securities Risk** — Sub-prime mortgage-related securities are backed by mortgage loans made to borrowers with lower credit quality and, as a result, are subject to a greater risk of default on interest and principal payments than securities backed by prime mortgage loans. The risk of non-payment is more pronounced for sub-prime mortgages than for higher quality mortgage loans or other highly rated securities. Because of the increased risk of default and loss, sub-prime mortgage-related securities may be more volatile, less liquid, and subject to greater declines in value than higher rated mortgage-related securities, particularly during periods of economic downturn or market stress.

**TBA Commitments Risk** — The Fund will typically enter into "to be announced" or "TBA" commitments for mortgage-backed securities and, at times, the portion of the Fund's portfolio allocated to TBA securities may be significant. Although TBA securities must meet industry-accepted "good delivery" standards, there can be no assurance that a security purchased on a forward commitment basis will ultimately be issued or delivered by the counterparty. During the settlement period, the Fund will still bear the risk of any decline in the value of the security to be delivered. Because TBA commitments do not require the purchase and sale of identical securities, the characteristics of the security delivered to the Fund may be less favorable than the security delivered to the dealer. If the counterparty to a transaction fails to deliver the securities, the Fund could suffer a loss. At the time of its acquisition, a TBA security may be valued at less than the purchase price. When the Fund sells a TBA security prior to settlement, it does not participate in future gains or losses with respect to the security. The Fund is generally not required to pay for the TBA security until the settlement date and, as a result, if the Fund remains substantially fully invested at a time when TBA commitment purchases are outstanding, the purchases may result in a form of leverage.

**Treasury Futures Contracts Risk** — While transactions in Treasury futures contracts may reduce certain risks, unanticipated changes in interest rates or securities prices may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not entered into any Treasury futures contracts. To the extent the Fund uses Treasury futures contracts, it is exposed to additional volatility and potential losses resulting from leverage. Losses (or gains) involving Treasury futures contracts can sometimes be substantial – in part because a relatively small price movement in a Treasury futures contract may result in an immediate and substantial loss (or gain) for the Fund.

***To learn more about the Fund's investments and risks, you should obtain and read the SAI. Please note that there are many other factors that could adversely affect your investment and that could prevent the Fund from achieving its goals.***

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Organization and Management of the Fund

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The Fund's Board has the overall responsibility for overseeing the management of the Fund.

**The Investment Adviser**

The Adviser serves as the investment adviser to each of the Victory Funds pursuant to an investment advisory agreement and oversees the operations of the Fund according to investment policies and procedures adopted by the Board. The Adviser is a New York corporation that is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). As of March 31, 2026, the Adviser managed and advised assets totaling in excess of $[ ] billion for individual and institutional clients. The Adviser's principal address is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256.

A discussion regarding the basis of the Board's approval of the Fund's Advisory Agreement will be available in the Fund's Form N-CSR filing for the year ended June 30, 2026.

The Adviser is a diversified global asset manager comprised of multiple investment teams, referred to as investment franchises, each of which employs an independent approach to investing. Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise, is responsible for the day-to-day investment management of the Fund.

Advisory fees to be paid annually, before waivers, will be equal to the following:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund**  | **Advisory Fee**  |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed Securities ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0.15% |

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See "Fund Fees and Expenses" for information about any contractual agreement by the Adviser to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses with respect to the Fund. From time to time, the Adviser also may voluntarily waive fees and/or reimburse expenses in amounts exceeding those required to be waived or reimbursed under any contractual agreement that may be in place with respect to the Fund.

**Portfolio Management**

Day-to-day management of the Fund is the responsibility of co-managers Tyler Patla and Robert W. Aufdenspring, CFA.

Mr. Patla, Senior Vice President, Deputy Director of Core Fixed Income and Head of Agency Mortgages at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser and the predecessor investment adviser in 2019 and leads the Agency Mortgage team that manages agency mortgages held across domestic and global multi-sector portfolios. Mr. Patla has managed the Fund since [June] 2026.

Mr. Aufdenspring, Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager, and member of the Agency Mortgages team at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser and the predecessor investment adviser in 2019. In this role, he is responsible for managing mortgage and short duration strategies. He holds a Master of Science in Computational Finance from Carnegie Mellon University. Rob holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he graduated with highest honors. He is a CFA<sup>®</sup> charterholder. He has managed the Fund since [June] 2026.

*The Fund's SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' method of compensation, other accounts they manage, and any ownership interests they may have in the Fund.*

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Investing with Victory

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Share Price

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The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund generally is determined at 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on each day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. In the event of an emergency or other disruption in trading on the NYSE, the Fund's NAV will be determined based upon the close of the NYSE. The NAV is computed by determining the aggregate market value of all assets of the Fund, less its liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| NAV= | Total Assets - Liabilities |
| NAV= | Number of Shares Outstanding |

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The NAV takes into account the expenses and fees of the Fund, including management, administration, and distribution fees (if any), which are accrued daily. The determination of NAV for the Fund for a particular day is applicable to all applications for the purchase of shares, as well as all requests for the redemption of shares, received by the Fund (or an authorized broker or agent, or its authorized designee) before the close of trading on the NYSE on that day. The NYSE is closed on weekends, most national holidays, and Good Friday.

Generally, the Fund's investments are valued each day at the last quoted sales price on each investment's primary exchange. Investments traded or dealt in upon one or more exchanges (whether domestic or foreign) for which market quotations are readily available and not subject to restrictions against resale shall be valued at the last quoted sales price on the primary exchange or, in the absence of a sale on the primary exchange, at the last bid on the primary exchange. Securities primarily traded in the National Association of Securities Dealers' Automated Quotation System ("Nasdaq") National Market System for which market quotations are readily available shall be valued using the Nasdaq Official Closing Price. If market quotations are not readily available, investments will be valued at their fair market value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with procedures approved by the Board and evaluated by the Board as to the reliability of the fair value method used. In these cases, the Fund's NAV will reflect certain portfolio investments' fair value rather than their market price. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for an investment is materially different than the value that could be realized upon the sale of that investment. The fair value prices can differ from market prices when they become available or when a price becomes available.

The Fund may use independent pricing services to assist in calculating the value of the Fund's securities or other assets. In addition, market prices for foreign securities are not determined at the same time of day as the NAV for the Fund. In computing the NAV, the Fund values foreign securities held by the Fund at the latest closing price on the exchange in which they are traded immediately prior to closing of the NYSE. Prices of foreign securities quoted in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at current rates. The value of the Fund's securities may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase and redeem the Fund's shares if the Fund has portfolio securities that primarily are traded in foreign markets that are open on weekends or other days when the Fund does not price its shares. If events materially affecting the value of a security in the Fund's portfolio, particularly foreign securities, occur after the close of trading on a foreign market but before the Fund prices its shares, the security will be valued at fair value. For example, if trading in a portfolio security is halted and does not resume before the Fund calculates its NAV, the Adviser may need to price the security using the Fund's fair value pricing guidelines. Without a fair value price, short-term traders could take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity and dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Fair valuation of the Fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of the Fund's NAV by short-term traders. The determination of fair value involves subjective

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judgments. As a result, using fair value to price a security may result in a price materially different from the prices used by other funds to determine NAV, or from the price that may be realized upon the actual sale of the security.

With respect to any portion of the Fund's assets that are invested in one or more open-end management investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act"), the Fund's NAV is calculated based upon the NAVs of those open-end management investment companies, and the prospectuses for these companies explain the circumstances under which those companies will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.

Short-term debt obligations with remaining maturities in excess of 60 days are valued at current market prices, as discussed above. Short-term debt obligations with 60 days or less remaining to maturity are, unless conditions indicate otherwise, amortized to maturity based on their cost to the Fund if acquired within 60 days of maturity or, if already held by the Fund on the 60th day, based on the value determined on the 61st day.

**Premium/Discount Information**

Since investors will buy and sell shares of the Fund in secondary market transactions through brokers at market prices, the Fund's shares will trade at market prices. The market price of shares may be greater than, equal to, or less than NAV. Market forces of supply and demand, economic conditions and other factors may affect the trading prices of shares of the Fund.

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads visit vcm.com.

**33**

------

How to Buy and Sell Shares

------

Shares of the Fund will be listed for trading on the Exchange under the ticker symbol listed on the cover of this Prospectus. Share prices are reported in dollars and cents per share. Shares can be bought and sold on the secondary market throughout the trading day like other publicly traded shares, and shares typically trade in blocks of less than a Creation Unit. There is no minimum investment required. Shares may only be purchased and sold on the secondary market when the Exchange is open for trading.

When buying or selling shares through a broker, you will incur customary brokerage commissions and charges. The commission is often a fixed amount and may be a significant proportional cost for investors seeking to buy or sell smaller amounts of shares. You may also pay some or all of the spread between the bid and the offered price in the secondary market on each leg of a round trip (purchase and sale) transaction. The spread varies over time for shares of the Fund based on the Fund's trading volume and market liquidity, and is generally lower if the Fund's shares have more trading volume and market liquidity and higher if the Fund's shares have little trading volume and market liquidity.

Only an Authorized Participant ("AP") may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the Fund. The Fund's APs are institutions and large investors, such as market makers or other large broker-dealers, which have entered into a Participation Agreement with the Fund's distributor to undertake the responsibility of obtaining or selling the underlying assets needed to purchase or redeem, respectively, Creation Units of the Fund. APs may acquire shares directly from the Fund, and APs may tender their shares for redemption directly to the Fund, at NAV per share only in large blocks, or Creation Units, of 25,000 shares. Purchases and redemptions directly with the Fund must follow the Fund's procedures, which are described in the SAI.

The Fund may liquidate and terminate at any time without shareholder approval.

**Share Trading Prices**

The trading prices of the Fund's shares in the secondary market generally differ from the Fund's daily NAV and are affected by market forces such as the supply of and demand for shares and shares of underlying investments held by the Fund, economic conditions, and other factors.

**Book Entry**

Shares are held in book entry form, which means that no stock certificates are issued. The Depository Trust Company ("DTC") or its nominee is the record owner of all outstanding shares of the Fund and is recognized as the owner of all shares for all purposes.

Investors owning shares are beneficial owners as shown on the records of DTC or its participants. DTC serves as the securities depository for all shares. Participants in DTC include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and other institutions that directly or indirectly maintain a custodial relationship with DTC. As a beneficial owner of shares, you are not entitled to receive physical delivery of stock certificates or to have shares registered in your name, and you are not considered a registered owner of shares. Therefore, to exercise any right as an owner of shares, you must rely upon the procedures of DTC and its participants. These procedures are the same as those that apply to any other securities that you hold in book entry or "street name" form.

**Frequent Purchases and Redemptions of Fund Shares**

The Fund's shares can only be purchased and redeemed directly from the Fund by APs in Creation Units. Direct trading by APs is critical to ensuring that the Fund's shares trade at or close to NAV. The cash to be contributed to (or received from) the Fund in connection with a Creation Unit generally is negligible compared to the total amount of the trade. The Fund with exposure to non-U.S. securities employs fair valuation pricing to minimize arbitrage opportunities that attempt to exploit the differences between a security's market quotation and its fair value. In addition, the Fund imposes

**34**

------

How to Buy and Sell Shares

------

transaction fees on purchases and redemptions of shares to cover the custodial and other costs incurred by the Fund in effecting trades. These fees increase if an investor substitutes cash in part or in whole for securities, reflecting the fact that the Fund's trading costs increase in those circumstances.

Trading of the Fund's shares by individual shareholders occurs on the secondary market. Because the secondary market trades do not directly involve the Fund, it is unlikely those trades would cause the harmful effects of market timing, including dilution, disruption of portfolio management, increases in the Fund's trading costs and the realization of capital gains.

Given this structure, the Board has determined that it is not necessary to monitor for frequent in-kind purchases and redemptions of shares or market timing activity by the APs or on the shares' secondary market.

**Other Payments to Financial Intermediaries**

If you purchase Fund shares through an investment professional, a broker dealer, or other financial intermediary, the Fund may pay for sub-transfer agent, recordkeeping and/or similar administrative services. In addition, Victory Capital (and its affiliates) may make substantial payments out of its own resources, including the profits from the advisory fees Victory Capital receives from the Fund, to affiliated and unaffiliated dealers or other investment professionals and service providers for distribution, administrative and/or shareholder servicing activities. Victory Capital also may reimburse the distributor (or the distributor's affiliates) for making these payments. Some of these distribution-related payments may be made to dealers or other investment professionals for marketing, promotional or related expenses; these payments are often referred to as "revenue sharing." In some circumstances, these types of payments may create an incentive for a dealer or investment professional or its representatives to recommend or offer shares of the Fund to its customers. You should ask your dealer or investment professional for more details about any such payments it receives.

**35**

------

Distribution and Service Plan

------

The Fund has adopted a distribution and service plan ("Plan") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Fund is authorized to pay distribution fees to the distributor and other firms that provide distribution and shareholder services ("Service Providers"). If a Service Provider provides these services, the Fund may pay fees at an annual rate not to exceed 0.25% of average daily net assets, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.

No distribution or service fees are currently paid by the Fund and there are no current plans to impose these fees. In the event Rule 12b-1 fees were charged, over time they would increase the cost of an investment in the Fund.

**36**

------

Distributions and Taxes

------

Unlike interests in conventional mutual funds, which typically are bought and sold from and to the fund only at closing NAVs, the Fund's shares are traded throughout the day in the secondary market on a national securities exchange on an intra-day basis and are created and redeemed in-kind and/or for cash in Creation Units at each day's next calculated NAV. In-kind arrangements are designed to protect ongoing shareholders from the adverse effects on the Fund's portfolio that could arise from frequent cash redemption transactions. In a conventional mutual fund, redemptions can have an adverse tax impact on taxable shareholders if the mutual fund needs to sell portfolio securities to obtain cash to meet net fund redemptions. These sales may generate taxable gains for the ongoing shareholders of the mutual fund, whereas the shares' in-kind redemption mechanism generally will not lead to a tax event for the Fund or its ongoing shareholders.

**Taxes on Distributions**

The Fund ordinarily declares and pays dividends from net investment income, if any, monthly, and net realized capital gains, if any, annually. The Fund may make additional distributions, if necessary, to comply with U.S. federal tax requirements and avoid U.S. federal income or excise tax. Dividends from the Fund's net long-term capital gains, if any, in excess of net short-term capital losses (capital gain dividends) that are properly designated as such are taxable to you as long-term capital gains (at the 20% maximum rate referred to above for non-corporate shareholders) regardless of how long you have held the Fund's shares. Dividends from the Fund's net investment income, including net short-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to you as ordinary income (other than qualified dividend income). Dividends from the Fund's qualified dividend income (i.e., dividends received on stock of most domestic and certain foreign corporations), if any, that are properly designated as such are taxable to non-corporate shareholders at long-term capital gain rates, provided that the Fund and the shareholder satisfy certain holding period and other requirements. The Fund's dividends also may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to corporations, subject to similar restrictions.

Distributions in cash may be reinvested automatically in additional whole shares only if the broker through whom you purchased shares makes such option available.

In general, your distributions are subject to U.S. federal income tax when they are paid, whether you take them in cash or reinvest them in the Fund (if that option is available). Distributions reinvested in additional shares of the Fund through the means of a dividend **r**einvestment service, if available, will be taxable to shareholders acquiring the additional shares to the same extent as if such distributions had been received in cash.

Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of (and in reduction of) your basis in the shares and any excess amount will be treated as capital gain.

Certain U.S. shareholders, including individuals and estates and trusts, are subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a portion of their "net investment income," which should include dividends from the Fund and net gains from the disposition of shares of the Fund.

If at the time a shareholder purchases shares of the Fund, the value of shares reflects undistributed net investment income, recognized net capital gain, or unrealized appreciation in the value of the assets of the Fund, distributions of such amounts will be taxable to the shareholder in the manner described above, although such distributions economically constitute a return of capital to the shareholder.

As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in shares will be taxed. The tax information in this Prospectus is provided as general information. You should consult your own tax professional about the tax consequences of an investment in shares.

**37**

------

Distributions and Taxes

------

Unless your investment in shares is made through a tax-exempt entity or tax-deferred retirement account, such as an individual retirement account, you need to be aware of the possible tax consequences when:

◼

The Fund makes distributions,

◼

You sell your shares listed on the Exchange, and

◼

You purchase or redeem Creation Units (if applicable).

If you are a nonresident alien individual, foreign trust or estate, foreign corporation or foreign partnership, the Fund's ordinary income dividends may be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Exchange-Listed Share Sales**

Any capital gain or loss realized upon a sale of shares generally is treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for one year or less. The ability to deduct capital losses from sales of shares may be limited.

A nonresident alien individual and a foreign corporation generally is exempt from U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gains realized on the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund, but certain exceptions apply under which such shareholders may be subject to U.S. federal tax on such sale or other disposition. See the section titled "TAXES–Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Purchase and Redemption of Creation Units**

An AP who exchanges securities for Creation Units generally will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the market value of the Creation Units at the time of the exchange and the sum of the AP's aggregate basis in the securities surrendered plus any cash it pays. An AP who exchanges Creation Units for securities generally will recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the exchanger's basis in the Creation Units and the sum of the aggregate market value of the securities received plus any cash equal to the difference between the NAV of the shares being redeemed and the value of the securities. However, a loss realized by an AP upon an exchange of securities for Creation Units may not be deducted currently under the rules governing "wash sales" or for other reasons. Persons exchanging securities should consult their own tax advisor with respect to whether wash sale rules apply and when a loss might be deductible.

Any capital gain or loss realized on the purchase or redemption of Creation Units generally will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered to purchase the Creation Units or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for one year or less.

If you purchase or redeem Creation Units, you will be sent a confirmation statement showing how many shares you purchased or sold and at what price. See "TAXES" in the SAI for a description of the requirement regarding basis determination methods applicable to share redemptions and the Fund's obligation to report basis information to the IRS.

**Backup Withholding**

By law, the Fund is required to withhold 24% of your distributions and proceeds if you have not provided the Fund with a correct Social Security number or other taxpayer identification number and in certain other situations.

**38**

------

Distributions and Taxes

------

**Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act**

Under the "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act," unless certain foreign entities comply with certain IRS requirements that generally require them to report information regarding U.S. persons investing in, or holding accounts with, such entities, a 30% U.S. withholding tax may apply to dividends paid by the Fund to such entities. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**IRA Distribution Withholding Disclosure**

We generally must withhold federal income tax at a rate of 10% of the taxable portion of your distribution, and if you live in a state that requires state income tax withholding, at your state's tax rate. However, you may elect not to have withholding apply or to have income tax withheld at a higher rate. Any withholding election that you make will apply to any subsequent distribution unless and until you change or revoke the election. If you wish to make a withholding election, or change or revoke a prior withholding election, call 866-376-7890, and form W-4P (OMB No. 1545-0074 withholding certificate for pension or annuity payments) will be sent electronically.

If you do not have a withholding election in place by the date of a distribution, federal income tax will be withheld from the taxable portion of your distribution at a rate of 10%. If you must pay estimated taxes, you may be subject to estimated tax penalties if your estimated tax payments are not sufficient and sufficient tax is not withheld from your distribution.

The foregoing discussion summarizes some of the possible consequences under current federal tax law of an investment in the Fund. It is not a substitute for personal tax advice. The foregoing discussion also does not discuss any state, local, or non-U.S. tax consequences associated with an investment in the Fund. The tax information in this Prospectus is based on tax law in effect on the date of this Prospectus and it does not address any proposals to modify such tax laws. Consult your personal tax advisor about the potential tax consequences of an investment in the shares under all applicable tax laws.

For more specific information, please consult your tax adviser.

**39**

------

Other Information

------

**Investments by Investment Companies**

Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act restricts investments by investment companies in the securities of other investment companies, including shares of the Fund. Registered investment companies are permitted to invest in the Fund beyond the limits set forth in Section 12(d)(1) as permitted by any rules and regulations adopted under applicable law, including that such investment companies enter into an agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund.

**Continuous Offering**

The method by which Creation Units of shares are created and traded may raise certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units of shares are issued and sold by the Fund on an ongoing basis, a "distribution," as such term is used in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), may occur at any point. Broker-dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery requirement and liability provisions of the Securities Act.

For example, a broker-dealer firm or its client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after placing an order with the distributor, breaks them down into constituent shares and sells the shares directly to customers or if it chooses to couple the creation of a supply of new shares with an active selling effort involving solicitation of secondary market demand for shares. A determination of whether one is an underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act must take into account all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the broker-dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that could lead to a characterization as an underwriter.

Broker-dealer firms should also note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are effecting transactions in shares, whether or not participating in the distribution of shares, generally are required to deliver a prospectus. This is because the prospectus delivery exemption in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act is not available in respect of such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the 1940 Act. As a result, broker-dealer firms should note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are participating in a distribution (as contrasted with engaging in ordinary secondary market transactions) and thus dealing with the shares that are part of an overallotment within the meaning of Section 4(a)(3)(C) of the Securities Act, will be unable to take advantage of the prospectus delivery exemption provided by Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act. For delivery of prospectuses to exchange members, the prospectus delivery mechanism of Rule 153 under the Securities Act is only available with respect to transactions on a national exchange.

**Dealers effecting transactions in the Fund's shares, whether or not participating in this distribution, generally are required to deliver a Prospectus. This is in addition to any obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as underwriters.**

**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure**

A description of the Fund's policies regarding disclosure of the securities in the Fund's portfolio is found in the Statement of Additional Information. The Fund's portfolio is disclosed daily on the Fund's website at www.VictorySharesLiterature.com. Shareholders also may request portfolio holdings schedules at no charge by calling toll free 866-376-7890.

**40**

------

Other Information

------

**Shareholder Communications**

In order to eliminate duplicate mailings to an address at which two or more shareholders with the same last name reside, the Victory Funds may send only one copy of any shareholder reports, financial statements, proxy statements, prospectuses and their supplements, unless you have instructed us to the contrary. You may request that the Victory Funds send these documents to each shareholder individually by calling the Victory Funds at 866-376-7890, and they will be delivered promptly.

While this Prospectus and the SAI of the Trust describe pertinent information about the Trust and the Fund, neither this Prospectus nor the SAI represents a contract between the Trust or the Fund and any shareholder.

**Other Disclosures**

Victory Capital means Victory Capital Management Inc., the investment adviser of the VictoryShares ETFs. VictoryShares ETFs are distributed by Victory Capital Services, Inc. ("VCS"), an affiliate of Victory Capital. VCS is a member of FINRA.

**41**

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Financial Highlights

------

Because the Fund had not commenced operations prior to the date of this prospectus, financial highlights are not available.

**42**

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

4900 Tiedeman Road,

4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

**Statement of Additional Information (SAI):** The SAI contains more information about the Fund's operations, investment restrictions, policies, and practices. The SAI is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus, which means that it is legally part of this Prospectus, even if you do not request a copy.

**Annual/Semi Annual Reports and Form N-CSR/Form N-CSRS:** Annual and semi annual reports contain more information about the Fund's investments and the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during the most recent fiscal period. The Fund's Form N-CSR and Form N-CSRS filings contain the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements.

**How to Obtain Information:** You may obtain a free copy of the SAI, annual and semi annual reports and other information such as Fund financial statements and ask questions about the Fund or your accounts, online at VictorySharesLiterature.com, by contacting the Fund at the following address or telephone number, or by contacting your financial intermediary.

**By telephone:**

Call VictoryShares at

866-376-7890

**By mail:**

VictoryShares

4900 Tiedeman Road, 4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

You also can get information about the Fund (including the SAI, other reports and other information such as Fund financial statements) from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the SEC's Edgar database at sec.gov, or after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request sent to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

Investment Company Act File Number 811-22696

VS-PMBS_ETF-PRO (06/26)

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state in which the offer or sale is not permitted.

Subject to Completion \| Preliminary Prospectus

**[ ], 2026**

Prospectus

VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF ()

Listed and traded on:

The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined whether this Prospectus is accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

VictorySharesLiterature.com

866-376-7890

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

**Table of Contents**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **[Fund Summary](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_1)** | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Objective](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Fund Fees and Expenses](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_1) | 1  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Investment Strategy](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_2) | 2  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_3) | 3  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investment Performance](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11) | 11  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Management of the Fund](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11) | 11  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11) | 11  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Tax Information](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11) | 11  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11)<br> [Intermediaries](#xx_5b5d31ed-36df-456a-890b-0dde7666ac1b_11)<br>| 11  |
| **[Additional Fund Information](#xx_75e1b815-bdb1-4c87-a442-f4e6796b0208_1)** | 12  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Investments](#xx_75e1b815-bdb1-4c87-a442-f4e6796b0208_3) | 14  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Additional Investment Strategies and Related Risks](#xx_75e1b815-bdb1-4c87-a442-f4e6796b0208_5) | 16  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Risk Factors](#xx_79844656-38d5-443e-a5e5-92d0cae3494c_1) | 17  |
| **[Organization and Management of the Fund](#xx_512ce2ba-37d6-479e-a415-2a93b8b8cd58_1)** | 31  |
| **[Investing with Victory](#xx_2043d61b-ec4f-4549-a20c-ea7a9eac948a_1)** | 32  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [Share Price](#xx_2043d61b-ec4f-4549-a20c-ea7a9eac948a_1) | 32  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [How to Buy and Sell Shares](#xx_2043d61b-ec4f-4549-a20c-ea7a9eac948a_3) | 34  |
| **[Distribution and Service Plan](#xx_46b6a7b2-6a22-404b-91ef-dcc5a12febd9_1)** | 36  |
| **[Distributions and Taxes](#xx_d5b2ab6b-8dc6-42f6-9691-71f8f3b41004_1)** | 37  |
| **[Other Information](#xx_816ed19c-d4da-4377-a8e1-ce8539f8df2a_1)** | 40  |
| **[Financial Highlights](#xx_d24e17c4-8175-4f27-b8bd-b70575df35aa_1)** | 42 |

---

------

**VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary**

**Investment Objective**

The VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF (the "Fund") seeks total return, including high current income.

**Fund 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 example below**.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Shareholder Fees**<br> (fees paid directly from your investment) <br>| **None** |

---

Annual Fund Operating Expenses

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

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Management Fees | 0.35% |
| Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> <br>| [ ]% |
| Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | [ ]% |
| Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursements<sup>2</sup> <br>| [()]% |
| **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursements**<sup>2</sup> | 0.39% |

---

<sup>1</sup>

Estimated for the current fiscal year.

<sup>2</sup>

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") has contractually agreed to waive its management fee and/or reimburse expenses so that the total annual fund operating expenses (excluding certain items such as interest, taxes and brokerage commissions) do not exceed 0.39% through at least October 31, 2027. The Adviser is permitted to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to three years after the date of the waiver or reimbursement, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limits in effect at the time of (a) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (b) the recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount. This agreement may only be terminated by the Fund's Board of Trustees.

**Example:**

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The example assumes that (1) you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell or continue to hold all of your shares at the end of the period, (2) your investment has a 5% return each year, and (3) the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. The amounts shown reflect any fee waiver/expense reimbursement in place through its expiration date. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based upon these assumptions your costs would be:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| $[ ] | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $[ ] |

---

**Portfolio Turnover:**

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. Because the Fund has not yet commenced investment operations, no portfolio turnover information is available at this time.

**1**

------

VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

**Principal Investment Strategy**

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in equity securities and equity-related investments. Equity securities and equity-related investments include common and preferred stocks, depositary receipts, warrants, rights, equity-linked notes ("ELNs"), master limited partnerships, equity interests in real estate trusts ("REITs"), and other equity interests, such as securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in equity securities. The Fund may invest in securities of issuers of any market capitalization, and in securities in any industry or market sector. The Fund may invest in initial public offerings of equity securities. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

The Fund may invest up to 60% of its net assets in ELNs. ELNs are structured products that consist of two main components: a fixed income component in the form of a bond or note paying a stated interest rate (premium), and an equity-linked component tied to the performance of one or more underlying reference securities (usually a single stock, a basket of stocks or a stock index). Under the structure, current payments typically are made in exchange for a limit on the capital appreciation potential of the reference securities during the term of the note. The ELN retains the downside risk associated with the reference securities. In addition, the Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options on common stocks or other reference securities.

The Fund focuses on investments that offer a stream of income. The Fund's investments in ELNs are intended to generate current income based on the interest rate paid by the ELNs. In addition to investments that offer a stream of income, the Fund may also invest in securities and instruments that are not income-producing. The Fund may invest in securities and instruments that are not income-producing for purposes of seeking capital appreciation or managing risk or other portfolio characteristics, and securities are not selected based on anticipated dividend payments.

Subject to its 80% policy with respect to investment in equity securities and equity-related investments, the Fund may invest in investment-grade and below-investment-grade debt securities (known as "junk bonds").

The Fund may, but is not required to, use derivatives, such as options, stock index futures and index-based total return swap contracts. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of other purposes, including: in an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market price of securities, interest rates or currency exchange rates; as a substitute for purchasing or selling securities; to attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative; to manage portfolio characteristics; and as a cash flow management technique. The Fund may invest without limit in derivative instruments. However, the Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations.

The Fund invests mainly in U.S. issuers and ELNs and other investments tied to the performance of U.S. issuers. The Fund considers U.S. issuers to include: issuers organized under the laws of the United States, issuers with a principal office in the United States, issuers whose equity securities are traded principally in the United States, issuers that derive at least 50% of their gross revenues or profits from goods or services produced in the United States or sales made in the United States, or issuers that have at least 50% of their assets in the United States.

The Fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers. The Fund will not invest more than 10% of its net assets in the securities of emerging market issuers. The Fund does not count securities of Canadian issuers against the limit on investment in securities of non-U.S. issuers. In addition to investing in securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies, the Fund may hold non-U.S. currencies and purchase and sell forward currency exchange contracts in non-U.S. currencies. The Fund's currency and currency-related investments may be used to adjust overall currency exposures, including as a means of seeking incremental return, which may be considered a speculative technique.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

In selecting investments, the Adviser considers the investment's income and return potential in view of such factors as the sustainability of the issuer's earnings and financial condition. The Adviser generally favors those securities it perceives to be undervalued. In selecting equity securities, the Adviser employs fundamental research and an evaluation of the issuer based on its financial statements and operations. Among other things, the Adviser focuses on an issuer's deployment of capital and return on capital. The Adviser relies on the knowledge, experience and judgment of its staff and the staff of its affiliates who have access to a wide variety of research. The Adviser focuses on the quality and valuation of issuers and securities. Investments typically are sold when the Adviser's overall assessment of market and economic conditions changes or the assessments of the attributes of individual holdings or investment types change.

The Fund may consider various non-financial ratings or factors, where applicable, through quantitative models or qualitative assessment. The significance these considerations have on security selection varies widely, as the analysis is inherently subjective. Further, the consideration of such factors may not apply to certain instruments and the considerations of such factors is only a part of the investment process. Consequently, the Fund should not be viewed as following a sustainability-focused investment approach, and the application of these factors may be inconsistent across the portfolio.

**Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund**

The Fund's investments are subject to the following principal risks:

**Market Risk** —The market prices of securities or other assets held by the Fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political, or regulatory conditions, political instability, recessions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, weather or climate events, armed conflict, market disruptions caused by tariffs, trade disputes, sanctions or other government actions, or other factors or adverse investor sentiment. If the market prices of the Fund's securities and assets fall, the value of your investment will go down. A change in financial condition or other event affecting a single issuer or market may adversely impact securities markets as a whole.

In the past decade, financial markets throughout the world have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. Governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Events that have contributed to these market conditions include, but are not limited to, major cybersecurity events; geopolitical events (including wars, terror attacks and economic sanctions); measures to address budget deficits; downgrading of sovereign debt; changes in oil and commodity prices; dramatic changes in currency exchange rates; global pandemics; and public sentiment. Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability, may continue for some time.

Raising the ceiling on U.S. government debt has become increasingly politicized. Any failure to increase the total amount that the U.S. government is authorized to borrow could lead to a default on U.S. government obligations, with unpredictable consequences for economies and markets in the United States and elsewhere. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments, impair the Fund's ability to satisfy redemption requests, and negatively impact the Fund's performance. In addition, inflation, rising interest rates, global supply chain disruptions, and other market events could adversely affect the companies or issuers in which the Fund invests. Following the commencement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical, or other events or conditions.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the United States. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. U.S. Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental or central bank actions, including increases or decreases in interest rates, or contrary actions by different governments, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Fund invests. Policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and these and other events affecting global markets, such as the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (commonly known as "Brexit"), potential trade imbalances with China or other countries or sanctions or other government actions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies (or their countermeasures), may contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

The United States and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs (or the threat of tariffs), investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities, potentially leading to significant losses for the Fund. For example, the United States has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. The U.S. government has prohibited U.S. persons, such as the Fund, from investing in Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. These and possible future restrictions could limit the Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. Moreover, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict. If the political climate between the United States and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines, or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Fund's assets may go down.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, armed conflicts such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, terrorism, natural disasters, infectious illness or public health issues, cybersecurity events, supply chain disruptions, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, and other circumstances in one country or region could have profound impacts on other countries or regions and on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to the countries or regions directly affected, the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments may be negatively affected. The Fund may experience a substantial or complete loss on any security or derivative position.

**Equity Securities Risk** — Equity securities are subject to the risk that stock prices may rise and fall in periodic cycles and may perform poorly relative to other investments. This risk may be greater in the short term. Equity securities represent an ownership interest in an issuer, rank junior in a company's capital structure to debt securities and consequently may entail greater risk of loss than debt securities. Equity securities have the lowest priority, and the greatest risk, with respect to dividends and any liquidation payments in the event of an issuer's bankruptcy.

**Income Producing Securities Risk** —Income producing securities may fall out of favor with investors and underperform the overall equity market.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

**Equity-Linked Notes Risk** — Equity-linked notes ("ELNs") may not perform as expected and could cause the fund to realize significant losses including its entire principal investment. Investments in ELNs often have risks similar to their underlying reference securities, which may include market risk and, as applicable, risks of non-U.S. investments and currency risks. In addition, since ELNs are in note form, ELNs are also subject to certain risks of fixed income securities, such as interest rate and credit risks. Investments in ELNs are also subject to liquidity risk, which may make ELNs difficult to sell and value. In addition, ELNs may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with the underlying reference securities or a fixed income investment.

**Portfolio Selection Risk** — The Adviser's judgment about a particular security or issuer, or about the economy or a particular sector, region, market segment or industry, or about an investment strategy, may prove to be incorrect or may not produce the desired results, or there may be imperfections, errors or limitations in the models, tools and information used by the Adviser.

**Small and Mid-Size Companies Risk** — Compared to large companies, small- and mid-size companies, and the market for their equity securities, may be more sensitive to changes in earnings results and investor expectations, or poor economic or market conditions, including those experienced during a recession, have more limited product lines, operating histories, markets or capital resources, may be dependent upon a limited management group, experience sharper swings in market values, have limited liquidity, be harder to value or to sell at the times and prices the Adviser thinks appropriate, and offer greater potential for gain and loss.

**Risks of Investments in Real Estate Related Securities** — Investments in real estate securities are affected by economic conditions, interest rates, governmental actions and other factors. In addition, investing in REITs involves unique risks. They are significantly affected by the market for real estate and are dependent upon management skills and cash flow. REITs may have lower trading volumes and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than the overall securities markets. Mortgage REITs are particularly subject to interest rate and credit risks. In addition to its own expenses, the Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management and other expenses paid by REITs in which it invests. Many real estate companies, including REITs, utilize leverage.

**Preferred Stocks Risk** — Preferred stocks may pay fixed or adjustable rates of return. Preferred stocks are subject to issuer-specific and market risks applicable generally to equity securities. In addition, a company's preferred stocks generally pay dividends only after the company makes required payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. Thus, the value of preferred stocks will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects. The market value of preferred stocks generally decreases when interest rates rise. Also, the market prices of preferred stocks are more sensitive to changes in the issuer's creditworthiness than are the prices of debt securities. Generally, under normal circumstances, preferred stocks do not carry voting rights. Preferred stocks may trade less frequently and in a more limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than other securities. Preferred stocks of smaller companies may be more vulnerable to adverse developments than preferred stocks of larger companies.

**Risks of Warrants and Rights** — If the price of the underlying stock does not rise above the exercise price before the warrant expires, the warrant generally expires without any value and the Fund loses any amount it paid for the warrant. The failure to exercise subscription rights to purchase common shares would result in the dilution of the Fund's interest in the issuing company.

**Master Limited Partnership Risk** — Investments in securities of master limited partnerships can be less liquid than, and involve other risks that differ from, investments in common stock. Holders of the units of master limited partnerships have limited ability to influence management and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the partnership. Conflicts of interest may exist between common unit holders, the general partner of a master limited partnership and other unit holders. Master limited

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

partnerships may be subject to less regulation (and less protection for investors) under state laws than corporations. There also are tax risks associated with investments in master limited partnerships.

**Risks of Initial Public Offerings** — Companies involved in initial public offerings ("IPOs") generally have limited operating histories, and prospects for future profitability are uncertain. The market for IPO issuers has been volatile, and share prices of newly public companies have fluctuated significantly over short periods of time. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs.

**Risks of Investing in Other Funds** — Investing in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds, subjects the Fund to the risks of investing in the underlying securities or assets held by those funds. When investing in another fund, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the underlying fund's expenses, including management fees, in addition to its own expenses. ETFs and closed-end funds are bought and sold based on market prices and can trade at a premium or a discount to the ETF's or closed-end fund's net asset value. Such funds may trade at a discount for an extended period and may not ever realize their net asset value.

**Debt Securities Risk** — Factors that could contribute to a decline in the market value of debt securities in the Fund include rising interest rates, if the issuer or other obligor of a security held by the Fund fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. Junk bonds have a higher risk of default or are already in default and are considered speculative.

**Interest Rate Risk** —The market prices of the Fund's fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities. Duration is a measure of a fixed income security's sensitivity to changes in interest rates. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a fund's portfolio with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security's maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security's sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called "credit spread"). In general, the longer its maturity the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up or "widens," the value of the security generally will go down.

**Credit Risk** — If an issuer or guarantor of a security held by the Fund or a counterparty to a financial contract with the Fund defaults on its obligation to pay principal and/or interest, has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment will typically decline. The values of lower-quality debt securities tend to be particularly sensitive to these changes. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The values of securities also may decline for a number of other reasons that relate directly to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services, as well as the historical and prospective earnings of the issuer and the value of its assets. The Fund also could be delayed or hindered in its enforcement of rights against an issuer, guarantor or counterparty.

**High-Yield or "Junk" Bond Risk** — Debt securities that are below investment grade, called "junk bonds," are speculative, have a higher risk of default or are already in default, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events and negative sentiments, and may become illiquid. These risks are more pronounced for securities that are already in default.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

**Risks of Non-U.S. Investments** — Investing in non-U.S. issuers, or in U.S. issuers that have significant exposure to foreign markets, may involve unique risks compared to investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are more pronounced for issuers in emerging markets or to the extent that the Fund invests significantly in one region or country. These risks may include different financial reporting practices and regulatory standards, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, changes in economic, political, regulatory and social conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, auditing and financial recordkeeping requirements,tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law, and investment and repatriation restrictions. Investors in foreign countries often have limited rights and few practical remedies to pursue shareholder claims. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Dividends and interest received by the Fund and capital gains recognized by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries and may decrease the Fund's return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Emerging market economies tend to be less diversified than those of more developed countries. They typically have fewer medical and economic resources than more developed countries and thus they may be less able to control or mitigate the effects of a pandemic. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security.

A number of countries in the European Union ("EU") have experienced, and may continue to experience, severe economic and financial difficulties. In addition, the United Kingdom has withdrawn from the EU (commonly known as "Brexit"). The range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes of Brexit cannot be fully known but could be significant, potentially resulting in increased volatility, illiquidity and potentially lower economic growth in the affected markets, which will adversely affect the Fund's investments.

Sanctions or other government actions against certain countries could negatively impact the Fund's investments in securities that have exposure to those countries. Circumstances that impact one country could have profound impacts on other countries and on global economies or markets. China and other developing market countries are potentially subject to heightened degrees of economic, political and social instability. The U.S. government has imposed restrictions on U.S. investor participation in certain Chinese investments. These matters could adversely affect China's economy. In addition, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict that could adversely impact the economies of China and other Asian countries, disrupt supply chains, and severely affect global economies and markets.

In response to military action in Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries, issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Russia has taken retaliatory actions, including preventing repatriation of capital by United States and other investors. Since then, Russian securities have lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant market disruptions, including in certain markets, industries and sectors, such as the oil and natural gas markets, and negatively affected global supply chains, food supplies, inflation and global growth. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia's military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Fund investments, on Fund performance and the value of an investment in the Fund.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

**Market Segment Risk** — To the extent the Fund emphasizes, from time to time, investments in a market segment, the Fund will be subject to a greater degree to the risks particular to that segment, and may experience greater market fluctuation than a fund without the same focus.

**Derivatives Risk** — Using stock index futures and options, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, index-based total return swap contracts, and other derivatives can increase Fund losses and reduce opportunities for gains when market prices, interest rates, currencies, or the derivative instruments themselves behave in a way not anticipated by the Fund. Using derivatives may increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value and may not provide the result intended. Derivatives may have a leveraging effect on the Fund. Some derivatives, such as writing (selling) put options, have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Derivatives are generally subject to the risks applicable to the assets, rates, indices or other indicators underlying the derivative. Changes in a derivative's value may not correlate well with the referenced asset or metric. The Fund also may have to sell assets at inopportune times to satisfy its obligations. Derivatives may be difficult to sell, unwind or value, and the counterparty may default on its obligations to the Fund. Use of derivatives or similar instruments may not be as favorable as a direct investment in an underlying investment and may adversely affect the amount, timing and character of income distributed to shareholders. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, certain derivatives are subject to mark-to-market or straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"). If such provisions are applicable, there could be an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by the Fund. The U.S. government and foreign governments have adopted and implemented or are in the process of adopting and implementing regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, margin and reporting requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance or disrupt markets.

The risk of writing put options is that the Fund may be unable to terminate its 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 the Fund has written. In such a case, the Fund must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes and must continue to set aside assets to cover its position. Upon the exercise of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund is not entitled to the gains in excess of the strike price, if any, on securities underlying the options.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — The Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — Many of the Fund's underlying securities trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Intraday Indicative Value ("IIV") Risk** — The Exchange intends to disseminate the approximate per share value of the Fund's published basket of securities ("Deposit Securities") every 15 seconds (the "intraday indicative value" or "IIV"). The IIV is not a real-time update of the NAV per share of the Fund because the IIV may not be calculated in the same manner as the NAV. For example, the calculation of the NAV may be subject to fair valuation at different prices than those used in the calculations of the IIV and, unlike the calculation of NAV, the IIV does not take into account Fund expenses. The IIV calculations are based on local market prices and may not reflect events that occur subsequent to the local market's close which could affect premiums and discounts between the IIV and the market price of the shares. In addition, the IIV is based on the published Deposit Securities and not on the Fund's actual holdings.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

**Leveraging Risk** — The value of your investment may be more volatile and other risks tend to be compounded if the Fund borrows or uses derivatives or other investments, such as ETFs, that have embedded leverage. Leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the Fund's underlying assets and creates a risk of loss of value on a larger pool of assets than the Fund would otherwise have, potentially resulting in the loss of all assets. Engaging in such transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations. New derivatives regulations require the Fund, to the extent it uses derivatives to a material extent, to, among other things, comply with certain overall limits on leverage. These regulations may limit the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategies and may not be effective to mitigate the Fund's risk of loss from derivatives.

**Valuation Risk** — A significant percentage of the Fund's investments are valued using a fair value methodology. The sales price the Fund could receive for any particular portfolio investment may differ from the Fund's valuation of the investment, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in thin or volatile markets. These differences may increase significantly and affect Fund investments more broadly during periods of market volatility. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares may receive fewer or more shares or lower or higher redemption proceeds than they would have received if the securities had not been fair-valued or if a different valuation methodology had been used. The

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

ability to value the Fund's investments may also be impacted by technological issues and/or errors by pricing services or other third party service providers.

**Liquidity Risk** — Some securities and derivatives held by the Fund may be or become impossible or difficult to purchase, sell or unwind, particularly during times of market turmoil. An instrument's liquidity may be affected by reduced trading volume, a relative lack of market makers or legal restrictions, and illiquid securities and derivatives also may be difficult to value. Markets may become illiquid quickly. Liquidity risk may be magnified in an environment of rising interest rates or widening credit spreads. During times of market turmoil, there have been, and may be, no buyers or sellers for securities in entire asset classes. If the Fund is forced to sell an illiquid asset or unwind a derivative position to meet redemption requests or other cash needs, or to try to limit losses, the Fund may be forced to sell at a substantial loss or may not be able to sell at all. The Fund may not receive its proceeds from the sale of certain securities for an extended period (for example, several weeks or even longer). In extreme cases, this may constrain the Fund's ability to meet its obligations (including obligations to redeeming shareholders).

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is new and has no history of operations for investors to evaluate.

**Large Shareholder Risk** — Certain large shareholders, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's shares. The actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder is permitted to invest in the Fund, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

**Redemption Risk** — The Fund may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, accelerate taxable gains and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have, or accelerate transaction costs, which could cause the value of your investment to decline.

**Cybersecurity Risk** — Cybersecurity failures by and breaches of the Adviser, transfer agent, the Distributor, custodian, Fund accounting agent or other service providers may disrupt Fund operations, interfere with the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, prevent Fund shareholders from purchasing, redeeming or exchanging shares or receiving distributions or receiving timely information regarding the Fund or their investment in the Fund, cause loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information, and result in financial losses to the Fund and its shareholders, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. New ways to carry out cyber attacks continue to develop. Therefore, there is a chance that some risks have not been identified or prepared for, or that an attack may not be detected, which puts limitations on the Fund's ability to plan for or respond to a cyber attack.

You may lose money by investing in the Fund. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.

By itself, the Fund does not constitute a complete investment plan and should be considered a long-term investment for investors who can afford to weather changes in the value of their investment.

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VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF Summary

**Investment Performance**

No performance information is presented since the Fund does not yet have a full calendar year

of performance. Performance data for the Fund is available online at vcm.com or by calling 866-376-7890. A fund's performance is not necessarily an indication of how that fund will perform

in the future.

**Management of the Fund**

**Investment Adviser**

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser") serves as the Fund's investment adviser. The portfolio managers jointly and primarily responsible for day-to-day management of the Fund are members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise.

**Portfolio Management** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Title** | **Tenure with the Fund** |
| Howard Weiss | &nbsp;&nbsp; Senior Vice President and <br> Director of Multi-Asset<br>| [Since June 2026] |
| Fergal Jackson | Vice President  | [Since June 2026] |
| Cory Robart | Associate Portfolio Manager | [Since June 2026] |

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**Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares**

The Fund will issue and redeem shares at NAV only in large blocks of 25,000 shares (each block of shares is called a "Creation Unit"). Creation Units are issued and redeemed for cash and/or in-kind for securities by Authorized Participants ("APs") that have entered into agreements with the Fund's distributor. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares are not redeemable securities of the Fund.

Shares of the Fund are listed for trading on the Exchange. Individual shares may only be purchased and sold in the secondary market through a broker or dealer at a market price. Because shares of the Fund trade at market prices rather than NAV, shares may trade at a price that is greater than (a premium), at, or less than (a discount) NAV. An investor may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay to purchase shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for shares (ask) when buying or selling shares in the secondary market (the "bid-ask spread").

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads, visit vcm.com.

**Tax Information**

The Fund's distributions generally are taxable as ordinary income, qualified dividend income, or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes may be imposed on withdrawals from tax-deferred arrangements. A sale of shares may result in a capital gain or loss.

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

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

**11**

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Additional Fund Information

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The **VictoryShares Equity Premium Income ETF** (the "Fund") is organized as an exchange-traded fund ("ETF").

The Fund has an investment objective that seeks total return, including high current income and is non-fundamental. There is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The Fund's Board of Trustees (the "Board") may change this investment objective without shareholder approval. The Fund will provide shareholders notice of any such change.

**Principal Investment Strategies**

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in equity securities and equity-related investments. Equity securities and equity-related investments include common and preferred stocks, depositary receipts, warrants, rights, equity-linked notes ("ELNs"), master limited partnerships, equity interests in real estate trusts ("REITs") and other equity interests, such as securities of other investment companies (including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds) that invest primarily in equity securities. The Fund may invest in securities of issuers of any market capitalization, and in securities in any industry or market sector. The Fund may invest in initial public offerings of equity securities. Derivative instruments that provide exposure to fixed income investments or have similar economic characteristics may be treated as fixed income investments under the Fund's 80% policy.

The Fund's 80% investment policy is non-fundamental, and the Board may change this policy without shareholder approval upon at least 60 days' written notice to shareholders.

The Fund may invest up to 60% of its net assets in ELNs. ELNs are structured products that consist of two main components: a fixed-income component in the form of a bond or note paying a stated interest rate (premium), and an equity-linked component tied to the performance of one or more underlying reference securities (usually a single stock, a basket of stocks, or a stock index). Under the structure, current payments typically are made in exchange for a limit on the capital appreciation potential of the reference securities during the term of the note. The ELN retains downside risk associated with the reference securities. In addition, the Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options on common stocks or other reference securities.

The Fund focuses on investments that offer a stream of income. The Fund's investments in ELNs are intended to generate current income based on the interest rate paid by the ELNs. In addition to investments that offer a stream of income, the Fund may also invest in securities and instruments that are not income-producing. The Fund may invest in securities and instruments that are not income-producing for purposes of seeking capital appreciation or managing risk or other portfolio characteristics, and securities are not selected based on anticipated dividend payments.

Subject to its 80% policy with respect to investment in equity securities and equity-related investments, the Fund may invest in investment-grade and below-investment-grade debt securities (known as "junk bonds").

The Fund may, but is not required to, use derivatives, such as options, stock index futures, and index-based total return swap contracts. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of other purposes, including: in an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market price of securities, interest rates or currency exchange rates; as a substitute for purchasing or selling securities; to attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative; to manage portfolio characteristics; and as a cash flow management technique. The Fund may invest without limit in derivative instruments. However, the Fund may choose not to make use of derivatives for a variety of reasons, and any use may be limited by applicable law and regulations.

**12**

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Additional Fund Information

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The Fund invests mainly in U.S. issuers and ELNs and other investments tied to the performance of U.S. issuers. The Fund considers U.S. issuers to include: issuers organized under the laws of the United States, issuers with a principal office in the United States, issuers whose equity securities are traded principally in the United States, issuers that derive at least 50% of their gross revenues or profits from goods or services produced in the United States or sales made in the United States, or issuers that have at least 50% of their assets in the United States.

The Fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers. The Fund will not invest more than 10% of its net assets in the securities of emerging market issuers. The Fund does not count securities of Canadian issuers against the limit on investment in securities of non-U.S. issuers. In addition to investing in securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies, the Fund may hold non-U.S. currencies and purchase and sell forward currency exchange contracts in non-U.S. currencies. The Fund's currency and currency-related investments may be used to adjust overall currency exposures, including as a means of seeking incremental return, which may be considered a speculative technique.

In selecting investments, the Adviser considers the investment's income and return potential in view of such factors as the sustainability of the issuer's earnings and financial condition. The Adviser generally favors those securities it perceives to be undervalued. In selecting equity securities, the Adviser employs fundamental research and an evaluation of the issuer based on its financial statements and operations.

Among other things, the Adviser focuses on an issuer's deployment of capital and return on capital. The Adviser relies on the knowledge, experience, and judgment of its staff and the staff of its affiliates who have access to a wide variety of research. The Adviser focuses on the quality and valuation of issuers and securities. Investments typically are sold when the Adviser's overall assessment of market and economic conditions changes or the assessments of the attributes of individual holdings or investment types change.

The Fund may consider various non-financial ratings or factors, where applicable, through quantitative models or qualitative assessment. The significance these considerations have on security selection varies widely, as the analysis is inherently subjective. Further, the consideration of such factors may not apply to certain instruments and the consideration of such factors is only a part of the investment process.

**13**

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Investments

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**The following describes the types of securities the Fund may purchase under normal market conditions to achieve its principal investment strategy. The Fund's assets may be invested in, among other things, any of the following securities, except as otherwise noted:**

**Non-U.S. Investments**

The Fund may invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers, including securities of emerging markets issuers. Non-U.S. issuers are issuers that are organized and have their principal offices outside of the United States. Non-U.S. securities may be issued by non-U.S. governments, banks or corporations, or private issuers, and certain supranational organizations, such as the World Bank and the European Union. The Fund considers emerging market issuers to include issuers organized under the laws of an emerging market country, issuers with a principal office in an emerging market country, issuers that derive at least 50% of their gross revenues or profits from goods or services produced in emerging market countries or sales made in emerging market countries, or issuers that have at least 50% of their assets in emerging market countries. Emerging markets generally will include, but not be limited to, countries included in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging + Frontier Markets Index.

**Investments in REITs**

REITs are companies that invest primarily in income producing real estate or real estate related loans or interests. Some REITs invest directly in real estate and derive their income from the collection of rents and capital gains on the sale of properties. Other REITs invest primarily in mortgages, including "sub-prime" mortgages, secured by real estate and derive their income from collection of interest.

**Master Limited Partnerships**

Master limited partnerships are limited partnerships whose shares (or units) are listed and traded on a U.S. securities exchange, similar to common stock. Master limited partnerships often own several properties or businesses related to real estate development and oil and gas industries, but also may be used in connection with financing motion pictures, research and development and other projects. Generally, a master limited partnership is operated under the supervision of one or more managing general partners. Limited partners (such as a mutual fund investing in the master limited partnership) are not involved in the day-to-day management of the partnership. Investors are allocated income and capital gains associated with the partnership project in accordance with the terms established in the partnership agreement.

**Debt Securities**

The Fund may invest in debt securities. Debt securities in which the Fund invests include U.S. government securities, debt securities of corporate and other issuers, mortgage- and asset-backed securities and short-term debt securities. Generally, the Fund may acquire debt securities that are investment grade, but the Fund may invest in below investment grade debt securities (known as "junk bonds"), including below investment grade convertible debt securities. A debt security is investment grade if it is rated in one of the top four categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization or determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser.

**Below-Investment-Grade Securities ("Junk Bonds")**

The Fund may invest in debt securities rated below investment grade or, if unrated, of equivalent quality as determined by the Adviser. A debt security is below investment grade if it is rated BB or lower by Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC or the equivalent rating by another nationally recognized statistical rating organization or determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative. Below-investment-grade debt securities involve greater risk of loss, are

**14**

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Investments

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subject to greater price volatility and are less liquid, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher quality debt securities. Below-investment-grade securities also may be more difficult to value.

**Derivatives**

The Fund may, but is not required to, use futures and options on securities, indices and currencies, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, swaps, including index-based total return swap contracts, and other derivatives. The Fund may enter into commodity-linked derivatives, leveraged or unleveraged commodity-linked notes, and other derivative instruments, such as swaps and futures, that provide exposure to commodities. The Fund also may enter into credit default swaps, which can be used to acquire or to transfer the credit risk of a security or index of securities without buying or selling the security or securities comprising the relevant index. A derivative is a security or instrument whose value is determined by reference to the value or the change in value of one or more securities, currencies, indices or other financial instruments. The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of purposes, including:

◼

In an attempt to hedge against adverse changes in the market prices of securities, interest rates, or currency exchange rates

◼

As a substitute for purchasing or selling securities

◼

To attempt to increase the Fund's return as a non-hedging strategy that may be considered speculative

◼

To manage portfolio characteristics (for example, the Fund's exposure to various market segments)

◼

As a cash flow management technique

The Fund may invest in derivative instruments to the full extent permitted by applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

**Cash Management and Temporary Investments**

Normally, the Fund invests substantially all of its assets to meet its investment objective. The Fund may invest the remainder of its assets in money market funds, securities with remaining maturities of less than one year or cash equivalents, including overnight repurchase agreements, or may hold cash. For temporary defensive purposes, including during periods of unusual cash flows, the Fund may depart from its principal investment strategies and invest part or all of its assets in these securities or may hold cash. The Fund may adopt a defensive strategy when the Adviser believes securities in which the Fund normally invests have special or unusual risks or are less attractive due to adverse market, economic, political or other conditions. During such periods, it may be more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

**15**

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Additional Investment Strategies and Related Risks

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***In addition to the principal investment strategies and related risks discussed in this prospectus, the Fund may also use other techniques, including the following non-principal investment strategies and related risks.*** 

**Repurchase Agreements**

In a repurchase agreement, the Fund purchases securities from a broker/dealer or a bank, called the counterparty, upon the agreement of the counterparty to repurchase the securities from the Fund at a later date, and at a specified price. The repurchase price is generally higher than the purchase price paid by the Fund, with the difference being income to the Fund. The securities purchased serve as the Fund's collateral for the obligation of the counterparty to repurchase the securities. If the counterparty does not repurchase the securities, the Fund is entitled to sell the securities, but the Fund may not be able to sell them for the price at which they were purchased, thus causing a loss. Additionally, if the counterparty becomes insolvent, there is some risk that the Fund will not have a right to the securities, or the immediate right to sell the securities.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreements and Borrowing**

The Fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements pursuant to which the Fund transfers securities to a counterparty in return for cash, and the Fund agrees to repurchase the securities at a later date and for a higher price. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the other party may fail to return the securities in a timely manner or at all. The Fund could lose money if it is unable to recover the securities and the value of the collateral held by the Fund, including the value of the investments made with cash collateral, is less than the value of the securities. These events could also trigger adverse tax consequences for the Fund. Reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings by the Fund, are a form of leverage and may make the value of an investment in the Fund more volatile and increase the risks of investing in the Fund. The Fund also may borrow money from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes. The Fund may borrow up to 33 1∕3% of its total assets. Entering into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowing transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so in order to satisfy its obligations.

**Short-Term Trading**

The Fund usually does not trade for short-term profits. The Fund will sell an investment, however, even if it has only been held for a short time, if it no longer meets the Fund's investment criteria. If the Fund does a lot of trading, it may incur additional operating expenses, which would reduce performance, and could cause shareholders to incur a higher level of taxable income or capital gains and a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than long-term capital gains, which generally are taxed at higher rates.

**16**

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Risk Factors

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***You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its objective.*** 

**Market Risk** — The market prices of securities or other assets held by the Fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political, or regulatory conditions, political instability, recessions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, weather or climate events, armed conflict, market disruptions caused by tariffs, trade disputes, sanctions or other government actions, or other factors or adverse investor sentiment. If the market prices of the Fund's securities and assets fall, the value of your investment will go down. A change in financial condition or other event affecting a single issuer or market may adversely impact securities markets as a whole.

Changes in market conditions may not have the same impact on all types of securities. The value of securities may also fall due to specific conditions that affect a particular sector of the securities market or a particular issuer. In the past decade, financial markets throughout the world have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. Governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Events that have contributed to these market conditions include, but are not limited to, major cybersecurity events; geopolitical events (including wars, terror attacks and economic sanctions); measures to address budget deficits; downgrading of sovereign debt; changes in oil and commodity prices; dramatic changes in currency exchange rates; global pandemics; and public sentiment. The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent variants on economies, markets, industries and individual issuers is not known. Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability, may continue for some time.

Raising the ceiling on U.S. government debt has become increasingly politicized. Any failure to increase the total amount that the U.S. government is authorized to borrow could lead to a default on U.S. government obligations, with unpredictable consequences for economies and markets in the United States and elsewhere. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments, impair the Fund's ability to satisfy redemption requests, and negatively impact the Fund's performance. In addition, inflation, rising interest rates, global supply chain disruptions and other market events could adversely affect the companies or issuers in which the Fund invests. Following the commencement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events, or conditions.

Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the United States. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. U.S. Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental or central bank actions, including increases or decreases in interest rates, or contrary actions by different governments, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Fund invests. Policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and these and other events affecting global markets, such as the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (commonly known as "Brexit"), potential trade imbalances with China or other countries, or sanctions or other government actions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies (or their

**17**

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Risk Factors

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countermeasures), may contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

The United States and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs (or the threat of tariffs), investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities, potentially leading to significant losses for the Fund. For example, the United States has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. The U.S. government has prohibited U.S. persons, such as the Fund, from investing in Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. These and possible future restrictions could limit the Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. Moreover, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict. If the political climate between the United States and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines, or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Fund's assets may go down.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, armed conflicts such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, terrorism, natural disasters, infectious illness or public health issues, cybersecurity events, supply chain disruptions, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, and other circumstances in one country or region, could have profound impacts on other countries or regions and on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to the countries or regions directly affected, the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments may be negatively affected. The Fund may experience a substantial or complete loss on any security or derivative position.

**Equity Securities Risk** — Equity securities are subject to the risk that stock prices may rise and fall in periodic cycles and may perform poorly relative to other investments. This risk may be greater in the short term. Equity securities represent an ownership interest in an issuer, rank junior in a company's capital structure to debt securities and consequently may entail greater risk of loss than fixed income securities. Equity securities have the lowest priority, and the greatest risk, with respect to dividends and any liquidation payments in the event of an issuer's bankruptcy.

**Income Producing Securities Risk —** Income producing securities may fall out of favor with investors and underperform the overall equity market.

**Equity-Linked Notes Risk** — Investments in equity-linked notes ("ELNs") often have risks similar to their underlying reference securities, which may include market risk and, as applicable, risks of non-U.S. investments and currency risks. In addition, since ELNs are in note form, ELNs are also subject to certain risks of fixed income securities, such as interest rate and credit risks. If the prices of the reference securities move in an unexpected manner, then the Fund may not achieve the anticipated benefits of an investment in an ELN, and may suffer losses, which could be significant and could include the Fund's entire principal investment. An investment in an ELN is also subject to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the ELN will default or become bankrupt and the Fund will have difficulty being repaid, or fail to be repaid, the principal amount of, or income from, its investment. Investments in ELNs are also subject to liquidity risk, which may make ELNs difficult to sell and value. The liquidity of an unlisted ELN is normally determined by the willingness of the issuer to make a market in the ELN. While the Fund will seek to purchase ELNs only from issuers that it

**18**

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Risk Factors

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believes to be willing to, and capable of, repurchasing the ELN at a reasonable price, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to sell the ELN at such price or at all. This may impair the Fund's ability to enter into other transactions at a time when doing so might be advantageous. In addition, ELNs may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with the underlying reference securities or a fixed income investment.

**Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") Structure Risk** — The Fund is structured as an ETF and, as a result, is subject to special risks, including:

<sup>◼</sup>

**Not Individually Redeemable** — The Fund's shares are not individually redeemable and may be redeemed by the Fund at its net asset value per share ("NAV") only in large blocks known as Creation Units. The Fund may incur brokerage costs purchasing enough shares to constitute a Creation Unit. Alternatively, the Fund may redeem your shares by selling them on the secondary market at prevailing market prices.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Trading Issues** — Trading in shares on the exchange operated by Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (the "Exchange") may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in shares inadvisable, such as extraordinary market volatility. There can be no assurance that shares will continue to meet the listing requirements of the Exchange. There is no guarantee that an active secondary market will develop for the shares. In stressed market conditions, authorized participants may be unwilling to participate in the creation/redemption process, particularly if the market for shares becomes less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings, which may lead to widening of bid-ask spreads and differences between the market price of the shares and the underlying value of those shares.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Market Price Variance Risk** — The market prices of shares will fluctuate in response to changes in NAV and supply and demand for shares and will include a bid-ask spread charged by the exchange specialists, market makers, or other participants that trade the particular security. There may be times when the market price and the NAV vary significantly, particularly in times of market stress. This means that shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**International Closed Market Trading Risk** — The Fund's underlying securities may trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Exchange is open; consequently, events may transpire while such foreign exchanges are closed but the Exchange is open that may change the value of such underlying securities relative to their last quoted prices on such foreign exchanges.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Authorized Participants Concentration Risk** — A limited number of financial institutions may be responsible for all or a significant portion of the creation and redemption activity for the Fund. If these firms exit the business or are unable or unwilling to process creation and/or redemption orders, shares may trade at a premium or discount to NAV and bid-ask spreads may widen.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Intraday Indicative Value ("IIV") Risk** — The Exchange intends to disseminate the approximate per share value of the Fund's published basket of securities (Deposit Securities) every 15 seconds (the "intraday indicative value" or "IIV"). The IIV is not a real-time update of the NAV per share of the Fund because the IIV may not be calculated in the same manner as the NAV. For example, the calculation of the NAV may be subject to fair valuation at different prices than those used in the calculations of the IIV and, unlike the calculation of NAV, the IIV does not take into account Fund expenses. For securities traded outside of the United States, the IIV calculations are based on local market prices and may not reflect events that occur subsequent to the local market's close which could affect premiums and discounts between the IIV and the market price of the Fund's shares. In addition, the IIV is based on the published

**19**

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Risk Factors

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Deposit Securities and not on the Fund's actual holdings. Fund, the Adviser, and their affiliates are not involved in, or responsible for, any aspect of the calculation or dissemination of the IIV and make no warranty as to the accuracy of these calculations.

<sup>◼</sup>

**Tax-Efficiency Risk** — Redemptions of shares may be effected for cash, rather than in kind, which means that the Fund may need to sell portfolio securities in order to complete an in-cash redemption, and may recognize net gains on these sales. As a result, investments in the shares may be less tax-efficient than investments in ETFs that redeem solely or principally in kind, and the Fund may pay out higher annual capital gain distributions than if the in-kind redemption process was used.

**Portfolio Selection Risk** — The Adviser's judgment about a particular security or issuer, or about the economy or a particular sector, region, market segment, industry or about an investment strategy, may not produce the desired results, or there may be imperfections, errors or limitations in the models, tools and information used by the Adviser.

**Small and Mid-Size Companies Risk** — Compared to large companies, small- and mid-size companies, and the market for their equity securities, may be more sensitive to changes in earnings results and investor expectations, or poor economic or market conditions, including those experienced during a recession, have more limited product lines, operating histories, markets or capital resources, may be dependent upon a limited management group, experience sharper swings in market values, have limited liquidity, be harder to value or to sell at the times and prices the Adviser thinks appropriate, and offer greater potential for gain and loss.

**Risks of Investments in Real Estate Related Securities** — The Fund has risks associated with the real estate industry. Although the Fund does not invest directly in real estate, it may invest in REITs and other equity securities of real estate industry issuers. These risks may include:

<sup>◼</sup>

The U.S. or a local real estate market declines due to adverse economic conditions, foreclosures, overbuilding and high vacancy rates, reduced or regulated rents or other causes

<sup>◼</sup>

Interest rates go up. Rising interest rates can adversely affect the availability and cost of financing for property acquisitions and other purposes and reduce the value of a REIT's fixed income investments

<sup>◼</sup>

The values of properties owned by a REIT or the prospects of other real estate industry issuers may be hurt by property tax increases, zoning changes, other governmental actions, environmental liabilities, natural disasters or increased operating expenses

<sup>◼</sup>

A REIT in the Fund's portfolio is, or is perceived by the market to be, poorly managed

<sup>◼</sup>

If the Fund's real estate related investments are concentrated in one geographic area or property type, the Fund will be particularly subject to the risks associated with that area or property type

REITs generally can be classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or hybrid REITs. Equity REITs invest primarily in real property and derive income mainly from the collection of rents. They may also realize gains or losses from the sale of properties. Equity REITs will be affected by conditions in the real estate rental market and by changes in the value of the properties they own. Mortgage REITs invest primarily in mortgages and similar real estate interests and derive income primarily from interest payments. Mortgage REITs will be affected by changes in creditworthiness of borrowers and changes in interest rates. Mortgage REITs are subject to the risks of default of the mortgages or mortgage-related securities in which they invest, and REITs that invest in so-called "sub-prime" mortgages are particularly subject to this risk. Hybrid REITs invest both in real property and in mortgages.

Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks. REITs are dependent on management skills, are not diversified and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs typically are invested in a limited number of projects or in a particular market segment or geographic region, and therefore are more

**20**

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Risk Factors

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susceptible to adverse developments affecting a single project, market segment or geographic region than more broadly diversified investments. REITs are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by mortgagors or other borrowers and tenants, and self-liquidation. REITs may also fail to maintain their exemptions from investment company registration or fail to qualify for the "dividends paid deduction" under the Internal Revenue Code, which allows REITs to reduce their corporate taxable income for dividends paid to their shareholders. REITs may have limited financial resources and may experience sharper swings in market values and trade less frequently and in a more limited volume than securities of larger issuers. In addition to its own expenses, the Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management and other expenses paid by REITs in which it invests. Such expenses are not shown in "Annual fund operating expenses" above.

Many real estate companies, including REITs, utilize leverage (and some may be highly leveraged), which increases investment risk and could adversely affect a real estate company's operations and market value. Mortgage REITs tend to be more leveraged than equity REITs. In addition, many mortgage REITs manage their interest rate and credit risks through the use of derivatives and other hedging techniques. In addition, capital to pay or refinance a REIT's debt may not be available or reasonably priced. Financial covenants related to real estate company leveraging may affect the company's ability to operate effectively.

**Preferred Stocks Risk** — Preferred stocks may pay fixed or adjustable rates of return. Preferred stocks are subject to issuer-specific and market risks applicable generally to equity securities. In addition, a company's preferred stocks generally pay dividends only after the company makes required payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. Thus, the value of preferred stocks will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects. The market value of preferred stocks generally decreases when interest rates rise. Also, the market prices of preferred stocks are more sensitive to changes in the issuer's creditworthiness than are the prices of debt securities. Generally, under normal circumstances, preferred stocks do not carry voting rights. Preferred stocks may trade less frequently and in a more limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than other securities. Preferred stocks of smaller companies may be more vulnerable to adverse developments than preferred stocks of larger companies.

**Risks of Warrants and Rights** — Warrants and rights give the Fund the right to buy stock. A warrant specifies the amount of underlying stock, the purchase (or "exercise") price, and the date the warrant expires. The Fund has no obligation to exercise the warrant and buy the stock. A warrant has value only if the Fund is able to exercise it or sell it before it expires. If the price of the underlying stock does not rise above the exercise price before the warrant expires, the warrant generally expires without any value and the Fund loses any amount it paid for the warrant. Thus, investments in warrants may involve substantially more risk than investments in common stock. Warrants may trade in the same markets as their underlying stock; however, the price of the warrant does not necessarily move with the price of the underlying stock.

The Fund may purchase securities pursuant to the exercise of subscription rights, which allow an issuer's existing shareholders to purchase additional common stock at a price substantially below the market price of the shares. The failure to exercise subscription rights to purchase common stock would result in the dilution of the Fund's interest in the issuing company. The market for such rights is not well developed and, accordingly, the Fund may not always realize full value on the sale of rights.

**Master Limited Partnership Risk** — Investments in securities of master limited partnerships can be less liquid than, and involve other risks that differ from, investments in common stock. Holders of the units of master limited partnerships have more limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the partnership. Conflicts of interest may exist between common unit holders, the general partner of a master limited partnership and other unit holders. Certain master limited partnership securities may trade in lower volumes due to their small capitalizations and therefore may experience

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sharper swings in market values, have limited liquidity, be harder to value or to sell at the times and prices the Adviser thinks appropriate, and offer greater potential for gain or loss. In addition, state law governing partnerships is often less restrictive than state law governing corporations. Accordingly, there may be fewer protections afforded investors in a master limited partnership than investors in a corporation. There also are tax risks associated with master limited partnerships. Master limited partnerships are generally treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes and each partner is allocated a share of the partnership's income, gain, and losses regardless of whether the master limited partnership distributes cash to the Fund. Because the Fund may recognize income from a master limited partnership in excess of the cash distributions received from the master limited partnership, the Fund may be required to sell other securities or may have to use leverage in order to satisfy the distribution requirements to qualify as a RIC and to avoid U.S. federal income and excise taxes. Distributions by a master limited partnership in excess of the Fund's allocable share of the master limited partnership's net income will reduce the Fund's basis in its master limited partnership interest. If the Fund retains a master limited partnership investment until the Fund's basis is reduced to zero, subsequent distributions from the master limited partnership will be taxable to the Fund at ordinary income rates. If a master limited partnership in which the Fund invests amends its partnership tax return, shareholders may receive a corrected Form 1099 from the Fund which would, in turn, require shareholders to amend their own federal, state or local tax returns. A change in current tax law or a change in the business of a master limited partnership could cause a master limited partnership to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, resulting in the master limited partnership being required to pay U.S. federal income tax on its taxable income. Taxation of a master limited partnership would reduce the after-tax returns to the Fund and the value of the Fund's investment in the master limited partnership would decline. Since master limited partnerships generally conduct business in multiple states, the Fund may be subject to income or franchise tax in each of the states in which the partnership does business. The additional cost of preparing and filing the tax returns and paying the related taxes may adversely impact the Fund's return on its investment in master limited partnerships. Master limited partnership entities are typically focused in the energy, natural resources and real estate sectors of the economy. Energy and natural resources master limited partnerships may be adversely impacted by the volatility of commodity prices. A downturn in the energy, natural resources or real estate sectors of the economy could have an adverse impact on the Fund.

**Risks of Initial Public Offerings** — Companies involved in initial public offerings ("IPOs") generally have limited operating histories, and prospects for future profitability are uncertain. Information about the companies may be available for very limited periods. The market for IPO issuers has been volatile, and share prices of newly public companies have fluctuated significantly over short periods of time. Further, stocks of newly public companies may decline shortly after the IPO. There is no assurance that the Fund will have access to IPOs. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. Because of the price volatility of IPO shares, the Fund may choose to hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund and may lead to increased expenses to the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. The market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. There may be only a limited number of shares available for trading. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may also make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices.

**Risks of Investing in Other Funds** — Investing in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") and closed-end funds, subjects the Fund to the risks of investing in the underlying securities or assets held by those funds. When investing in another fund, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the underlying fund's expenses, including management fees, in addition to its own expenses. ETFs and closed-end funds are bought and sold based on market prices and can trade at a premium or a discount to the ETF's or closed-end fund's net asset value. Such funds may trade at a discount for an extended period and may not ever realize their net asset value.

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**Debt Securities Risk** — Factors that could contribute to a decline in the market value of debt securities in the Fund include rising interest rates, if the issuer or other obligor of a security held by the Fund fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. Junk bonds involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility and are less liquid, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher quality debt securities; they may also be more difficult to value. Junk bonds have a higher risk of default or are already in default and are considered speculative.

**Interest Rate Risk** — The market prices of the Fund's fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. When interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities and therefore the value of your investment in the Fund, generally falls. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a fund's portfolio with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal.

A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities and could also result in increased redemptions from the Fund. A change in interest rates will not have the same impact on all fixed income securities. Generally, the longer the maturity or duration of a fixed income security, the greater the impact of a rise in interest rates on the security's value. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security's maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security's sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called "credit spread"). In general, the longer its maturity the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up or "widens," the value of the security will generally go down. Calculations of duration and maturity may be based on estimates and may not reliably predict a security's price sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Moreover, securities can change in value in response to other factors, such as credit risk. In addition, different interest rate measures (such as short- and long-term interest rates and U.S. and foreign interest rates), or interest rates on different types of securities or securities of different issuers, may not necessarily change in the same amount or in the same direction. When interest rates go down, the income received by the Fund, and the Fund's yield, may decline. Also, when interest rates decline, investments made by the Fund may pay a lower interest rate, which would reduce the income received and distributed by the Fund.

Certain fixed income securities pay interest at variable or floating rates. Variable rate securities tend to reset at specified intervals, while floating rate securities may reset whenever there is a change in a specified index rate. In most cases, these reset provisions reduce the impact of changes in market interest rates on the value of the security. However, some securities do not track the underlying index directly, but reset based on formulas that may produce a leveraging effect; others may also provide for interest payments that vary inversely with market rates. The market prices of these securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change.

Yield generated by the Fund may decline due to a decrease in market interest rates.

**Credit Risk** — If an obligor (such as the issuer itself or a party offering credit enhancement) for a security held by the Fund fails to pay, otherwise defaults, is perceived to be less creditworthy, becomes insolvent or files for bankruptcy, a security's credit rating is downgraded or the credit quality or value of an underlying asset declines, the value of your investment could decline. The values of lower-quality debt securities tend to be particularly sensitive to these changes. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The values of securities also may decline for a number of other reasons that relate directly to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services, as well as the historical and prospective earnings

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of the issuer and the value of its assets. If the Fund enters into financial contracts (such as certain derivatives, repurchase agreements, reverse repurchase agreements, and when-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions), the Fund will be subject to the credit risk presented by the counterparty. In addition, the Fund may incur expenses and suffer delays in an effort to protect the Fund's interests or to enforce its rights. The Fund evaluates the credit quality of issuers and counterparties prior to investing in securities. Credit risk is broadly gauged by the credit ratings of the securities in which the Fund invests. However, ratings are only the opinions of the companies issuing them and are not guarantees as to quality. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade (Baa/BBB) may possess certain speculative characteristics.

**High Yield or "Junk" Bond Risk** — Debt securities that are below investment grade, called "junk bonds," are speculative, have a higher risk of default or are already in default, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher grade securities and may involve major risk of exposure to adverse conditions and negative sentiments. These securities have a higher risk of issuer default because, among other reasons, issuers of junk bonds often have more debt in relation to total capitalization than issuers of investment grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events and negative sentiments. These risks are more pronounced for securities that are already in default. The Fund may not receive interest payments on defaulted securities and may incur costs to protect its investment. In addition, defaulted securities involve the substantial risk that principal will not be repaid. Changes in economic conditions or developments regarding the individual issuer are more likely to cause price volatility and weaken the capacity of such securities to make principal and interest payments than is the case for higher grade debt securities. The value of lower-quality debt securities often changes in response to company, political, or economic developments and can decline significantly over short as well as long periods of time or during periods of general or regional economic difficulty. Junk bonds may also be less liquid than higher-rated securities, which means that the Fund may have difficulty selling them at times, and it may have to apply a greater degree of judgment in establishing a price for purposes of valuing Fund shares. Junk bonds generally are issued by less creditworthy issuers. Issuers of junk bonds may have a larger amount of outstanding debt securities relative to their assets than issuers of investment grade bonds. In the event of an issuer's bankruptcy, claims of other creditors may have priority over the claims of junk bond holders, leaving few or no assets available to repay junk bond holders. The Fund may incur expenses to the extent necessary to seek recovery upon default or to negotiate new terms with a defaulting issuer. Junk bonds frequently have redemption features that permit an issuer to repurchase the security from the Fund before it matures. If the issuer redeems junk bonds, the Fund may have to invest the proceeds in bonds with lower yields and may lose income.

**Risks of Non-U.S. Investments** — Investing in non-U.S. issuers, or in U.S. issuers that have significant exposure to foreign markets, may involve unique risks compared to investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are more pronounced for issuers in emerging markets or to the extent that the Fund invests significantly in one region or country. These risks may include:

<sup>◼</sup>

Less information about non-U.S. issuers or markets may be available due to less rigorous disclosure or accounting standards and auditing and financial recordkeeping requirements, or regulatory practices

<sup>◼</sup>

Many non-U.S. markets are smaller, less liquid and more volatile. In a changing market, the Adviser may not be able to sell the Fund's securities at times, in amounts and at prices it considers reasonable

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Adverse effect of currency exchange rates or controls on the value of the Fund's investments, or its ability to convert non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars

<sup>◼</sup>

The economies of non-U.S. countries may grow at slower rates than expected or may experience a downturn or recession

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<sup>◼</sup>

Economic, political, regulatory and social developments such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, terrorism, armed conflicts and other geopolitical events, and the impact of tariffs and other restrictions on trade or economic sanctions, nationalization or expropriation of assets, arbitrary application of laws and regulations, or lack of rule of law, may adversely affect the securities markets

<sup>◼</sup>

There may be significant obstacles to obtaining information necessary for investigations into or litigation against issuers located in or operating in certain foreign markets, particularly emerging market countries, and shareholders may have limited legal remedies. It may be difficult for the Fund to pursue claims or enforce judgments against a foreign bank, depository or issuer of a security, or any of their agents, in the courts of a foreign country

<sup>◼</sup>

The value of the Fund's foreign investments may also be affected by foreign tax laws, special U.S. tax considerations and restrictions on receiving the investment proceeds from a foreign country. Dividends and interest received by the Fund and capital gains recognized by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries and may decrease the Fund's return

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Some markets in which the Fund may invest are located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters that could result in a significant adverse impact on the economies of those countries and investments made in those countries

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It is often more expensive for the Fund to buy, sell and hold securities in certain foreign markets than in the United States

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A governmental entity may delay, or refuse or be unable to pay, interest or principal on its sovereign debt due 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

<sup>◼</sup>

Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. In addition, depositary receipts may not pass through voting and other shareholder rights, and may be less liquid than the underlying securities listed on an exchange

<sup>◼</sup>

A number of countries in the European Union ("EU") have experienced, and may continue to experience, severe economic and financial difficulties. Additional EU member countries may also fall subject to such difficulties. A number of countries in Europe have suffered terror attacks, and additional attacks may occur in the future. In addition, the range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes of Brexit cannot be fully known but could be significant, potentially resulting in increased volatility, illiquidity and potentially lower economic growth in the affected markets, which will adversely affect the Fund's investments, particularly in euro-denominated securities and derivative contracts, securities of issuers located in the EU or with significant exposure to EU issuers or countries

<sup>◼</sup>

China and other developing market countries are potentially subject to heightened degrees of economic, political and social instability. Markets in China and other Asian countries are relatively new and undeveloped. China's economic health is largely dependent upon exports, and may be dependent upon the economies of other Asian countries. Investments in Chinese and other Asian issuers could be adversely affected by changes in government policies, or trade or political disputes with major trading partners, including the U.S. China's growing trade surplus with the U.S. has given rise to trade disputes and the imposition of tariffs. The United States has also restricted the sale of certain goods to China. In addition, the U.S. government has imposed restrictions on U.S. investor participation in certain Chinese investments. These matters could adversely affect China's economy. China's central government exercises significant control over China's economy and may intervene in the financial markets, such as by imposing trading restrictions, and investments in Chinese

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issuers could be adversely affected by changes in government policies. The Chinese economy could be adversely affected by supply chain disruptions. An economic slowdown in China could adversely affect economies of other emerging market countries that trade with China, as well as companies operating in those countries. Economies of Asian countries and Asian issuers could be adversely affected by regional security threats. In addition, China's long-running conflict over Taiwan's sovereignty, border disputes with many neighbors and historically strained relations with other Asian countries could result in military conflict that could adversely impact the economies of China and other Asian countries, disrupt supply chains, and severely affect global economies and markets

<sup>◼</sup>

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, which regulates auditors of U.S. public companies, may, from time to time, be unable to inspect audit work papers in certain foreign or emerging market countries. Investors in foreign countries often have limited rights and few practical remedies to pursue shareholder claims, including class actions or fraud claims, and the ability of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice and other authorities to bring and enforce actions against foreign issuers or foreign persons is limited

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If one or more stockholders of a supranational entity such as the World Bank fail to make necessary additional capital contributions, the entity may be unable to pay interest or repay principal on its debt securities

<sup>◼</sup>

Sanctions or other government actions against certain countries could negatively impact the Fund's investments in securities that have exposure to those countries

<sup>◼</sup>

In response to military action in Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Russia has taken retaliatory actions, including preventing repatriation of capital by U.S. and other investors. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant market disruptions, including in certain markets, industries and sectors, such as the oil and natural gas markets, and negatively affected global supply chains, food supplies, inflation and global growth. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia's military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Fund investments, on Fund performance and the value of an investment in the Fund

<sup>◼</sup>

Circumstances that impact one country could have profound impacts on other countries and on global economies or markets

**Market Segment Risk** — To the extent the Fund emphasizes, from time to time, investments in a market segment, the Fund will be subject to a greater degree to the risks particular to that segment, and may experience greater market fluctuation, than a fund without the same focus.

**Derivatives Risk** — Using stock index futures and options, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, index-based total return swap contracts, and other derivatives exposes the Fund to special risks and costs and may result in losses to the Fund, even when used for hedging purposes. Using derivatives can increase losses and reduce opportunities for gain when market prices, interest rates currencies, or the derivative instruments themselves, behave in a way not anticipated by the Fund, especially in abnormal market conditions. Using derivatives can have a leveraging effect (which may increase investment losses) and increase the Fund's volatility, which is the degree to which the Fund's share price may fluctuate within a short time period. Certain derivatives, such as writing

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(selling) put options, have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Derivatives generally are subject to the risks applicable to the assets, rates, indices, or other indicators underlying the derivative. If changes in a derivative's value do not correspond to changes in the value of the Fund's other investments or do not correlate well with the underlying assets, rate or index, the Fund may not fully benefit from, or could lose money on, or could experience unusually high expenses as a result of, the derivative position. The other parties to certain derivative transactions present the same types of credit risk as issuers of fixed income securities. Derivatives also tend to involve greater liquidity risk and they may be difficult to value. The Fund may be unable to terminate or sell its derivative positions. In fact, many over-the-counter derivatives will not have liquidity beyond the counterparty to the instrument. The Fund also may have to sell assets at inopportune times to satisfy its obligations. Use of derivatives or similar instruments may not be as favorable as a direct investment in an underlying investment and may adversely affect the amount, timing and character of income distributed to shareholders. As a result, a larger portion of the Fund's distributions may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In addition, certain derivatives are subject to mark-to-market or straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"). If such provisions are applicable, there could be an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by the Fund. Risks associated with the use of derivatives are magnified to the extent that an increased portion of the Fund's assets are committed to derivatives in general or are invested in just one or a few types of derivatives.

Investments by the Fund in structured securities, a type of derivative, raise certain tax, legal, regulatory and accounting issues that may not be presented by direct investments in securities. These issues could be resolved in a manner that could hurt the performance of the Fund. Swap agreements and options to enter into swap agreements ("swaptions") tend to shift the Fund's investment exposure from one type of investment to another. For example, the Fund may enter into interest rate swaps, which involve the exchange of interest payments by the Fund with another party, such as the exchange of floating rate payments for fixed interest payments with respect to a notional amount of principal. If an interest rate swap intended to be used as a hedge negates a favorable interest rate movement, the investment performance of the Fund would be less than it would have been if the Fund had not entered into the interest rate swap.

The risk of writing put options is that the Fund may be unable to terminate its 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 the Fund has written. In such a case, the Fund must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes and must continue to set aside assets to cover its position. Upon the exercise of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund is not entitled to the gains in excess of the strike price, if any, on securities underlying the options.

The U.S. government and foreign governments have adopted and implemented or are in the process of adopting and implementing regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, margin and reporting requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation of derivatives may make derivatives more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance or disrupt markets. The Fund may be exposed to additional risks as a result of the additional regulations. The extent and impact of the regulations are not yet fully known and may not be for some time.

The Fund will be required to maintain its positions with a clearing organization through one or more clearing brokers. The clearing organization will require the Fund to post margin and the broker may require the Fund to post additional margin to secure the Fund's obligations. The amount of margin required may change from time to time. In addition, cleared transactions may be more expensive to maintain than over-the-counter transactions and may require the Fund to deposit larger amounts of margin. The Fund may not be able to recover margin amounts if the broker has financial difficulties. Also, the broker may require the Fund to terminate a derivatives position under certain

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circumstances. This may cause the Fund to lose money. The Fund's ability to use certain derivative instruments currently is limited by Commodity Futures Trading Commission rules.

**Leveraging Risk** — The value of your investment may be more volatile and other risks tend to be compounded if the Fund borrows or uses derivatives or other investments, such as ETFs, that have embedded leverage. Leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the Fund's underlying assets and creates a risk of loss of value on a larger pool of assets than the Fund would otherwise have, potentially resulting in the loss of all assets. Engaging in such transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations. New derivatives regulations require the Fund, to the extent it uses derivatives to a material extent, to, among other things, comply with certain overall limits on leverage. These regulations may limit the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategies and may not be effective to mitigate the Fund's risk of loss from derivatives.

**Valuation Risk** — Many factors may influence the price at which the Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ – higher or lower – from the Fund's valuation of the investment, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. These differences may increase significantly and affect Fund investments more broadly during periods of market volatility. A significant percentage of the Fund's investments are valued using fair value methodologies. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares may receive fewer or more shares, or lower or higher redemption proceeds, than they would have received if the securities had not been fair-valued or if a different valuation methodology had been used. Fixed income securities typically are valued using fair value methodologies. The value of foreign securities, certain fixed income securities and currencies, as applicable, may be materially affected by events after the close of the markets on which they are traded, but before the Fund determines its net asset value. The ability to value the Fund's investments may also be impacted by technological issues and/or errors by pricing services or other third party service providers.

**Limited History of Operations** — The Fund is a new ETF with limited to no history of operations for investors to evaluate. Investors in the Fund bear the risk that the Fund may not be successful in implementing its investment strategies, may be unable to implement certain of its investment strategies or may fail to attract sufficient assets, any of which could result in the Fund being liquidated and terminated at any time without shareholder approval and at a time that may not be favorable for all shareholders. Such a liquidation could have negative tax consequences for shareholders and may cause shareholders to incur expenses of liquidation.

**Liquidity Risk** — Liquidity risk is the risk that particular investments, or investments generally, may be or become impossible or difficult to purchase or sell. Although most of the Fund's securities and other investments must be liquid at the time of investment, securities and other investments may become illiquid after purchase by the Fund, particularly during periods of market turmoil or due to adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Liquidity and value of investments can deteriorate rapidly. Markets may become illiquid when, for instance, there are few, if any, interested buyers and sellers or when dealers are unwilling to make a market for certain securities or when dealer market-making capacity is otherwise reduced. During times of market turmoil, there have been, and may be, no buyers for securities in entire asset classes, including U.S. Treasury securities. A lack of liquidity or other adverse credit market conditions may affect the Fund's ability to sell the securities in which it invests or to find and purchase suitable investments. When the Fund holds illiquid investments, the Fund may be harder to value, especially in changing markets. If the Fund is forced to sell or unwind an illiquid investment to meet redemption requests or for other cash needs, or to try to limit losses, the Fund may suffer a substantial loss or may not be able to sell at all. The Fund may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, which could cause the value of your investment to decline. In addition, when there is illiquidity in the market for certain securities and other investments, the Fund,

**28**

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due to limitations on investments in illiquid securities, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain sector. Further, certain securities, once sold, may not settle for an extended period (for example, several weeks or even longer). The Fund will not receive its sales proceeds until that time, which may constrain the Fund's ability to meet its obligations (including obligations to redeeming shareholders). Liquidity risk may be magnified in an environment of rising interest rates or widening credit spreads in which investor redemptions from fixed income mutual funds may be higher than normal. If an auction fails for an auction rate security, there may be no secondary market for the security and the Fund may be forced to hold the security until the security is refinanced by the issuer or a secondary market develops. To the extent the Fund holds a material percentage of the outstanding debt securities of an issuer, this practice may impact adversely the liquidity and market value of those investments.

**Large Shareholder Risk** — The Funds, like all investment companies, pool the investments of many investors, including authorized participants and other funds advised by the Adviser. Actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Funds and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. For example, significant levels of new investments in the Funds by shareholders may cause the Funds to have more cash than would otherwise be the case, which might have a positive or negative impact on Fund performance. Similarly, to the extent the Funds redeem shares in cash, redemption activity might cause the Funds to sell portfolio securities when it might not otherwise do so, which may increase transaction costs and might generate a capital gain or loss, or cause it to borrow funds on a short-term basis to cover redemptions, which would cause the Funds to incur costs that, in effect, would be borne by all shareholders and not just the redeeming shareholders. Shareholder purchase and redemption activity also may affect the per share amount of the Fund's distributions of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, thereby affecting the tax burden on the Fund's shareholders subject to federal income tax, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and cause the Funds to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Funds otherwise would have. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to such tax year. To the extent a larger shareholder, including an authorized participant, invests in the Funds, the Funds may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Funds. If large shareholders transact in shares on the secondary market, transactions by large shareholders may account for a large percentage of the trading volume for the shares of a Fund and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Fund shares.

**Redemption Risk** — The Fund may experience periods of heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to liquidate its assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value, accelerate taxable gains and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to its shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have or accelerate transaction costs, particularly during periods of declining or illiquid markets. Redemption risk is greater to the extent that the Fund has investors with large shareholdings, short investment horizons, or unpredictable cash flow needs. In addition, redemption risk is heightened during periods of overall market turmoil.

**Cybersecurity Risk** — Cybersecurity failures by and breaches of the Adviser, transfer agent, the Distributor, custodian, Fund accounting agent or other service providers may disrupt Fund operations, interfere with the Fund's ability to calculate its NAV, prevent Fund shareholders from purchasing, redeeming or exchanging shares or receiving distributions or receiving timely information regarding the Fund or their investment in the Fund, cause loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information, and result in financial losses to the Fund and its shareholders, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Substantial costs may be incurred in order to prevent any cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result. New ways to carry out cyber attacks continue to develop. Therefore, there is a chance that

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some risks have not been identified or prepared for, or that an attack may not be detected, which puts limitations on the Fund's ability to plan for or respond to a cyber attack.

**Repurchase Agreement Risk** — In the event that the other party to a repurchase agreement defaults on its obligations, the Fund may encounter delay and incur costs before being able to sell the security. Such a delay may involve loss of interest or a decline in price of the security. In addition, if the Fund is characterized by a court as an unsecured creditor, it would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and interest involved in the transaction.

**Cash Management Risk** — The value of the investments held by the Fund for cash management or temporary defensive purposes may be affected by market risks, changing interest rates and by changes in credit ratings of the investments. To the extent that the Fund has any uninvested cash, the Fund would be subject to credit risk with respect to the depository institution holding the cash. If the Fund holds cash uninvested, the Fund will not earn income on the cash and the Fund's yield will go down. During such periods, it may be more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

***To learn more about the Fund's investments and risks, you should obtain and read the SAI. Please note that there are many other factors that could adversely affect your investment and that could prevent the Fund from achieving its goals.***

**30**

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Organization and Management of the Fund

------

The Fund's Board has the overall responsibility for overseeing the management of the Fund.

**The Investment Adviser**

The Adviser serves as the investment adviser to each of the Victory Funds pursuant to an investment advisory agreement and oversees the operations of the Fund according to investment policies and procedures adopted by the Board. The Adviser is a New York corporation that is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). As of March 31, 2026, the Adviser managed and advised assets totaling in excess of $[ ] billion for individual and institutional clients. The Adviser's principal address is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256.

A discussion regarding the basis of the Board's approval of the Fund's Advisory Agreements will be available in the Fund's Form N-CSR filing for the year ended June 30, 2026.

The Adviser is a diversified global asset manager comprised of multiple investment teams, referred to as investment franchises, each of which employs an independent approach to investing. Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise, is responsible for the day-to-day investment management of the Fund.

Advisory fees to be paid annually, before waivers, will be equal to the following:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund**  | **Advisory Fee**  |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0.35% |

---

See "Fund Fees and Expenses" for information about any contractual agreement by the Adviser to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses with respect to the Fund. From time to time, the Adviser also may voluntarily waive fees and/or reimburse expenses in amounts exceeding those required to be waived or reimbursed under any contractual agreement that may be in place with respect to the Fund.

**Portfolio Management**

Portfolio management is the responsibility of Howard Weiss, Fergal Jackson, and Cory Robart. The portfolio managers may draw upon the fundamental and quantitative research and investment management expertise provided by the Adviser's research teams.

Mr. Weiss is a Senior Vice President and Director of Multi-Asset Solutions at Pioneer Investments. He joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser in 2025, and the predecessor to Amundi US in 2011 and served as an associate portfolio manager and large cap core equity analyst. Mr. Weiss has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since June 2026.

Mr. Jackson, Vice President and Portfolio Manager at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser in 2025, and the predecessor to Amundi US in 2008, and focuses on the management of the Global Equity strategies. Mr. Jackson has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since June 2026.

Mr. Robart, Associate Portfolio Manager at Pioneer Investments, joined the Adviser following the integration of Amundi US into the Adviser in 2025, and the predecessor to Amundi US in 2010. He became a Senior Risk Analyst in 2017, and moved to the Investment Management Team in 2021, where he focuses on the asset allocation and security selection for global multi-asset strategies. Mr. Robart has served as a portfolio manager of the Fund since June 2026.

*The Fund's SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' method of compensation, other accounts they manage, and any ownership interests they may have in the Fund.*

**31**

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Investing with Victory

------

Share Price

------

The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund generally is determined at 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on each day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. In the event of an emergency or other disruption in trading on the NYSE, the Fund's NAV will be determined based upon the close of the NYSE. The NAV is computed by determining the aggregate market value of all assets of the Fund, less its liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| NAV= | Total Assets - Liabilities |
| NAV= | Number of Shares Outstanding |

---

The NAV takes into account the expenses and fees of the Fund, including management, administration, and distribution fees (if any), which are accrued daily. The determination of NAV for the Fund for a particular day is applicable to all applications for the purchase of shares, as well as all requests for the redemption of shares, received by the Fund (or an authorized broker or agent, or its authorized designee) before the close of trading on the NYSE on that day. The NYSE is closed on weekends, most national holidays, and Good Friday.

Generally, the Fund's investments are valued each day at the last quoted sales price on each investment's primary exchange. Investments traded or dealt in upon one or more exchanges (whether domestic or foreign) for which market quotations are readily available and not subject to restrictions against resale shall be valued at the last quoted sales price on the primary exchange or, in the absence of a sale on the primary exchange, at the last bid on the primary exchange. Securities primarily traded in the National Association of Securities Dealers' Automated Quotation System ("Nasdaq") National Market System for which market quotations are readily available shall be valued using the Nasdaq Official Closing Price. If market quotations are not readily available, investments will be valued at their fair market value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with procedures approved by the Board and evaluated by the Board as to the reliability of the fair value method used. In these cases, the Fund's NAV will reflect certain portfolio investments' fair value rather than their market price. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for an investment is materially different than the value that could be realized upon the sale of that investment. The fair value prices can differ from market prices when they become available or when a price becomes available.

The Fund may use independent pricing services to assist in calculating the value of the Fund's securities or other assets. In addition, market prices for foreign securities are not determined at the same time of day as the NAV for the Fund. In computing the NAV, the Fund values foreign securities held by the Fund at the latest closing price on the exchange in which they are traded immediately prior to closing of the NYSE. Prices of foreign securities quoted in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at current rates. The value of the Fund's securities may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase and redeem the Fund's shares if the Fund has portfolio securities that primarily are traded in foreign markets that are open on weekends or other days when the Fund does not price its shares. If events materially affecting the value of a security in the Fund's portfolio, particularly foreign securities, occur after the close of trading on a foreign market but before the Fund prices its shares, the security will be valued at fair value. For example, if trading in a portfolio security is halted and does not resume before the Fund calculates its NAV, the Adviser may need to price the security using the Fund's fair value pricing guidelines. Without a fair value price, short-term traders could take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity and dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Fair valuation of the Fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of the Fund's NAV by short-term traders. The determination of fair value involves subjective

**32**

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Share Price

------

judgments. As a result, using fair value to price a security may result in a price materially different from the prices used by other funds to determine NAV, or from the price that may be realized upon the actual sale of the security.

With respect to any portion of the Fund's assets that are invested in one or more open-end management investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act"), the Fund's NAV is calculated based upon the NAVs of those open-end management investment companies, and the prospectuses for these companies explain the circumstances under which those companies will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.

Short-term debt obligations with remaining maturities in excess of 60 days are valued at current market prices, as discussed above. Short-term debt obligations with 60 days or less remaining to maturity are, unless conditions indicate otherwise, amortized to maturity based on their cost to the Fund if acquired within 60 days of maturity or, if already held by the Fund on the 60th day, based on the value determined on the 61st day.

**Premium/Discount Information**

Since investors will buy and sell shares of the Fund in secondary market transactions through brokers at market prices, the Fund's shares will trade at market prices. The market price of shares may be greater than, equal to, or less than NAV. Market forces of supply and demand, economic conditions and other factors may affect the trading prices of shares of the Fund.

For recent information about the Fund, including the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads visit vcm.com.

**33**

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How to Buy and Sell Shares

------

Shares of the Fund will be listed for trading on the Exchange under the ticker symbol listed on the cover of this Prospectus. Share prices are reported in dollars and cents per share. Shares can be bought and sold on the secondary market throughout the trading day like other publicly traded shares, and shares typically trade in blocks of less than a Creation Unit. There is no minimum investment required. Shares may only be purchased and sold on the secondary market when the Exchange is open for trading.

When buying or selling shares through a broker, you will incur customary brokerage commissions and charges. The commission is often a fixed amount and may be a significant proportional cost for investors seeking to buy or sell smaller amounts of shares. You may also pay some or all of the spread between the bid and the offered price in the secondary market on each leg of a round trip (purchase and sale) transaction. The spread varies over time for shares of the Fund based on the Fund's trading volume and market liquidity, and is generally lower if the Fund's shares have more trading volume and market liquidity and higher if the Fund's shares have little trading volume and market liquidity.

Only an Authorized Participant ("AP") may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the Fund. The Fund's APs are institutions and large investors, such as market makers or other large broker-dealers, which have entered into a Participation Agreement with the Fund's distributor to undertake the responsibility of obtaining or selling the underlying assets needed to purchase or redeem, respectively, Creation Units of the Fund. APs may acquire shares directly from the Fund, and APs may tender their shares for redemption directly to the Fund, at NAV per share only in large blocks, or Creation Units, of 25,000 shares. Purchases and redemptions directly with the Fund must follow the Fund's procedures, which are described in the SAI.

The Fund may liquidate and terminate at any time without shareholder approval.

**Share Trading Prices**

The trading prices of the Fund's shares in the secondary market generally differ from the Fund's daily NAV and are affected by market forces such as the supply of and demand for shares and shares of underlying investments held by the Fund, economic conditions, and other factors. Information regarding the intraday indicative value ("IIV") of the Fund will be disseminated every 15 seconds throughout the trading day by the national securities exchange on which the Fund's shares are primarily listed or by market data vendors or other information providers. The IIV is based on the current market value of the securities and/or cash included in the Fund's published basket of securities. However, the IIV should not be viewed as a "real-time" update of the NAV per share of the Fund because the approximate value may not be calculated in the same manner as the NAV, which is computed once a day, generally at the end of the business day. The IIV does not necessarily reflect the precise composition of the current portfolio of securities and instruments held by the Fund at a particular point in time or the best possible valuation of the current portfolio. For example, the calculation of the NAV may be subject to fair valuation at different prices than those used in the calculations of the IIV and, unlike the calculation of NAV, the IIV may not reflect estimated accrued interest, dividends and other income, or Fund expenses. The IIV generally is determined by using both current market quotations and/or price quotations obtained from broker-dealers that may trade in the portfolio securities and instruments included in the Fund's IIV basket. The quotations of certain Fund holdings may not be updated during U.S. trading hours if such holdings do not trade in the United States. The Fund is not involved in, or responsible for, the calculation or dissemination of the approximate value of the shares and the Fund does not make any warranty as to the accuracy of these values.

**34**

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How to Buy and Sell Shares

------

**Book Entry**

Shares are held in book entry form, which means that no stock certificates are issued. The Depository Trust Company ("DTC") or its nominee is the record owner of all outstanding shares of the Fund and is recognized as the owner of all shares for all purposes.

Investors owning shares are beneficial owners as shown on the records of DTC or its participants. DTC serves as the securities depository for all shares. Participants in DTC include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and other institutions that directly or indirectly maintain a custodial relationship with DTC. As a beneficial owner of shares, you are not entitled to receive physical delivery of stock certificates or to have shares registered in your name, and you are not considered a registered owner of shares. Therefore, to exercise any right as an owner of shares, you must rely upon the procedures of DTC and its participants. These procedures are the same as those that apply to any other securities that you hold in book entry or "street name" form.

**Frequent Purchases and Redemptions of Fund Shares**

The Fund's shares can only be purchased and redeemed directly from the Fund by APs in Creation Units. Direct trading by APs is critical to ensuring that the Fund's shares trade at or close to NAV. The cash to be contributed to (or received from) the Fund in connection with a Creation Unit generally is negligible compared to the total amount of the trade. The Fund with exposure to non-U.S. securities employs fair valuation pricing to minimize arbitrage opportunities that attempt to exploit the differences between a security's market quotation and its fair value. In addition, the Fund imposes transaction fees on purchases and redemptions of shares to cover the custodial and other costs incurred by the Fund in effecting trades. These fees increase if an investor substitutes cash in part or in whole for securities, reflecting the fact that the Fund's trading costs increase in those circumstances.

Trading of the Fund's shares by individual shareholders occurs on the secondary market. Because the secondary market trades do not directly involve the Fund, it is unlikely those trades would cause the harmful effects of market timing, including dilution, disruption of portfolio management, increases in the Fund's trading costs and the realization of capital gains.

Given this structure, the Board has determined that it is not necessary to monitor for frequent in-kind purchases and redemptions of shares or market timing activity by the APs or on the shares' secondary market.

**Other Payments to Financial Intermediaries**

If you purchase Fund shares through an investment professional, a broker dealer, or other financial intermediary, the Fund may pay for sub-transfer agent, recordkeeping and/or similar administrative services. In addition, Victory Capital (and its affiliates) may make substantial payments out of its own resources, including the profits from the advisory fees Victory Capital receives from the Fund, to affiliated and unaffiliated dealers or other investment professionals and service providers for distribution, administrative and/or shareholder servicing activities. Victory Capital also may reimburse the distributor (or the distributor's affiliates) for making these payments. Some of these distribution-related payments may be made to dealers or other investment professionals for marketing, promotional or related expenses; these payments are often referred to as "revenue sharing." In some circumstances, these types of payments may create an incentive for a dealer or investment professional or its representatives to recommend or offer shares of the Fund to its customers. You should ask your dealer or investment professional for more details about any such payments it receives.

**35**

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Distribution and Service Plan

------

The Fund has adopted a distribution and service plan ("Plan") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Fund is authorized to pay distribution fees to the distributor and other firms that provide distribution and shareholder services ("Service Providers"). If a Service Provider provides these services, the Fund may pay fees at an annual rate not to exceed 0.25% of average daily net assets, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.

No distribution or service fees are currently paid by the Fund and there are no current plans to impose these fees. In the event Rule 12b-1 fees were charged, over time they would increase the cost of an investment in the Fund.

**36**

------

Distributions and Taxes

------

Unlike interests in conventional mutual funds, which typically are bought and sold from and to the fund only at closing NAVs, the Fund's shares are traded throughout the day in the secondary market on a national securities exchange on an intra-day basis and are created and redeemed in-kind and/or for cash in Creation Units at each day's next calculated NAV. In-kind arrangements are designed to protect ongoing shareholders from the adverse effects on the Fund's portfolio that could arise from frequent cash redemption transactions. In a conventional mutual fund, redemptions can have an adverse tax impact on taxable shareholders if the mutual fund needs to sell portfolio securities to obtain cash to meet net fund redemptions. These sales may generate taxable gains for the ongoing shareholders of the mutual fund, whereas the shares' in-kind redemption mechanism generally will not lead to a tax event for the Fund or its ongoing shareholders.

**Taxes on Distributions**

The Fund ordinarily declares and pays dividends from net investment income, if any, monthly, and net realized capital gains, if any, annually. The Fund may make additional distributions, if necessary, to comply with U.S. federal tax requirements and avoid U.S. federal income or excise tax. Dividends from the Fund's net long-term capital gains, if any, in excess of net short-term capital losses (capital gain dividends) that are properly designated as such are taxable to you as long-term capital gains (at the 20% maximum rate referred to above for non-corporate shareholders) regardless of how long you have held the Fund's shares. Dividends from the Fund's net investment income, including net short-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to you as ordinary income (other than qualified dividend income). Dividends from the Fund's qualified dividend income (i.e., dividends received on stock of most domestic and certain foreign corporations), if any, that are properly designated as such are taxable to non-corporate shareholders at long-term capital gain rates, provided that the Fund and the shareholder satisfy certain holding period and other requirements. The Fund's dividends also may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to corporations, subject to similar restrictions.

Distributions in cash may be reinvested automatically in additional whole shares only if the broker through whom you purchased shares makes such option available.

In general, your distributions are subject to U.S. federal income tax when they are paid, whether you take them in cash or reinvest them in the Fund (if that option is available). Distributions reinvested in additional shares of the Fund through the means of a dividend **r**einvestment service, if available, will be taxable to shareholders acquiring the additional shares to the same extent as if such distributions had been received in cash.

Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of (and in reduction of) your basis in the shares and any excess amount will be treated as capital gain.

Certain U.S. shareholders, including individuals and estates and trusts, are subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a portion of their "net investment income," which should include dividends from the Fund and net gains from the disposition of shares of the Fund.

If at the time a shareholder purchases shares of the Fund, the value of shares reflects undistributed net investment income, recognized net capital gain, or unrealized appreciation in the value of the assets of the Fund, distributions of such amounts will be taxable to the shareholder in the manner described above, although such distributions economically constitute a return of capital to the shareholder.

As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in shares will be taxed. The tax information in this Prospectus is provided as general information. You should consult your own tax professional about the tax consequences of an investment in shares.

**37**

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Distributions and Taxes

------

Unless your investment in shares is made through a tax-exempt entity or tax-deferred retirement account, such as an individual retirement account, you need to be aware of the possible tax consequences when:

◼

The Fund makes distributions,

◼

You sell your shares listed on the Exchange, and

◼

You purchase or redeem Creation Units (if applicable).

If you are a nonresident alien individual, foreign trust or estate, foreign corporation or foreign partnership, the Fund's ordinary income dividends may be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Exchange-Listed Share Sales**

Any capital gain or loss realized upon a sale of shares generally is treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for one year or less. The ability to deduct capital losses from sales of shares may be limited.

A nonresident alien individual and a foreign corporation generally is exempt from U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gains realized on the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund, but certain exceptions apply under which such shareholders may be subject to U.S. federal tax on such sale or other disposition. See the section titled "TAXES–Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**Taxes on Purchase and Redemption of Creation Units**

An AP who exchanges securities for Creation Units generally will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the market value of the Creation Units at the time of the exchange and the sum of the AP's aggregate basis in the securities surrendered plus any cash it pays. An AP who exchanges Creation Units for securities generally will recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the exchanger's basis in the Creation Units and the sum of the aggregate market value of the securities received plus any cash equal to the difference between the NAV of the shares being redeemed and the value of the securities. However, a loss realized by an AP upon an exchange of securities for Creation Units may not be deducted currently under the rules governing "wash sales" or for other reasons. Persons exchanging securities should consult their own tax advisor with respect to whether wash sale rules apply and when a loss might be deductible.

Any capital gain or loss realized on the purchase or redemption of Creation Units generally will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered to purchase the Creation Units or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for more than one year and as short-term capital gain or loss if the securities surrendered or the Creation Units, as applicable, have been held for one year or less.

If you purchase or redeem Creation Units, you will be sent a confirmation statement showing how many shares you purchased or sold and at what price. See "TAXES" in the SAI for a description of the requirement regarding basis determination methods applicable to share redemptions and the Fund's obligation to report basis information to the IRS.

**Backup Withholding**

By law, the Fund is required to withhold 24% of your distributions and proceeds if you have not provided the Fund with a correct Social Security number or other taxpayer identification number and in certain other situations.

**38**

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Distributions and Taxes

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**Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act**

Under the "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act," unless certain foreign entities comply with certain IRS requirements that generally require them to report information regarding U.S. persons investing in, or holding accounts with, such entities, a 30% U.S. withholding tax may apply to dividends paid by the Fund to such entities. See the section titled "TAXES—Foreign Shareholders" in the SAI for details.

**IRA Distribution Withholding Disclosure**

We generally must withhold federal income tax at a rate of 10% of the taxable portion of your distribution, and if you live in a state that requires state income tax withholding, at your state's tax rate. However, you may elect not to have withholding apply or to have income tax withheld at a higher rate. Any withholding election that you make will apply to any subsequent distribution unless and until you change or revoke the election. If you wish to make a withholding election, or change or revoke a prior withholding election, call 866-376-7890, and form W-4P (OMB No. 1545-0074 withholding certificate for pension or annuity payments) will be sent electronically.

If you do not have a withholding election in place by the date of a distribution, federal income tax will be withheld from the taxable portion of your distribution at a rate of 10%. If you must pay estimated taxes, you may be subject to estimated tax penalties if your estimated tax payments are not sufficient and sufficient tax is not withheld from your distribution.

The foregoing discussion summarizes some of the possible consequences under current federal tax law of an investment in the Fund. It is not a substitute for personal tax advice. The foregoing discussion also does not discuss any state, local, or non-U.S. tax consequences associated with an investment in the Fund. The tax information in this Prospectus is based on tax law in effect on the date of this Prospectus and it does not address any proposals to modify such tax laws. Consult your personal tax advisor about the potential tax consequences of an investment in the shares under all applicable tax laws.

For more specific information, please consult your tax adviser.

**39**

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Other Information

------

**Investments by Investment Companies**

Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act restricts investments by investment companies in the securities of other investment companies, including shares of the Fund. Registered investment companies are permitted to invest in the Fund beyond the limits set forth in Section 12(d)(1) as permitted by any rules and regulations adopted under applicable law, including that such investment companies enter into an agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund.

**Continuous Offering**

The method by which Creation Units of shares are created and traded may raise certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units of shares are issued and sold by the Fund on an ongoing basis, a "distribution," as such term is used in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), may occur at any point. Broker-dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery requirement and liability provisions of the Securities Act.

For example, a broker-dealer firm or its client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after placing an order with the distributor, breaks them down into constituent shares and sells the shares directly to customers or if it chooses to couple the creation of a supply of new shares with an active selling effort involving solicitation of secondary market demand for shares. A determination of whether one is an underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act must take into account all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the broker-dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that could lead to a characterization as an underwriter.

Broker-dealer firms should also note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are effecting transactions in shares, whether or not participating in the distribution of shares, generally are required to deliver a prospectus. This is because the prospectus delivery exemption in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act is not available in respect of such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the 1940 Act. As a result, broker-dealer firms should note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are participating in a distribution (as contrasted with engaging in ordinary secondary market transactions) and thus dealing with the shares that are part of an overallotment within the meaning of Section 4(a)(3)(C) of the Securities Act, will be unable to take advantage of the prospectus delivery exemption provided by Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act. For delivery of prospectuses to exchange members, the prospectus delivery mechanism of Rule 153 under the Securities Act is only available with respect to transactions on a national exchange.

**Dealers effecting transactions in the Fund's shares, whether or not participating in this distribution, generally are required to deliver a Prospectus. This is in addition to any obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as underwriters.**

**Portfolio Holdings Disclosure**

A description of the Fund's policies regarding disclosure of the securities in the Fund's portfolio is found in the Statement of Additional Information. The Fund's portfolio is disclosed daily on the Fund's website at www.VictorySharesLiterature.com. Shareholders also may request portfolio holdings schedules at no charge by calling toll free 866-376-7890.

**40**

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Other Information

------

**Shareholder Communications**

In order to eliminate duplicate mailings to an address at which two or more shareholders with the same last name reside, the Victory Funds may send only one copy of any shareholder reports, financial statements, proxy statements, prospectuses and their supplements, unless you have instructed us to the contrary. You may request that the Victory Funds send these documents to each shareholder individually by calling the Victory Funds at 866-376-7890, and they will be delivered promptly.

While this Prospectus and the SAI of the Trust describe pertinent information about the Trust and the Fund, neither this Prospectus nor the SAI represents a contract between the Trust or the Fund and any shareholder.

**Other Disclosures**

Victory Capital means Victory Capital Management Inc., the investment adviser of the VictoryShares ETFs. VictoryShares ETFs are distributed by Victory Capital Services, Inc. ("VCS"), an affiliate of Victory Capital. VCS is a member of FINRA.

**41**

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Financial Highlights

------

Because the Funds had not commenced operations prior to the date of this prospectus, financial highlights are not available.

**42**

------

![](vfetfnewlogo.gif)

4900 Tiedeman Road,

4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

**Statement of Additional Information (SAI):** The SAI contains more information about the Fund's operations, investment restrictions, policies, and practices. The SAI is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus, which means that it is legally part of this Prospectus, even if you do not request a copy.

**Annual/Semi Annual Reports and Form N-CSR/Form N-CSRS:** Annual and semi annual reports contain more information about the Fund's investments and the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during the most recent fiscal period. The Fund's Form N-CSR and Form N-CSRS filings contain the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements.

**How to Obtain Information:** You may obtain a free copy of the SAI, annual and semi annual reports and other information such as Fund financial statements and ask questions about the Fund or your accounts, online at VictorySharesLiterature.com, by contacting the Fund at the following address or telephone number, or by contacting your financial intermediary.

**By telephone:**

Call VictoryShares at

866-376-7890

**By mail:**

VictoryShares

4900 Tiedeman Road, 4th Floor

Brooklyn, OH 44144

You also can get information about the Fund (including the SAI, other reports and other information such as Fund financial statements) from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the SEC's Edgar database at sec.gov, or after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request sent to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

Investment Company Act File Number 811-22696

VS-PEPI_ETF-PRO (05/26)

------

![](g8vlu48q0lhlv3oyk0oum.jpg)

**VICTORYSHARES**

**STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ | ], 2026 |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF | &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;&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;&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [ ] |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgaged-Backed Securities ETF | &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;&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;&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [ ] |
| VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF | &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;&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;&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [ ] |

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(each a "Fund" and together, the "Funds")

Each Fund is a series of Victory Portfolios II (the "Trust")

Listed and traded on:

The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus and should be read in conjunction with each Fund's prospectus, dated [ ], 2026, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time (each, a "Prospectus"). This SAI is incorporated by reference in its entirety into each Prospectus. Copies of the Prospectus of each Fund can be obtained without charge upon request made to Victory Funds, P.O. Box 182593, Columbus, OH 43218-2593, at <u>VictorySharesLiterature.com</u> or by calling toll free 1-866-376-7890.

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| &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;&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **TABLE OF CONTENTS** |  |
| **GENERAL INFORMATION** | **2** |
| **INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND LIMITATIONS** | **2** |
| **INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND LIMITATIONS** | **2** |
| **INVESTMENT PRACTICES, INSTRUMENTS, AND RISKS** | **5** |
| **INVESTMENTS IN THE FUNDS BY OTHER REGISTERED INVESTMENT COMPANIES** | **41** |
| **DETERMINING NET ASSET VALUE ("NAV") AND VALUING PORTFOLIO SECURITIES** | **41** |
| **PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES** | **42** |
| **MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST** | **48** |
| **CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS** | **55** |
| **INVESTMENT ADVISER AND OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS** | **55** |
| **PORTFOLIO MANAGERS** | **59** |
| **DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN** | **60** |
| **CODE OF ETHICS** | **61** |
| **PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES** | **61** |
| **PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS** | **63** |
| **DIVIDENDS, CAPITAL GAINS AND DISTRIBUTIONS** | **66** |
| **TAXES** | **66** |
| **ADDITIONAL INFORMATION** | **74** |
| **APPENDIX A** | **78** |

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**GENERAL INFORMATION**

The Funds are each diversified series of the Trust (formerly named "Compass EMP Funds Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust organized on April 11, 2012. The Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company. The Trust currently consists of 25 series of beneficial interests ("shares"). This SAI relates to the shares of three series of the Trust (each a "Fund," and collectively, the "Funds").

Victory Capital Management Inc. (the "Adviser" or "Victory Capital") is the Funds' investment adviser. Each Fund's investment objective(s), restrictions and policies are more fully described below and in each Fund's Prospectus, as applicable. The Trust's Board of Trustees (the "Board" or "Trustees") may organize and offer shares of a new fund or liquidate a Fund at any time.

Much of the information contained in this SAI expands on subjects discussed in each Fund's Prospectus. Capitalized terms not defined herein are used as defined in the Prospectuses. No investment in shares of a Fund should be made without first reading that Fund's Prospectus.

The Funds' shares are offered at net asset value ("NAV") only in aggregations of 25,000 shares (each a "Creation Unit"). The Funds will issue and redeem Creation Units principally in exchange for a basket of securities (the "Deposit Securities"), together with the deposit of a specified cash payment (the "Cash Component"), plus a transaction fee. Each Fund may issue and redeem Creation Units in exchange for a specified all-cash payment ("Cash Deposit").The Funds are approved for listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ("Nasdaq" or the "Exchange"). Shares trade on the Exchange at market prices that may be below, at, or above NAV. The Trust reserves the right to adjust the prices of shares in the future to maintain convenient trading ranges for investors. Any adjustments would be accomplished through stock splits or reverse stock splits, which would have no effect on the net assets of the applicable Fund.

The Funds reserve the right to offer creations and redemptions of shares for cash. In addition, shares may be issued in advance of receipt of Deposit Securities subject to various conditions, including a requirement to maintain on deposit with the Trust cash equal to at least 105% of the market value of the missing Deposit Securities. In each instance of such cash creations or redemptions, transaction fees may be imposed and may be higher than the transaction fees associated with in-kind creations or redemptions. See "Purchase and Redemption of Shares" below.

Shares of each Fund are listed for trading and trade throughout the day on Nasdaq. In order to provide additional information regarding the indicative value of shares of the Index Funds, the Exchange or a market data vendor will disseminate every 15 seconds through the facilities of the Consolidated Tape Association or other widely disseminated means an updated "intraday indicative value" ("IIV") for the Funds as calculated by an information provider or market data vendor. The Trust is not involved in or responsible for any aspect of the calculation or dissemination of the IIV and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the IIV.

**INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, AND LIMITATIONS**

**Investment Objectives**

Each Fund's investment objective is non-fundamental, meaning it may be changed by a vote of the Trustees without a vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.

**Investment Policies and Limitations of the Funds**

Unless a policy of a Fund is expressly deemed to be a fundamental policy, changeable only by an affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of that Fund's outstanding voting securities, the Fund's policies are non-fundamental and may be changed without a shareholder vote.

A Fund may, following notice to its shareholders, employ other investment practices that presently are not contemplated for use by the Fund or that currently are not available but that may be developed to the extent such investment practices are both consistent with the Fund's investment objective and legally permissible for the Fund. Such investment practices, if they arise, may involve risks that exceed those involved in the activities described in the Fund's Prospectus.

A Fund's classification and sub-classification is a matter of fundamental policy. Each Fund is classified as an open-end investment company. Each Fund is sub-classified as a diversified investment company, which under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act") means that, with respect to 75% of a Fund's total assets, the Fund may not invest in securities of any issuer if, immediately after such investment, (i) more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund (taken at current value) would be invested in the securities of that issuer or (ii) more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer would be held by the Fund (this limitation does not apply to obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, and securities of other investment companies). A diversified fund is not subject to this limitation with respect to the remaining 25% of its total assets. In addition, each Fund has elected to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). To qualify as a regulated investment company, the Funds must meet certain diversification requirements as determined at the close of each quarter of each taxable year. The Code's diversification test is described in "TAXES."

The policies and limitations stated in this SAI supplement the Funds' investment policies set forth in each Fund's Prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of a Fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the Fund's acquisition of such security or other asset except in the case of borrowing (or other activities that may be deemed to result in the issuance of a "senior security" under the 1940 Act). Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with a Fund's investment policies and limitations. If the value of a Fund's holdings of illiquid investments at any time exceeds the percentage limitation applicable at the time of acquisition due to subsequent fluctuations in value or other reasons, the Board will consider what actions, if any, are appropriate to maintain adequate liquidity.

**Fundamental Investment Policies and Limitations of the Funds**

The following investment policies and limitations are fundamental and may not be changed without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, as defined under the 1940 Act. Under the 1940 Act, the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of a Fund means the affirmative vote of the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are represented in person or by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Portions of the Funds' fundamental investment restrictions (e.g., references to "except as permitted under the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified from time to time by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction") provide the Funds with flexibility to change limitations in connection with changes in applicable law, rules, regulations or exemptive relief. The language used in these restrictions provides the necessary flexibility to allow the Board to respond efficiently to these kinds of developments without the delay and expense of a shareholder meeting.

**Senior Securities**

None of the Funds may issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified from time to time by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction.

This limitation is not applicable to activities that may be deemed to involve the issuance or sale of a senior security by the Fund, provided that the Fund's engagement in such activities is consistent with or permitted by the 1940 Act the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or interpretations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") or its staff.

Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act permits a Fund to enter into Derivatives Transactions (as defined below) and certain other transactions notwithstanding the restrictions on the issuance of "senior securities" under Section 18 of the 1940 Act. Section 18 of the 1940 Act, among other things, prohibits open-end funds, including the Funds, from issuing or selling any "senior security," other than borrowing from a bank (subject to a requirement to maintain 300% "asset coverage").

Under Rule 18f-4, "Derivatives Transactions" include the following: (1) any swap, security-based swap (including a contract for differences), futures contract, forward contract, option (excluding purchased options), any combination of the foregoing, or any similar instrument, under which the Fund is or may be required to make any payment or delivery of cash or other assets during the life of the instrument or at maturity or early termination, whether as margin or settlement payment or otherwise; (2) any short sale borrowing; (3) reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions (e.g., recourse and non-recourse tender option bonds, and borrowed bonds), if the Fund elects to treat these transactions as Derivatives Transactions under Rule 18f-4; and (4) when-issued or forward-settling securities (e.g., firm and standby commitments, including to-be-announced ("TBA") commitments, and dollar rolls) and non-standard settlement cycle securities, unless a Fund intends to physically settle the transaction and the transaction will settle within 35 days of its trade date.

Unless a Fund is relying on the Limited Derivatives User Exception (as defined below), a Fund must comply with Rule 18f-4 with respect to its Derivatives Transactions. Rule 18f-4, among other things, requires the Funds to adopt and implement a comprehensive written derivatives risk management program ("DRMP") and comply with a relative or absolute limit on Fund leverage risk calculated based on value-at-risk ("VaR"). The DRMP is administered by a "derivatives risk manager," who is appointed by the Board, including a majority of Independent Trustees, and periodically reviews the DRMP and reports to the Board.

Rule 18f-4 provides an exception from the DRMP, VaR limit and certain other requirements if a Fund's "derivatives exposure" (as defined in Rule 18f-4) is limited to 10% of its net assets (as calculated in accordance with Rule 18f-4) and the Fund adopts and implements written policies and procedures reasonably designed to manage its derivatives risks (the "Limited Derivatives User Exception"). As of the date of this SAI, the Funds rely on the Limited Derivatives User Exception.

**Borrowing**

None of the Funds may borrow money, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, or by order of the SEC and as interpreted or modified from time to time by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction.

A Fund's ability to borrow money is limited by its investment policies and limitations, by the 1940 Act, and by applicable exemptions, no action letters, interpretations, and other pronouncements issued from time to time by regulatory authorities, including the SEC and its staff. Under the 1940 Act, a fund is required to maintain continuous asset coverage (that is, total assets including the proceeds of

borrowings, less liabilities excluding borrowings) of not less than 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% are subject to the minimum 300% asset coverage requirement. If the value of the assets set aside to meet the 300% asset coverage were to decline below 300% due to market fluctuations or other causes, a Fund may be required to sell some of its portfolio holdings within three days (excluding Sundays and holidays) to reduce the debt and comply with the 300% minimum asset coverage requirement, even in circumstances where it is considered disadvantageous from an investment perspective to sell securities at that time or at the prices then available.

**Underwriting, Purchasing Securities on Margin, or Participating on a Joint Basis**

None of the Funds may underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that a Fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act"), in the disposition of restricted securities.

**Real Estate**

None of the Funds may purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of direct ownership of securities or other instruments. This restriction shall not prevent any of these Funds from investing in the following: (i) securities or other instruments backed by real estate;

(ii)securities of real estate operating companies; or (iii) securities of companies engaged in the real estate business, including real estate investment trusts. This restriction does not preclude any of these Funds from buying securities backed by mortgages on real estate or securities of companies engaged in such activities.

**Concentration**

None of the Funds may concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as the term "concentration" is used in the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified from time to time by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction. This restriction shall not prevent any Fund from investing all of its assets in a "master" fund that has adopted similar investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.

Concentration means investing more than 25% of a Fund's net assets in a particular industry or a specified group of industries.

With respect to each Fund's concentration policy described above, the Fund applies that restriction to investments in a particular industry or group of industries.

**Commodities**

None of the Funds may purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent a Fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).

**Lending**

None of the Funds may make loans, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified from time to time by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction. Generally, the 1940 Act prohibits loans if a fund's investment policies do not permit loans, and if the loans are made, directly or indirectly, to persons deemed to control or to be under common control with the registered investment company.

**Non-Fundamental Investment Policies and Limitations of the Funds**

The following investment restrictions are non-fundamental and may be changed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Each Fund has an investment policy that requires it to invest at least 80% of its assets in the type of security suggested by its name. To the extent required by SEC rules, each such policy may be changed only upon at least 60 days' prior written notice to the applicable Fund's shareholders. The VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its assets in equity securities and equity-related investments. The VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its assets in fixed-income investments. The VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage- Backed Securities ETF, under normal circumstances, invests at least 80% of its assets in a portfolio of mortgage-related fixed- income instruments of varying maturities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•No Fund may purchase the securities of any registered open-end investment company or registered unit investment trust in reliance on Section 12(d)(1)(F) or Section 12(d)(1)(G) of the 1940 Act, which permits operation as a "fund of funds." Except as provided in the next paragraph and below in "Securities of Other Investment Companies," none of the Funds may: (1) invest more than 5% of its total assets in the securities of any one investment company; (2) own more than 3% of the securities of any one investment company; or (3) invest more than 10% of its total assets in the securities of other investment companies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Each Fund may purchase and redeem shares issued by a money market fund without limit, provided that either: (1) the acquiring Fund pays no "sales charge" or "service fee" (as each of those terms is defined in the FINRA Conduct Rules); or (2) the Adviser waives its advisory fee in an amount necessary to offset any such sales charge or service fee. For purposes of this investment restriction, a "money market fund" is either: (1) an open-end investment company registered under the 1940 Act and regulated as a money market fund in accordance with Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act; or (2) a company that is exempt from registration as an investment company under Sections 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act and that: (a) limits its investments to those permitted under

Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act; and (b) undertakes to comply with all the other requirements of Rule 2a-7, except that, if the company has no board of directors, the company's investment adviser performs the duties of the board of directors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•No Fund may make short sales of securities, other than short sales "against the box," or purchase securities on margin except for short-term credits necessary for clearance of portfolio transactions, provided that this restriction will not be applied to limit the use of options, futures contracts and related options, in the manner otherwise permitted by the investment restrictions, policies and investment program of the Fund.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•No Fund may invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments. Illiquid investments are generally any investment that the Fund reasonably expects cannot 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. Such investments include, but are not limited to, time deposits and repurchase agreements with maturities longer than seven days. Securities that may be resold under Rule 144A, securities offered pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the 1933 Act, or securities otherwise subject to restrictions or limitations on resale under the 1933 Act shall not be deemed illiquid solely by reason of being unregistered. The Adviser, under oversight of the Board, determines whether a particular investment is deemed to be liquid based on the trading markets for the specific security and other factors.

**INVESTMENT PRACTICES, INSTRUMENTS, AND RISKS**

In addition to the principal investment strategies and the principal risks of the Funds described in each Prospectus, each Fund may, but will not necessarily, employ other investment practices and may be subject to additional risks which are described further below. Because the following is a combined description of investment strategies and risks for all of the Funds, certain strategies and/or risks described below may not apply to every Fund. Unless a strategy or policy described below is specifically prohibited with respect to a particular Fund by the investment restrictions listed in the Prospectus, under "Investment Objectives Policies and Limitations" in this SAI, or by applicable law, a Fund may, but will not necessarily, engage in each of the practices described below. The Funds' use of the investment practices and instruments, and exposure to risks, discussed below may be through a Fund's investments in ETFs.

**Adjustable Rate Mortgage-Backed Securities**

Certain Funds may invest in adjustable rate mortgage-backed securities ("ARMBS"), which have interest rates that reset at periodic intervals. Acquiring ARMBS permits a Fund to participate in increases in prevailing current interest rates through periodic adjustments in the coupons of mortgages underlying the pool on which ARMBS are based. Such ARMBS generally have higher current yield and lower price fluctuations than is the case with more traditional fixed-income debt securities of comparable rating and maturity. In addition, when prepayments of principal are made on the underlying mortgages during periods of rising interest rates, a Fund can reinvest the proceeds of such prepayments at rates higher than those at which they were previously invested. Mortgages underlying most ARMBS, however, have limits on the allowable annual or lifetime increases that can be made in the interest rate that the mortgagor pays. Therefore, if current interest rates rise above such limits over the period of the limitation, a Fund, when holding an ARMBS, does not benefit from further increases in interest rates. Moreover, when interest rates are in excess of coupon rates (i.e., the rates being paid by mortgagors) of the mortgages, ARMBS behave more like fixed-income securities and less like adjustable rate securities and are subject to the risks associated with fixed-income securities. In addition, during periods of rising interest rates, increases in the coupon rate of adjustable rate mortgages generally lag current market interest rates slightly, thereby creating the potential for capital depreciation on such securities.

**Adjustable-Rate Securities**

Each Fund may invest in adjustable-rate securities. The interest on an adjustable-rate security fluctuates periodically. Generally, the security's yield is based on a U.S. dollar-based interest-rate benchmark such as the Federal Funds Rate, the 90-day U.S. Treasury bill rate, or the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). The yields on these securities are reset on a periodic basis (for example, daily, weekly, or quarterly) or upon a change in the benchmark interest rate. The yields are closely correlated to changes in money market interest rates.

**Agency Mortgage-Related Securities**

Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") Certificates are mortgage-backed securities that evidence an undivided interest in a pool of mortgage loans. Ginnie Mae Certificates differ from bonds in that principal is paid back monthly by the borrowers over the term of the loan rather than returned in a lump sum at maturity. A Fund may purchase "modified pass-through" Ginnie Mae Certificates, which entitle the holder to receive a share of all interest and principal payments paid and owned on the mortgage pool, net of fees paid to the "issuer" and Ginnie Mae, regardless of whether or not the mortgagor actually makes the payment. Ginnie Mae Certificates are backed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.

Government-related (i.e., not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government) guarantors include the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"), which issue certificates (participation certificates and guaranteed mortgage certificates) that resemble Ginnie Mae Certificates in that each certificate represents a pro rata share of all interest and principal payments made and owned on the underlying pool.

Pass-through securities issued by Fannie Mae are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest by Fannie Mae. Participation certificates issued by Freddie Mac, which represent interests in mortgages from Freddie Mac's national portfolio, are guaranteed by Freddie Mac as to the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of principal.

In September 2008, the Federal Housing Finance Agency ("FHFA"), an agency of the U.S. Government, placed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac under conservatorship. These purchases are intended to enhance Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's ability to meet their obligations. The FHFA and the U.S. Treasury have imposed strict limits on the size of these entities' mortgage portfolios. The FHFA has the power to cancel any contract entered into by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac prior to FHFA's appointment as conservator or receiver, including the guarantee obligations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

More recently in 2019, under the direction of the FHFA, 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 seeks to support the overall liquidity of both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac certificates in the TBA market. The FHFA has indicated that the conservatorship will end when the director of the FHFA determines that the FHFA's plan to restore the entities to a safe and solvent condition has been completed. As of the date of this SAI, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac remain under conservatorship.

Except for Ginnie Mae Certificates, each of the mortgage-backed securities described above is characterized by monthly payments to the holder, reflecting the monthly payments made by the borrowers who received the underlying mortgage loans. The payments to the security holders, like the payments on the underlying loans, represent both principal and interest. Although the underlying mortgage loans are for specified periods of time, such as 20 or 30 years, the borrowers can, and typically do, pay them off sooner. Thus, the security holders frequently receive prepayments of principal in addition to the principal that is part of the regular monthly payments. Portfolio management will consider estimated prepayment rates in calculating the average-weighted maturity of a Fund, if relevant. A borrower is more likely to prepay a mortgage that bears a relatively high rate of interest. This means that in times of declining interest rates, higher yielding mortgage-backed securities held by a Fund might be converted to cash, and a Fund will be forced to accept lower interest rates when that cash is used to purchase additional securities in the mortgage-backed securities sector or in other investment sectors. Additionally, prepayments during such periods will limit a Fund's ability to participate in as large a market gain as may be experienced with a comparable security not subject to prepayment.

A Fund's investments in mortgage-backed securities, including privately issued mortgage-related securities where applicable, may be backed by subprime mortgages. Subprime mortgages are loans made to borrowers with weakened credit histories or with a lower capacity to make timely payments on their mortgages. Investments in mortgage-backed securities comprised of subprime mortgages may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk, valuation risk, extension risk (heightened in rising interest rate environments), and liquidity risk.

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.

**Asset-Backed Securities**

Each Fund may invest in asset-backed securities ("ABS"). ABS represent a participation in, or are secured by and payable from, a stream of payments generated by particular assets, such as credit card, motor vehicle, or trade receivables. They may be pass-through certificates, which have characteristics very similar to mortgage-backed securities, discussed below. Such pass-through certificates may include equipment trust certificates ("ETC") secured by specific equipment, such as airplanes and railroad cars. ETC securities also may be enhanced by letters of credit. An ABS may also be in the form of asset-backed commercial paper, which is issued by a special purpose entity, organized solely to issue the commercial paper and to purchase interests in the assets.

The credit quality of ABS depends primarily on the quality of the underlying assets, the rights of recourse available against the underlying assets and/or the issuer, the level of credit enhancement, if any, provided for the securities, and the credit quality of the credit-support provider, if any. To lessen the effect of failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payments, the securities may contain elements of credit support which fall into two categories: (i) liquidity protection and (ii) protection against losses resulting from ultimate default by an obligor on the underlying assets. Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the entity administering the pool of assets, to ensure that the receipt of payments on the underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion. Protection against losses resulting from ultimate default ensures payment through insurance policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties. A Fund will not pay any additional or separate fees for credit support. The degree of credit support provided for each issue is generally based on historical information respecting the level of credit risk associated with the underlying assets. Delinquency or loss in excess of that anticipated credit support or failure of the credit support could adversely affect the return on an investment in such a security. In addition, the risk of default by borrowers is greater during times of rising interest rates and/or unemployment rates and generally is higher in the case of asset pools that include subprime assets.

ABS may be subject to interest rate risk and prepayment risk. In a period of declining interest rates, borrowers may prepay the underlying assets more quickly than anticipated, thereby reducing the yield to maturity and the average life of the asset-backed securities. Moreover, when a Fund reinvests the proceeds of a prepayment in these circumstances, it will likely receive a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on the security that was prepaid. In a period of rising interest rates, prepayments of the underlying assets may occur at a slower than expected rate, creating maturity extension risk. This particular risk may effectively change a security that was considered short- or intermediate-term at the time of purchase into a longer-term security. Since the value of longer-term securities generally fluctuates more widely in response to changes in interest rates than does the value of shorter-term securities, maturity extension risk could increase the volatility of a Fund. The weighted average life of such securities is likely to be substantially shorter than their stated final maturity as a result of scheduled principal payments and unscheduled principal prepayments.

**Auction Rate Securities**

The VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF may invest in auction rate securities. Auction rate securities consist of auction rate debt securities and auction rate preferred securities issued by closed-end investment companies. Provided that the auction mechanism is successful, auction rate securities usually permit the holder to sell the securities in an auction at par value at specified intervals. The dividend is reset by "Dutch" auction in which bids are made by broker-dealers and other institutions for a certain amount of securities at a specified minimum yield. The dividend rate set by the auction is the lowest interest or dividend rate that covers all securities offered for sale. While this process is designed to permit auction rate securities to be traded at par value, there is the risk that an auction will fail due to insufficient demand for the securities. If an auction fails, the dividend rate of the securities generally adjusts to a maximum rate specified in the issuer's offering or charter documents. Security holders that submit sell orders in a failed auction may not be able to sell any or all of the shares for which they have submitted sell orders. Broker-dealers may try to facilitate secondary trading in auction rate securities, although such secondary trading may be limited and may only be available for shareholders willing to sell at a discount. Since February 2008, nearly all such auctions have failed, significantly affecting the liquidity of auction rate securities. Holders of such securities have generally continued to receive dividends at the above-mentioned maximum rate. There is no assurance that auctions will resume or that any market will develop for auction rate securities. Valuations of such securities are highly speculative. With respect to auction rate securities issued by a closed-end fund, the fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees paid by the closed-end fund in addition to the advisory fee payable directly by the fund.

**Bank Obligations**

Bank obligations in which certain Funds 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.

**Bonds**

Each Fund may invest in bonds, which are fixed or variable-rate debt obligations, including bills, notes, debentures, money market instruments and similar instruments and securities. Mortgage- and asset-backed securities are types of bonds, and certain types of income- producing, non-convertible preferred stocks may be treated as bonds for investment purposes. Bonds generally are used by corporations, governments, and other issuers to borrow money from investors. The issuer pays the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest and normally must repay the amount borrowed on or before maturity. Many preferred stocks and some bonds are "perpetual" in that they have no maturity date. Bonds are subject to interest rate risk and credit risk. Interest rate risk generally is the risk that interest rates will rise and that, as a result, bond prices will fall, lowering the value of a fund's investments in bonds. In general, bonds with longer durations are more sensitive to interest rate changes than bonds with shorter durations. Credit risk, generally, is the risk that an issuer may be unable or unwilling to pay interest and/or principal on the bond. Credit risk can be affected by many factors, including adverse changes in the issuer's own financial condition or in economic conditions.

**Borrowing Money and Issuing Senior Securities**

Pursuant to the investment restrictions that have been adopted by the Trust for each Fund, each Fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act. "Senior securities" are defined as any bond, debenture, note, or similar obligation or instrument constituting a security and evidencing indebtedness, and any 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 prohibits a Fund from issuing senior securities except that the Fund may borrow money in amounts of up to one-third (33 1/3%) of the Fund's total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings) from banks. Any borrowings that exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (excluding Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation even if it is not advantageous to sell securities at that time. Borrowings may be used for a variety of purposes, including (i) for temporary or emergency purposes, (ii) in anticipation of or in response to adverse market conditions, (iii) for cash management purposes, and (iv) for investment purposes. Borrowed money will cost a Fund

interest expense and/or other fees. The costs of borrowing may reduce a Fund's return. To the extent that a Fund has outstanding borrowings, it will be leveraged. Leveraging generally exaggerates the effect on NAV of any increase or decrease in the market value of a Fund's securities.

Each Fund, together with other funds of the Trust and Victory Portfolios, Victory Portfolios II, and Victory Portfolios III, participates in a 364-day committed credit facility and a 364-day uncommitted, demand credit facility with Citibank, N.A. (Citibank). Each such credit facility may be renewed if so agreed by the parties. Under the agreement with Citibank, the Funds may borrow up to $600 million, of which $300 million is committed and $300 million is uncommitted. Of this amount, $40 million committed of the line of credit and $60 million of the uncommitted line of credit are reserved for use by the Victory Floating Rate Fund (a series of Victory Portfolios), with that Fund paying the related commitment fees for that amount. The purpose of each agreement is to meet temporary or emergency cash needs. For the committed credit facility, Citibank receives an annual commitment fee of 0.15%. Each Fund pays a pro-rata portion (adjusted for the amount of credit reserved for the Victory Floating Rate Fund) of these fees and pays the interest on any amount that it borrows.

**Callable Securities**

Callable securities give the issuer the right to redeem the security on a given date or dates (known as the call dates) prior to maturity. In return, the call feature is factored into the price of the debt security, and callable debt securities typically offer a higher yield than comparable non-callable securities. Certain securities may be called only in whole (the entire security is redeemed), while others may be called only in part (a portion of the total face value is redeemed) and possibly from time to time as determined by the issuer. There is no guarantee that a Fund will receive higher yields or a call premium on an investment in callable securities.

The period of time between the time of issue and the first call date, known as call protection, varies from security to security. Call protection provides the investor holding the security with assurance that the security will not be called before a specified date. As a result, securities with call protection generally cost more than similar securities without call protection. Call protection will make a callable security more similar to a long-term debt security, resulting in an associated increase in the callable security's interest rate sensitivity.

Documentation for callable securities usually requires that investors be notified of a call within a prescribed period of time. If a security is called, a Fund will receive the principal amount and accrued interest, and may receive a small additional payment as a call premium. Issuers are more likely to exercise call options in periods when interest rates are below the rate at which the original security was issued, because the issuer can issue new securities with lower interest payments. Callable securities are subject to the risks of other debt securities in general, including prepayment risk, especially in falling interest rate environments.

**Certificates of Deposit and Bankers' Acceptances**

Certificates of deposit are receipts issued by a depository institution in exchange for the deposit of funds. The issuer agrees to pay the amount deposited plus interest to the bearer of the receipt on the date specified on the certificate. The certificate usually can be traded in the secondary market prior to maturity.

A Fund may invest in insured bank obligations. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") insures the deposits of federally insured banks and savings and loan associations (collectively referred to as "banks") up to $250,000. A Fund may purchase bank obligations that are fully insured as to principal by the FDIC. Currently, to remain fully insured as to principal, these investments must be limited to $250,000 per bank; if the principal amount and accrued interest together exceed $250,000, the excess principal and accrued interest will not be insured. Insured bank obligations may have limited marketability.

Bankers' acceptances typically arise from short-term credit arrangements designed to enable businesses to obtain funds to finance commercial transactions. Generally, an acceptance is a time draft 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. The acceptance may then be held by the accepting bank as an earning asset or it may be sold in the secondary market at the going rate of discount for a specific maturity. Although maturities for acceptances can be as long as 270 days, most acceptances have maturities of six months or less.

**Collateralized Mortgage Obligations**

A Collateralized Mortgage Obligation ("CMO") is a debt obligation of a legal entity that is collateralized by mortgages and divided into classes. Similar to a bond, interest and prepaid principal is paid, in most cases, on a monthly basis. CMOs may be collateralized by whole mortgage loans or private mortgage bonds, but are more typically collateralized by portfolios of mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by Ginnie Mae, Freddie Mac, or Fannie Mae, and their income streams. A Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") is a type of CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment, and unlike the debt securities structure of CMOs, REMICs may be structured as indirect ownership interests in the underlying assets of the REMICs themselves.

CMOs are structured into multiple classes, often referred to as "tranches," with each class bearing a different stated maturity and entitled to a different schedule for payments of principal and interest, including pre-payments. Actual maturity and average life will depend upon the pre-payment experience of the collateral. In the case of certain CMOs (known as "sequential pay" CMOs), payments of principal received from the pool of underlying mortgages, including pre-payments, are applied to the classes of CMOs in the order of

their respective final distribution dates. Thus, no payment of principal will be made to any class of sequential pay CMOs until all other classes having an earlier final distribution date have been paid in full.

In a typical CMO transaction, a corporation ("issuer") issues multiple series (e.g., A, B, C, Z) of CMO bonds ("Bonds"). Proceeds of the Bond offering are used to purchase mortgages or mortgage pass-through certificates ("Collateral"). The Collateral is pledged to a third party trustee as security for the Bonds. Principal and interest payments from the Collateral are used to pay principal on the Bonds in the order A, B, C, Z. The Series A, B, and C Bonds all bear current interest. Interest on the Series Z Bond is accrued and added to principal and a like amount is paid as principal on the Series A, B, or C Bond currently being paid off. When the Series A, B, and C Bonds are paid in full, interest and principal on the Series Z Bond begins to be paid currently. CMOs may be less liquid and may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage- or asset-backed securities.

As CMOs have evolved, some classes of CMO bonds have become more common. For example, a Fund 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 certain Fund's investment objectives and policies, the Adviser may invest in various tranches of CMO bonds, including support bonds.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Collateralized Mortgage Obligation Residuals.** CMO residuals are mortgage securities issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government or by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, homebuilders, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose entities of the foregoing.

The cash flow generated by the mortgage assets underlying a series of CMOs is applied first to make required payments of principal and interest on the CMOs and second to pay the related administrative expenses and any management fee of the issuer. The residual in a CMO structure generally represents the interest in any excess cash flow remaining after making the foregoing payments. Each payment of such excess cash flow to a holder of the related CMO residual represents income and/or a return of capital. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a CMO will depend on, among other things, the characteristics of the mortgage assets, the coupon rate of each class of CMO, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the pre-payment experience on the mortgage assets. In particular, the yield to maturity on CMO residuals is extremely sensitive to pre-payments on the related underlying mortgage assets, in the same manner as an IO class of stripped mortgage-backed securities. In addition, if a series of a CMO includes a class that bears interest at an adjustable rate, the yield to maturity on the related CMO residual will also be extremely sensitive to changes in the level of the index upon which interest rate adjustments are based. As described above with respect to stripped mortgage-backed securities, in certain circumstances a Fund may fail to recoup fully its initial investment in a CMO residual.

CMO residuals are generally purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers. Transactions in CMO residuals are generally completed only after careful review of the characteristics of the securities in question. CMO residuals, whether or not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act"), may be subject to certain restrictions on transferability, and may be deemed "illiquid" and subject to a Fund's limitations on investment in illiquid securities.

**Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities**

Commercial mortgage-backed securities include securities that reflect an interest in, and are secured by, mortgage loans on commercial real property. Many of the risks of investing in commercial mortgage-backed securities reflect the risks of investing in the real estate securing the underlying mortgage loans, including office properties, retail properties, hotels, industrial mixed- use properties or multi- family apartment buildings. These risks reflect the effects of local and other economic conditions on real estate markets, the ability of tenants to make loan payments, and the ability of a property to attract and retain tenants. Commercial mortgage-backed securities may be less liquid and exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage- or asset-backed securities.

Other Mortgage-Related Securities. Other mortgage-related securities in which a Fund may invest include securities other than those described above that directly or indirectly represent a participation in, or are secured by and payable from, mortgage loans on real property, including equity or debt securities issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. In addition, a Fund may invest in any combination of mortgage-related interest-only or principal-only debt.

Mortgage-related securities include, among other things, securities that reflect an interest in reverse mortgages. In a reverse mortgage, a lender makes a loan to a homeowner based on the homeowner's equity in his or her home. While a homeowner must be age 62 or older to qualify for a reverse mortgage, reverse mortgages may have no income restrictions. Repayment of the interest or principal for the loan is generally not required until the homeowner dies, sells the home, or ceases to use the home as his or her primary residence.

There are three general types of reverse mortgages: (i) single-purpose reverse mortgages, which are offered by certain state and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations; (ii) federally-insured reverse mortgages, which are backed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and (iii) proprietary reverse mortgages, which are privately offered loans. A mortgage-related security may be backed by a single type of reverse mortgage. Reverse mortgage-related securities include agency and privately issued mortgage-related securities. The principal government guarantor of reverse mortgage related securities is Ginnie Mae.

Reverse mortgage-related securities may be subject to risks different than other types of mortgage-related securities due to the unique nature of the underlying loans. The date of repayment for such loans is uncertain and may occur sooner or later than anticipated. The timing of payments for the corresponding mortgage-related security may be uncertain.

Therefore, these loans may react differently than traditional home loans to market events.

**Commercial Paper**

Each Fund may invest in commercial paper. Commercial paper, which consists of short-term (usually from one to 270 days) unsecured promissory notes issued by corporations in order to finance their current operations. A variable amount master demand note (which is a type of commercial paper) represents a direct borrowing arrangement involving periodically- fluctuating rates of interest under a letter agreement between a commercial paper issuer and an institutional lender pursuant to which the lender may determine to invest varying amounts.

Investments in commercial paper are subject to the risk the issuer cannot issue enough new commercial paper to satisfy its outstanding commercial paper, also known as rollover risk. Commercial paper may become illiquid or may suffer from reduced liquidity in certain circumstances. Like all fixed income securities, commercial paper prices are susceptible to fluctuations in interest rates. If interest rates rise, commercial paper prices will decline. The short-term nature of a commercial paper investment makes it less susceptible to interest rate risk than many other fixed income securities because interest rate risk typically increases as maturity lengths increase. Commercial paper tends to yield smaller returns than longer-term corporate debt because securities with shorter maturities typically have lower effective yields than those with longer maturities. As with all fixed income securities, there is a chance that the issuer will default on its commercial paper obligation.

**Commercial Real Estate Collateralized Loan Obligations**

Commercial real estate collateralized loan obligations ("CRE CLOs") are securities that are collateralized by, or evidence ownership interests in, a single commercial mortgage loan or a partial or entire pool of mortgage loans secured by transitional commercial properties. CRE CLOs are generally pass-through certificates that represent beneficial ownership interests in common law trusts whose assets consist of defined portfolios of one or more commercial mortgage loans. They are typically issued in multiple tranches whereby the more senior classes are entitled to priority distributions of specified principal and interest payments from the trust's underlying assets. The senior classes are often securities which, if rated, would have ratings ranging from low investment grade "BBB-" to higher investment grades "A," "AA" or "AAA." The junior, subordinated classes typically would include one or more non-investment grade classes which, if rated, would have ratings below investment grade "BBB." Losses and other shortfalls from expected amounts to be received on the mortgage pool are borne first by the most subordinate classes, which receive payments only after the more senior classes have received all principal and/or interest to which they are entitled. CRE CLOs may be adversely impacted due to collateral defaults of subordinate tranches or market anticipation of such defaults. The risks of CRE CLOs will be greater if a Fund holds subordinate tranches of a CRE CLO that absorbs losses from the defaults before senior tranches. CRE CLOs are subject to interest rate risk and credit risk.

**Commodity-Linked Notes**

Each Fund may invest in commodity-linked notes, which are a type of structured note. Commodity-linked notes are privately negotiated structured debt securities indexed to the return of an index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return, which is representative of the commodities market. They are available from a limited number of approved counterparties, and all invested amounts are exposed to the dealer's credit risk. Commodity-linked notes may be leveraged. For example, if a Fund invests $100 in a three-times leveraged commodity-linked note, it will exchange $100 principal with the dealer to obtain $300 exposure to the commodities market. The value of the note will change by a magnitude of three for every percentage point change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying index. This means a $100 note would be worth $70 if the commodity index decreased by 10%. Structured notes also are subject to counterparty risk.

Investments linked to the prices of commodities, including commodity-linked notes, are considered speculative. The values of commodity-linked notes are affected by events that might have less impact on the values of stocks and bonds. Prices of commodities and related contracts may fluctuate significantly over short periods due to a variety of factors, including changes in supply and demand relationships, weather, agriculture, fiscal, and exchange control programs, disease, pestilence, and international economic, political, military, and regulatory developments. In addition, the commodity markets may be subject to temporary distortions and other disruptions

due to, among other factors, lack of liquidity, the participation of speculators, and government regulation and other actions. These circumstances could adversely affect the value of the commodity-linked notes and make commodity-linked notes more volatile than other types of investments. Investments in commodity-linked notes may have substantial risks, including risk of loss of a significant portion of their principal value. They are also subject to tax risks because the income therefrom is not "good" income for a regulated investment company. See the section of the SAI entitled "Taxes."

**Common Stock**

Common stock represents an equity (ownership) interest in a company, and usually possesses voting rights and earns dividends. Dividends on common stock are not fixed but are declared at the discretion of the issuer. Common stock generally represents the riskiest investment in a company. In addition, common stock generally has the greatest appreciation and depreciation potential because increases and decreases in earnings are usually reflected in a company's stock price. A company's common stock also may decline significantly in price over a short period of time due to factors specific to that company, including decisions made by its management or lower demand for the company's products or services.

**Confidential Information**

With respect to certain loan transactions, including but not limited to private placements, certain Funds may determine not to receive confidential information. Such a decision may place a Fund at a disadvantage relative to other investors who determine to receive confidential information, as a Fund may be limited in its available investments or unable to make accurate assessments related to certain investments.

In cases where the Adviser receives material, nonpublic information about the issuers securities that may be held in a Fund's holdings, the Adviser's ability to trade in these securities for the account of the Fund could potentially be limited by its possession of such information, to the extent necessary to comply with certain regulatory restrictions. Such limitations on the ability to trade in the securities of the issuer could have an adverse effect on a Fund by, for example, preventing the Fund from selling a security that is experiencing a material decline in value. In some instances, these trading restrictions could continue in effect for a substantial period of time.

In addition, because a Fund becomes a creditor of an issuer when holding a security, the Adviser may from time to time participate on creditor committees on behalf of a Fund. These are committees formed by creditors to negotiate with management of the issuer and are intended to protect the rights of bondholders in the event of bankruptcy, bond covenant default, or other issuer-related financial problems. Participation on creditor committees may expose the Adviser or a Fund to material non-public information of the issuer, restricting such Fund's ability to trade in or acquire additional positions in a particular security or other securities of the issuer when it might otherwise desire to do so. Participation on creditor committees may also expose a Fund to federal bankruptcy laws or other laws governing rights of debtors and creditors.

Additionally, such participation may subject a Fund to expenses such as legal fees. The Adviser will only participate on creditor committees on behalf of a Fund when it believes such participation is necessary or desirable to protect the value of portfolio securities or enforce a Fund's rights as a creditor.

**Convertible Securities**

Each Fund may invest in convertible securities, which are bonds, preferred stocks, and other securities that pay interest or dividends and offer the buyer the ability to convert the security into common stock. The value of convertible securities depends partially on interest rate changes and the credit quality of the issuer. Because a convertible security affords an investor the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation of the underlying common stock, the value of convertible securities also depends on the price of the underlying common stock.

A convertible security entitles the holder to receive interest paid or accrued on debt or the dividend paid on preferred stock until the convertible security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged. Before conversion, convertible securities have characteristics similar to nonconvertible income securities in that they ordinarily provide a stable stream of income with generally higher yields than those of common stocks of the same or similar issuers, but lower yields than comparable nonconvertible securities. The value of a convertible security is influenced by changes in interest rates, with investment value declining as interest rates increase and increasing as interest rates decline. The credit standing of the issuer and other factors also may have an effect on the convertible security's investment value. Convertible securities are subordinate in rank to any senior debt obligations of the same issuer and, therefore, an issuer's convertible securities entail more risk than its debt obligations.

The convertible securities in which the Funds will invest may be rated below investment grade as determined by Moody's or S&P, or unrated but judged by the Adviser to be of comparable quality (commonly called "junk" bonds). Ratings represent a rating agency's opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. In addition, rating agencies may fail to make timely changes to credit ratings in response to subsequent events and a rating may become stale in that it fails to reflect changes in an issuer's financial condition. For a more complete description of debt ratings, see Appendix A. Such securities are deemed to be speculative and involve greater risk of default due to changes in interest rates, economic conditions, and the issuer's creditworthiness. As a result, their market prices tend to fluctuate more than those of higher-quality securities. During periods of general economic downturns or rising interest rates, issuers of such securities may experience financial difficulties, which could affect their ability to make timely interest and principal

payments. The Fund's ability to timely and accurately value and dispose of lower-quality securities also may be affected by the absence or periodic discontinuance of liquid trading markets.

**Credit Risk Transfer Securities**

Credit risk transfer securities ("CRTs") are unguaranteed and unsecured fixed or floating rate general obligations or debt securities issued by government sponsored enterprises ("GSE"), such as Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or by private entities. Credit risk transfer securities are typically issued at par and have stated final maturities. CRTs issued by government sponsored entities are typically structured so that: (i) interest is paid directly by the issuing GSE; and (ii) principal is paid by the issuing GSE in accordance with the principal payments and default performance of a pool of residential or underlying mortgage loans acquired by the GSE. The issuing GSE selects the pool of mortgage loans based on that GSE's eligibility criteria, and the performance of the CRTs will be directly affected by the selection of such underlying mortgage loans.

GSE CRTs are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans. Therefore, although the payment of principal and interest on such securities is tied to the performance of the pool of underlying mortgage loans, the actual cash flow from the underlying mortgage loans will not be paid or otherwise made available to the holders of the securities and the holders of the securities will have no interest in the underlying mortgage loans. As a result, in the event that a GSE fails to pay principal or interest on its CRTs or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such CRTs will have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans. Such holders will receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders (agency debentures) in such a scenario.

GSE CRTs are typically issued in multiple tranches, which are allocated certain principal repayments and credit losses corresponding to the seniority of the particular tranche. Each tranche will have credit exposure to the underlying mortgage loans and the yield to maturity will be directly related to the amount and timing of certain defined credit events on the underlying mortgage loans, any prepayments by borrowers and any removals of a mortgage loan from the pool. Because credit risk exposure is allocated in accordance with the seniority of the particular tranche, principal losses will be first allocated to the most junior or subordinate tranches, thus making the most subordinate tranches subject to increased sensitivity to dramatic housing downturns. In addition, many CRTs have collateral performance triggers (such as those based on credit enhancement, delinquencies or defaults) that could shut off principal payments to subordinate tranches.

The risks associated with an investment in GSE CRTs will be different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by GSEs, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans in GSE CRTs is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in GSE CRTs could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default.

CRTs are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans. Thus, although the payment of principal and interest on such securities is tied to the performance of the pool of underlying mortgage loans, if a Fund is an investor in CRTs, the Fund will have no interest in the underlying mortgage loans. In the event that a GSE fails to pay principal or interest on its CRTs or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, a Fund would have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans.

CRTs issued by private entities are structured similarly to those issued by a GSE, and are generally subject to the same types of risks, including mortgage, credit, prepayment, extension, interest rate, market, liquidity, and valuation risks.

**Credit Spread Trades**

Credit spread trades are investment positions relating to a difference in the prices or interest rates of two securities or currencies, where the value of the investment position is determined by movements in the difference between the prices or interest rates, as the case may be, of the respective securities or currencies.

**Defaulted Securities**

Certain Funds may hold defaulted securities if its portfolio management believes, based upon an analysis of the financial condition, results of operations, and economic outlook of an issuer, that there is potential for resumption of income payments and that the securities offer an unusual opportunity for capital appreciation. For the Funds subject to such limit, defaulted securities will be included in each Fund's limit on investments in bonds rated below investment grade. A Fund will not invest in defaulted securities at the time of investment. Notwithstanding portfolio management's belief about the resumption of income, however, the purchase of any security on which payment of interest or dividends is suspended involves a high degree of risk. Such risk includes, among other things, the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Financial and Market Risks.** Investments in securities that are in default involve a high degree of financial and market risks that can result in substantial or, at times, even total losses. Issuers of defaulted securities may have substantial capital needs and may become involved in bankruptcy or reorganization proceedings. Among the problems involved in investments in such issuers is the fact that it may be difficult to obtain information about the condition of such issuers. The market prices of such securities also are subject to abrupt and erratic movements and above average price volatility, and the spread between the bid and asked prices of such securities may be greater than normally expected.

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

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Disposition of Portfolio Securities.** Although certain Funds generally will purchase securities for which portfolio management expects an active market to be maintained, defaulted securities may be less actively traded than other securities, and it may be difficult to dispose of substantial holdings of such securities at prevailing market prices. A Fund will limit holdings of any such securities to amounts that portfolio management believes could be readily sold, and holdings of such securities would, in any event, be limited so as not to limit a Fund's ability to readily dispose of securities to meet redemptions.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Other.** Defaulted securities require active monitoring and may, at times, require participation in bankruptcy or receivership proceedings on behalf of a Fund.

**Depositary Receipts**

A Fund may invest in sponsored and unsponsored depositary receipts, such as American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), which are receipts issued by an American bank or trust company evidencing ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign issuer. ADRs, in registered form, are designed for use in U.S. securities markets. Unsponsored ADRs may be created without the participation of the foreign issuer. Holders of these ADRs generally bear all the costs of the ADR facility, whereas foreign issuers typically bear certain costs in a sponsored ADR. The bank or trust company depositary of an unsponsored ADR may be under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the foreign issuer or to pass through voting rights. Many of the risks described below regarding foreign securities apply to investments in ADRs. Without limitation, a Fund may also invest in European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"). EDRs are receipts issued in Europe that evidence a similar ownership arrangement. GDRs are receipts issued throughout the world that evidence a similar arrangement.

Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying securities in their primary trading market. If a depositary receipt is denominated in a different currency than its underlying securities, a Fund will be subject to the currency risk of both the investment in the depositary receipt and the underlying security. The values of depositary receipts may decline for a number of reasons relating to the issuers or sponsors of the depositary receipts, including, but not limited to, insolvency of the issuer or sponsor. Holders of depositary receipts may have limited or no rights to take action with respect to the underlying securities or to compel the issuer of the receipts to take action. The prices of depositary receipts may differ from the prices of securities upon which they are based.

A Fund may invest in unsponsored depositary receipts, which are issued by one or more depositaries without a formal agreement with the company that issues the underlying securities. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs thereof, and the depositaries of unsponsored depositary receipts frequently are under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuers of the underlying securities or to pass through voting rights with respect to the underlying securities. In addition, the issuers of the securities underlying unsponsored depositary receipts are not obligated to disclose material information to the market and, therefore, there may be less information available regarding such issuers and there may not be a correlation between such information and the market value of the depositary receipts.

**Derivatives**

The use of derivatives is a highly specialized activity that can involve investment techniques and risks different from, and in some respects greater than, those associated with investing in more traditional investments such as stocks and bonds. Derivatives may have varying degrees of volatility at different times, or under different market conditions, and may perform in unanticipated ways. New regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, or may otherwise adversely affect their liquidity, value, or performance.

Rule 18f-4 regulates the use of derivatives for certain funds registered under the 1940 Act. Unless the Fund qualifies as a "limited derivatives user," Rule 18f-4 requires, among other things, that the Fund establishes a comprehensive derivatives risk management program, to comply with certain value-at-risk based leverage limits, to appoint a derivatives risk manager and to provide additional disclosure both publicly and to the SEC regarding its derivatives positions. Rule 18f-4 also has eliminated the general requirement to segregate a sufficient amount of liquid assets to cover potential obligations with respect to certain derivatives transactions, in light of Rule 18f-4's requirements for funds to establish and maintain derivatives risk management programs that comply with certain risk-based limits. For funds that qualify as limited derivatives users, Rule 18f-4 requires policies and procedures to manage aggregate derivatives risk. These requirements could have an impact on the Funds, including a potential increase in cost to enter into derivatives transactions.

Under circumstances in which such instruments are expected by the Adviser to aid in achieving each Fund's investment objective, each Fund may buy and sell certain types of derivatives. Derivatives are instruments that derive their value from the value of one or more underlying assets, reference rates or indices, and may include futures contracts, options on futures contracts, swaps, options on currencies, securities, and securities indices. Derivatives also may possess the characteristics of both futures and securities (e.g., debt instruments with interest and principal payments determined by reference to the value of a commodity or a currency at a future time) and therefore, possess the risks of both futures and securities investments.

Permissible derivative instruments include "market access products," which offer synthetic exposure to an underlying local foreign stock. They include, for example, equity-linked notes, warrants, zero strike options, and total return swaps. Market access products are subject to the same risks as direct investments in securities of foreign issuers. If the underlying stock decreases in value, the market access product will decrease commensurately. In addition, market access products are subject to counterparty risk due to the fact that the security is issued

by a broker. If the broker suffers a significant credit event and cannot perform under the terms of an agreement, a market access product may lose value regardless of the strength of the underlying stock.

Derivatives, such as futures contracts; options on currencies, securities, and securities indexes; options on futures contracts; and swaps enable a Fund to take both "short" positions (positions which anticipate a decline in the market value of a particular asset or index) and "long" positions (positions which anticipate an increase in the market value of a particular asset or index). Each Fund also may use strategies that involve simultaneous short and long positions in response to specific market conditions, such as where the Adviser anticipates unusually high or low market volatility.

The Adviser may enter into derivative positions for either hedging or non-hedging purposes as permitted for each Fund as described in its prospectus and in this SAI. The term "hedging" is applied to defensive strategies designed to protect a Fund from an expected decline in the market value of an asset or group of assets that a Fund owns (in the case of a short hedge) or to protect a Fund from an expected rise in the market value of an asset or group of assets which it intends to acquire in the future (in the case of a long or "anticipatory" hedge). Non- hedging strategies include strategies designed to produce incremental income (such as the option writing strategy described below) or "speculative" strategies, which are undertaken to equitize the cash or cash-equivalent portion of a Fund's portfolio or to profit from (i) an expected decline in the market value of an asset or group of assets which a Fund does not own or (ii) expected increases in the market value of an asset which it does not plan to acquire. Information about specific types of instruments is provided below.

**Diversification**

Each Fund intends to be diversified as defined in the 1940 Act and to satisfy the restrictions against investing too much of its assets in any "issuer" as set forth in the prospectus. In implementing this policy, the identification of the issuer of a municipal security depends on the terms and conditions of the security. When the assets and revenues of an agency, authority, instrumentality, or other political subdivision are separate from those of the government creating it and the security is backed only by the assets and revenues of the subdivision, agency, authority, or instrumentality, the latter would be deemed to be the sole issuer. Similarly, if an industrial development revenue bond is backed only by the assets and revenues of the non-government user, then that user would be deemed to be the sole issuer. However, if in either case the creating government or some other entity guarantees a security, the guarantee would be considered a separate security and would be treated as an issue of that government or other entity.

**Equity Securities**

Each Fund may invest in equity securities listed on any domestic or foreign securities exchange or traded in the over-the-counter market, as well as certain restricted or unlisted securities. As used herein, "equity securities" are defined as common stock, preferred stock, trust or limited partnership interests, rights and warrants to subscribe to or purchase such securities, sponsored or unsponsored American depositary receipts ("ADRs"), European depositary receipts ("EDRs"), global depositary receipts ("GDRs"), and convertible securities, consisting of debt securities or preferred stock that may be converted into common stock or that carry the right to purchase common stock. Common stocks, the most familiar type, represent an equity (ownership) interest in a corporation. They may or may not pay dividends or carry voting rights. Common stock occupies the most junior position in a company's capital structure. Although equity securities have a history of long-term growth in value, their prices fluctuate based on changes in a company's financial condition and on overall market and economic conditions. Smaller companies are especially sensitive to these factors. Equity securities generally have greater volatility than debt securities.

**Equity-Linked Structured Notes**

Equity-linked structured notes are derivative securities that are specifically designed to combine the characteristics of one or more underlying securities and their equity derivatives in a single note form. The return and/or yield or income component may be based on the performance of the underlying equity securities, an equity index, and/or option positions. Equity-linked structured notes are typically offered in limited transactions by financial institutions in either registered or non-registered form. An investment in equity-linked notes creates exposure to the credit risk of the issuing financial institution, as well as to the market risk of the underlying securities. There is no guaranteed return of principal with these securities and the appreciation potential of these securities may be limited by a maximum payment or call right. In certain cases, equity-linked notes may be more volatile and less liquid than less-complex securities or other types of fixed income securities. Such securities may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with other fixed income securities.

**Eurodollar and Yankee Obligations**

Each Fund may invest in Eurodollar obligations or Yankee obligations. Eurodollar obligations are dollar-denominated instruments that have been issued outside the U.S. capital markets by foreign corporations and financial institutions and by foreign branches of U.S. corporations and financial institutions. Yankee obligations are dollar-denominated instruments that have been issued by foreign issuers in the U.S. capital markets.

Eurodollar and Yankee obligations are subject to the same risks that pertain to domestic issues, notably credit risk, market risk, and liquidity risk. Additionally, Eurodollar (and to a limited extent, Yankee) obligations are subject to certain sovereign risks. One such risk is the possibility that a sovereign country might prevent capital, in the form of dollars, from leaving the country. Other risks include: adverse political and economic developments; the extent and quality of government regulation of financial markets and institutions; the imposition of foreign withholding taxes; and expropriation or nationalization of foreign issuers. However, Eurodollar and Yankee

obligations will undergo the same type of credit analysis as domestic issues in which the Fund invests, and will have at least the same financial strength as the domestic issuers approved for the Fund.

**European Securities**

The EU Economic and Monetary Union ("EMU") requires member countries to comply with restrictions on interest rates, deficits, debt levels, and inflation rates, and other factors, each of which may significantly impact every European country. The economies of EU member countries and their trading partners may be affected adversely by changes in the euro's exchange rate, changes in EU or governmental regulations on trade, and the threat of default or default by an EU member country on its sovereign debt, which could negatively impact a Fund's investments and cause it to lose money. Recently, the European financial markets have been impacted negatively by rising government debt levels; possible default on or restructuring of sovereign debt in several European countries, including Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain; and economic downturns. A European country's default or debt restructuring would adversely affect the holders of the country's debt and sellers of credit default swaps linked to the country's creditworthiness and could negatively impact global markets more generally. Recent events in Europe have adversely affected the euro's exchange rate and value and may continue to impact the economies of every European country.

**Exchange-Traded Funds ("ETFs")**

Each Fund may invest in ETFs, which are, with a few exceptions, open-end investment companies that trade throughout the day. ETFs trade on stock exchanges. Because they trade like a stock, they offer trading flexibility desired by both individuals and institutions. The value of the underlying securities held by an ETF is a major factor in determining an ETF's price. However, ETFs do not necessarily trade at their NAV. The price of an ETF also is determined by supply and demand and, as a result, the share price of an ETF may trade at a premium or discount to its NAV.

To the extent a Fund invests in ETFs, it will be exposed to the same risks of the ETFs' holdings as the ETFs themselves in direct proportion to the allocation of the Fund's assets among those ETFs. You also will indirectly bear fees and expenses charged by the ETFs in which the Fund invests in addition to the Fund's direct fees and expenses. In addition, the ETFs that the Funds invest in are typically "passive investors" that invest in the securities and sectors contained in the indexes they seek to track without regard for or analysis of the prospects of such securities or sectors ("Passive ETFs"). A Passive ETF may invest in all of the securities in such index or in a representative sample of such securities.

Passive ETFs generally do not attempt to take defensive positions in volatile or declining markets or under other conditions. Furthermore, Passive ETFs usually are not able to duplicate exactly the performance of the underlying indexes they track. The difference in performance between a Passive ETF and the index it seeks to track can be due to, among other factors, the expenses that the Passive ETF pays, regulatory constraints, investment strategies, techniques undertaken by the Passive ETF and changes to an underlying index. There also may be a lack of correlation between the securities in an index and those actually held by a Passive ETF. The performance of a fund that invests in such an ETF could be adversely impacted. In addition, although ETFs (both active and passive) are generally listed on securities exchanges, there can be no assurances that an active trading market for such ETFs will be maintained. Secondary market trading in the ETFs also may be halted by a national securities exchange because of market conditions or for other reasons. There can be no assurances that the requirement necessary to maintain the listing of the ETFs will continue to be met or will remain unchanged.

**Exchange-Traded Notes ("ETNs")**

Each Fund may invest in ETNs, which are a type of unsecured, unsubordinated debt security, usually issued by large financial institutions. This type of debt security differs from other types of bonds and notes because ETN returns are based upon the performance of a market index minus applicable fees, no period coupon payments are distributed, and no principal protections exist. The purpose of ETNs is to create a type of security that combines the aspects of both bonds and ETFs. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are traded on a major exchange (i.e., NYSE) during normal trading hours. However, investors can also hold the debt security until maturity. At that time, the issuer will give the investor a cash amount that would be equal to the principal amount (subject to the day's index factor). One factor that affects the ETN's value is the credit rating of the issuer. The value of an ETN also may be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying commodities or securities markets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer's credit rating and economic, legal, political, or geographic events that affect the referenced commodity or security. A Fund's decision to sell its ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market. If a Fund must sell some or all of its ETN holdings and the secondary market is weak, it may have to sell such holdings at a discount. 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. ETNs are subject to counterparty credit risk and fixed income risk. ETNs also are subject to tax risk. No assurance can be given that the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") will accept, or a court will uphold, how a Fund characterizes and treats ETNs for federal income tax purposes. Further, the IRS and Congress are considering proposals that would change the timing of recognition and tax character of income and gains from ETNs.

**Foreign Securities**

A Fund may invest in foreign securities. Investing in foreign securities poses unique risks: currency exchange rate fluctuations; foreign market illiquidity; emerging markets risk; increased price volatility; exchange control regulations; foreign ownership limits; different accounting, reporting, and disclosure requirements; political or social instability, including policies of foreign governments which may

affect their respective equity markets; foreign taxation requirements, including withholding taxes; prohibitions or restrictions by certain foreign governments on foreign investing in their capital markets or in certain industries, or limitations on the removal of funds or assets; and difficulties in obtaining legal judgments. In the past, equity and debt instruments of foreign markets have been more volatile than equity and debt instruments of U.S. securities markets.

Investing in the securities of companies located in emerging market companies generally involve greater risk than investing in the securities of companies located in countries with developed markets. The People's Republic of China ("PRC") currently exercises sovereignty over Hong Kong; however, Hong Kong retains significant economic and political autonomy under the Basic Law, a "quasi- constitution" that has been in place since Hong Kong reverted to PRC sovereignty in 1997. The Basic Law is anticipated to remain in place until 2047. Investments in emerging market countries may present market, credit, currency, liquidity, legal, political, technical, and other risks different from, or greater than, the risks of investing in developed countries. For instance, these countries may be more likely than developed countries to experience rapid and significant developments in their political or economic structures. Some emerging market countries restrict foreign investments, impose withholding or other taxes on foreign investments, or may nationalize or expropriate the assets of private companies. Therefore, a Fund may be limited in its ability to make direct or additional investments in an emerging markets country. Such restrictions also may have negative impacts on transaction costs, market price, investment returns and the legal rights and remedies of a Fund. In addition, the securities markets of emerging markets countries generally are smaller, less liquid, and more volatile than those of developed countries. Emerging market countries often have less uniformity in accounting and reporting requirements and less reliable settlement, registration, and custodial procedures. Emerging market countries also may be subject to high inflation and rapid currency devaluations and may be heavily dependent on international trade, which can materially affect their securities markets. The risks associated with investing in a narrowly defined geographic area also, generally, are more pronounced with respect to investments in emerging market countries.

Any investments in foreign securities will be made in compliance with U.S. and foreign currency restrictions, tax laws, and laws limiting the amount and types of foreign investments. Pursuit of the Funds' investment objectives will involve currencies of the United States and of foreign countries. Consequently, changes in exchange rates, currency convertibility, and repatriation requirements may favorably or adversely affect the Funds.

<u>Special Risk Considerations of Investing in China</u>. Risks of investments in securities of Chinese issuers include market volatility, heavy dependence on exports, which may decrease, sometimes significantly, when the world economy weakens, and the continuing importance of the role of the Chinese Government, which may take actions that affect economic and market practices. These actions may include regulatory measures, which may be adopted with little or no warning, that can severely restrict a company's business operations, with potentially dramatic adverse impacts on the market values of its securities. While the Chinese economy has grown rapidly in recent years, the rate of growth has been declining, and there can be no assurance that China's economy will continue to grow in the future. The Chinese economy could be adversely affected by supply chain disruptions. Trade disputes between China and its trading counterparties, including the United States, have arisen and may continue to arise. Such disputes have resulted in trade tariffs and may potentially result in future trade tariffs, as well as embargoes, trade limitations, trade wars and other negative consequences. The United States has also restricted the sale of certain goods to China. These consequences could trigger, among other things, a substantial reduction in international trade and adverse effects on, and potential failure of, individual companies and/or large segments of China's export industry, which could have potentially significant negative effects on the Chinese economy as well as the global economy. In addition, the political climate between the United States and China has recently deteriorated. The U.S. government has acted to prohibit U.S. persons, such as a Fund, from owning, and required them to divest, certain Chinese companies designated as related to the Chinese military. There is no assurance that more such companies will not be so designated in the future, which could limit a Fund's opportunities for investment and require the sale of securities at a loss or make them illiquid. If the political climate between the United States and China continues to deteriorate, economies and markets may be adversely affected. Further, Chinese companies are subject to the risk of de-listing on U.S. exchanges, if the United States Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (the "PCAOB") is unable to obtain access to inspect audit firms in China that are PCAOB-registered. While the PCAOB has recently obtained such access, there is no assurance that it will continue. If that access is discontinued, Chinese companies that are listed on U.S. exchanges may be required to de-list, which could materially adversely affect the markets for their securities.

Taiwan and Hong Kong do not exercise the same level of control over their economies as does the People's Republic of China, but changes to their political and economic relationships with the People's Republic of China could adversely impact investments in Taiwan and Hong Kong. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China by the Communist Party in 1949, the Chinese government renounced various debt obligations incurred by China's predecessor governments, which obligations remain in default, and expropriated assets without compensation. There can be no assurance that the Chinese government will not take similar action in the future. An investment in a Fund involves risk of a total loss. The potential political reunification of China and Taiwan is a highly problematic issue and could negatively affect Taiwan's economy and stock market. Hong Kong is closely tied to China, economically and through China's 1997 acquisition of the country as a Special Autonomous Region. China has committed by treaty to preserve Hong Kong's autonomy and its economic, political and social freedoms until 2047. However, China has in recent years curtailed Hong Kong 's autonomy and freedoms, which has led to political unrest and eroded investor and business confidence in Hong Kong.

Military conflicts, either in response to internal social unrest or conflicts with other countries, could disrupt economic development. The Chinese economy is vulnerable to the long-running disagreements with Hong Kong related to integration and religious and nationalist

disputes with Tibet and the Xinjiang region. China has a complex territorial dispute regarding the sovereignty of Taiwan that has included threats of invasion; Taiwan-based companies and individuals are significant investors in China. Military conflict between China and Taiwan may adversely affect securities of Chinese, Taiwan-based and other issuers both in and outside the region, adversely impact the economies of China and other Asian countries, disrupt supply chains, and severely affect global economies and markets. Risks of investments in issuers based in Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China, include heavy reliance on the U.S. economy and regional economies, particularly the Chinese economy, which makes these investments vulnerable to changes in these economies. These and related factors may result in adverse effects on investments in China and Hong Kong and have a negative impact on the performance of a Fund.

Each Fund may invest in China A shares of certain Chinese companies listed and traded through the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programs ("Stock Connect"). Stock Connect is a securities trading and clearing program established by Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, the Shanghai Stock Exchange, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange and China Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation Limited, which seeks to provide mutual stock market access between Mainland China and Hong Kong. Each Fund may also invest in Chinese interbank bonds traded on the China Interbank Bond Market through the China- Hong Kong Bond Connect program ("Bond Connect"). In China, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Central Money Markets Unit holds Bond Connect securities on behalf of the ultimate investors (such as a Fund) in accounts maintained with a China-based custodian (either the China Central Depository & Clearing Co. or the Shanghai Clearing House). This recordkeeping system subjects a Fund to numerous risks, including the risk that a Fund may have a limited ability to enforce its rights as a bondholder and the risks of settlement delays and counterparty default of the Hong Kong sub-custodian. Furthermore, courts in China have limited experience in applying the concept of beneficial ownership.

Trading through Stock Connect or Bond Connect is subject to a number of restrictions and risks that could impair a Fund's ability to invest in or sell China A shares or Chinese interbank bonds, respectively, and affect investment returns, including limitations on trading and possible imposition of trading suspensions. For example, Stock Connect is subject to quotas that limit aggregate net purchases on an exchange on a particular day, and an investor cannot purchase and sell the same security through Stock Connect on the same trading day. In addition, both Stock Connect and Bond Connect are generally only available on business days when both the China and Hong Kong markets are open, which may limit a Fund's ability to trade when it would be otherwise attractive to do so. In addition, uncertainties in China's tax rules related to the taxation of income and gains from investments in China A shares or Chinese interbank bonds could result in unexpected tax liabilities for a Fund. Investing in China A shares and Chinese interbank bonds is also subject to the clearance and settlement procedures associated with Stock Connect and Bond Connect, which could pose risks to a Fund.

All transactions in Stock Connect or Bond Connect securities will be made in renminbi, and accordingly a Fund will be exposed to renminbi currency risks. The ability to hedge renminbi currency risks may be limited. In addition, given the renminbi is subject to exchange control restrictions, a Fund could be adversely affected by delays in converting other currencies into renminbi and vice versa and at times when there are unfavorable market conditions. Securities purchased through Bond Connect generally may not be sold, purchased or otherwise transferred other than through Bond Connect in accordance with applicable rules.

Both Stock Connect and Bond Connect are relatively new programs to the market and are subject to regulations promulgated by regulatory authorities and implementation rules made by the stock exchanges, with respect to Stock Connect, in China and Hong Kong. Furthermore, new regulations may be promulgated from time to time by the regulators in connection with operations and cross-border legal enforcement under Stock Connect and Bond Connect.

Each Fund may invest in Chinese companies through a structure known as a variable interest entity ("VIE"), which is designed to provide foreign investors, such as a Fund, with exposure to Chinese companies in sectors in which foreign investment is not permitted. Under this structure, the Chinese operating company is the VIE and establishes a shell company in a foreign jurisdiction, such as the Cayman Islands, which is then listed on a foreign exchange. The shell company has no equity ownership in the VIE but has exposure to the VIE through contractual arrangements.

However, a Fund is not a VIE owner or shareholder and cannot exert influence on the VIE through proxy voting. Until recently, the VIE structure was not formally recognized under Chinese law; while China has recently proposed rules that would recognize this structure, there is significant uncertainty as to how these rules would operate. The inability to enforce the contracts through which the shell company derives its value could result in permanent loss of a Fund's investment.

**Fixed Income Securities**

A Fund may invest in fixed-income securities, including bonds and notes or other debt securities issued by foreign companies and governments. A Fund can invest in investment-grade or below-investment-grade debt securities (commonly referred to as "junk bonds"). A Fund may invest in securities that are rated below-investment-grade and at times may invest substantial amounts of its assets in those securities. Investment-grade debt securities are rated in one of the top rating categories by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations. A Fund may also invest in unrated securities, in which case the Fund's Adviser may internally assign ratings to certain of those securities, after assessing their credit quality, in investment-grade or below investment-grade categories similar to those of nationally recognized statistical rating organizations. There can be no assurance, nor is it intended, that the Adviser's credit analysis is

consistent or comparable with the credit analysis process used by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization. A Fund may also invest in other fixed income securities, including asset-backed securities and mortgage-backed securities.

**Floating Rate Obligations**

Floating rate obligations typically are negotiated, structured, and originated by a bank or other financial institution (an "agent") for a lending group or "syndicate" of financial institutions. In most cases, a Fund relies on the agent to assert appropriate creditor remedies against the borrower. The agent may not have the same interests as a Fund, and the agent may determine to waive certain covenants contained in the loan agreement that the Fund would not otherwise have determined to waive. The typical practice of an agent relying on reports from a borrower about its financial condition may involve a risk of fraud by a borrower. In addition, if an agent becomes insolvent or carries out its duties improperly, a Fund may experience delays in realizing payment and/or risk loss of principal and/or income on its floating rate loan investments. The investment team performs a credit analysis on the borrower but typically does not perform a credit analysis on the agent or other intermediate participants.

Floating rate obligations have interest rates that adjust periodically and are tied to a benchmark lending rate such as Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), which is intended to be a broad measure of secured overnight U.S. Treasury repo rates, the prime rate offered by one or more major U.S. banks ("Prime Rate"), or the rate paid on large certificates of deposit traded in the secondary markets ("CD rate"). The interest rate on Prime Rate based loans and corporate debt securities may float daily as the Prime Rate changes, while the interest rate on CD rate based loans and corporate debt securities may reset periodically. If the benchmark lending rate changes, the rate payable to lenders under the loan will change at the next scheduled adjustment date specified in the loan agreement. Investing in floating rate loans with longer interest rate reset periods may increase fluctuations in a Fund's NAV as a result of changes in interest rates. A Fund may attempt to hedge against interest rate fluctuations by entering into interest rate swaps or by using other hedging techniques.

While a Fund generally expects to invest in fully funded term loans, certain of the loans in which the Fund may invest may not be fully funded at the time of investment. These types of loans include revolving loans, bridge loans, DIP loans, delayed funding loans, and delayed draw term loans. Such loans generally obligate the lender (and those with an interest in the loan) to fund the loan at the borrower's discretion. As such, a Fund would need to maintain assets sufficient to meet its contractual obligations. In cases where a Fund invests in revolving loans, bridge loans, DIP loans, delayed funding loans, or delayed draw term loans, the Fund will maintain high-quality liquid assets in an amount at least equal to its obligations under the loans. Amounts maintained in high-quality liquid assets may provide less return to a Fund than investments in floating rate obligations. Loans involving revolving credit facilities, bridge financing, DIP loans, delayed funding loans, or delayed draw terms may require a Fund to increase its investment in a particular floating rate loan when it otherwise would not have done so. Further, a Fund may be obligated to do so even if it may be unlikely that the borrower will repay amounts.

**Forward Currency Contracts**

Each Fund may enter into forward currency contracts. A forward currency contract involves an agreement to purchase or sell a specific currency at a specified future date or over a specified time period at a price set at the time of the contract. Forward currency contracts seek to protect against uncertainty in the level of future foreign exchange rates. These contracts are usually traded directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirements, and no commissions are charged.

A Fund may enter into forward currency contracts under two circumstances. First, when a Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency, it may desire to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of the security until settlement. By entering into such a contract, a Fund will be able to protect itself against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currency from the date the security is purchased or sold to the date on which payment is made or received. Second, when management of a Fund believes that the currency of a specific country may deteriorate relative to the U.S. dollar, it may enter into a forward currency contract to sell that currency. A Fund may not hedge with respect to a particular currency for an amount greater than the aggregate market value (determined at the time of making any sale of forward currency) of the securities held in its portfolio denominated or quoted in, or bearing a substantial correlation to, such currency.

The use of forward currency contracts involves certain risks. The precise matching of contract amounts and the value of securities involved generally will not be possible since the future value of such securities in currencies will more than likely change between the date the contract is entered into and the date it matures. The projection of short-term currency market movements is extremely difficult and successful execution of a short-term hedging strategy is uncertain. Under normal circumstances, consideration of the prospect for currency parities will be incorporated into the longer-term investment strategies. The Adviser believes it is important, however, to have the flexibility to enter into such contracts when it determines it is in the best interest of the Funds to do so. It is impossible to forecast what the market value of portfolio securities will be at the expiration of a contract. Accordingly, it may be necessary for a Fund to purchase additional currency (and bear the expense of such purchase) if the market value of the security is less than the amount of currency a Fund is obligated to deliver, and if a decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the currency. Conversely, it may be necessary to sell some of the foreign currency received on the sale of the portfolio security if its market value exceeds the amount of currency a Fund is obligated to deliver. A Fund is not required to enter into such transactions and will not do so unless deemed appropriate by the Adviser.

Although the Funds value their assets each business day in terms of U.S. dollars, they do not intend to convert their foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. They will do so from time to time, and shareholders should be aware of currency conversion costs. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (spread) between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to a Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should a Fund desire to resell that currency to the dealer.

Forward currency contracts in which a Fund may engage include foreign exchange forwards. The consummation of a foreign exchange forward requires the actual exchange of the principal amounts of the two currencies in the contract (i.e., settlement on a physical basis). Because foreign exchange forwards are physically settled through an exchange of currencies, they are traded in the interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A foreign exchange forward generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are charged at any stage for trades; foreign exchange dealers realize a profit based on the difference (the spread) between the prices at which they are buying and the prices at which they are selling various currencies. When a Fund enters into a foreign exchange forward, it relies on the counterparty to make or take delivery of the underlying currency at the maturity of the contract. Failure by the counterparty to do so would result in the loss of any expected benefit of the transaction. A Fund may be required to obtain the currency that it must deliver under the foreign exchange forward through the sale of portfolio securities denominated in such currency or through conversion of other assets of a Fund into such currency.

Forward currency contracts in which a Fund may engage also include non-deliverable forwards ("NDFs"). NDFs are cash-settled, short- term forward currency contracts on foreign currencies (each a "Reference Currency") that are non-convertible and that may be thinly traded or illiquid. NDFs involve an obligation to pay an amount (the "Settlement Amount") equal to the difference between the prevailing market exchange rate for the Reference Currency and the agreed-upon exchange rate (the "NDF Rate"), with respect to an agreed notional amount. NDFs have a fixing date and a settlement (delivery) date. The fixing date is the date and time at which the difference between the prevailing market exchange rate and the agreed-upon exchange rate is calculated. The settlement (delivery) date is the date by which the payment of the Settlement Amount is due to the party receiving payment.

Although NDFs are similar to foreign exchange forwards, NDFs do not require physical delivery of the Reference Currency on the settlement date. Rather, on the settlement date, the only transfer between the counterparties is the monetary settlement amount representing the difference between the NDF Rate and the prevailing market exchange rate. NDFs typically may have terms from one month up to two years and are settled in U.S. dollars.

NDFs are subject to many of the risks associated with derivatives in general and forward currency transactions, including risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency and the risk that the counterparty will fail to fulfill its obligations. Although NDFs historically have been traded over-the-counter, in the future, pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act ("Dodd-Frank Act"), they may be exchange-traded. Under such circumstances, they will be centrally cleared and a secondary market for them will exist. With respect to NDFs that are centrally cleared, an investor could lose margin payments it has deposited with the clearing organization as well as the net amount of gains not yet paid by the clearing organization if the clearing organization breaches its obligations under the NDF, becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy. In the event of bankruptcy of the clearing organization, the investor may be entitled to the net amount of gains the investor is entitled to receive plus the return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the clearing organization's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the investor. Even if some NDFs remain traded over the counter ("OTC"), they will be subject to margin requirements for uncleared swaps and counterparty risk common to other swaps.

**Futures Contracts**

Each Fund may use futures contracts to implement its investment strategy. Futures contracts are publicly traded contracts to buy or sell an underlying asset or group of assets, such as a currency, interest rate, or an index of securities, at a future time at a specified price. A contract to buy establishes a long position while a contract to sell establishes a short position.

The purchase of a futures contract on a security or an index of securities normally enables a buyer to participate in the market movement of the underlying asset or index after paying a transaction charge and posting margin in an amount equal to a small percentage of the value of the underlying asset or index. A Fund will initially be required to deposit with the Trust's custodian or the futures commission merchant ("FCM"), effecting the futures transaction, an amount of "initial margin" in cash or securities, as permitted under applicable regulatory policies.

Initial margin in futures transactions is different from margin in securities transactions in that the former does not involve the borrowing of funds by the customer to finance the transaction. Rather, the initial margin is like a performance bond or good faith deposit on the contract. Subsequent payments (called "maintenance margin" or "variation margin") to and from the broker will be made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying asset fluctuates. This process is known as "marking to market." For example, when a Fund has taken a long position in a futures contract and the value of the underlying asset has risen, that position will have increased in value and a Fund will receive from the broker a maintenance margin payment equal to the increase in value of the underlying asset. Conversely, when a Fund has taken a long position in a futures contract and the value of the underlying instrument has declined, the position would be less valuable, and a Fund would be required to make a maintenance margin payment to the broker.

At any time prior to expiration of the futures contract, a Fund may elect to close the position by taking an opposite position that will terminate a Fund's position in the futures contract. A final determination of maintenance margin is then made, additional cash is required

to be paid by or released to a Fund, and a Fund realizes a loss or a gain. While futures contracts with respect to securities do provide for the delivery and acceptance of such securities, such delivery and acceptance are seldom made.

The risk of loss in trading futures contracts can be substantial because of the low margin deposits required and the high degree of leveraging involved in futures pricing. As a result, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may cause an immediate and substantial loss or gain. The primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts are: (i) imperfect correlation between the change in market value of the stocks held by a Fund and the prices of futures contracts; and (ii) possible lack of a liquid secondary market for a futures contract and the resulting inability to close a futures position prior to its maturity date. The degree of imperfection of correlation depends on circumstances such as variations in speculative market demand for futures on securities, including technical influences in futures trading, and differences between the financial instruments being hedged and the instruments underlying the standard contracts available for trading in such respects as interest rate levels, maturities, and creditworthiness of issuers.

For more information about these practices, see the "Derivatives" section.

**Illiquid Securities**

Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its respective net assets in securities that are illiquid. Illiquid securities generally are those securities that may not reasonably be expected to be sold or disposed of in current market conditions within seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the security. Investments in illiquid securities may impair a Fund's ability to raise cash for redemptions or other purposes.

**Impact of Activity by Other Shareholders**

The Funds pool the investments of many investors. Actions by one shareholder or multiple shareholders may have an impact on the Fund and, therefore, indirectly on other shareholders. For example, significant levels of new investments in the Fund by shareholders may cause the Fund to have more cash than would otherwise be the case, which may have a positive or negative impact on Fund performance. Similarly, redemption activity might cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities, which may increase transaction costs and accelerate the realization of income and cause the Fund to make taxable distributions to shareholders earlier than the Fund otherwise would have, or cause it to borrow funds on a short-term basis to cover redemptions, which would cause the Fund to incur costs that, in effect, would be borne by all shareholders, not just the redeeming shareholders. In addition, under certain circumstances, non-redeeming shareholders may be treated as receiving a disproportionately large taxable distribution during or with respect to a year in which there are large redemptions. To the extent a larger shareholder (including, for example, a fund-of-funds) invests in a Fund or the markets are highly volatile, the Fund may experience large inflows or outflows of cash from time to time. This activity could magnify these adverse effects on the Fund.

**Inflation-Linked Securities**

Certain Funds may invest in inflation-linked securities, including Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (also known as TIPS), municipal inflation-indexed bonds, and corporate inflation-indexed bonds, or in derivatives that are linked to these securities. TIPS are inflation-linked bonds issued by the U.S. Government. Inflation-linked bonds may also be issued by, or related to, sovereign governments of other developed countries, emerging market countries, or companies or other entities not affiliated with governments.

Inflation- linked bonds are fixed-income securities whose interest and principal payments are periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation. The inflation adjustment, which is typically applied monthly to the principal of the bond, follows a designated inflation index, such as the consumer price index. If an index measuring inflation falls, the principal value of inflation-indexed bonds will typically be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. Because of their inflation adjustment feature, inflation-linked bonds typically have lower yields than conventional fixed- rate bonds.

Inflation-linked bonds normally decline in price when real interest rates rise. In the event of deflation, when prices decline over time, the principal and income of inflation-linked bonds would likely decline, resulting in losses to a Fund.

In the case of TIPS, repayment of original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed. When TIPS mature, the holder is paid the adjusted principal or original principal, whichever is greater. For inflation-linked bonds that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value or maturity amount of the inflation-linked bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

**Inflation-Related Investments Risk**

Inflation-linked swaps, inflation-linked bonds (including Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, also known as TIPS), and other inflation-linked securities are subject to inflation risk. A swap held long by a Fund can potentially lose value if the rate of inflation over the life of the swap is less than the fixed rate that the Fund agrees to pay at the initiation of the swap. Except for a Fund's investments in TIPS, which are guaranteed as to principal by the U.S. Treasury, the inflation-adjusted principal value of inflation-linked bonds repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal. Because of their inflation-linked adjustment feature, inflation-linked bonds typically

have lower yields than conventional fixed-rate securities. In the event of deflation, where prices decline over time, the principal and income of inflation-linked bonds will likely decline, resulting in losses to a Fund.

**Initial Public Offerings ("IPOs")**

Each Fund may invest in IPOs, which subject a Fund to the risk that the market value of IPO shares will fluctuate considerably due to factors such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, a potentially small number of shares available for trading, and limited information about the issuer. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. IPO shares are subject to market risk and liquidity risk. When a Fund's asset base is small, a significant portion of the Fund's performance could be attributable to investments in IPOs, because such investments would have a magnified impact on the Fund. As the Fund's assets grow, the effect of the Fund's investments in IPOs on the Fund's performance probably will decline, which could reduce the Fund's performance.

**Investment Company Securities**

From time to time, a Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies, subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act or as otherwise permitted by the SEC. Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act prohibits a Fund from acquiring: (i) more than 3% of another investment company's voting stock; (ii) securities of another investment company with a value in excess of 5% of a Fund's total assets; or (iii) securities of such other investment company and all other investment companies owned by a Fund having a value in excess of 10% of the Fund's total assets. In addition, Section 12(d)(1) prohibits another investment company from selling its shares to a Fund if, after the sale: (i) the Fund owns more than 3% of the other investment company's voting stock or (ii) the Fund and other investment companies, and companies controlled by them, own more than 10% of the voting stock of such other investment company. To the extent a Fund is an underlying fund in a fund of funds managed by the Adviser, the Fund may not acquire securities of other investment companies in reliance on Section 12(d) (1)(F) and securities of open-end investment companies or registered unit investment trusts in reliance on Section 12(d) (1)(G). A Fund may invest in other investment companies beyond these statutory limits to the extent the Fund abides by certain conditions of Rule 12d1-4 under the 1940 Act. A Fund may invest its cash holdings in affiliated or non-affiliated money market funds or cash management pooled investment vehicles that operate pursuant to the provision of the 1940 Act that governs the operation of money market funds as part of a cash sweep program. A Fund may purchase unlimited shares of affiliated or non- affiliated money market funds and of other funds managed by the Adviser, whether registered or unregistered entities, as permitted by the 1940 Act and rules promulgated thereunder.

To the extent a Fund invests in money market funds or other funds, such Fund will be subject to the same risks that investors experience when investing in such other funds. These risks may include the impact of significant fluctuations in assets as a result of the cash sweep program or purchase and redemption activity by affiliated or non-affiliated shareholders in such other funds. Additionally, to the extent that the Adviser serves as the investment adviser to underlying funds or investment vehicles in which a Fund may invest, the Adviser may have conflicting interests in fulfilling its fiduciary duties to both the Fund and the underlying funds or investment vehicles. Money market funds are open-end registered investment companies. Money market funds that meet the definition of a retail money market fund or government money market fund compute their price per share using the amortized cost method of valuation to seek to maintain a stable $1.00 price per share, and money market funds that do not meet the definitions of a retail money market fund or government money market fund transact at a floating NAV per share (similar to all other non-money market mutual funds). Money market funds may impose liquidity fees because of market conditions or other factors. Amendments to money market fund regulation could impact the trading and value of money market instruments, which may negatively affect a Fund's return potential.

As a shareholder of another investment company, a Fund would bear its pro rata portion of the other investment company's expenses, including advisory fees, in addition to the expenses the Fund bears directly in connection with its own operation. The market prices of ETFs and closed-end funds will fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the market value of their underlying portfolio investments and due to supply and demand for the instruments on the exchanges on which they are traded (which may result in their trading at a discount or premium to their NAVs). If the market price of shares of an ETF or closed-end fund decreases below the price that a Fund paid for the shares and the Fund were to sell its shares of such investment company at a time when the market price is lower than the price at which it purchased the shares, the Fund would experience a loss.

**Inverse Floating Rate Securities**

Each Fund may invest in municipal securities whose coupons vary inversely with changes in short-term tax-exempt interest rates and thus are considered a leveraged investment in an underlying municipal bond (or securities with similar economic characteristics). In creating such a security, a municipality issues a certain amount of debt and pays a fixed interest rate. A portion of the debt is issued as variable rate short-term obligations, the interest rate of which is reset at short intervals, typically seven days or less. The other portion of the debt is issued as inverse floating rate obligations, the interest rate of which is calculated based on the difference between a multiple of (approximately two times) the interest paid by the issuer and the interest paid on the short-term obligation. These securities present special risks for two reasons: (1) if short-term interest rates rise (fall), the income the Fund earns on the inverse floating rate security will fall (rise); and (2) if long-term interest rates rise (fall) the value of the inverse floating rate security will fall (rise) more than the value of the underlying bond because of the leveraged nature of the investment. The Funds will seek to buy these securities at attractive values and yields that more than compensate the Funds for the securities' price volatility.

**Lending of Portfolio Securities**

A Fund may, from time to time, lend securities from their portfolios to broker-dealers, banks, financial institutions, and institutional borrowers of securities and receive collateral in the form of cash or U.S. government obligations. Under the Fund's current practices (which are subject to change), a Fund must receive initial collateral at least equal to the maintenance requirements (e.g., 102% for U.S. equity securities and 105% for non-U.S. securities). This collateral must be valued daily and should the market value of the loaned securities increase, the borrower must furnish additional collateral to a Fund sufficient to maintain the value of the collateral equal to at least 100% of the value of the loaned securities. The lending agent receives a pre-negotiated percentage of the net earnings on the investment of the collateral. A Fund will not lend portfolio securities to: (a) any "affiliated person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) of any Fund; (b) any affiliated person of the Adviser; or (c) any affiliated person of such an affiliated person. During the time portfolio securities are on loan, the borrower will pay the Fund any dividends or interest paid on such securities plus any fee negotiated between the parties to the lending agreement. Loans will be subject to termination by the Funds or the borrower at any time. While a Fund will not have the right to vote securities on loan, they intend to terminate loans and regain the right to vote if that is considered important with respect to the investment. A Fund will enter into loan arrangements only with broker-dealers, banks, or other institutions that either the Adviser or the lending agent has determined are creditworthy under guidelines established by the Board. Although these loans are fully collateralized, there are risks associated with securities lending. A Fund's performance could be hurt if a borrower defaults or becomes insolvent, or if the Fund wishes to sell a security before its return can be arranged. The return on invested cash collateral will result in gains and losses for the Funds. Each Fund will limit its securities lending to 33-1/3% of its total assets.

**Limitations and Risks of Options and Futures Activity**

Each Fund may engage in both hedging and non-hedging strategies. Although effective hedging can generally capture the bulk of a desired risk adjustment, no hedge is completely effective. A Fund's ability to hedge effectively through transactions in futures and options depends on the degree to which price movements in the hedged asset correlate with price movements of the futures and options.

Non-hedging strategies typically involve special risks. The profitability of a Fund's non-hedging strategies will depend on the ability of the Adviser to analyze both the applicable derivatives market and the market for the underlying asset or group of assets. Derivatives markets are often more volatile than corresponding securities markets and a relatively small change in the price of the underlying asset or group of assets can have a magnified effect upon the price of a related derivative instrument.

Derivatives markets also are often less liquid than the market for the underlying asset or group of assets. Some positions in futures and options may be closed out only on an exchange that provides a secondary market. There can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular futures contract or option at any specific time. Thus, it may not be possible to close such an option or futures position prior to maturity. The inability to close options and futures positions also could have an adverse impact on a fund's ability to effectively carry out its derivative strategies and might, in some cases, require the fund to deposit cash to meet applicable margin requirements.

Under certain circumstances, futures exchanges may establish daily limits on the amount that the price of a futures contract or an option on a futures contract can vary from the previous day's settlement price; once that limit is reached, no trades may be made that day at a price beyond the limit. Daily price limits do not limit potential losses because prices could move to the daily limit for several consecutive days with little or no trading, thereby preventing liquidation of unfavorable positions.

If a Fund were unable to liquidate a futures contract or an option on a futures position due to the absence of a liquid secondary market or the imposition of price limits, it could incur substantial losses. The Fund would continue to be subject to market risk with respect to the position. In addition, except in the case of purchased options, the Fund would continue to be required to make daily variation margin payments and might be required to maintain the position being hedged by the future or option.

Historically, advisers of registered investment companies trading "commodity interests" (such as futures contracts, options on futures contracts, and swaps), such as a Fund, have been excluded from the definition of Commodity Pool Operator ("CPO") pursuant to Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC") Regulation 4.5 (the "exclusion"). To qualify for an exclusion under CFTC Regulation 4.5, if a Fund trades in commodity interests other than for bona fide hedging purposes (as defined in CFTC regulations), the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish these positions, determined at the time the most recent position was established, may not exceed 5% of the Fund's NAV (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which options that are "in-the-money" at the time of purchase are "in-the-money") or, alternatively, the aggregate net notional value of those positions, determined at the time the most recent position was established, may not exceed 100% of a Fund's NAV (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions). In addition to meeting one of the foregoing trading limitations, a Fund may not be marketed as a commodity pool or otherwise as a vehicle for trading commodity interests.

The Adviser currently claims an exclusion (under CFTC Regulation 4.5) from the definition of CPO in connection with its operation of a Fund and, in its management of a Fund, intends to comply with one of the two alternative trading limitations described above and the marketing limitation. Complying with the trading limitations may restrict the Adviser's ability to use derivatives as part of a Fund's investment strategies. Although the Adviser expects to be able to execute a Fund's investment strategies within the limitations, the Fund's performance could be adversely affected.

**Liquidity Determinations**

A Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments. Rule 22e-4 under the 1940 Act defines illiquid investments as investments that the Fund reasonably expects cannot 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.

Illiquid investments include investments subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale (e.g., because they have not been registered under the 1933 Act and securities that are otherwise not readily marketable (e.g., because trading in the investments is suspended or because market makers do not exist or will not entertain bids or offers). Investments that have not been registered under the 1933 Act are referred to as private placements or restricted securities and are purchased directly from the issuer or in the secondary market. Foreign securities that are freely tradable in their principal markets are not considered to be illiquid.

Restricted and other illiquid investments may be subject to the potential for delays on resale and uncertainty in valuation. A Fund might be unable to dispose of illiquid investments promptly or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty in satisfying redemption requests from shareholders. A Fund might have to register restricted investments in order to dispose of them, resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of investments.

A large institutional market exists for certain securities that are not registered under the 1933 Act, including foreign securities. The fact that there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions may not be indicative of the liquidity of such investments. Rule 144A under the 1933 Act allows such a broader institutional trading market for securities otherwise subject to restrictions on resale to the general public.

Rule 144A establishes a "safe harbor" from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act for resale of certain securities to qualified institutional buyers. Rule 144A has produced enhanced liquidity for many restricted securities, and market liquidity for such securities may continue to expand as a result of this regulation and the consequent existence of the PORTAL system, which is an automated system for the trading, clearance, and settlement of unregistered securities of domestic and foreign issuers sponsored by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. ("FINRA").

Under guidelines adopted by the Trust's Board, the Adviser may determine that particular Rule 144A securities, and commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the 1933 Act, are liquid even though they are not registered. A determination of whether such a security is liquid or not is a question of fact. In making this determination, the Adviser will consider, as it deems appropriate under the circumstances and among other factors: (1) the frequency of trades and quotes for the security; (2) the number of dealers willing to purchase or sell the security; (3) the number of other potential purchasers of the security; (4) dealer undertakings to make a market in the security; (5) the nature of the security (e.g., debt or equity, date of maturity, terms of dividend or interest payments, and other material terms) and the nature of the marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers, and the mechanics of transfer); and (6) the rating of the security and the financial condition and prospects of the issuer. In the case of commercial paper, the Adviser will also determine that the paper (1) is not traded flat or in default as to principal and interest and (2) is rated in one of the two highest rating categories by at least two National Statistical Rating Organizations ("NRSROs") or, if only one NRSRO rates the security, by that NRSRO, or, if the security is unrated, the Adviser determines that it is of equivalent quality.

Rule 144A securities and Section 4(a)(2) commercial paper that have been deemed liquid as described above will continue to be monitored by the Adviser to determine if the security is no longer liquid as the result of changed conditions. Investing in Rule 144A securities or Section 4(a)(2) commercial paper could have the effect of increasing the amount of a Fund's assets invested in illiquid investments if institutional buyers are unwilling to purchase such securities.

The Funds have adopted a liquidity risk management program designed to meet the requirements of the rules under the 1940 Act related to liquidity.

**Loan Interests and Direct Debt Instruments ("Bank Loans")**

Each Fund may invest in loan interests and direct debt instruments, which are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (in the case of loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (in the case of trade claims or other receivables) or to other parties. These investments involve a risk of loss in case of the default, insolvency, or bankruptcy of the borrower.

Loans normally are not registered with the SEC or any state securities commission or listed on any securities exchange. As a result, there is typically less public information available about a specific loan than there would be if the loan were registered or traded on exchange. Loans also may not be considered "securities," and purchasers, such as the Funds, may not be entitled to rely on the anti-fraud protections of the federal securities laws with respect to any loans they own in the event of fraud or misrepresentation by a borrower.

A Fund may come into possession of material non-public information about a borrower as a result of its ownership of a loan or other debt instrument of such borrower. Because of prohibitions on trading in securities of issuers while possessing such information, a Fund might be unable to enter into a transaction in a publicly traded security of that borrower when it would otherwise be advantageous to do so.

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, or are not made in a timely manner, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than unsecured loans in the event of 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 only pay 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 through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks, such as a loan foreclosure and costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is possible that a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments also may 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 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 under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness. 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 a purchaser 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.

For purposes of Fund investment limitations, a Fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the Fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the Fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require the Fund, in some circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for purposes of the Fund's investment policies. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a Fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.

Loans may have extended settlement periods. Accordingly, the proceeds from the sale of a loan may not be available to make additional investments or to meet redemption obligations until potentially a substantial period after the sale of the loan. The extended trade settlement periods could force a Fund to liquidate other securities to meet redemptions and may present a risk that the Fund may incur losses in order to timely honor redemptions.

Certain of the debt obligations (including municipal securities, certificates of participation, commercial paper, and other short-term obligations) that the Funds may purchase may be backed by an unconditional and irrevocable letter of credit of a bank, savings and loan association, or insurance company which assumes the obligation for payment of principal and interest in the event of default by the issuer. Only banks, savings and loan associations and insurance companies which, in the opinion of the Adviser, are of comparable quality to issuers of other permitted investments of a Fund, may be used for letter of credit-backed investments.

**Master Demand Notes**

Each Fund may invest in master demand notes, which are obligations that permit the investment of fluctuating amounts by each Fund, at varying rates of interest using direct arrangements between the Fund, as lender, and the borrower. These notes permit daily changes in the amounts borrowed. Each Fund has the right to increase the amount under the note at any time up to the full amount provided by the note agreement, or to decrease the amount, and the borrower may repay up to the full amount of the note without penalty. Frequently, such obligations are secured by letters of credit or other credit support arrangements provided by banks. Because master demand notes are direct lending arrangements between the lender and borrower, these instruments generally will not be traded, and there, generally, is no secondary market for these notes, although they are redeemable (and immediately repayable by the borrower) at face value, plus accrued interest, at any time. The Adviser will invest a Fund's assets in master demand notes only if the Board or its delegate has determined that they are of credit quality comparable to the debt securities in which the Fund generally may invest.

**Master Limited Partnerships ("MLPs")**

MLPs are publicly traded partnerships whose interests or "units" are traded on securities exchanges like shares of corporate stock. A typical MLP consists of a general partner and limited partners; however, some MLPs are established as limited liability companies. To be treated as a partnership for federal tax purposes, an MLP generally must derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from qualifying sources, including activities such as the exploration, development, mining, production, processing, refining, transportation, storage, and certain marketing of mineral or natural resources. MLPs provide investors with strategic exposure to physical

assets, which can be attractive in inflationary environments. Investments in securities of an MLP involve risks that differ from investments in common stock, including risks related to limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP, risks related to potential conflicts of interest between the MLP and the MLP's general partner, cash flow risks, and dilution risks. Certain MLP securities may trade in lower volumes due to their smaller capitalizations, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and lower market liquidity. Investing in MLPs also involves certain risks related to the underlying assets of the MLPs. MLPs generally are considered interest-rate sensitive investments, and during periods of interest rate volatility, may not provide attractive returns. MLPs operate in the energy sector and may be adversely affected by fluctuations in the prices and levels of supply and demand for energy commodities. A decrease in the production or availability of energy commodities, including through their natural depletion over time, may adversely impact the financial performance of MLPs. MLPs are subject to significant federal, state, and local government regulation in virtually every aspect of their operations. Such regulation can change over time in both scope and intensity, and such changes could increase compliance costs and adversely affect the financial performance of MLPs. There is an inherent risk that MLPs and other companies operating in the energy sector may incur environmental costs and liabilities due to the nature of their businesses and the substances they handle. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, also may impact MLPs. MLPs also are subject to risks relating to their complex tax structure, including the risk that a change in current tax law or a change in the business of a given MLP could cause the MLP to lose its tax status as a partnership, which may reduce the value of the Fund's investment in the MLP and lower income to a Fund. Depreciation or other cost recovery deductions passed through to a Fund from any investments in MLPs in a given year will generally reduce a Fund's taxable income, but those deductions may be recaptured in one or more subsequent years. When recognized and distributed, recapture income will generally be taxable to Fund shareholders at the time of the distribution at ordinary income tax rates, even though those shareholders might not have held shares in the Fund at the time the deductions were taken, and even though those shareholders may not have corresponding economic gain on their shares at the time of the recapture

**Mortgage-Backed Securities**

Each Fund may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities include, but are not limited to, securities issued by the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae," also known as "GNMA"), Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae"), and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"). These securities represent ownership in a pool of mortgage loans. They differ from conventional bonds in that principal is paid back to the investor as payments are made on the underlying mortgages in the pool. Accordingly, a Fund receives monthly scheduled payments of principal and interest along with any unscheduled principal prepayments on the underlying mortgages. Because these scheduled and unscheduled principal payments must be reinvested at prevailing interest rates, mortgage-backed securities do not provide an effective means of locking in long-term interest rates for the investor. Like other fixed income securities, when interest rates rise, the value of mortgage-backed securities with prepayment features will generally decline. In addition, when interest rates are declining, the value of mortgage-backed securities with prepayment features may not increase as much as other fixed income securities. The weighted average life of such securities is likely to be substantially shorter than the stated final maturity as a result of scheduled principal payments and unscheduled principal prepayments.

Ginnie Mae is a government-owned corporation that is an agency of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It guarantees, with the full faith and credit of the United States, full and timely payment of all monthly principal and interest on its mortgage- backed securities. Until recently, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were government-sponsored corporations owned entirely by private stockholders. Both issue mortgage-related securities that contain guarantees as to timely payment of interest and principal but that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. The value of the companies' securities fell sharply in 2008 due to concerns that the firms did not have sufficient capital to offset losses. The U.S. Treasury has historically had the authority to purchase obligations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In addition, in 2008, due to capitalization concerns, Congress provided the U.S. Treasury with additional authority to lend Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac emergency funds and to purchase the companies' stock, as described below. In September 2008, the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Housing Finance Agency ("FHFA") announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had been placed in conservatorship.

Since that time, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have received significant capital support through U.S. Treasury preferred stock purchases and Federal Reserve ("Fed") purchases of their mortgage-backed securities. While the Fed's purchases have terminated, the U.S. Treasury announced in December 2009 that it would continue its support for the entities' capital as necessary to prevent a negative net worth. From the time Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were placed into conservatorship through the fourth quarter of 2017, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have required U.S. Treasury support of approximately $187.5 billion through draws under the preferred stock purchase agreements. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also have paid the U.S. Treasury approximately $278.8 billion in aggregate cash dividends. However, such payments do not constitute a repayment of the draws Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac received from the U.S. Treasury. In the first quarter of 2018, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac each reported that the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017 had resulted in a decrease in the value of their deferred tax assets. As a result, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac reported net losses during the fourth quarter of 2017, and indicated that they would request draws from the U.S. Treasury in the amount of $3.7 billion and $0.3 billion, respectively. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that the Fed, U.S. Treasury or FHFA initiatives will ensure that Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac will remain successful in meeting their obligations with respect to the debt and mortgage-backed securities they issue. Moreover, there remains significant uncertainty as to whether (or when) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will emerge from conservatorship, which has no specified termination date. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also are the subject of several continuing class action lawsuits and investigations by federal regulators, which (along with any resulting financial restatements) may adversely affect the guaranteeing entities. The future of Fannie

Mae and Freddie Mac is in question as Congress is considering several pieces of legislation that would reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, proposing to address their structure, mission, portfolio limits and guarantee fees, among other issues. The potential impact of these developments is unclear, but could cause a Fund to lose money.

Each Fund also may invest in mortgage-backed securities that include collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBSs"), stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBSs"), interest-only commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS IOs"), and mortgage dollar rolls.

CMOs are obligations fully collateralized by a portfolio of mortgages or mortgage-related securities. CMOs are divided into pieces (tranches) with varying maturities. The cash flow from the underlying mortgages is used to pay off each tranche separately. CMOs are designed to provide investors with more predictable cash flows than regular mortgage securities, but such cash flows can be difficult to predict because of the effect of prepayments. Failure to accurately predict prepayments can adversely affect a Fund's return on these investments. CMOs also may be less marketable than other securities.

CMBSs include securities that reflect an interest in, and are secured by, mortgage loans on commercial real property, such as industrial and warehouse properties, office buildings, retail space and shopping malls, apartments, hotels and motels, nursing homes, hospitals, and senior living centers. Many of the risks of investing in commercial mortgage-backed securities reflect the risks of investing in the real estate securing the underlying mortgage loans. These risks reflect the effects of local and other economic conditions on real estate markets, the ability of tenants to make loan payments, and the ability of a property to attract and retain tenants. In addition, commercial properties, particularly industrial and warehouse properties, are subject to environmental risks and the burdens and costs of compliance with environmental laws and regulations. CMBSs may be less liquid and exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage-backed securities.

SMBSs are derivative multi-class mortgage securities. SMBSs may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government, or by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks, and special purpose entities of the foregoing. SMBSs are usually structured with two classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. A common type of SMBS will have one class receiving some of the interest and most of the principal from the mortgage assets, while the other class will receive most of the interest and the remainder of the principal. In the most extreme case, one class will receive all of the interest (the interest-only or "IO" class), while the other class will receive all of the principal (the principal-only or "PO" class). The yield to maturity on an IO class is extremely sensitive to the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets, and a rapid rate of principal payments may have a material adverse effect on a Fund's yield to maturity from these securities. If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, a Fund may fail to recoup some or all of its initial investment in these securities even if the security is in one of the highest rating categories. Although SMBSs are purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers, established trading markets for these types of securities are not as developed and, accordingly, these securities may be deemed "illiquid" and subject to a Fund's limitations on illiquid investments. CMBS IOs are similar to the SMBSs described above, but are contrasted by being backed by loans that have various forms of prepayment protection, which include lock-out provisions, yield maintenance provisions, and prepayment penalties. Therefore, they generally have less prepayment risk than SMBSs, and also are less sensitive to interest rate changes. CMBS IOs are subject to default-related prepayments that may have a negative impact on yield.

In mortgage dollar roll transactions, a Fund sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the current month and simultaneously contracts to purchase substantially similar securities on a specified future date. While the Fund would forego principal and interest paid on the mortgage-backed securities during the roll period, the Fund would be compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the lower price for the future purchase as well as by any interest earned on the proceeds of the initial sale. At the time a Fund enters into a mortgage dollar roll, it designates on its books and records cash or liquid securities to secure its obligation for the forward commitment to buy mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage dollar roll transactions may be considered a borrowing by a Fund. The mortgage dollar rolls entered into by a Fund may be used as arbitrage transactions in which the Fund will maintain an offsetting position in investment grade debt obligations or repurchase agreements that mature on or before the settlement date on the related mortgage dollar roll. Because a Fund will receive interest on the securities or repurchase agreements in which it invests the transaction proceeds, such transactions may involve leverage.

Certain debt instruments allow for balloon payments or negative amortization payments. Such instruments permit the borrower to avoid paying currently a portion of the interest accruing on the instrument. In the case of negative amortization payments, the amount of unpaid interest is added to the remaining principal amount due at maturity. While these features make the debt instrument more affordable to the borrower in the near term, they increase the risk that the borrower will be unable to make the resulting higher payment or payments that become due at the maturity of the loan.

**Mortgage Dollar Rolls**

A mortgage dollar roll transaction involves a Fund selling a mortgage-related security (such as a Ginnie Mae security) to a dealer and simultaneously agrees to repurchase a similar security (but not the same security) in the future at a predetermined price. A "dollar roll" can be viewed, like a reverse repurchase agreement, as a collateralized borrowing in which a Fund pledges a mortgage-related security

to a dealer to obtain cash. Unlike in the case of reverse repurchase agreements, the dealer with which a Fund enters into a dollar roll transaction is not obligated to return the same securities as those originally sold by the Fund, but only securities which are "substantially identical." To be considered "substantially identical," the securities returned to a Fund generally must: (i) be collateralized by the same types of underlying mortgages; (ii) be issued by the same agency and be part of the same program; (iii) have a similar original stated maturity; (iv) have identical net coupon rates; (v) have similar market yields (and, therefore, price); and (vi) satisfy "good delivery" requirements, meaning that the aggregate principal amounts of the securities delivered and received back must be within 2.5% of the initial amount delivered.

Under certain circumstances, an underlying mortgage-backed security that is part of a dollar roll transaction may be considered illiquid. During the roll period, a Fund foregoes principal and interest paid on the mortgage-backed security. A Fund is compensated by the difference between the current sale price and the lower forward purchase price, often referred to as the "drop," as well as the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the initial sale.

Successful use of mortgage dollar rolls depends on the Fund's ability to predict mortgage supply dynamics, mortgage prepayments, and short-term Federal Reserve interest rate policy. Dollar roll transactions involve the risk that the market value of the securities a Fund is required to purchase may decline below the agreed upon repurchase price.

**Municipal Obligations**

Each Fund may purchase municipal obligations. The term "municipal obligations" generally is understood to include debt obligations issued by municipalities to obtain funds for various public purposes, the income from which is, in the opinion of bond counsel to the issuer, excluded from gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In addition, if the proceeds from private activity bonds are used for the construction, repair or improvement of privately operated industrial or commercial facilities, the interest paid on such bonds may be excluded from gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes, although current federal tax laws place substantial limitations on the size of these issues. A Fund's distributions of any interest it earns on municipal obligations will be taxable as ordinary income to shareholders that are otherwise subject to tax.

The two principal classifications of municipal obligations are "general obligation" and "revenue" bonds. General obligation bonds are secured by the issuer's pledge of its faith, credit, and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. Revenue bonds are payable from the revenues derived from a particular facility or class of facilities or, in some cases, from the proceeds of a special excise or other specific revenue source, but not from the general taxing power. Sizable investments in these obligations could involve an increased risk to a Fund should any of the related facilities experience financial difficulties. Private activity bonds are in most cases revenue bonds and do not generally carry the pledge of the credit of the issuing municipality. There are, of course, variations in the security of municipal obligations, both within a particular classification and between classifications.

**New or Smaller Funds**

Funds with limited operating history and/or small asset base may involve additional risk. For example, there can be no assurance that a new or smaller fund will grow to or maintain an economically viable size. Should the Fund not grow to or maintain an economically viable size, the Board may determine to liquidate the Fund. Although the interests of shareholders in the Fund are the principal concern of the Board, in the event the Board determines to liquidate the Fund, the timing of any possible liquidation might not be favorable to certain individual shareholders.

**Non-Investment-Grade Securities or "Junk Bonds"**

A Fund may invest directly or indirectly in or hold "junk bonds" or non-investment-grade securities. Non-investment-grade securities (i.e., BB or lower by S&P or Fitch, or Ba or lower by Moody's or, if unrated, deemed to be of comparable quality by the Adviser) are speculative in nature, involve greater risk of default by the issuing entity, and may be subject to greater market fluctuations than higher rated fixed income securities. Non-investment grade bonds, sometimes referred to as "junk bonds," are usually issued by companies without long track records of sales and earnings, or by those companies with questionable credit strength. The retail secondary market for these "junk bonds" may be less liquid than that of higher-rated securities and adverse conditions could make it difficult at times to sell certain securities or could result in lower prices than those used in calculating a Fund's NAV. Also, there may be significant disparities in the prices quoted for "junk bonds" by various dealers. Under such conditions, a Fund may find it difficult to value its "junk bonds" accurately. A Fund's investments in "junk bonds" may also be subject to greater credit risk because it may invest in debt securities issued in connection with corporate restructuring by highly-leveraged issuers or in debt securities not current in the payment of interest or principal or in default. If the issuer of a security is in default with respect to interest or principal payments, a Fund may lose its entire investment. Because of the risks involved in investing in below investment grade securities, an investment in a Fund that invests substantially in such securities should be considered speculative. "Junk bonds" may contain redemption or call provisions. If an issuer exercises these provisions in a declining interest rate market, a Fund would have to replace the security with a lower-yielding security, resulting in a decreased return. Conversely, a "junk bond's" value will decrease in a rising interest rate market, as will the value of a Fund's assets. The credit rating of a below investment grade security does not necessarily address its market value risk and may not reflect its actual credit risk. Ratings and market value may change from time to time, positively or negatively, to reflect new developments regarding the issuer. If a Fund that invests in "junk bonds" experiences unexpected net redemptions, this may force it to sell its non-investment grade

securities, without regard to their investment merits, thereby decreasing the asset base upon which a Fund's expenses can be spread and possibly reducing the Fund's rate of return.

Ratings represent a rating agency's opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. In addition, rating agencies may fail to make timely changes to credit ratings in response to subsequent events and a rating may become stale in that it fails to reflect changes in an issuer's financial condition. For a more complete description of debt ratings, see Appendix B.

**Operational Risk**

An investment in a Fund can involve operational risks arising from factors such as processing errors, human errors, inadequate or failed internal or external processes, failures in systems and technology, changes in personnel, and errors caused by third-party service providers. Among other things, these errors or failures, as well as other technological issues, may adversely affect a Fund's ability to calculate its net asset value in a timely manner, including over a potentially extended period of time. These errors or failures may also result in a loss or compromise of information, regulatory scrutiny, reputational damage or other events, any of which could have a material adverse effect on a Fund. While each Fund seek to minimize such events through internal controls and oversight of third party service providers, there is no guarantee that a Fund will not suffer losses if such events occur.

**Options on Futures Contracts**

Each Fund may invest in options on futures contracts to implement its investment strategy. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option.

The trading of options on futures contracts entails the risk that changes in the value of the underlying futures contract will not be fully reflected in the value of the option. The risk of imperfect correlation, however, generally tends to diminish as the maturity date of the futures contract or expiration date of the option approaches. In addition, a Fund utilizing options on futures contracts is subject to the risk of market movements between the time that the option is exercised and the time of performance thereunder. This could increase the extent of any loss suffered by a Fund in connection with such transactions.

Each Fund may also purchase and write options on futures contracts with respect to each of their respective Index. The purchase of a call option on an index futures contract is similar in some respects to the purchase of a call option on such an index. For example, when a Fund is not fully invested, it may purchase a call option on an index futures contract to hedge against a market advance.

**Options on Securities and Securities Indexes**

Each Fund may purchase and sell options on securities or securities indexes to implement its investment strategy. There are two basic types of options: "puts" and "calls." Each type of option can be used to establish either a long or a short position, depending upon whether a Fund is the purchaser or a writer of the option. A call option on a security, for example, gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying asset at the exercise price during the option period. Conversely, a put option on a security gives the purchaser the right to sell, and the writer of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying asset at the exercise price during the option period.

Purchased options have limited risk equal to the amount of the premium paid for the option. Such options afford the opportunity for gain corresponding to the increase or decrease in the value of the optioned asset. In general, a purchased put increases in value as the value of the underlying security falls and a purchased call increases in value as the value of the underlying security rises.

The principal reason to write options is to generate extra income (the premium paid by the buyer). Written options have varying degrees of risk. An uncovered written call option theoretically carries unlimited risk, as the market price of the underlying asset could rise far above the exercise price before its expiration. This risk is tempered when the call option is covered; that is, when the option writer owns the underlying asset. In this case, the writer runs the risk of the lost opportunity to participate in the appreciation in value of the asset rather than the risk of an out-of-pocket loss. A written put option has defined risk; that is, the difference between the agreed-upon price that a Fund must pay to the buyer upon exercise of the put and the value, which could be zero, of the asset at the time of exercise.

The obligation of the writer of an option continues until the writer effects a closing purchase transaction or until the option expires. To secure its obligation to deliver the underlying asset in the case of a call option, or to pay for the underlying asset in the case of a put option, a covered writer is required to deposit in escrow the underlying security or other assets in accordance with the rules of the applicable clearing corporation and exchanges.

Among the options that a Fund may purchase or sell are options on a securities index. In general, options on an index of securities are similar to options on the securities themselves, except that delivery requirements are different. For example, a put option on an index of securities does not give the holder the right to make actual delivery of a basket of securities, but instead gives the holder the right to receive an amount of cash upon exercise of the option if the value of the underlying index has fallen below the exercise price. The amount of cash received will be equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option expressed in dollars times a specified multiple. As with options on equity securities, or futures contracts, a Fund may offset its position in index options prior to expiration by entering into a closing transaction on an exchange or it may let the option expire unexercised.

A securities index assigns relative values to the securities included in the index and the index options are based on a broad market index. In connection with the use of such options, a Fund may cover its position by identifying assets having a value equal to the aggregate face value of the option position taken.

Indexed securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, commodities indices, currencies, precious metals or other commodities, 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-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index ("CPI").

Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.

The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the security, currency, commodity, or other instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and also may be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities also are subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, the U.S. Treasury and certain other U.S. government agencies. In calculating a Fund's dividends, index-based adjustments may be considered income.

**Option Transaction Risk**

The writing and purchasing of options is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The use of options to seek to increase total return involves the risk of loss if portfolio management is incorrect in its expectation of securities prices or interest rates. The successful use of options for hedging purposes also depends in part on the ability of portfolio management to manage the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If portfolio management is incorrect in its expectation a Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur.

There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an options exchange will exist for any particular exchange–traded option or at any particular time. If a Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to options it has written, the Fund must sell the underlying securities to purchasers of the options if the options are exercised. Similarly, if a Fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it will have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities.

Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC") may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would cease to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange that had been issued by the OCC as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.

Each Fund may purchase and sell both options that are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges and options traded over-the-counter with financial intermediaries who make markets in these options. The ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that financial intermediary participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations.

The writing of options could increase a Fund's portfolio turnover rate and, therefore, increase associated brokerage commissions or spreads.

**Pass-Through Securities**

Certain Funds may invest in various types of pass-through securities, such as commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities, which include CMOs and REMIC pass-through or mortgage participation certificates, asset-backed securities, credit-linked trust certificates, traded custody receipts, and participation interests. A pass-through security is a share or certificate of interest in a pool of debt obligations that have been repackaged by an intermediary, such as a bank or broker-dealer. The purchaser of a pass-through security receives an undivided interest in the underlying pool of securities. The issuers of the underlying securities make interest and principal payments to the intermediary, which are passed through to purchasers, such as the Funds.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Other Types of Pass-Through Securities**. The Funds also may invest in other types of pass-through securities, such as credit- linked trust certificates, traded custody receipts, and participation interests. Holders of the interests are entitled to receive distributions of interest, principal, and other payments on each of the underlying debt securities (less expenses), and in some cases distributions of the underlying debt securities. The underlying debt securities have a specified maturity but are subject to

prepayment risk because if an issuer prepays the principal, a Fund may have additional cash to invest at a time when prevailing interest rates have declined and reinvestment of such additional funds is made at a lower rate. The value of the underlying debt securities may change due to changes in market interest rates. If interest rates rise, the value of the underlying debt securities, and therefore the value of the pass-through security, may decline. If the underlying debt securities are high-yield securities, the risks associated with high-yield securities discussed in this SAI and in the Funds' Prospectuses may apply.

**Performance Indexed Paper**

Performance indexed paper is U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper the yield of which is linked to certain foreign exchange rate movements. The yield to the investor on performance indexed paper is established at maturity as a function of spot exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and a designated currency as of or about that time (generally, the index maturity two days prior to maturity). The yield to the investor will be within a range stipulated at the time of purchase of the obligation, generally with a guaranteed minimum rate of return that is below, and a potential maximum rate of return that is above, market yields on U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper, with both the minimum and maximum rates of return on the investment corresponding to the minimum and maximum values of the spot exchange rate two business days prior to maturity.

**Periodic Auction Reset Bonds**

Each Fund may invest in periodic auction reset bonds, which are bonds whose interest rates are reset periodically through an auction mechanism. For purposes of calculating the portfolio weighted average maturity of each Fund, the maturity of periodic auction reset bonds will be deemed to be the next interest reset date, rather than the remaining stated maturity of the instrument.

Periodic auction reset bonds, similar to short-term debt instruments, are generally subject to less interest rate risk than long-term fixed rate debt instruments because the interest rate will be periodically reset in a market auction. Periodic auction reset bonds with a long remaining stated maturity (i.e., 10 years or more), however, could have greater market risk than fixed short-term debt instruments, arising from the possibility of auction failure or insufficient demand at an auction, resulting in greater price volatility of such instruments compared to fixed short-term bonds.

**Preferred Stocks**

Each Fund may invest in preferred stocks, which represent a class of capital stock. Generally, preferred stock has a specified dividend and ranks after bonds and before common stocks in its claim on income for dividend payments and on assets should the company be liquidated. Preferred stockholders do not ordinarily enjoy any of the voting rights of common stockholders. Most preferred stock is cumulative, meaning that if dividends are passed (not paid for any reason), they accumulate and must be paid before common dividends. Typically, a preferred stock pays a fixed dividend that does not fluctuate, although the company does not have to pay this dividend if it lacks the financial ability to do so. However, an adjustable-rate preferred stock pays a dividend that is adjustable, usually quarterly, based on changes in the U.S. Treasury bill rate or other money market rates. A convertible preferred stock is exchangeable for a given number of common shares and thus tends to be more volatile than nonconvertible preferred, which behaves more like a fixed income bond. The main benefit to owning preferred stock is that the investor has a greater claim on the company's assets than common stockholders. Preferred stockholders always receive their dividends, and in the event the company goes bankrupt, are paid off before common stockholders. The Fund may purchase preferred stock where the issuer has omitted, or is in danger of omitting, payment of its dividend. Such investments would be made primarily for their capital appreciation potential.

**Private Placements**

Each Fund may invest in securities that are not registered under the 1933 Act ("restricted securities"). Restricted securities may be sold in private placement transactions between issuers and their purchasers and may be neither listed on an exchange nor traded in other established markets. In many cases, privately placed securities may not be freely transferable under the laws of the applicable jurisdiction or due to contractual restrictions on resale. As a result of the absence of a public trading market, privately placed securities may be less liquid and more difficult to value than publicly traded securities. To the extent that privately placed securities may be resold in privately negotiated transactions, the prices realized from the sales, due to illiquidity, could be less than those originally paid by the Fund or less than their fair market value. In addition, issuers whose securities are not publicly traded may not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection requirements that may be applicable if their securities were publicly traded. Certain of the Fund's investments in private placements may consist of direct investments and may include investments in smaller, less seasoned issuers, which may involve greater risks. These issuers may have limited product lines, markets or financial resources, or they may be dependent on a limited management group. In making investments in such securities, a Fund may obtain access to material nonpublic information, which may restrict the Fund's ability to conduct portfolio transactions in such securities.

Some of these securities are new and complex, and trade only among institutions; the markets for these securities are still developing, and may not function as efficiently as established markets. Because there may not be an established market price for these securities, the Fund may have to estimate their value. Transactions in restricted or illiquid investments may entail registration expense and other transaction costs that are higher than those for transactions in unrestricted or liquid securities. Where registration is required for restricted or illiquid investments, a considerable time period may elapse between the time the Fund decides to sell the security and the time it is actually

permitted to sell the security under an effective registration statement. If during such period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the Fund might obtain less-favorable pricing terms that when it decided to sell the security.

**Privately Issued Mortgage-Related Securities**

Such insurance and guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof will be considered in determining whether a mortgage- related security meets a Fund's investment quality standards. There can be no assurance that insurers or guarantors can meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee arrangements. A Fund may buy mortgage-related securities without insurance or guarantees if, through an examination of the loan experience and practices of the originators/ servicers and poolers, the Adviser determines that the securities meet the Funds' quality standards. Securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily marketable.

Privately issued mortgage-related securities are not subject to the same underwriting requirements for the underlying mortgages that are applicable to those mortgage-related securities that have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee. As a result, the mortgage loans underlying privately issued mortgage-related securities may, and frequently do, have less favorable collateral, credit risk or other underwriting characteristics than government or government-sponsored mortgage-related securities and have wider variances in a number of terms including interest rate, term, size, purpose and borrower characteristics. Mortgage pools underlying privately issued mortgage-related securities more frequently include second mortgages, high loan-to-value ratio mortgages and manufactured housing loans, in addition to commercial mortgages and other types of mortgages where a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee is not available. The coupon rates and maturities of the underlying mortgage loans in a privately issued mortgage-related securities pool may vary to a greater extent than those included in a government guaranteed pool. The Funds' investments in privately issued mortgage related securities may be backed by subprime mortgage loans.

The risk of non-payment is greater for mortgage-related securities that are backed by loans that were originated under weak underwriting standards, including loans made to borrowers with limited means to make repayment. A level of risk exists for all loans, although, historically, the poorest performing loans have been those classified as subprime. Other types of privately issued mortgage-related securities, such as those classified as pay-option adjustable rate or Alt-A have also performed poorly. Even loans classified as prime have experienced higher levels of delinquencies and defaults. A decline in real property values across the United States may exacerbate the level of losses that investors in privately issued mortgage-related securities have experienced. Market factors that may adversely affect mortgage loan repayment include adverse economic conditions, unemployment, a decline in the value of real property, or an increase in interest rates.

Privately issued mortgage-related securities are not traded on an exchange and there may be a limited market for the securities, especially when there is a perceived weakness in the mortgage and real estate market sectors. Without an active trading market, mortgage-related securities held by a Fund may be particularly difficult to value because of the complexities involved in assessing the value of the underlying mortgage loans.

A Fund may purchase privately issued mortgage-related securities that are originated, packaged and serviced by third party entities. It is possible these third parties could have interests that are in conflict with the holders of mortgage-related securities, and such holders (such as a Fund) could have rights against the third parties or their affiliates. For example, if a loan originator, servicer or its affiliates engaged in negligence or willful misconduct in carrying out its duties, then a holder of the mortgage-related security could seek recourse against the originator/servicer or its affiliates, as applicable. Also, as a loan originator/servicer, the originator/servicer or its affiliates may make certain representations and warranties regarding the quality of the mortgages and properties underlying a mortgage-related security. If one or more of those representations or warranties is false, then the holders of the mortgage-related securities (such as a Fund) could trigger an obligation of the originator/servicer or its affiliates, as applicable, to repurchase the mortgages from the issuing trust. Notwithstanding the foregoing, many of the third parties that are legally bound by trust and other documents have failed to perform their respective duties, as stipulated in such trust and other documents, and investors have had limited success in enforcing terms.

Mortgage-related securities that are issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, are not subject to the Funds' industry concentration restrictions by virtue of the exclusion from that test available to all U.S. Government securities. In the case of privately issued mortgage-related securities, the Adviser takes the position that mortgage-related securities do not represent interests in any particular "industry" or group of industries. Therefore, privately issued mortgage-related securities are not subject to a Fund's industry concentration restrictions. The assets underlying such securities may be represented by a portfolio of residential or commercial mortgages (including both whole mortgage loans and mortgage participation interests that may be senior or junior in terms of priority of repayment) or portfolios of mortgage pass-through securities issued or guaranteed by Ginnie Mae, Freddie Mac or Fannie

Mae. Mortgage loans underlying a mortgage-related security may in turn be insured or guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs. In the case of privately issued mortgage-related securities whose underlying assets are neither U.S. Government securities nor U.S. Government-insured mortgages, to the extent that real properties securing such assets may be located in the same geographical region, the security may be subject to a greater risk of default than other comparable securities in the event of adverse economic, political or business developments that may affect such region and, ultimately, the ability of residential homeowners to make payments of principal and interest on the underlying mortgages.

**Put Bonds**

Each Fund may invest in securities, the interest on which is excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes (tax exempt securities) (including securities with variable interest rates) that may be redeemed or sold back ("put") to the issuer of the security or a third party prior to stated maturity ("put bonds"). Such securities will normally trade as if maturity is the earlier put date, even though stated maturity is longer. Under a Fund's portfolio allocation procedure, maturity for put bonds is deemed to be the date on which the put becomes exercisable.

**Real Estate Investment Trusts and Real Estate-Linked Derivatives**

Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs") are sometimes informally characterized as equity REITs, mortgage REITs, and hybrid REITs. In addition, a Fund may gain exposure to the real estate sector by investing in real estate-linked derivatives and common, preferred and convertible securities of issuers in real estate-related industries. Investments in publicly traded REITs and real estate-linked derivatives are subject to risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real estate, including loss to casualty or condemnation, increases in property taxes and operating expenses, zoning law amendments, changes in interest rates, overbuilding and increased competition, variations in market value, fluctuations in rental income, possible environmental liabilities, regulatory limitations on rent, and other risks related to local or general economic conditions. Equity REITs generally experience these risks directly through fee or leasehold interests, whereas mortgage REITs generally experience these risks indirectly through mortgage interests, unless the mortgage REIT forecloses on the underlying real estate. Changes in interest rates may also affect the value of a Fund's investment in publicly traded REITs. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, certain mortgage REITs may hold mortgages that the mortgagors elect to prepay, and prepayment may diminish the yield on securities issued by those REITs.

Certain REITs have relatively small market capitalizations, which may tend to increase the volatility of the market price of their securities. Furthermore, publicly traded REITs are dependent upon specialized management skills, have limited diversification and are, therefore, subject to risks inherent in operating and financing a limited number of projects. Publicly traded REITs are also subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Internal Revenue Code and to maintain exemption from the registration requirements of the 1940 Act. By investing in publicly traded REITs indirectly through a Fund, a shareholder will bear not only his or her proportionate share of the expenses of a Fund, but also, indirectly, similar expenses of the publicly traded REITs. In addition, publicly traded REITs depend generally on their ability to generate cash flow to make distributions to shareholders.

**Recent Market Conditions and Events**

There have been multiple periods in recent decades of high levels of stress and volatility in financial markets. Periods of market volatility, restrictive credit conditions, lack of confidence in key market participants, and broadly negative sentiment, sometimes limited to a particular sector or a geography, continue to recur. Political changes, trade policies and trade disputes (including sanctions and tariffs), tax and budget policies, debt disputes, geopolitical developments, environmental and public health events, and central bank actions (including withdrawals, or "tapering," of market support and changes in interest rate targets) have all at times represented sources of stress and instability in world economies and markets. For example, Russia's military campaign in Ukraine resulted in broad-based sanctions by the U.S. and other countries and rapid price movements in sectors (such as energy) where Russian companies are important market participants, with related impacts both globally and regionally. Also for example, the COVID-19 pandemic and related quarantines and restrictions resulted in high unemployment, disruptions to supply chains and customer activity, and general concern and uncertainty, with corresponding impacts on financial markets worldwide. COVID-19 remains a risk with the potential that new variants could lead to increased government restrictions and consumer caution. More recently, a number of major economies, including the United States, adjusted to reduced levels of market and monetary support following periods of fiscal and monetary interventions. Recent periods of rising inflation and increases in interest rate targets by central banks have generated significant market stress and volatility, with market sentiment changing rapidly in response to changes in inflation or interest rate expectations.

**Market Risk and Turmoil.** The Funds are subject to market risk. Market risk includes unexpected directional price movements, deviations from historical pricing relationships, changes in the regulatory environment, changes in market volatility, panicked or forced selling of assets and contraction of available credit or other financing sources. The success of a Fund's activities may be affected by general economic and market conditions, such as interest rates, availability of credit, inflation rates, economic uncertainty, changes in laws and national and international political circumstances. Although globally and among developed countries there has been a relatively stable political environment for decades, there is no guarantee that such stability will be maintained in the future. International policies, relationships, and trade agreements, which have generally been perceived as stable or evolving, appear to be much more in flux. Adjustments in major trade relationships have already been met by retaliatory measures from other countries and could cause potential

escalation in protectionist behavior leading to a drag on growth prospects as trade and investment and productivity growth are reinforcing and linked. Other drivers of geopolitical, economic and market risk also may come from, among other things, increased political tension on the domestic and international stages, substantial slowdown and outright recessions in certain markets, pressure on oil prices, rising corporate leverage, continuous abnormally low global interest rates, structural stresses in the European Union, international terrorist activity, and armed conflicts and risk of armed conflicts. Similarly, environmental and public health risks, such as natural disasters, pandemics or epidemics, or widespread fear that such events may occur, may impact markets adversely and cause market volatility in both the short- and long-term. In addition, the expanded influence of social media platforms on the market, combined with the access to low cost retail brokerage, can exacerbate the volatility of particular instruments. Any of these developments, or the perception that any of these developments are likely to occur or worsen, could have a material adverse effect on economic growth or business activity, result in the relocation of businesses, cause business interruptions, lead to economic recession (or depression), and impact the stability of financial markets or financial institutions and the financial and monetary system. A Fund may be affected by these developments in ways that are not foreseeable, and there is a possibility that such developments could have a significant adverse effect on a Fund and its ability to achieve its investment objective. Market turmoil may negatively affect a Fund's performance. Such factors may affect the level and volatility of security prices and liquidity of a Fund's investments. Credit markets may become illiquid, credit spreads may widen and the equity markets may lose substantial value. Such market conditions may cause a Fund to suffer substantial losses and/or implement measures that adversely affect a Fund. Changes in the value of securities may be temporary or may last for extended periods.

**Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Information Technology.** The Funds and their service providers have administrative and technical safeguards in place with respect to information security. Nevertheless, the Funds and their service providers are potentially susceptible to operational and information security risks resulting from a cyber-attack as the Funds are highly dependent upon the effective operation of their computer systems and those of their business partners. These risks include, among other things, the theft, misuse, corruption and destruction of data maintained online or digitally, denial of service on websites and other operational disruption and unauthorized release of confidential customer information. Cyber-attacks affecting the Adviser, Victory Capital Services, Inc. (the "Distributor,"), the Funds, the custodian, the transfer agent, financial intermediaries and other affiliated or third-party service providers may adversely affect the Funds and their shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks may interfere with the processing of Fund transactions, including the processing of orders, impact a Fund's ability to calculate net asset values, cause the release and possible destruction of confidential customer or business information, impede trading, subject a Fund and/or its service providers and intermediaries to regulatory fines and financial losses and/or cause reputational damage. Cybersecurity risks may also affect the issuers of securities in which a Fund invests, which may cause a Fund's investments to lose value. A Fund may also incur additional costs for cybersecurity risk management in the future. Although the Funds and their service providers have adopted security procedures to minimize the risk of a cyber-attack, there can be no assurance that the Funds or their service providers will avoid losses affecting the Funds due to cyber-attacks or information security breaches in the future.

Recent technological advances in artificial intelligence, robotics and machine learning technologies, and their current and potential future applications including in the financial sectors, as well as the legal and regulatory frameworks within which they operate, continue to rapidly evolve. It is not possible to predict the full extent of current or future risks of these new technologies. Regulations related to these technologies also may impose certain obligations on organizations, and the costs of monitoring and responding to such regulations, as well as the consequences of non-compliance, could have an adverse effect on organizations connected to the Funds and their investments. In addition, the Funds and their investments could be exposed to risks to the extent third-party service providers or any counterparties use these technologies in their business activities.

**Reference Rate Transition Risk.** The London Interbank Offered Rate, or "LIBOR," which had historically been the principal floating rate benchmark in the financial markets, has been discontinued. Its discontinuation has affected and will continue to affect the financial markets generally and may also affect a Fund's operations, finances, and investments specifically. The UK Financial Conduct Authority, which is the regulator of the LIBOR administrator, has ceased publishing all LIBOR tenors. As an alternative to LIBOR, the market has generally coalesced around the use of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") as a replacement for U.S. dollar LIBOR. SOFR is a risk-free overnight floating rate that is currently published in multiple formats, including as an overnight rate, as a compounded average and as an index. In addition to the SOFR rate variations, other alternative floating rates have been developed and various market participants have adopted these floating rates to various degrees, although market practice remains in flux. Uncertainty as to the nature of alternative reference rates and as to potential changes or other reforms to alternative reference rates, or any changes announced with respect to such reforms, may result in a sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in the reported reference rates and the value of reference rate-based loans and securities. The effects of these potential changes on the Funds, issuers of instruments in which the Funds invests and financial markets generally and the effectiveness of changes already made, remain uncertain. If a Fund invests in instruments that utilize an alternative reference rate that falls out of favor, the value of such instrument may decline due to a lack of liquidity or other factors.

**Regulation S Securities**

Regulation S Securities are issued through private offerings without registration with the SEC pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act ("Regulation S Securities"). Offerings of Regulation S Securities may be conducted outside of the United States. Because

Regulation S Securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale Regulation S Securities may be considered illiquid. If a Regulation S Security is determined to be illiquid, a Fund's 15% of net assets limitation on investment in illiquid securities will apply.

Furthermore, because Regulation S Securities are generally less liquid than registered securities, a Fund may take longer to liquidate these positions than would be the case for publicly traded securities. Although Regulation S Securities may be resold in privately negotiated transactions, the amounts received from these sales could be less than those originally paid by a Fund. Further, companies whose securities are not publicly traded may not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection requirements that would be applicable if their securities were publicly traded. Accordingly, Regulation S Securities may involve a high degree of business and financial risk and may result in substantial losses.

**Repurchase and Reverse Repurchase Agreements**

In a repurchase agreement, a Fund purchases an equity or fixed-income 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 consists of 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 or "collateral." A risk associated with repurchase agreements is the failure of the seller to repurchase the securities as agreed, which may cause a Fund to suffer a loss if the market value of such securities declines before they can be liquidated on the open market. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, a Fund may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the underlying security. In addition, the collateral received in the repurchase transaction may become worthless. To the extent a Fund's collateral focuses in one or more sectors, such as banks and financial services, the Fund is subject to increased risk as a result of that exposure. Repurchase agreements that mature in more than seven calendar days are subject to the 15% limit on illiquid investments that are assets. While it is not possible to eliminate all risks from these transactions, it is the policy of the Funds to limit repurchase agreements to those parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the Adviser. There is no guarantee that the Adviser's analysis of the creditworthiness of the counterparty will be accurate, and the underlying collateral involved in the transaction can expose a Fund to additional risk regardless of the creditworthiness of the parties involved in the transaction.

Reverse repurchase agreements are transactions in which a Fund sells an equity or fixed-income security and simultaneously commits to repurchase that security from the buyer, such as a bank or broker-dealer, at an agreed upon price on an agreed upon future date. The resale price in a reverse repurchase agreement reflects a market rate of interest that is not related to the coupon rate or maturity of the sold security. For certain demand agreements, there is no agreed upon repurchase date and interest payments are calculated daily, often based upon the prevailing overnight repurchase rate. The Funds will use the proceeds of reverse repurchase agreements only 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, such as Treasury bills or notes, or as part of an inflation-related investment strategy.

Generally, a reverse repurchase agreement enables a Fund to recover for the term of the reverse repurchase agreement all or most of the cash invested in the portfolio securities sold and to keep the interest income associated with those portfolio securities. Such transactions are only advantageous if the interest cost to a Fund of the reverse repurchase transaction is less than the cost of obtaining the cash otherwise. In addition, interest costs on the money received in a reverse repurchase agreement may exceed the return received on the investments made by a Fund with those monies. Using reverse repurchase agreements to earn additional income involves the risk that the interest earned on the invested proceeds is less than the expense of the reverse repurchase agreement transaction. This technique may also have a leveraging effect on a Fund's portfolio. A Fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements only with parties that the Adviser deems creditworthy. A Fund will limit its investments in reverse repurchase agreements to one-third or less of its total assets.

**Regulation as a Commodity Pool Operator**

The Funds have filed with the National Futures Association ("NFA"), a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission promulgated thereunder, with respect to the Funds' operations. Accordingly, the Funds will not be subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool.

**Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities**

Each Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the "private placement" exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the 1933 Act ("Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper"). Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper is restricted as to disposition under the federal securities laws; therefore, any resale of Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper must be effected in a transaction exempt from registration under the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper normally is resold to other investors through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper, thus providing liquidity.

Each Fund also may purchase restricted securities eligible for resale to "qualified institutional buyers" pursuant to Rule 144A under the 1933 Act ("Rule 144A Securities"). Rule 144A provides a non-exclusive safe harbor from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act for resales of certain securities to institutional investors.

However, investing in Rule 144A securities and Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper could have the effect of increasing the level of a Fund's illiquidity to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing these securities.

**Sale-Buybacks**

A sale-buyback is similar to a reverse repurchase agreement, except that in a sale-buyback, the counterparty that purchases the security is entitled to receive any principal or interest payments made on the underlying security pending settlement of a Fund's repurchase of the underlying security. Such Fund's obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the Fund's forward commitment to repurchase the subject security.

**Securities as a Result of Exchanges or Workouts**

Each Fund may hold various instruments received in an exchange or workout of a distressed security (i.e., a low-rated debt security that is in default or at risk of becoming in default). Such instruments may include, but are not limited to, equity securities, warrants, rights, participation interests in sales of assets and contingent-interest obligations.

**Securities of Other Investment Companies**

<u>General</u>. Except as described in the following paragraphs, each Fund currently intends to limit its investments in securities issued by other investment companies so that, as determined immediately after a purchase of such securities is made: (1) not more than 5% of the value of a Fund's total assets will be invested in the securities of any one investment company; (2) not more than 10% of the value of its total assets will be invested in the aggregate in securities of investment companies as a group; and (3) not more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of any one investment company will be owned by a Fund.

A Fund may also purchase and redeem shares issued by a money market fund without limit, provided that either: (1) the Fund pays no "sales charge" or "service fee" (as each of those terms is defined in the FINRA Conduct Rules); or (2) the Adviser waives its advisory fee in an amount necessary to offset any such sales charge or service fee.

Rule 12d1-4 under the 1940 Act permits a Fund, absent any other investment restrictions to the contrary and subject to the conditions of Rule 12d1-4, to invest in registered investment companies in excess of the limits set forth in Section 12(d) of the 1940 Act.

As a shareholder of an investment company, a Fund indirectly will bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such investment company in addition to the fees and expenses a Fund bears directly in connection with its own operations. These securities represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in various types of instruments pursuant to a wide range of investment styles. A Fund would also bear the risk of all of the underlying investments held by the other investment company. An investment company may not achieve its investment objective.

<u>Exchange-Traded</u> <u>Funds</u>. ("ETFs") are investment companies, many of which pursue investment objectives to achieve the same rate of return as a particular market index or commodity while trading throughout the day on an exchange. Certain ETFs are actively managed portfolios rather than being based upon an underlying index. ETF shares are sold initially in the primary market in units, often consisting of 50,000 or more shares ("creation units"). A creation unit represents a bundle of securities or commodities that replicates, or is a representative sample of, a particular index or commodity and that is deposited with the ETF. Once owned, the individual shares comprising each creation unit are traded on an exchange in secondary market transactions for cash. The secondary market for ETF shares allows them to be readily converted into cash, like commonly traded stocks. The combination of primary and secondary markets permits ETF shares to be traded throughout the day close to the value of the ETF's underlying portfolio securities. A Fund would purchase and sell individual shares of ETFs in the secondary market. These secondary market transactions require the payment of commissions.

<u>Unit Investment Trusts</u>. ("UITs") are investment companies that hold a fixed portfolio of securities until the fixed maturity date of the UIT. A Fund would generally only purchase UITs in the secondary market for cash, which would result in the payment of commissions.

<u>Risk Factors Associated with Investments in ETFs and UITs</u>. ETF and UIT shares are subject to the same risk of price fluctuation due to supply and demand as any other stock traded on an exchange, which means that a Fund could receive less from the sale of shares of an ETF or UIT it holds than it paid at the time it purchased those shares. Furthermore, there may be times when the exchange halts trading, in which case a Fund owning ETF or UIT shares would be unable to sell them until trading is resumed. There can be no assurance that an ETF or UIT will continue to meet the listing requirements of the exchange or that an active secondary market will develop for shares. In addition, because ETFs and UITs invest in a portfolio of common stocks or other instruments or commodities, the value of an ETF or UIT could decline if prices of those instruments or commodities decline. An overall decline of those instruments or commodities comprising an ETF's or UIT's benchmark index could have a greater impact on the ETF or UIT and investors than might be the case in an investment company with a more widely diversified portfolio. Losses could also occur if the ETF or UIT is unable to replicate the performance of the chosen benchmark index. There may be times when the market price for an ETF or UIT and its NAV vary significantly and a Fund may pay more than (premium) or less than (discount) NAV when buying shares on the secondary market. The market price of an ETF's or UIT's shares includes a "bid-ask spread" charged by the exchange specialists, market makers or other participants that trade the particular security. In times of severe market disruption, the bid-ask spread often increases significantly. This means that the shares may trade at a discount to NAV and the discount is likely to be greatest when the price of shares is falling fastest.

Other risks associated with ETFs and UITs include the possibility that: (i) an ETF's or UIT's distributions may decline if the issuers of the ETF's or UIT's portfolio securities fail to continue to pay dividends; and (ii) under certain circumstances, an ETF or UIT could be terminated. Should termination occur, the ETF or UIT could have to liquidate its portfolio securities when the prices for those securities are falling. In addition, inadequate or irregularly provided information about an ETF or UIT or its investments, because ETFs and UITs are generally passively managed, could expose investors in ETFs and UITs to unknown risks. Actively managed ETFs are also subject to the risk of underperformance relative to their chosen benchmark.

**Settlement Risk**

Global markets have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to a Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to subsequent purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by a Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. A Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities.

**Special Situations**

Special Situations involve investing in companies that demonstrate special situations or turnarounds, meaning companies that have experienced significant business problems but are believed to have favorable prospects for recovery. For example, a special situation or turnaround may arise when, in the opinion of a Fund's portfolio management, the securities of a particular issuer will be recognized as undervalued by the market and appreciate in value due to a specific development with respect to that issuer. Special situations may include significant changes in a company's allocation of its existing capital, a restructuring of assets, or a redirection of free cash flow. For example, issuers undergoing significant capital changes may include companies involved in spin-offs, sales of divisions, mergers or acquisitions, companies involved in bankruptcy proceedings, or companies initiating large changes in their debt to equity ratio. Companies that are redirecting cash flows may be reducing debt, repurchasing shares, or paying dividends. Special situations may also result from: (i) significant changes in industry structure through regulatory developments or shifts in competition; (ii) a new or improved product, service, operation, or technological advance; (iii) changes in senior management or other extraordinary corporate event; (iii) differences in market supply of and demand for the security; or (v) significant changes in cost structure. Investments in "special situations" companies can present greater risks than investments in companies not experiencing special situations, and a Fund's performance could be adversely impacted if the securities selected decline in value or fail to appreciate in value.

**Standby Commitments**

Standby commitments are the rights to sell a specified underlying security or securities within a specified period of time and at an exercise price equal to the amortized cost of the underlying security or securities plus accrued interest, if any, at the time of exercise, that may be sold, transferred, or assigned only with the underlying security or securities. A standby commitment entitles the holder to receive same day settlement and will be considered to be from the party to whom the investment company will look for payment of the exercise price.

**Strip Bonds**

Strip bonds are debt securities that are stripped of their interest (usually by a financial intermediary) after the securities are issued. The market value of these securities generally fluctuates more in response to changes in interest rates than interest-paying securities of comparable maturity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•**Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities.** Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities ("SMBS") are derivative multi-class mortgage securities and issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. SMBS are usually structured with two classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. A common type of SMBS will have one class receiving some of the interest and most of the principal from the mortgage assets, while the other class will receive most of the interest and the remainder of the principal. In the most extreme case, one class will receive all of the interest (the "IO" class), while the other class will receive all of the principal (the principal-only or "PO" class). The yield to maturity on an IO class is extremely sensitive to the rate of principal payments (including pre-payments) on the related underlying mortgage assets, and a rapid rate of principal payments may have a material adverse effect on a Fund's yield to maturity from these securities. If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than anticipated pre-payments of principal, a Fund may fail to recoup some or all of its initial investment in these securities even if the security is in one of the highest rating categories.

**Structured Investments**

Structured Investments (also called "structured securities") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate and/or the principal of structured investment is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument (e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured investment may be positively, negatively,

or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases.

Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured investment may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s). Therefore, the value of such structured note may be very volatile. Structured Investments may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because a Fund, as an investor, bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured Investments may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities.

In addition, because structured investments generally are traded over-the-counter, structured investments are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured investment, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.

**Swap Arrangements**

Each Fund may enter into various forms of swap arrangements with counterparties with respect to interest rates, currency rates or indexes, including purchase of caps, floors and collars as described below. 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 an interest rate swap a Fund could agree for a specified period to pay a bank or investment banker the floating rate of interest on a so- called notional principal amount (i.e., an assumed figure selected by the parties for this purpose) in exchange for agreement by the bank or investment banker to pay a Fund a fixed rate of interest on the notional principal amount. In a currency swap a Fund would agree with the other party to exchange cash flows based on the relative differences in values of a notional amount of two (or more) currencies; in an index swap, a Fund would agree to exchange cash flows on a notional amount based on changes in the values of the selected indexes. The purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments from the seller on a notional amount to the extent that the selected index exceeds an agreed upon interest rate or amount, whereas the purchase of a floor entitles the purchaser to receive such payments to the extent the selected index falls below an agreed upon interest rate or amount. A collar combines buying a cap and selling a floor.

Most swaps entered into by a Fund will be on a net basis. For example, in an interest rate swap, amounts generated by application of the fixed rate and floating rate to the notional principal amount would first offset one another, with the Fund either receiving or paying the difference between such amounts. In order to be in a position to meet any obligations resulting from swaps, a Fund will set up a segregated custodial account to hold liquid assets, including cash. For swaps entered into on a net basis, assets will be segregated having an NAV equal to any excess of a Fund's accrued obligations over the accrued obligations of the other party; for swaps on other than a net basis, assets will be segregated having a value equal to the total amount of a Fund's obligations. Collateral is treated as illiquid.

Swap agreements historically have been individually negotiated, and most swap arrangements are currently traded over-the-counter. Certain standardized swaps currently are, and more in the future will be, centrally cleared and traded on either a swap execution facility or a designated contract market. Cleared swaps are transmitted through FCMs that are members of central clearinghouses with the clearinghouse serving as a central counterparty similar to transactions in futures contracts. Central clearing is expected to decrease counterparty risk and increase liquidity compared to uncleared swaps because central clearing interposes the central clearinghouse as the counterparty to each participant's swap. However, central clearing does not eliminate counterparty risk or illiquidity risk entirely. For example, swaps that are centrally cleared are subject to the creditworthiness of the clearing organization involved in the transaction. An investor could lose margin payments it has deposited with its FCM as well as the net amount of gains not yet paid by the clearing organization if the clearing organization becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy. In the event of bankruptcy of the clearing organization, the investor may be entitled to the net amount of gains the investor is entitled to receive plus the return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the clearing organization's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the investor. In addition, depending on the size of a portfolio and other factors, the margin required under the rules of a clearinghouse and by a clearing member FCM may be in excess of the collateral required to be posted by a portfolio to support its obligations under a similar uncleared swap.

These swap arrangements will be made primarily for hedging purposes to preserve the return on an investment or on a portion of a Fund's portfolio. However, a Fund may, as noted above, enter into such arrangements for income purposes to the extent permitted by applicable law. In entering into a swap arrangement, a Fund is dependent upon the creditworthiness and good faith of the counterparty. A Fund will attempt to reduce the risk of nonperformance by the counterparty by dealing only with established, reputable institutions. The swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing standardized swap documentation and in some cases transacting in swaps that are centrally cleared and exchange traded. As a result, the swap market has become relatively liquid. Certain swap transactions involve more recent innovations for which standardized documentation has not yet been fully developed and generally will not be centrally cleared or traded on an exchange and, accordingly, they are less liquid than traditional swap transactions.

A Fund may enter into interest rate swaps, the use of which is a highly specialized activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. If the Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market values, interest rates, or other applicable factors, the investment performance of a Fund would diminish compared with what it would have been

if these investment techniques were not used. Moreover, even if the Adviser is correct in its forecasts, there is a risk that the swap position may correlate imperfectly with the price of the asset or liability being hedged.

Each Fund may enter into credit default swap ("CDS") contracts for investment purposes. The Funds also may invest in credit default swap indexes, which are portfolios of credit default swaps with similar characteristics. If a Fund is a seller of a CDS contract, a Fund would be required to pay the par (or other agreed upon) value of a referenced debt obligation to the counterparty in the event of a default by a third party, such as a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer, on the debt obligation. In return, a Fund would receive from the counterparty a periodic stream of payments over the term of the contract provided that no event of default has occurred. If no default occurs, a Fund would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligations. As the seller, a Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap. As the seller, a Fund also is not required to remain in the CDS contract until default or maturity and could terminate the contract and incur a realized gain or loss.

Each Fund also may purchase CDS contracts in order to hedge against the risk of default of debt securities it holds, in which case a Fund would function as the counterparty referenced above. This would involve the risk that the swap may expire worthless and would only generate income in the event of an actual default by the issuer of the underlying obligation (as opposed to a credit downgrade or other indication of financial instability). It also would involve credit risk; the seller may fail to satisfy its payment obligations to a Fund in the event of a default. As the buyer, a Fund is not required to remain in the CDS contract until default or maturity and could terminate the contract and incur a realized gain or loss.

The CFTC and SEC comprehensively regulate the swaps and security-based swaps markets and have adopted regulations imposing clearing, reporting, recordkeeping and registration requirements. These regulations could, among other things, restrict a Fund's ability to engage in swap transactions (for example, by making certain types of swaps no longer available to a Fund) and/or increase the costs of such swap transactions (for example, by increasing margin or capital requirements), and an Underlying Fund might be unable to fully execute its investment strategies as a result. Limits or restrictions applicable to the counterparties with which a Fund engages in swaps also could prevent a Fund from using these instruments or affect the pricing or other factors relating to these instruments, or may change the availability of certain investment.

Regulations adopted by the CFTC, SEC and banking regulators may require a Fund to post margin on OTC swaps, and exchanges set minimum margin requirements for exchange-traded and cleared swaps. Banks are required, subject to prudential supervision, to exchange variation and initial margin in respect of their obligations arising under OTC swap agreements. The CFTC adopted similar rules that apply to CFTC-registered swap dealers that are not banks. Such rules generally require a Fund to segregate additional assets in order to meet the new variation and initial margin requirements when they enter into OTC swap agreements. The European Supervisory Authorities ("ESA"), various national regulators in Europe, the Australian Securities & Investment Commission, the Japanese Financial Services Agency and the Canadian Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions adopted rules and regulations that are similar to that of the Federal Reserve. Due to these regulations, a Fund is required to engage in significant documentation and recordkeeping with respect to swap agreements.

In addition, CFTC regulations allow investment advisers for registered investment companies and other institutional investors to apply a minimum transfer amount ("MTA") of variation margin based upon the separately managed investment account or sleeve ("Sleeve") that the adviser is responsible for, rather than having to calculate the MTA across all accounts of the investor. An investment manager must abide by the following conditions: (1) any such swaps are entered into with the swap dealer by an asset manager on behalf of a Sleeve owned by the legal entity pursuant to authority granted under an investment management agreement; (2) the swaps of such Sleeve are subject to a master netting agreement that does not permit netting of initial or variation margin obligations across Sleeves of the legal entity that have swaps outstanding with the swap dealer; and (3) the swap dealer applies an MTA no greater than $50,000 to the initial and variation margin collection and posting obligations required of such Sleeve. As of the date of this SAI, the banking regulators have not provided similar relief.

Regulations adopted by the prudential regulators require certain banks to include in a range of financial contracts, including swap agreements, terms delaying or restricting default, termination and other rights in the event that the bank and/or its affiliates become subject to certain types of resolution or insolvency proceedings. The regulations may limit a Fund's ability to exercise a range of cross- default rights if its counterparty, or an affiliate of the counterparty, is subject to bankruptcy or similar proceedings. Such regulations may negatively impact a Fund's use of swaps.

Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names including, but not limited to, interest rate swaps, mortgage swaps, total return swaps, inflation swaps, asset swaps (where parties exchange assets, typically a debt security), currency swaps, equity swaps, credit default swaps, commodity-linked swaps, and contracts for differences. Each Fund also may write (sell) and purchase options on swaps (swaptions).

For more information about these practices, see the "Derivatives" section.

**Synthetic Instruments**

liquidity provider for repurchase on short notice. This right to sell is commonly referred to as a tender option. Usually, the tender option is backed by a conditional guarantee or letter of credit from a bank or other financial institution. Under its terms, the guarantee may expire if the municipality defaults on payments of interest or principal on the underlying bond, if the credit rating of the municipality is downgraded, or interest on the underlying bond ceases to be excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes. The recent economic downturn and budgetary constraints have made municipal securities more susceptible to downgrade, default, and bankruptcy. Synthetic instruments involve structural risks that could adversely affect the value of the instrument or could result in a Fund's holding an instrument for a longer period of time than originally anticipated. For example, because of the structure of a synthetic instrument, there is a risk that a Fund will not be able to exercise its tender option.

**Temporary Defensive Policy**

Each Fund may, on a temporary basis because of market, economic, political, or other conditions, invest up to 100% of its assets in investment-grade, short-term debt instruments. Such securities may consist of obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, and repurchase agreements secured by such instruments; certificates of deposit of domestic banks having capital, surplus, and undivided profits in excess of $100 million; bankers' acceptances of similar banks; commercial paper; and other corporate debt obligations.

**Tender Option Bonds**

Tender option bonds are relatively long-term bonds that are coupled with the option to tender the securities to a bank, broker-dealer, or other financial institution at periodic intervals and receive the face value of the bonds. This investment structure is commonly used as a means of enhancing a security's liquidity. A Fund will purchase standby commitments, tender option bonds, and instruments with demand features primarily for the purpose of increasing the liquidity of its portfolio holdings.

**Time Deposits and Variable Rate Notes**

A Fund may invest in fixed time deposits, whether or not subject to withdrawal penalties. The commercial paper obligations, which the Fund may buy are unsecured and may include variable rate notes. The nature and terms of a variable rate note (i.e., a "Master Note") permit the Fund to invest fluctuating amounts at varying rates of interest pursuant to a direct arrangement between the Fund as Lender, and the issuer, as borrower. It permits daily changes in the amounts borrowed. A Fund has the right at any time to increase, up to the full amount stated in the note agreement, or to decrease the amount outstanding under the note. The issuer may prepay at any time and without penalty any part of or the full amount of the note. The note may or may not be backed by one or more bank letters of credit. Because these notes are direct lending arrangements between the Fund and the issuer, it is not generally contemplated that they will be traded; moreover, there is currently no secondary market for them. Except as specifically provided in the Prospectus, there is no limitation on the type of issuer from whom these notes may be purchased; however, in connection with such purchase and on an ongoing basis, the Adviser will consider the earning power, cash flow and other liquidity ratios of the issuer, and its ability to pay principal and interest on demand, including a situation in which all holders of such notes made demand simultaneously. Variable rate notes are subject to the Fund's investment restriction on illiquid investments unless such notes can be put back to the issuer on demand within seven days.

**U.S. Government Obligations**

These consist of various types of marketable securities issued by the U.S. Treasury e.g., bills, notes and bonds. Such securities are direct obligations of the U.S. government and differ mainly in the length of their maturity. Treasury bills, the most frequently issued marketable government security, have a maturity of up to one year and are issued on a discount basis. A Fund may also invest in Treasury Inflation- Protected Securities ("TIPS"). TIPS are special types of treasury bonds that were created in order to offer bond investors protection from inflation. The values of the TIPS are automatically adjusted to the inflation rate as measured by the Consumer Price Index ("CPI"). If the CPI goes up by half a percent, the value of the bond (the TIPS) would also go up by half a percent. If the CPI falls, the value of the bond does not fall because the government guarantees that the original investment will stay the same. TIPS decline in value when real interest rates rise. However, in certain interest rate environments, such as when real interest rates are rising faster than nominal interest rates, TIPS may experience greater losses than other fixed income securities with similar duration.

Obligations of U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities are not necessarily backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury, but rather of the government agency or instrumentality itself (see "U.S. Government Agency Obligations," below.) Although a Fund may hold securities that carry U.S. government guarantees, these guarantees do not extend to shares of the Fund itself and do not guarantee the market prices of the securities. In recent periods, the values of U.S. government securities have been affected substantially by increased demand for them in the global markets. Increases or decreases in the demand for U.S. government securities may occur at any time and may result in increased volatility in the values of those securities.

**Variable-Rate and Floating-Rate Securities**

Each Fund may invest in variable-rate and floating-rate securities, which bear interest at rates that are adjusted periodically to market rates. These interest rate adjustments can both raise and lower the income generated by such securities. These changes will have the same effect on the income earned by a Fund depending on the proportion of such securities held. Because the interest rates of variable-rate and floating-rate securities are periodically adjusted to reflect current market rates, the market value of the variable-rate and floating-rate

securities is less affected by changes in prevailing interest rates than the market value of securities with fixed interest rates. The market value of variable-rate and floating-rate securities usually tends toward par (100% of face value) at interest rate adjustment time.

Similar to fixed-rate debt instruments, variable- and floating-rate instruments are subject to changes in value based on changes in market interest rates or changes in the issuer's creditworthiness. In addition, variable- and floating-rate securities are subject to the risk of loss of principal and income. Although borrowers frequently provide collateral to secure repayment of these obligations they do not always do so and these securities may be unsecured. If borrowers do provide collateral, the value of the collateral may not completely cover the borrower's obligations at the time of a default. If a borrower files for protection from its creditors under bankruptcy laws, these laws may limit a Fund's rights to its collateral. In the event of a bankruptcy, the holder of a variable- or floating-rate loan may not recover its principal, may experience a long delay in recovering its investment, and may not receive interest during the delay.

**Variable-Rate Demand Notes ("VRDNs")**

Each Fund may invest in VRDNs, which are securities that provide the right to sell the security at face value on either that day or within a rate-reset period. The interest rate is adjusted at a stipulated daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or other specified time interval to a rate that reflects current market conditions. The effective maturity for these instruments is deemed to be less than 397 days in accordance with detailed SEC regulatory requirements. These interest rate adjustments can both raise and lower the income generated by such securities. These changes will have the same effect on the income earned by a Fund depending on the proportion of such securities held. VRDNs are tax-exempt securities.

**When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Securities**

Each Fund may invest in tax-exempt securities offered on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis or for delayed draws on loans; that is, delivery of and payment for the securities take place after the date of the commitment to purchase, normally within 35 days. Securities that require more than 35 days to settle generally are considered to be senior securities and subject to Rule 18f-4. The payment obligation and the interest rate that will be received on the securities are each fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment. A Fund receives a commitment fee for delayed draws on loans. A Fund may sell these securities before the settlement date.

Tax-exempt securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are subject to changes in value in the same way as other debt securities held in the Funds' portfolios; that is, both generally experience appreciation when interest rates decline and depreciation when interest rates rise. The value of such securities also will be affected by the public's perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and anticipated changes in the level of interest rates. Purchasing securities on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis involves a risk that the yields available in the market when the delivery takes place may actually be higher than those obtained in the transaction itself.

On the settlement date of the when-issued or delayed-delivery securities or for delayed draws on loans, a Fund will meet its obligations from then-available cash, sale of other securities, or from sale of the when-issued or delayed-delivery securities themselves (which may have a value greater or less than the Fund's payment obligations). The availability of liquid assets for this purpose to honor requests for redemption, and otherwise to manage its investment portfolio will limit the extent to which the Fund may purchase when-issued and delayed delivery securities. A Fund may realize a capital gain or loss in connection with such transactions.

For more information about these practices, see the "Derivatives" section.

**Warrants**

A Fund may invest in warrants. Warrants are options to purchase common stock at a specific price (usually at a premium above the market value of the optioned common stock at issuance) valid for a specific period of time. Warrants may have a life ranging from less than one year to twenty years, or they may be perpetual. However, most warrants have expiration dates after which they are worthless. In addition, a warrant is worthless if the market price of the common stock does not exceed the warrant's exercise price during the life of the warrant. Warrants have no voting rights, pay no dividends, and have no rights with respect to the assets of the corporation issuing them. The percentage increase or decrease in the market price of the warrant may tend to be greater than the percentage increase or decrease in the market price of the optioned common stock. Warrants can provide a greater potential for profit or loss than an equivalent investment in the underlying security. Prices of warrants do not necessarily move in tandem with the prices of the underlying securities and therefore are highly volatile and speculative investments. If a warrant held by a Fund is not exercised by the date of its expiration, the Fund would lose the entire purchase price of the warrant.

**Zero Coupon Bonds**

Each Fund may invest in zero coupon bonds. A zero coupon bond is a security that is sold at a discount from its face value (original issue discount), makes no periodic interest payments, and is redeemed at face value when it matures. The lump sum payment at maturity increases the price volatility of the zero coupon bond in response to changes in interest rates when compared to a bond that distributes a semiannual coupon payment. In calculating its income, a Fund accrues the daily amortization of the original issue discount.

**INVESTMENTS IN THE FUNDS BY OTHER REGISTERED INVESTMENT COMPANIES**

Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act restricts investments by registered investment companies in the securities of other investment companies, including shares of a Fund. Other registered investment companies (typically structured as a "fund of funds") are not permitted to invest in a Fund beyond the limits set forth in Section 12(d)(1) except as permitted by any rules and regulations adopted under applicable law, including that such investment companies enter into an agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund.

**DETERMINING NET ASSET VALUE ("NAV") AND VALUING PORTFOLIO SECURITIES**

Normally, each Fund's NAV is determined, and the shares of each Fund are priced, as of the valuation time(s) indicated in the Prospectus on each Business Day. A "Business Day" is a day on which the NYSE is open. The NYSE generally is closed in observance of the following holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.

In the event of an emergency or other disruption in trading on the NYSE, a Fund's share price normally will be determined based upon the close of the NYSE.

The Funds generally value their investments based upon their last reported sale prices, market quotations, or estimates of value provided by an independent pricing service as of the time as of which a Fund's share price is calculated. The Board has designated the Adviser as the "valuation designee" in accordance with Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act.

**Investment Company Securities**

Shares of another open-end investment company (mutual fund) held by a Fund are valued at the latest closing NAV of such mutual fund. Shares of any ETFs held by a Fund are valued in the manner described below under "Equity Securities."

**Fixed Income Securities**

Fixed income securities are valued on the basis of security valuations provided by an independent pricing service, overseen by the Board, that determines value by using, among other things, information with respect to transactions of a security, quotations from dealers, market transactions in comparable securities and various relationships between securities. Specific investment securities that are not priced by the approved pricing service will be valued according to quotations obtained from dealers who are market makers in those securities. Investment securities with less than 60 days to maturity when purchased are valued at amortized cost that approximates market value. Investment securities not having readily available market quotations will be priced at fair value using a methodology approved in good faith by the Board or its designee in accordance with applicable Rules under the 1940 Act subject to Board oversight.

**Convertible Fixed Income Securities**

Convertible fixed income securities are valued in the same manner as any fixed income security. Non-convertible fixed income securities are valued on the basis of prices provided by independent pricing services. Prices provided by the pricing service may be determined without exclusive reliance on quoted prices and may reflect appropriate factors such as institution-sized trading in similar groups of securities, developments related to special securities, yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, individual trading characteristics, and other market data. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the supervision of the Trust's officers in a manner specially authorized by the Board or its designee in accordance with applicable Rules under the 1940 Act, subject to Board oversight. Short-term obligations having 60 days or less to maturity are valued on the basis of amortized cost, except for convertible fixed income securities.

**Equity Securities**

Each equity security (including ETFs) is valued at the closing price on the exchange where the security is principally traded. Each security traded in the over-the-counter market (but not including securities the trading activity of which is reported on Nasdaq's Automated Confirmation Transaction ("ACT") System) is valued at the bid based upon quotes furnished by market makers for such securities. Each security the trading activity of which is reported on Nasdaq's ACT System is valued at the Nasdaq Official Closing Price.

**Futures and Options Contracts**

For purposes of determining NAV, futures and options contracts generally will be valued 15 minutes after the close of trading of the NYSE.

**Fair Value Pricing**

If market quotations are not readily available, or (in the Adviser's judgment) do not accurately reflect the fair value of a security, or if after the close of the principal market on which a security held by a Fund is traded and before the time as of which the Funds' net asset value is calculated that day, an event occurs that the Adviser learns of and believes in the exercise of its judgment will cause a material change in the value of that security from the closing price of the security on the principal market on which it is traded, that security may be valued

by another method that the Board or its designee, in accordance with applicable Rules under the 1940 Act subject to Board oversight, believes would more accurately reflect the security's fair value.

The Funds' use of fair value pricing procedures involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for a security may be materially different from the value that could be realized upon the sale of that security. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that a Fund will obtain the fair value assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the same time at which the Fund determines its NAV per share.

**Other Valuation Information**

Under the 1940 Act, the Funds are required to act in good faith in determining the fair value of portfolio securities. The SEC has recognized that a security's valuation may differ depending on the method used for determining value. The fair value ascertained for a security is an estimate and there is no assurance, given the limited information available at the time of fair valuation, that a security's fair value will be the same as or close to the subsequent opening market price for that security.

The Board has adopted valuation procedures for the Funds and has delegated the day-to-day responsibility for fair valuation determinations to the Adviser and the Adviser's Pricing Committee. Those determinations may include consideration of recent transactions in comparable securities, information relating to a specific security, developments in and performance of foreign securities markets, current valuations of foreign or U.S. indices, and adjustment co-efficients based on fair value models developed by independent service providers. The Adviser may, for example, adjust the value of portfolio securities based on fair value models supplied by the service provider when the Adviser believes that the adjustments better reflect actual prices as of the close of the NYSE.

Generally, trading in foreign securities, corporate bonds, U.S. government securities and money market instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the NAV of each Fund's shares generally are determined at such times. Foreign currency exchange rates are also generally determined prior the close of the NYSE. Occasionally, events affecting the values of such securities and such exchange rates may occur between the times at which such values are determined and the close of the NYSE. If events affecting the value of securities occur during such a period, and a Fund's NAV is materially affected by such changes in the value of the securities, then these securities will be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with applicable law. Other securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily available or for which valuation cannot be provided are valued as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with applicable law.

When the NYSE is closed, or when trading is restricted for any reason other than its customary weekend or holiday closings, or under emergency circumstances as determined by the SEC to warrant such action, the Funds may not be able to accept purchase or redemption requests. A Fund's NAV may be affected to the extent that its securities are traded on days that are not Business Days. Each Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase order in whole or in part.

**PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES**

**Creation Units**

Each Fund issues and redeems Shares in Creation Units on a continuous basis through the Distributor (as defined below), without a sales load, at the NAV next determined after receipt of an order in proper form on any Business Day. A "Business Day" is any day on which the NYSE is open for business.

Currently, a Creation Unit is an aggregation of 25,000 shares. In its discretion, the Trust reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of the Fund's shares that constitute a Creation Unit. The Board reserves the right to declare a split or a consolidation in the number of shares outstanding of the Fund, and to make changes in the number of shares constituting a Creation Unit, including in the event that the per share price in the secondary market rises (or declines) to an amount that falls outside the range deemed desirable by the Board.

**Authorized Participants**

To purchase or redeem any Creation Units, you must be, or transact through, an Authorized Participant. In order to be an Authorized Participant, you must be either a broker-dealer or other participant ("Participating Party") in the Continuous Net Settlement System ("Clearing Process") of the National Securities Clearing Corporation ("NSCC") or a participant in DTC with access to the DTC system ("DTC Participant"), and you must execute an agreement ("Participant Agreement") with the Distributor that governs transactions in each Fund's Creation Units.

Investors who are not Authorized Participants but want to transact in Creation Units may contact the Distributor for the names of Authorized Participants. An Authorized Participant may require investors to enter into a separate agreement to transact through it for Creation Units and may require orders for purchases of shares placed with it to be in a particular form. Investors transacting through a broker that is not itself an Authorized Participant and, therefore, must still transact through an Authorized Participant, may incur additional charges. There are expected to be a limited number of Authorized Participants at any one time.

Investors who are not Authorized Participants may purchase and sell shares of the Fund through an Authorized Participant or on the secondary market.

Orders must be transmitted by an Authorized Participant by telephone or other transmission method acceptable to the Distributor. Market disruptions and telephone or other communication failures may impede the transmission of orders.

**Transaction Fees**

A fixed fee payable to the Custodian (as defined below) is imposed on each creation and redemption transaction regardless of the number of Creation Units involved in the transaction ("Fixed Fee"). Purchases and redemptions of Creation Units for cash or involving cash-in- lieu (as defined below) are required to pay an additional variable charge to compensate each Fund and its ongoing shareholders for brokerage and market impact expenses relating to Creation Unit transactions ("Variable Charge," and together with the Fixed Fee, the "Transaction Fees"). With the approval of the Board, the Adviser may waive or adjust the Transaction Fees, including the Fixed Fee and/or Variable Charge (shown in the table below), from time to time. In such cases, the Authorized Participant will reimburse each Fund for, among other things, any difference between the market value at which the securities and/or financial instruments were purchased by each Fund and the cash-in-lieu amount, applicable registration fees, brokerage commissions and certain taxes and other costs and expenses related to the execution of trades resulting from such transaction (up to the maximum amount shown below). In addition, purchasers of Creation Units are responsible for the costs of transferring the Deposit Securities to the account of each Fund (as defined below). Investors who use the services of a broker, or other such intermediary, may be charged a fee for such services.

The following table sets forth each Fund's standard Transaction Fees and maximum additional charge (as described above):

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Maximum** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Additional** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Variable** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Fee for In-Kind and** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Charge for Cash** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Cash Purchases and** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Purchases and** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Redemptions** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Redemptions\*** |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF | $100 | 2.00% |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF | $100 | 2.00% |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgaged-Backed Securities ETF | $100 | 2.00% |

---

\*As a percentage of the amount invested.

**The Clearing Process**

Transactions by an Authorized Participant that is a Participating Party using the NSCC system are referred to as transactions "through the Clearing Process." Transactions by an Authorized Participant that is a DTC Participant using the DTC system are referred to as transactions "outside the Clearing Process." The Clearing Process is an enhanced clearing process that is available only for certain securities and only to DTC participants that are also participants in the Continuous Net Settlement System of the NSCC. In-kind (portions of) purchase orders not subject to the Clearing Process will go through a manual clearing process run by DTC. Portfolio Deposits that include government securities must be delivered through the Federal Reserve Bank wire transfer system ("Federal Reserve System"). Fund Deposits that include cash may be delivered through the Clearing Process or the Federal Reserve System. In-kind deposits of securities for orders outside the Clearing Process must be delivered through the Federal Reserve System (for government securities) or through DTC (for corporate securities).

**Foreign Securities**

Because the portfolio securities of each Fund may trade on days that the Exchange is closed or are otherwise not Business Days for each Fund, shareholders may not be able to redeem their shares of each Fund, or to purchase or sell shares of each Fund on the Exchange, on days when the NAV of each Fund could be significantly affected by events in the relevant foreign markets.

**Purchasing Creation Units**

<u>Portfolio Deposits</u>

The consideration for a Creation Unit generally consists of the in-kind deposit of designated securities ("Deposit Securities") and an amount of cash in U.S. dollars ("Cash Component"). Together, the Deposit Securities and the Cash Component constitute the "Portfolio Deposit." The Cash Component serves the function of compensating for any differences between the net asset value per Creation Unit and the Deposit Securities. Thus, the Cash Component is equal to the difference between (x) the net asset value per Creation Unit of each Fund and (y) the market value of the Deposit Securities. If (x) is more than (y), the Authorized Participant will pay the Cash Component to each Fund. If (x) is less than (y), the Authorized Participant will receive the Cash Component from each Fund.

On each Business Day, prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern Time), the Adviser through the Custodian makes available through NSCC the name and amount of each Deposit Security in the current Portfolio Deposit (based on information at the end of the previous Business Day) for each Fund and the (estimated) Cash Component, effective through and including the previous Business Day, per Creation Unit. The Deposit Securities announced are applicable, subject to any adjustments as described below, to purchases of Creation Units until the next announcement of Deposit Securities.

The Deposit Securities may change, for example, as rebalancing adjustments and corporate action events are reflected from time to time by the Adviser in each Fund's portfolio. These adjustments will reflect changes known to the Adviser on the date of announcement to be in effect by the time of delivery of the Portfolio Deposit.

Payment of any stamp duty or the like shall be the sole responsibility of the Authorized Participant purchasing a Creation Unit. The Authorized Participant must ensure that all Deposit Securities properly denote change in beneficial ownership.

<u>Custom Orders and Cash-in-lieu</u>

Each Fund may, in its sole discretion, permit or require the substitution of an amount of cash ("cash-in-lieu") to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Deposit Security. Each Fund may permit or require cash-in-lieu when, for example, a Deposit Security may not be available in sufficient quantity for delivery or may not be eligible for transfer through the systems of DTC or the Clearing Process. Similarly, each Fund may permit or require cash in lieu of Deposit Securities when, for example, the Authorized Participant or its underlying investor is restricted under U.S. or local securities laws or policies from transacting in one or more Deposit Securities. Each Fund will comply with the federal securities laws in accepting Deposit Securities including that the Deposit Securities are sold in transactions that would be exempt from registration under the 1933 Act. All orders involving cash-in-lieu are considered to be "Custom Orders."

<u>Purchase Orders</u>

To order a Creation Unit, an Authorized Participant must submit an irrevocable purchase order to the Distributor.

<u>Timing of Submission of Purchase Orders</u>

All orders to purchase shares directly from any Fund directly from a Fund must be placed for one or more Creation Units and in the manner and by 2:00 p.m. Eastern time or such earlier time that the Exchange or bond market closes (the "Cut-off Time") in order to receive the NAV calculated on the Transmittal Date. The "Transmittal Date" is the date on which such an order to purchase Creation Units (or an order to redeem Creation Units, as set forth below). All orders placed between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Eastern time are eligible to receive same day settlement (or "T+0").

<u>Intermediary Deadlines</u>

Persons placing or effectuating custom orders and/or orders involving cash should be mindful of time deadlines imposed by intermediaries, such as DTC and/or the Federal Reserve Bank wire system, which may impact the successful processing of such orders to ensure that cash and securities are transferred by the "Settlement Date," which is generally the Business Day immediately following the Transmittal Date ("T+1").

<u>Orders Using the Clearing Process</u>

If available, (portions of) orders may be settled through the Clearing Process. In connection with such orders, the Distributor or its agent transmits, on behalf of the Authorized Participant, such trade instructions as are necessary to effect the creation order. Pursuant to such trade instructions, the Authorized Participant agrees to deliver the requisite Portfolio Deposit to each Fund, together with such additional information as may be required by the Distributor . Cash Components will be delivered using either the Clearing Process or the Federal Reserve System.

<u>Orders Outside the Clearing Process</u>

If the Clearing Process is not available for (portions of) an order, Portfolio Deposits will be made outside the Clearing Process. Orders outside the Clearing Process must state that the DTC Participant is not using the Clearing Process and that the creation of Creation Units will be effected through DTC. The Portfolio Deposit transfer must be ordered by the DTC Participant on the Transmittal Date in a timely fashion so as to ensure the delivery of Deposit Securities (whether standard or custom) through DTC to each Fund account by 11:00 a.m., Eastern time, on T+1. The Cash Component, along with any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee, must be transferred directly to the Custodian through the Federal Reserve System in a timely manner so as to be received by the Custodian no later than 12:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on T+1. If the Custodian does not receive both the Deposit Securities and the cash by the appointed time, the order may be canceled. A canceled order may be resubmitted the following Business Day but must conform to that Business Day's Portfolio Deposit. Authorized Participants that submit a canceled order will be liable to each Fund for any losses incurred by each Fund in connection therewith.

Orders involving foreign Deposit Securities are expected to be settled outside the Clearing Process. Thus, upon receipt of an irrevocable purchase order, the Distributor will notify the Adviser and the Custodian of such order. The Custodian, who will have caused the appropriate local sub-custodian(s) of each Fund to maintain an account into which an Authorized Participant may deliver Deposit Securities (or cash -in-lieu), with adjustments determined by each Fund, will then provide information of the order to such local sub-

custodian(s). The ordering Authorized Participant will then deliver the Deposit Securities (and any cash-in-lieu) to each Fund's account at the applicable local sub-custodian. The Authorized Participant must also make available on or before the contractual settlement date, by means satisfactory to each Fund, immediately available or same day funds in U.S. dollars estimated by each Fund to be sufficient to pay the Cash Component and Transaction Fee. When a relevant local market is closed due to local market holidays, the local market settlement process will not commence until the end of the local holiday period. Settlement must occur by 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the contractual settlement date.

<u>Acceptance of Purchase Order</u>

All questions as to the number of shares of each security in the Deposit Securities and the validity, form, eligibility, and acceptance for deposit of any securities to be delivered shall be determined by each Fund. Each Fund's determination shall be final and binding.

Each Fund reserves the right to reject or revoke acceptance of a purchase order transmitted to it by the Distributor, provided that such action does not result in a suspension of sales of Creation Units in contravention of Rule 6c-11 under the 1940 Act and the SEC's positions thereunder. For example, a Fund may reject or revoke acceptance of a creation order including, but not limited to, when (a) the order is not in proper form; (b) the investor(s), upon obtaining the shares ordered, would own 80% or more of the currently outstanding shares of each Fund; (c) the Deposit Securities delivered do not conform to the Deposit Securities for the applicable date; (d) the acceptance of the Portfolio Deposit would, in the opinion of counsel, be unlawful; or (e) in the event that circumstances outside the control of the Trust, the Distributor and the Adviser make it for all practical purposes impossible to process purchase orders. Examples of such circumstances include acts of God; public service or utility problems resulting in telephone, telecopy, or computer failures; fires, floods, or extreme weather conditions; market conditions or activities causing trading halts; systems failures involving computer or other informational systems affecting the Trust, the Distributor, DTC, NSCC, the Adviser, each Fund's Custodian, a sub-custodian, or any other participant in the creation process; and similar extraordinary events. The Distributor shall notify an Authorized Participant of its rejection of the order. Each Fund, the Custodian, any sub-custodian, and the Distributor are under no duty, however, to give notification of any defects or irregularities in the delivery of Portfolio Deposits, and they shall not incur any liability for the failure to give any such notification.

<u>Issuance of a Creation Unit</u>

Once a Fund has accepted an order, upon next determination of the Fund's NAV, the Fund will confirm the issuance of a Creation Unit against receipt of payment, at such NAV. The Distributor will transmit a confirmation of acceptance to the Authorized Participant that placed the order.

Except as provided below, a Creation Unit will not be issued until a Fund obtains good title to the Deposit Securities, along with any cash- in-lieu and Transaction Fee. The delivery of Creation Units generally will occur no later than T+1.

In certain cases, Authorized Participants will create and redeem Creation Units on the same trade date. In these instances, the Trust reserves the right to settle these transactions on a net basis.

With respect to orders involving foreign Deposit Securities, when a local sub-custodian has confirmed to the Custodian that the Deposit Securities (or cash-in-lieu) have been delivered to a Fund's account with the sub- custodian, the Fund will issue and deliver the Creation Unit. As stated above, Creation Units are generally delivered on T+1. However, a Fund may settle Creation Unit transactions on a basis other than T+1 in order to accommodate foreign market holiday schedules, to account for different treatment among foreign and U.S. markets of dividend record dates and ex-dividend dates (that is the last day the holder of a security can sell the security and still receive dividends payable on the security), and in certain other circumstances.

A Fund may issue a Creation Unit prior to receiving good title to the Deposit Securities under the following circumstances if, pursuant to the applicable Participant Agreement, the relevant Authorized Participant provides an undertaking to deliver the missing Deposit Securities as soon as possible, which undertaking is secured by such Authorized Participant's delivery of cash in U.S. Dollars to the Custodian having a value equal to at least 105% of the value of the missing Deposit Securities ("Collateral") as adjusted by time to time by the Adviser. The Collateral will have a value greater than the NAV of the Creation Unit on the date the order is placed and must be delivered no later than 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on T+1. The value of the missing Deposit Securities is marked to market daily and the amount of Collateral is adjusted to make sure the Collateral value is at least 105% of the marked value. At any time, a Fund may use the Collateral to purchase the missing Deposit Securities, and the Authorized Participant will be liable to the Fund for any costs incurred thereby or losses resulting therefrom, whether or not they exceed the amount of the Collateral, including any Transaction Fee, any amount by which the purchase price of the missing Deposit Securities exceeds the market value of such securities on the Transmittal Date, brokerage, and other transaction costs. The Trust will return any unused Collateral once all of the missing Deposit Securities have been received by a Fund. More information regarding a Fund's current procedures for collateralization is available from the Funds.

<u>Cash Purchase Method</u>

When cash purchases of Creation Units are available or specified for a Fund, they will be effected in essentially the same manner as in- kind purchases. In the case of a cash purchase, the investor must pay the cash equivalent of the Portfolio Deposit. In addition, cash purchases will be subject to Transaction Fees, as described above.

The Funds reserve the right to offer purchases of Creation Units solely in cash if, on a given Business Day, a Fund announces before the open of trading that all purchases on that day will be made entirely in cash. A Fund may also, on a given Business Day, require all Authorized Participants purchasing Creation Units on that day to deposit cash in lieu of some or all of the Deposit Securities because: (i) such securities are not eligible for transfer either through the NSCC or DTC or (ii) in the case of Foreign Funds holding non-U.S. investments, such securities are not eligible for trading due to local trading restrictions, local restrictions on securities transfers or other similar circumstances.

A Fund also may permit an Authorized Participant to deposit cash in lieu of some or all of the Deposit Securities because: (i) such securities are not available in sufficient quantity or (ii) such securities are not eligible for trading by an Authorized Participant or the investor on whose behalf the Authorized Participant is acting.

**Redeeming a Creation Unit**

Shares of a Fund may be redeemed only in Creation Units at their NAV next determined after receipt of a redemption request made in proper form by the Distributor on any Business Day. A Fund will not redeem shares in amounts less than Creation Units.

<u>Redemption Basket</u>

The consideration received in connection with the redemption of a Creation Unit generally consists of an in-kind basket of designated securities ("Redemption Securities") and an amount of cash in U.S. dollars ("Cash Component"). Together, the Redemption Securities and the Cash Component constitute the "Redemption Basket."

There can be no assurance that there will be sufficient liquidity in shares in the secondary market to permit assembly of a Creation Unit. In addition, investors may incur brokerage and other costs in connection with assembling a Creation Unit.

The Cash Component serves the function of compensating for any differences between the net asset value per Creation Unit and the Redemption Securities. Thus, the Cash Component is equal to the difference between (x) the net asset value per Creation Unit of the Fund and (y) the market value of the Redemption Securities. If (x) is more than (y), the Authorized Participant will receive the Cash Component from the Fund. If (x) is less than (y), the Authorized Participant will pay the Cash Component to the Fund.

If the Redemption Securities on a Business Day are different from the Deposit Securities, prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern Time), the Adviser through the Custodian makes available through NSCC the name and amount of each Redemption Security in the current Redemption Basket (based on information at the end of the previous Business Day) for a Fund and the (estimated) Cash Component, effective through and including the previous Business Day, per Creation Unit. If the Redemption Securities on a Business Day are different from the Deposit Securities, all redemption requests that day will be processed outside the Clearing Process.

The Redemption Securities may change as rebalancing adjustments and corporate action events are reflected from time to time by the Adviser in the Fund's portfolio. These adjustments will reflect changes known to the Adviser on the date of announcement to be in effect by the time of delivery of the Redemption Basket.

The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed: (i) for any period during which the NYSE is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings); (ii) for any period during which trading on the NYSE is suspended or restricted; (iii) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which disposal of the shares or determination of the ETF's NAV is not reasonably practicable; or (iv) in such other circumstances as permitted by the SEC, including as described below.

<u>Custom Redemptions and Cash-in-lieu</u>

A Fund may, in its sole discretion, permit or require the substitution of an amount of cash ("cash-in-lieu") to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Redemption Security. The Fund may permit or require cash-in-lieu when, for example, a Redemption Security may not be available in sufficient quantity for delivery or may not be eligible for transfer through the systems of DTC or the Clearing Process. Similarly, a Fund may permit or require cash-in-lieu of Redemption Securities when, for example, the Authorized Participant or its underlying investor is restricted under U.S. or local securities law or policies from transacting in one or more Redemption Securities. Each Fund will comply with the federal securities laws in satisfying redemptions with Redemption Securities, including that the Redemption Securities are sold in transactions that would be exempt from registration under the 1933 Act. All redemption requests involving cash-in-lieu are considered to be "Custom Redemptions."

<u>Redemption Requests</u>

To redeem a Creation Unit, an Authorized Participant must submit an irrevocable redemption request to the Distributor. An Authorized Participant will represent to the Fund that it will not attempt to place a redemption order for the purpose of redeeming any Creation Units,

unless it first ascertains or has reasonable grounds to believe that as of the time of the settlement date: (i) it, or its customer, as the case may be, will own outright (or have full legal authority and legal beneficial right to tender) the requisite number of Fund shares for redemption, and (ii) all of the shares that are in the Creation Unit to be redeemed have not been loaned or pledged to another party and are not the subject of a repurchase agreement, securities lending agreement or such other arrangement that would preclude the delivery of such shares to a Fund on the settlement date. Each Fund reserves the absolute right, in its sole discretion, to verify these representations, but will typically require verification in connection with higher levels of redemption activity and /or short interest in a Fund. If the Authorized Participant, upon receipt of a verification request, does not provide sufficient verification of the requested representations, the redemption request will not be considered to be in proper form and may be rejected by a Fund.

<u>Timing of Submission of Redemption Requests</u>

All orders to redeem shares directly from any Fund must be placed for one or more Creation Units by the Cut-off Time in order to receive the NAV calculated on the Transmittal Date.

<u>Intermediary Deadlines</u>

A redemption request is deemed received if (i) such order is received by the Distributor by the Cut-off Time on such day and (ii) all other procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement are properly followed. Persons placing or effectuating Custom Redemptions and/or orders involving cash should be mindful of time deadlines imposed by intermediaries, such as DTC and/or the Federal Reserve System, which may impact the successful processing of such orders to ensure that cash and securities are transferred by the Settlement Date, as defined above.

<u>Requests Using the Clearing Process</u>

If available, (portions of) redemption requests may be settled through the Clearing Process. In connection with such orders, the Distributor transmits on behalf of the Authorized Participant, such trade instructions as are necessary to effect the redemption. Pursuant to such trade instructions, the Authorized Participant agrees to deliver the requisite Creation Unit(s) to a Fund, together with such additional information as may be required by the Distributor. Cash Components will be delivered using either the Clearing Process or the Federal Reserve System, as described above.

<u>Requests Outside the Clearing Process</u>

If the Clearing Process is not available for (portions of) an order, Redemption Baskets will be delivered outside the Clearing Process. Orders outside the Clearing Process must state that the DTC Participant is not using the Clearing Process and that the redemption will be effected through DTC. The Authorized Participant must transfer or cause to be transferred the Creation Unit(s) of shares being redeemed through the book-entry system of DTC so as to be delivered through DTC to the Custodian by 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time, on received T+1. In addition, the Cash Component must be received by the Custodian by 12:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on T+1. If the Custodian does not receive the Creation Unit(s) and Cash Component by the appointed times on T+1, the redemption will be rejected, except in the circumstances described below. A rejected redemption request may be resubmitted the following Business Day.

Orders involving foreign Redemption Securities are expected to be settled outside the Clearing Process. Thus, upon receipt of an irrevocable redemption request, the Distributor will notify the Adviser and the Custodian. The Custodian will then provide information of the redemption to the Fund's local sub-custodian(s). The redeeming Authorized Participant, or the investor on whose behalf is acting, will have established appropriate arrangements with a broker-dealer, bank or other custody provider in each jurisdiction in which the Redemption Securities are customarily traded and to which such Redemption Securities (and any cash-in-lieu) can be delivered from the Fund's accounts at the applicable local sub-custodian(s).

<u>Acceptance of Redemption Requests</u>

All questions as to the number of shares of each security in the Deposit Securities and the validity, form, eligibility, and acceptance for deposit of any securities to be delivered shall be determined by the Trust. The Trust's determination shall be final and binding.

The Funds reserve the right to reject a redemption order if the order is not in proper form. In addition, the right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed with respect to the Fund (i) for any period during which the NYSE is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings), (ii) for any period during which trading on the NYSE is suspended or restricted, (iii) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which disposal of the shares of a Fund's portfolio securities or determination of its NAV is not reasonably practicable; or (iv) in such other circumstance as is permitted by the SEC. The Funds or Distributor will notify the Authorized Participant of such rejection, but the Funds, Custodian, sub-custodian, and Distributor shall not be liable for any failure to give such notification.

<u>Delivery of Redemption Basket</u>

Once a Fund has accepted a redemption request, upon next determination of the Fund's NAV, the Fund will confirm the issuance of a Redemption Basket, against receipt of the Creation Unit(s) at such NAV, any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee. A Creation Unit tendered for redemption and the payment of the Cash Component, any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee will be effected through DTC. The Authorized Participant, or the investor on whose behalf it is acting, will be recorded on the book-entry system of DTC.

The Redemption Basket generally will be delivered to the redeeming Authorized Participant within T+1. Except under the circumstances described below; however, a Redemption Basket generally will not be issued until the Creation Unit(s) are delivered to a Fund, along with the Cash Component, any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee.

In certain cases, Authorized Participants will create and redeem Creation Units on the same trade date. In these instances, the Trust reserves the right to settle these transactions on a net basis.

With respect to orders involving foreign Redemption Securities, a Fund may settle Creation Unit transactions on a basis other than T+1 in order to accommodate foreign market holiday schedules, to account for different treatment among foreign and U.S. markets of dividend record dates and ex-dividend dates (that is the last day the holder of a security can sell the security and still receive dividends payable on the security), and in certain other circumstances. When a relevant local market is closed due to local market holidays, the local market settlement process will not commence until the end of the local holiday period.

Cash Redemption Method. The Funds reserve the right to redeem Creation Units solely in cash if, on a given Business Day, a Fund announces before the open of trading that all redemptions on that day will be made entirely in cash. A Fund may also on a given Business Day, require all Authorized Participants redeeming Creation Units on that day to receive cash in lieu of some or all of the Deposit Securities because: (i) such securities are not eligible for transfer either through the NSCC or DTC or (ii) in the case of a Fund that invests a significant amount of its assets in foreign securities holding non-U.S. investments, such securities are not eligible for trading due to local trading restrictions, local restrictions on securities transfers or other similar circumstances. The Funds may also permit an Authorized Participant to receive cash in lieu of some or all of the Deposit Securities because: (i) such securities are not available in sufficient quantity, (ii) such securities are not eligible for trading by an Authorized Participant or the investor on whose behalf the Authorized Participant is acting, or

(iii)a holder of shares of a Fund holding non-U.S. investments would be subject to unfavorable income tax treatment if the holder receives redemption proceeds in kind. When cash redemptions of Creation Units are available or specified for a Fund, they will be effected in essentially the same manner as in-kind redemptions. In the case of a cash redemption, the investor will receive the cash equivalent of the Redemption Basket minus any Transaction Fees, as described above.

**MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST**

**Board Leadership Structure**

The Trust is governed by the Board, which is comprised of eight Trustees, seven of whom are not "interested persons" of the Trust within the meaning of that term under the 1940 Act (the "Independent Trustees"). The Chair of the Board is an Independent Trustee, who functions as the lead Trustee. The Chair serves as liaison between the Board and its Committees, the Adviser and other service providers. The Chair is actively involved in setting the Board meeting agenda, and participates on certain Board Committees.

**Board Role in Risk Oversight**

In considering risks related to the Funds, the Board consults and receives reports from officers of the Funds and personnel of the Adviser, who are charged with the day-to-day risk oversight function. Matters regularly reported to the Board or a designated committee include certain risks involving, among other things, the Funds' investment portfolios, trading practices, operational matters, financial and accounting controls, and legal and regulatory compliance. The Board has delegated to each of the Compliance Committee and Audit and Risk Oversight Committee certain responsibilities for reviewing reports relating to compliance and enterprise risk, including operational risk, liquidity, and personnel. The Board relies on the Investment Committee to review reports relating to investment risks, that is, risks to the Funds resulting from pursuing the Funds' investment strategies (e.g., credit risk and market risk).

**Trustees and Officers**

The following tables list the Trustees and Officers, their year of birth, position with the Trust, length of time served, principal occupations during the past five years and, where applicable, any directorships of other investment companies or companies whose securities are registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("1934 Act"), or who file reports under the 1934 Act. Under the Trust's organizational documents, each Trustee serves as a Trustee of the Trust during the lifetime of the Trust and until its termination except as such Trustee sooner dies, resigns, retires, or is removed. However, pursuant to a policy adopted by the Board, each elected or appointed Independent Trustee may serve as a Trustee until the Trustee reaches age 80, and the Interested Trustee may serve as a Trustee until the Trustee reaches age 80. The Board may change or grant exceptions from this policy at any time without shareholder approval. Each Trustee's address is c/o Victory Funds, 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78256.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** |  |  |  |  |
|  |  |  |  |  | **Other** |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Directorships** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Date** |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Number of Portfolios** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Held During** |
| **Name and** | **Held with** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Commenced** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal Occupation** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **in Fund Complex** | **the** |
| **Date of Birth** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **the Trust** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Service** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **During Past 5 Years** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **Overseen by Trustee** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Past 5 Years** |
| David Brooks | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Consultant (since 2006) | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised |  |
| Adcock, |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the |  |
| (1951) |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in |  |
|  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios |  |
| Nigel D.T. | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Retired | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Director, |
| Andrews, |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carlyle Secured |
| (1947) |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lending, Inc. |
|  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (since 2012); |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Director, |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carlyle Credit |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Solutions, Inc. |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (since 2017) |
| E. Lee Beard\*, | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Retired | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised |  |
| (1951) |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the |  |
|  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in |  |
|  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios |  |
| John L. Kelly, | Chair and | &nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managing Partner, | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Director, |
| (1953) | Trustee |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Active Capital Partners | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Caledonia |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LLC, a strategic | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mining |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; consultant (since | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Corporation |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; October 2017) |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (since May |
|  |  |  |  |  | 2012) |
| David L. | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Retired | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised |  |
| Meyer\*, |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the |  |
| (1957) |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in |  |
|  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios |  |
| Gloria S. | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; July 2016 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chair, CEO, and Co- | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TriLinc Global |
| Nelund, |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Founder of TriLinc | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Impact Fund, |
| (1961) |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Global, LLC, an | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LLC (since |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; investment firm | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios | 2012) |
| Timothy Pettee, | Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp; January 2023 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chief Investment | &nbsp;&nbsp; 60 portfolios comprised |  |
| (1958) |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Officer, Hoya Capital | &nbsp;&nbsp; of 28 portfolios in the |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Real Estate LLC (since | &nbsp;&nbsp; Trust and 32 portfolios in |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; February 2022); Chief | &nbsp;&nbsp; Victory Portfolios |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Investment Officer, Sun |  |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; America Asset |  |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Management Corp. |  |  |
|  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (January 2003-July |  |  |
|  |  |  | 2021) |  |  |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Interested Trustee** |  |  |  |  |  |
|  |  |  |  |  | **Other** |
|  |  |  |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Directorships** |
| **Name and** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Position** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Date** |  | **Number of Portfolios** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Held During** |
| **Name and** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Held with** | **Commenced** | **Principal Occupation** | **in Fund Complex** | **\|the** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Held with** | **Commenced** | **Principal Occupation** | **in Fund Complex** | **\|the** |
| **Date of Birth** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **the Trust** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Service** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **During Past 5 Years** | &nbsp;&nbsp; **verseen by Trustee** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Past 5 Years** |

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David C. Trustee May 2015 Chief Executive Officer <br> \|Brown\*\*, and Chairman (2013- <br> (1972) present), Victory Capital

Management Inc.; Chief Executive Officer and Chairman (2013- present), Victory Capital Holdings, Inc.; Director, Victory Capital Services, Inc. (2013- present); Director, Victory Capital Transfer Agency, Inc. (2019- present)

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| 138 portfolios comprised | Trustee, Victory |
| of 28 portfolios in the | Portfolios, |
| Trust, 32 portfolios in | Victory |
| Victory Portfolios, 45 | Portfolios III, |
| portfolios in Victory | Victory |
| Portfolios III, 26 | Portfolios IV |
| portfolios in Victory | and Victory |
| Portfolios IV, and 7 | Variable |
| portfolios in Victory | Insurance Funds |
| Variable Insurance Funds | II; Board |
| II. | Member, |
|  | Victory Capital |
|  | Services, Inc. |

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\*The Board has designated Ms. Beard and Mr. Meyer as its Audit Committee Financial Experts.

\*\*Mr. Brown is an "Interested Person" by reason of his relationship with the Adviser.

**Trustee Qualifications**

The following summarizes the experience and qualifications of the Trustees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•David Brooks Adcock. Mr. Adcock served for many years as general counsel to Duke University and Duke University Health System, where he provided oversight to complex business transactions such as mergers and acquisitions and dispositions. He has served for more than 20 years as a public interest arbitrator for, among others, the New York Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange, the National Futures Association, FINRA, and the American Arbitration Association. The Board believes that Mr. Adcock's knowledge of complex business transactions and the securities industry combined with his previous service on the boards of other mutual funds qualifies him to serve on the Board.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Nigel D.T. Andrews. Mr. Andrews served for many years as a management consultant for a nationally recognized consulting company and as a senior executive at GE, including Vice President of Corporate Business Development, reporting to the Chairman, and as Executive Vice President of GE Capital. He also served as a Director and member of the Audit and Risk Committee of Old Mutual plc, a large publicly traded company whose shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange. Mr. Andrews also formerly served as the non-executive chairman of Old Mutual's U.S. asset management business, where he also served on the audit and risk committee. Mr. Andrews also served as a Governor of the London Business School. He serves as a director of Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. (formerly TCG BDC I, Inc.) and Carlyle Credit Solutions, Inc., (formerly TCG BDC II, Inc.), each a business development company. The Board believes that his experience in these positions, particularly with respect to oversight of risk and the audit function of public companies, as well as his previous service on the boards of other mutual funds qualifies him to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•E. Lee Beard. Ms. Beard, a certified public accountant, has served as the president, chief executive officer and director, and as a chief financial officer, of public, federally insured depository institutions. As such, Ms. Beard is familiar with issues relating to audits of financial institutions. The Board believes that Ms. Beard's experience as the chief executive officer of a depository institution, her service on the boards of other mutual funds and her knowledge of audit and accounting matters qualifies her to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•David C. Brown. Mr. Brown serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (since 2013) of the Adviser and, as such, is an "interested person" of the Trust. Previously, he served as Co-Chief Executive Officer (2011 - 2013), and President — Investments and Operations (2010 - 2011) and Chief Operating Officer (2004 - 2011) of the Adviser. The Board believes that his position and experience with the Adviser and his previous experience in the investment management business qualifies him to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•John L. Kelly. Mr. Kelly has more than 35 years of experience and leadership roles in the financial services industry including institutional electronic trading, capital markets, corporate and investment banking, retail brokerage, private equity, asset/wealth

management, institutional services, mutual funds, and related technology enabled services. He previously served as an Independent Trustee of Victory Portfolios, Victory Institutional Funds, and Victory Variable Insurance Funds from 2008 to 2011. The Board believes that this experience qualifies him to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•David L. Meyer. For six years, Mr. Meyer served as chief operating officer, Investment Wealth Management Division, of Mercantile Bankshares Corp (now PNC Financial Services Corp.) and has served as an officer or on the boards of other mutual funds for many years. The Board believes that his experience, particularly as it related to the operation of registered investment companies, qualifies him to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Gloria S. Nelund. Ms. Nelund has executive and investment management industry experience, including service as chief executive officer of two investment advisory firms. Ms. Nelund also has experience as a co-founder and chief executive officer of an investment firm. Ms. Nelund previously served as the Chairman and Trustee of the boards of the RS Investment Trust and RS Variable Products Trust. The Board believes that this experience qualifies her to serve as a Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Timothy Pettee. Mr. Pettee served for many years as Chief Investment Officer and Lead Portfolio Manager (Rules Based Funds) of SunAmerica Asset Management Corp., where he was responsible for investment oversight, portfolio management, and securities selection. At SunAmerica, Mr. Pettee also was Chair of the Portfolio Policy and Brokerage and Soft Dollar Committees, and a member of the Proxy and Executive Committees. The Board believes that Mr. Pettee's experience with other mutual funds and his knowledge qualifies him to serve as a Trustee.

**Committees of the Board**

The following standing Committees of the Board are currently in operation: Audit and Risk Oversight, Compliance, Continuing Education, Investment, Service Provider, Board Governance and Nominating, and Agenda. In addition to these standing Committees, the Board may form temporary Sub- or Special Committees to address particular areas of concern. A Committee may form a Sub-Committee to address particular areas of concern to that Committee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The members of the Audit and Risk Oversight Committee, all of whom are Independent Trustees, are Ms. Beard (Chair), Mr. Andrews, Mr. Kelly, and Ms. Nelund. The primary purpose of this Committee is to oversee the Trust's accounting and financial reporting policies, practices, and internal controls, as required by the statutes and regulations administered by the SEC, including the 1940 Act. The Committee also has overall responsibility for reviewing periodic reports with respect to compliance and enterprise risk, including operational risk and personnel. The Board has designated Mr. Meyer and Ms. Beard as its Audit Committee Financial Experts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The members of the Compliance Committee are Mr. Adcock (Chair), Mr. Andrews, Ms. Beard, Mr. Kelly, and Ms. Nelund. The Compliance Committee oversees matters related to the Funds' compliance program and compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations and meets regularly with the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The members of the Continuing Education Committee are Mr. Meyer (Chair), Mr. Adcock, Mr. Andrews, Ms. Beard, Mr. Kelly, and Ms. Nelund. The function of this Committee is to develop programs to educate the Trustees to enhance their effectiveness as a Board and individually.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The members of the Investment Committee are Mr. Pettee (Chair), Mr. Adcock, Mr. Kelly, and Mr. Meyer. The function of this Committee is to oversee the Funds' compliance with investment objectives, policies, and restrictions, including those imposed by law or regulation, and assist the Board in its annual review of the Funds' investment advisory agreements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The members of the Service Provider Committee are Ms. Nelund (Chair), Mr. Andrews, Ms. Beard, and Mr. Kelly. This Committee oversees the negotiation of the terms of the written agreements with the Funds' service providers, evaluates the quality of periodic reports from the service providers (including reports submitted by sub-service providers) and assists the Board in its review of each Fund's service providers, other than the investment adviser and independent auditors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Board Governance and Nominating Committee consists of all of the Independent Trustees. Mr. Andrews currently serves as the Chair of this Committee. The functions of this Committee are: to oversee Fund governance, including the nomination and selection of Trustees; to evaluate and recommend to the Board the compensation and expense reimbursement policies applicable to Trustees; and periodically, to coordinate and facilitate an evaluation of the performance of the Board.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Board Governance and Nominating Committee will consider nominee recommendations from Fund shareholders, in accordance with procedures established by the Committee. A Fund shareholder should submit a nominee recommendation in writing to the attention of the Chair of the Trust, 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78256. The Committee (or a designated sub-committee) will screen shareholder recommendations in the same manner as it screens nominations received from other sources, such as current Trustees, management of the Funds or other individuals, including professional recruiters. The Committee need not consider any recommendations when no vacancy on the Board exists, but the Committee will consider any such recommendation if a vacancy occurs within six months after receipt of the recommendation. In administering the shareholder recommendation process, the Chair, in the Chair's sole discretion, may retain the services of counsel to the Trust or to the

Independent Trustees, management of the Fund or any third party. The Committee will communicate the results of the evaluation of any shareholder recommendation to the shareholder who made the recommendation.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Agenda Committee consists of the Chair of the Board and the Chair of each other Committee.

During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the Board held eight meetings. The Audit and Risk Oversight Committee held four meetings; the Compliance Committee held four meetings; the Investment Committee held four meetings; the Service Provider Committee held four meetings; and the Board Governance and Nominating Committee held four meetings. The Continuing Education Committee met informally during the fiscal year.

**Officers of the Trust**

The officers of the Trust are elected by the Board to actively supervise the Trust's day-to-day operations. The officers of the Trust, their year of birth, the length of time served, and their principal occupations during the past five years, are detailed in the following table. Each individual holds the same position with the other registered investment companies in the Victory Fund Complex, and each officer serves until the earlier of his or her resignation, removal, retirement, death, or the election of a successor. The mailing address of each officer of the Trust is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256. The officers of the Trust receive no compensation directly from the Trust for performing the duties of their offices.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Date** |  |
| **Name and** | **Position with** | **Commenced** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal Occupation** |
| **Date of Birth** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **the Trust** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Service** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **During Past 5 Years** |
| Thomas | President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; May 2022 | Director, Fund Administration, the Adviser; Treasurer and |
| Dusenberry, |  |  | Principal Financial Officer (May 2023-present); Manager, |
| (1977) |  |  | Fund Administration, the Adviser; Treasurer and |
|  |  |  | Principal Financial Officer (2020-2022), Assistant |
|  |  |  | Treasurer (2019), Salient MF Trust, Salient Midstream, |
|  |  |  | MLP Fund and Forward Funds; Principal Financial |
|  |  |  | Officer (2018-2021) and Treasurer (2020-2021), Salient |
|  |  |  | Private Access Funds and Endowment PMF Funds; |
|  |  |  | Senior Vice President of Fund Accounting and |
|  |  |  | Operations, Salient Partners (2020-2022); Director of |
|  |  |  | Fund Operations, Salient Partners (2016-2019). Mr. |
|  |  |  | Dusenberry also serves as President of Victory Portfolios, |
|  |  |  | Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, and Victory |
|  |  |  | Variable Insurance Funds II. |
| Scott A. Stahorsky, | Vice President | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | Director, Third-Party Dealer Services & Reg |
| (1969) |  |  | Administration, Fund Administration, the Adviser |
|  |  |  | (5/1/2023-present); Vice President, Victory Capital |
|  |  |  | Transfer Agency, Inc. (4/20/23-present); Manager, Fund |
|  |  |  | Administration, the Adviser (4/30/23- 2015). Mr. |
|  |  |  | Stahorsky also serves as Vice President of Victory |
|  |  |  | Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, |
|  |  |  | and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II. |
| Christopher Kelley | Secretary |  | Associate General Counsel, Registered Funds Chief |
| Christopher Kelley | Secretary |  | Legal Officer, the Adviser (April 2025-present); Mr. |
| (1964) |  |  | Legal Officer, the Adviser (April 2025-present); Mr. |
| (1964) |  |  | Kelley was formerly Senior Vice President and Deputy |
|  |  |  | Kelley was formerly Senior Vice President and Deputy |
|  |  |  | General Counsel of Amundi US (2024-March 2025); |
|  |  |  | Vice President and Associate General Counsel of Amundi |
|  |  |  | US (2008-2024); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of |
|  |  |  | the Pioneer Funds (2010-March 2025); Assistant |
|  |  |  | Secretary of the Pioneer Funds (2003-2010); and Vice |
|  |  |  | President and Counsel of Amundi US (2002-2007). Mr. |
|  |  |  | Kelley also serves as Secretary of Victory Portfolios, |
|  |  |  | Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, and Victory |
|  |  |  | Variable Insurance Funds II. |

---

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Date** |  |
| **Name and** | **Position with** | **Commenced** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Principal Occupation** |
| **Date of Birth** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **the Trust** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Service** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **During Past 5 Years** |
| Patricia McClain | Assistant | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; June 2024 | Director, Regulatory Administration, Fund |
| (1962) | Secretary |  | Administration, the Adviser (7/1/19-present). Ms. |
|  |  |  | McClain also serves as Assistant Secretary of Victory |
|  |  |  | Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, |
|  |  |  | and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II. |
| Thomas Reyes | Assistant | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; December 2025 | Associate General Counsel, the Adviser (April 2025- |
| Thomas Reyes | Assistant | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; December 2025 | present); Mr. Reyes was formerly Associate General |
| (1962) | Secretary |  | present); Mr. Reyes was formerly Associate General |
| (1962) | Secretary |  | Counsel of Amundi US (2023-March 2025); Assistant |
|  |  |  | Counsel of Amundi US (2023-March 2025); Assistant |
|  |  |  | Secretary of the Pioneer Funds (2010-March 2025); |
|  |  |  | Assistant General Counsel of Amundi US (2013-2023); |
|  |  |  | and Counsel of Amundi US (2007-2013) |
| Matthew Kutner | Assistant | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; December 2025 | Partner, Sidley Austin LLP (January 2025-present); and |
| (1982) | Secretary |  | Mr. Kutner was formerly Senior Managing Associate, |
|  |  |  | Sidley Austin LLP (2020-December 2024) |
| Carol D. Trevino | Treasurer | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; February 2023 | Director, Financial Reporting, Fund Administration |
| (1965) |  |  | (5/1/23-present); Director, Accounting and Finance, the |
|  |  |  | Adviser (7/1/19-4/30/23); Accounting/ Financial |
|  |  |  | Director, USAA (12/13-6/30/19). Ms. Trevino also serves |
|  |  |  | as Treasurer of Victory Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, |
|  |  |  | Victory Portfolios IV, and Victory Variable Insurance |
|  |  |  | Funds II. |
| Christopher Ponte, | Assistant | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; May 2015 | Director, Fund and Broker Dealer Finance, Fund |
| (1984) | Treasurer |  | Administration, (5/1/23-present); Victory Capital |
|  |  |  | Transfer Agency, Inc. (5/23-present); Manager, Fund |
|  |  |  | Administration, the Adviser (2017-2023); Chief Financial |
|  |  |  | Officer, Victory Capital Services, Inc. (since 2018). Mr. |
|  |  |  | Ponte also serves as Assistant Treasurer of Victory |
|  |  |  | Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, |
|  |  |  | and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II. |
| Sean Fox, | Chief | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; June 2022 | Sr. Compliance Officer, the Adviser (2019-Present); |
| (1976) | Compliance |  | Compliance Officer, the Adviser (2015-2019). Mr. Fox |
|  | Officer |  | also serves as Chief Compliance Officer for Victory |
|  |  |  | Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, |
|  |  |  | and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II. |
| D. Brent Rowse, | Anti-Money | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; October 2024 | Sr. Compliance Officer, the Adviser (4/1/23-present); |
| (1981) | Laundering |  | Compliance Officer, the Adviser (7/1/19-3/31/23). Mr. |
|  | Compliance |  | Rowse also serves as the Anti-Money Laundering |
|  | Officer and |  | Compliance Officer and Identity Theft Officer for Victory |
|  | Identity Theft |  | Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, |
|  | Officer |  | and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II, and the Anti- |
|  |  |  | Money Laundering Compliance Officer for Victory |
|  |  |  | Capital Services, Inc. |

---

\* Effective December 4, 2025, Ms. McClain resigned as Secretary and accepted the position of Assistant Secretary.

**Fund Ownership**

The following tables show the dollar ranges of Fund shares (and of shares of all series of the Victory Fund Complex) beneficially owned by each Trustee as of December 31, 2025. No Independent Trustee (or any immediate family member) owns beneficially or of record an interest in the Adviser or the Distributor or in any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with

the Adviser or the Distributor (other than Funds in the Victory Funds Complex). As of December 31, 2025, the Trustees and officers as a group owned beneficially less than 1% of each class of outstanding shares of those series of the Trust.

**Independent Trustees**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Dollar** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Range of Ownership** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **of Shares of** |
|  | **Dollar Range of Beneficial** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **All Series of the** |
| **Trustee** | **Ownership of Fund Shares** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Victory Fund Complex** |
| Mr. Adcock | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Mr. Andrews | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Ms. Beard | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Mr. Kelly | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Mr. Meyer | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Ms. Nelund | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |
| Mr. Pettee | None | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; None |
| **Interested Trustee** |  |  |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Dollar** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Range of Ownership** |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **of Shares of** |
|  | **Dollar Range of Beneficial** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **All Series of the** |
| **Trustee** | **Ownership of Fund Shares** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Victory Fund Complex** |
| Mr. Brown\* |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Over $100,000 |

---

\*Mr. Brown is an "Interested Person" by reason of his relationship with the Adviser.

**Compensation**

Effective January 1, 2026, the Victory Fund Complex pays each Independent Trustee $390,000 per year for his or her services to the Complex. The Board Chair is paid an additional retainer of $140,000 per year. While the Board reserves the right to award reasonable compensation to any Interested Trustee, as of the date of this SAI no Interested Trustee receives compensation for services as a Trustee.

The following tables indicate the compensation received by each Trustee from the Funds covered in this SAI and from the Victory Fund Complex for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025. As of June 30, 2025, there were 63 funds in the Victory Fund Complex for which the Trustees listed below were compensated. The Trust does not maintain a retirement plan for its Trustees.

**Independent Trustees**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Compensation** | **Total Compensation from the** |
|  **Trustee** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **from the Funds** | **Victory Fund Complex** |
|  Mr. Adcock |  | $365000 |
|  Mr. Andrews\* |  | $365000 |
|  Ms. Beard |  | $365000 |
|  Mr. Kelly |  | $505000 |
|  Mr. Meyer |  | $365000 |
|  Ms. Nelund |  | $365000 |
|  Mr. Pettee |  | $365000 |

---

\*Mr. Andrews no longer elects to receive a portion of his compensation as deferred compensation. As of June 30, 2025, the value of Mr. Andrews' deferred compensation account was $668,176.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Interested Trustee** |  |  |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Compensation** | **Total Compensation from the** |
| **Trustee** | **from the Funds** | **Victory Fund Complex** |
| Mr. Brown\* |  |  |

---

\*Mr. Brown is an "Interested Person" by reason of his relationship with the Adviser.

**Deferred Compensation**

Each Trustee may elect to defer a portion of his or her compensation from the Victory Fund Complex in accordance with a Deferred Compensation Plan adopted by the Board (the "Plan"). Such amounts are invested in one or more Funds in the Victory Fund Complex offered under the Plan or a money market fund, as selected by the Trustee.

As of the most recent fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the following current Trustees have elected to defer a portion of his or her compensation from the Victory Fund Complex.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Aggregate Compensation** | **Total Compensation from the** |
|  **Trustee** | **from the Funds** | **Victory Fund Complex** |
|  Mr. Adcock\* |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $109500 |
|  Ms. Beard\*\* |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $99700 |

---

\*As of June 30, 2025, the value of Mr. Adcock's deferred compensation account was $536,259.

\*\*As of June 30, 2025, the value of Ms. Beard's deferred compensation account was $264,405.

**CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS**

As of April 30, 2026, no shareholders owned 5% or more of the indicated Funds. Each shareholder that beneficially owns more than 25% of the voting securities of a Fund may be deemed a control person of the Fund's outstanding shares and, thereby, may influence the outcome of matters on which shareholders are entitled to vote. Since the economic benefit of investing in a Fund and related voting authority is passed through to the underlying investors of the record owners, it is expected that these record owners generally will not be considered the beneficial owners of the Fund's shares or control persons of the Fund.

**INVESTMENT ADVISER AND OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS**

**Investment Adviser**

Victory Capital, a New York corporation registered as an investment adviser with the SEC, serves as investment adviser to the Funds. Victory Capital's principal business address is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256. Subject to the authority of the Board, the Adviser is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Funds' business affairs. Each of the Adviser's multiple investment teams, referred to separately as investment franchises utilizes its own independent approach to investing. The Adviser is responsible for selecting each Fund's investments according to its investment objective, policies, and restrictions. The Adviser is an

indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. ("VCH"), a publicly traded Delaware corporation. As of [ ], 2026, the Adviser managed assets totaling in excess of $[ ] billion for numerous clients including large corporate and public retirement plans, Taft-Hartley plans, foundations and endowments, high net worth individuals and mutual funds.

The Adviser is a diversified global asset manager comprised of multiple investment teams, referred to as investment franchises, each of which utilizes an independent approach to investing.

**The Advisory Agreement**

The Adviser serves as the Funds' investment adviser pursuant to an advisory agreement dated as of May 1, 2015 (the "Advisory Agreement"). Unless sooner terminated, the Advisory Agreement between the Adviser and the Trust, on behalf of the Funds, provides that it will continue in effect as to the Funds for two years and for consecutive one-year terms thereafter, provided that such renewal is approved at least annually by the Trustees or by vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of each such Fund (as defined under "Miscellaneous" below) and, in either case, by a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to the Advisory Agreement, by votes cast in person at a meeting called for such purpose. The Advisory Agreement is terminable as to any particular Fund at any time on 60 days' written notice without penalty by a vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund, by vote of the Trustees, or as to all applicable Funds by the Adviser. The Advisory Agreement also terminates automatically in the event of any assignment, as defined by the 1940 Act.

The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Funds in connection with the performance of the services pursuant thereto, except a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence on the part of the Adviser in the performance of its duties, or from reckless disregard by the Adviser of its duties and obligations thereunder.

Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser may delegate a portion of its responsibilities to a sub-adviser. In addition, the agreements provide that the Adviser may render services through its own employees or the employees of one or more affiliated companies that are qualified to act as an investment adviser of the Fund provided all such persons are functioning as part of an organized group of persons, managed by authorized officers of the Adviser.

The following schedule lists the advisory fees for each Fund, as an annual percentage of its average daily net assets.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Fund** | &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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Advisory Fee** |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Equity Premium Income ETF | 0.35% |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF | 0.39% |
|  VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgaged-Backed Securities ETF | 0.15% |

---

No advisory fees have been paid by the Funds as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Management Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursement**

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its management fee and/or reimburse Fund expenses so that the total annual operating expenses (excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses and certain other items such as interest, taxes, dividend, and interest expenses on short sales and brokerage commissions) of a Fund (by share class) do not exceed a certain percentage for a predetermined amount of time. In these instances, the fee and expense table in the Fund's Prospectus provides more details about this arrangement and shows the impact it will have on a Fund's total annual fund operating expenses. Under its contractual agreement with the Funds, the Adviser is permitted to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to three years after the date of the waiver or reimbursement, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limits in effect at the time of: (a) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (b) the recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount. This agreement may only be terminated by the Board. From time to time, the Adviser may also voluntarily waive its management fee and/or reimburse expenses for a Fund. These voluntary reductions are not reflected in the fee and expense table in a Fund's Prospectus.

From time to time, the Manager may, without prior notice to shareholders, waive all or any portion of fees or agree to reimburse expenses incurred by a Fund.

No information is provided for the Funds as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Compliance Services**

The Trust and the Adviser are parties to the Agreement to Provide Compliance Services (the "Compliance Agreement") pursuant to which the Adviser furnishes its compliance personnel, including the services of the CCO, and other resources reasonably necessary to provide the Trust with compliance oversight services related to the design, administration, and oversight of a compliance program for the Trust in accordance with Rule 38a-1 under 1940 Act. The funds in the Victory Fund Complex, in the aggregate, compensate the Adviser for these services.

No compliance fees have been paid by the Funds to Victory Capital under the Compliance Agreement as the Funds had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Administrator and Fund Accountant**

Victory Capital serves as the administrator and fund accountant to the Trust pursuant to an agreement dated July 1, 2006, as amended (the "Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement"). Citi Fund Services Ohio, Inc. ("Citi") serves as sub-administrator and sub-fund accountant to the Trust pursuant to an agreement with Victory Capital dated October 1, 2015, as amended (the "Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement"). As administrator, Victory Capital supervises the Trust's operations, including the services that Citi provides to the Funds as sub-administrator and sub-fund accountant, but excluding those that Victory Capital supervises as investment adviser, subject to the supervision of the Board.

Under the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement, for the administration and fund accounting services that Victory Capital renders to the Funds, the Trust, and Victory Portfolios ("VP") pays Victory Capital an annual fee, accrued daily and paid monthly, at the following annual rates based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust, VP: 0.08% of the first $15 billion in aggregate Trust, VP net assets, plus 0.05% of aggregate Trust, VP net assets in excess of $15 billion to $30 billion, plus 0.04% of aggregate Trust, VP net assets in excess of $30 billion. Victory Capital may periodically waive all or a portion of the amount of its fee that is allocated to any Fund in order to increase the Fund's net income available for distribution to shareholders. In addition, the Trust, VP reimburse Victory Capital for all of its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of providing the services under the Administration and Fund

Accounting Agreement, including costs associated with implementing new reports required by the new RIC Modernization rules adopted by the SEC under the 1940 Act.

Except as otherwise provided in the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement, Victory Capital pays all expenses that it incurs in performing its services and duties as administrator. Unless sooner terminated, the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement continues in effect for a period of three years and for consecutive one-year terms thereafter, provided that such continuance is approved by the Board or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of each Fund and, in either case, by a majority of the Independent Trustees. The Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement provides that Victory Capital shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from bad faith, willful misfeasance, negligence or reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Agreement.

Under the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement, Victory Capital, among other things, coordinates the preparation, filing and distribution of amendments to the Trust's registration statement on Form N-1A, supplements to prospectuses and SAIs, and proxy materials in connection with shareholder meetings; drafts shareholder communications, including annual and semi-annual reports and financial statements; administers the Trust's other service provider contracts; monitors compliance with investment restrictions imposed by the 1940 Act, each Fund's investment objective, defined investment policies, and restrictions, tax diversification, and distribution and income requirements; coordinates each Fund's service arrangements with financial institutions that make the Funds' shares available to their customers; assists with regulatory compliance; supplies individuals to serve as Trust officers; prepares Board meeting materials; and annually determines whether the services that it provides (or the services that Citi provides as sub-administrator) are adequate and complete.

Victory Capital also performs fund accounting services for each Fund, excluding those services that Citi performs as sub-fund accountant. The fund accountant calculates each Fund's NAV, its dividend and capital gain distribution, if any, and its yield. The fund accountant also provides a current security position report, a summary report of transactions and pending maturities, a current cash position report, and maintains the general ledger accounting records for the Funds. The fees that Citi receives for sub-administration and sub-fund accounting services are described in the SAI section entitled "Sub-Administrator and Sub-Fund Accountant."

The Funds have not accrued fees as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Sub-Administrator and Sub-Fund Accountant**

Citi serves as sub-administrator and sub-fund accountant to the Funds pursuant to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement. Citi assists in supervising all operations of the Funds (other than those performed by Victory Capital either as investment adviser or administrator), subject to the supervision of the Board.

Unless sooner terminated, the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement continues in effect as to each Fund for a period of three years and for consecutive one-year terms thereafter. The Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement provides that Citi shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from bad faith, willful misfeasance, negligence, or reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Agreement.

Under the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement, Citi calculates Trust expenses and make disbursements; calculates capital gain and distribution information; registers the Funds' shares with the states; prepares shareholder reports, financial statements, and reports to the SEC on Forms N-CEN and N-PORT; coordinates dividend payments; calculates the Funds' performance information; files the Trust's tax returns; supplies individuals to serve as Trust officers; monitors the Funds' status as regulated investment companies under the Code; assists in developing portfolio compliance procedures; reports to the Board amounts paid under shareholder service agreements; assists with regulatory compliance; obtains, maintains and files fidelity bonds and trustees' and officers'/errors and omissions insurance policies for the Trust; assists with liquidity and derivatives risk management services; and assists in the annual audit of the Funds, among other services.

**Transfer Agent**

Citibank, N.A. ("Citibank" or the "Custodian"), 388 Greenwich St., New York, New York 10013, serves as transfer agent for the Funds pursuant to a Transfer Agency Services Agreement. Under its agreement with the Funds, Citibank has agreed, among other things, to (1) perform and facilitate the performance of purchases and redemptions of Creation Units by Authorized Participants; (2) record and calculate the number of outstanding Fund shares; (3) maintain shareholder accounts; (4) perform duties relating to anti-money laundering and identity theft prevention; and (5) make periodic reports to the Board and regulators regarding its operations.

**Custodian**

**General.** Citibank, 388 Greenwich St., New York, New York 10013, ("Citibank" or the "Custodian") serves as the custodian of the assets of each Fund pursuant to the Global Custodial Services Agreement dated August 5, 2008, as amended (the "Custody Agreement"). The Custodian's responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling each Fund's cash and securities, handling the receipt and delivery of securities, and collecting interest and dividends on each Fund's investments. Pursuant to the Custody Agreement, the Custodian also maintains original entry documents and books of record and general ledgers; posts cash receipts and disbursements; and records purchases

and sales based upon communications from the Adviser. The Custodian may, with the approval of a Fund and at its own expense, open and maintain a sub-custody account or accounts on behalf of a Fund, provided that it shall remain liable for the performance of all of its duties under the Custody Agreement.

**Foreign Custody.** Rule 17f-5 under the 1940 Act, which governs the custody of investment company assets outside the United States, allows a mutual fund's board of directors to delegate to a "Foreign Custody Manager" the selection and monitoring of foreign sub- custodian arrangements for the Trust's assets. Accordingly, the Board delegated these responsibilities to the Custodian pursuant to the Custody Agreement. As Foreign Custody Manager, the Custodian must (a) determine that the assets of the Funds held by a foreign sub- custodian will be subject to reasonable care, based on the standards applicable to custodians in the relevant market; (b) determine that the Trust's foreign custody arrangements are governed by written contracts in compliance with Rule 17f-5 (or, in the case of a compulsory depository, by such a contract and/or established practices or procedures); and (c) monitor the appropriateness of these arrangements and any material change in the relevant contract, practices or procedures. In determining appropriateness, the Custodian will not evaluate a particular country's investment risks, such as (a) the use of compulsory depositories, (b) such country's financial infrastructure, (c) such country's prevailing custody and settlement practices, (d) nationalization, expropriation or other governmental actions, (e) regulation of the banking or securities industry, (f) currency controls, restrictions, devaluations, or fluctuations, and (g) market conditions that affect the orderly execution of securities transactions or affect the value of securities. The Custodian will provide to the Board quarterly written reports regarding the Trust's foreign custody arrangements.

**Line of Credit.** Each Fund, along with other funds managed by the Adviser, participates in a 364-day committed credit facility and a 364- day uncommitted, demand credit facility with Citibank. Each such credit facility may be renewed if so agreed by the parties. Under the current agreement with Citibank, the Funds may borrow up to $600 million, of which $300 million is committed and $300 million is uncommitted. Of this amount, $40 million of the committed line of credit and $60 million of the uncommitted line of credit are reserved for use by the Victory Floating Rate Fund (a series of Victory Portfolios), with that Fund paying the related commitment fees for that amount. The purpose of each agreement is to meet temporary or emergency cash needs. For the committed credit facility, Citibank received an annual commitment fee of 0.15%. Each Fund pays a pro-rata portion (adjusted for the amount of credit reserved for the Victory Floating Rate Fund) of these fees and pays the interest on any amount that it borrows. Each Fund paid a pro-rata portion of the renewal fee.

**Securities Lending**

The Funds, through a Securities Lending Agreement with Citibank, N.A. ("Citibank"), may lend its securities to qualified financial institutions, such as certain broker-dealers and banks, to earn additional income, net of income retained by Citibank. Borrowers are required to initially secure their loans for collateral in the amount of at least 102% of the value of U.S. securities loaned or at least 105% of the value of non-U.S. securities loaned, marked-to-market daily. Any collateral shortfalls associated with increases in the valuation of the securities loaned generally are cured the next business day. The collateral can be received in the form of cash collateral and/or non- cash collateral. Non-cash collateral can include U.S. government securities and other securities as permitted by SEC guidelines.

The cash collateral is invested in short-term instruments or cash equivalents, primarily open-end investment companies. The Funds effectively do not have control of the non-cash collateral. Collateral requirements are determined daily based on the value of a Fund's securities on loan as of the end of the prior business day. During the time portfolio securities are on loan, the borrower will pay the Fund any dividends or interest paid on such securities plus any fee negotiated between the parties to the lending agreement. A Fund also earns a return from the collateral. A Fund pays Citibank various fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral and fees based on the investment income received from securities lending activities. Loans are terminable upon demand and the borrower must return the loaned securities within the lesser of one standard settlement period or five business days. Although risk is mitigated by the collateral, a Fund could experience a delay in recovering its securities and possible loss of income or value if the borrower fails to return them. In addition, there is a risk that the value of the short-term investments will be less than the amount of cash collateral required to be returned to the borrower.

The Funds' agreement with Citibank does not include master netting provisions. Non-cash collateral received by a Fund may not be sold or repledged, except to satisfy borrower default.

No information is provided for income and fees/compensation related to the Funds' securities lending activities as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Distributor**

Victory Capital Services, Inc. serves as the distributor of Creation Units (the "Distributor") for the Funds on an agency basis. Under the ETF Distribution Agreement ("Distribution Agreement"), the Distributor receives orders from Authorized Participants to create and redeem shares in Creation Unit aggregations and transmits such orders to the Trust's Custodian and transfer agent. The Distributor's principal address is 4900 Tiedeman Road, 4th Floor, Brooklyn, Ohio 44144. The Distributor is a broker-dealer registered under the 1934 Act and a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. ("FINRA"). Shares will be continuously offered for sale only in Creation Units. Shares in less than a Creation Unit are not distributed by the Distributor. The Distributor has no role in determining the investment policies of the Funds or which securities are to be purchased or sold by the Funds. No compensation is payable by the Trust to the Distributor for such distribution services. However, the Adviser has entered into an agreement with the Distributor under which it

makes payments to the Distributor in consideration for its services under the Distribution Agreement. The payments made by the Adviser to the Distributor do not represent an additional expense to the Trust or its shareholders.

Under the Distribution Agreement, the Distributor, as agent for the Trust, will solicit orders for the purchase of shares, provided that any subscriptions and orders will not be binding on the Trust until accepted by the Trust. The Distributor will deliver Prospectuses and, upon request, SAIs to persons purchasing Creation Units. The Distributor is a broker-dealer registered under the Exchange Act and a member of FINRA.

The Distributor may also enter into agreements with securities dealers ("Soliciting Dealers") who will solicit purchases of Creation Units of shares. Such Soliciting Dealers may also be Authorized Participants (as discussed in "Procedures for Creation of Creation Units" below) or DTC participants (as defined below).

The Distribution Agreement will continue for two years from its effective date and is renewable thereafter. The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operations of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement is terminable, without penalty, by the Trust on 60 days' written notice when authorized either by majority vote of its outstanding voting shares or by a vote of a majority of its Board (including a majority of the Independent Trustees), or by the Distributor on 60 days' written notice, and will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment. The Distribution Agreement provides that in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Distributor, or reckless disregard by it of its obligations thereunder, the Distributor shall not be liable for any action or failure to act in accordance with its duties thereunder.

**PORTFOLIO MANAGERS**

This section includes information about the Funds' portfolio managers, including information concerning other accounts they manage, the dollar range of Fund shares they own and how they are compensated.

<u>Other Accounts</u>

The following table lists the number and types of accounts managed by the portfolio managers and assets under management in those

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| accounts as of [ | ], 2026. |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  |  | **Registered** | **Registered** | **Pooled Investment** | **Pooled Investment** |  |  |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Investment** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Investment** | **Pooled Investment** | **Pooled Investment** |  |  |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Company Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Company Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Vehicle Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Vehicle Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Accounts** |
|  |  |  | Assets |  | Assets |  | Assets |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed | Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed | &nbsp;&nbsp; Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) | &nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) |
| Howard Weiss |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Fergal Jackson |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Cory Robart |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Jonathan Scott |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Johathan M. Duensing | Johathan M. Duensing |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Jefferey C. Galloway | Jefferey C. Galloway |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Tyler Patla |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Robert W. Aufdenspring | Robert W. Aufdenspring |  |  |  |  |  |  |

---

The following table sets forth performance-based accounts for which the Funds' portfolio managers were primarily responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management as of the end of the last completed fiscal year:

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Registered** | **Registered** | **Pooled Investment** | **Pooled Investment** |  |  |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Investment** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Investment** | **Pooled Investment** | **Pooled Investment** |  |  |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Company Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Company Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Vehicle Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Vehicle Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Accounts** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Other Accounts** |
|  |  | Assets |  | Assets |  | Assets |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed | Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed | &nbsp;&nbsp; Number of | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Managed |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) | &nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Accounts | &nbsp;&nbsp; (In Millions) |
|  Howard Weiss |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  Fergal Jackson |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  Cory Robart |  |  |  |  |  |  |

---

![](ghx2etr4kp1vg662bv3b3.jpg)

Jonathan Scott

Johathan M. Duensing

Jefferey C. Galloway

Tyler Patla

Robert W. Aufdenspring

**Fund Ownership**

Since the Funds had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI, no shares of the Funds are owned by the portfolio managers.

**Portfolio Manager Compensation**

The Adviser has designed the structure of its portfolio managers' compensation to (1) align portfolio managers' interests with those of the Adviser's clients with an emphasis on long-term, risk-adjusted investment performance, (2) help the Adviser attract and retain high- quality investment professionals, and (3) contribute to the Adviser's overall financial success. Each of the portfolio managers receives a base salary plus an annual incentive bonus for managing a Fund, separate accounts, other investment companies, other pooled investment vehicles and other accounts (including any accounts for which the Adviser receives a performance fee) (together, "Accounts"). A portfolio manager's base salary is dependent on the manager's level of experience and expertise. The Adviser monitors each manager's base salary relative to salaries paid for similar positions with peer firms by reviewing data provided by various independent third-party consultants that specialize in competitive salary information. Such data, however, is not considered to be a definitive benchmark.

Each of the Adviser's investment franchises may earn incentive compensation based on a percentage of the Adviser's revenue attributable to fees paid by Accounts managed by the team. The chief investment officer or a senior member of each team, in coordination with the Adviser, determines the allocation of the incentive compensation earned by the team among the team's portfolio managers by establishing a "target" incentive for each portfolio manager based on the manager's level of experience and expertise in the manager's investment style. Individual performance is based on objectives established annually using performance metrics such as portfolio structure and positioning, research, stock selection, asset growth, client retention, presentation skills, marketing to prospective clients and contribution to the Adviser's philosophy and values, such as leadership, risk management and teamwork. The annual incentive bonus also factors in individual investment performance of each portfolio manager's portfolio or Fund relative to a selected peer group(s). The overall performance results for a manager are based on the composite performance of all Accounts managed by that manager on a combination of one-, three-, and five-year rolling performance periods as compared to the performance information of a peer group of similarly managed competitors.

The Adviser's portfolio managers may participate in the equity ownership plan of the Adviser's parent company. There is an ongoing annual equity pool granted to certain employees based on their contribution to the firm. Eligibility for participation in these incentive programs depends on the manager's performance and seniority.

**Conflicts of Interest**

The Adviser's portfolio managers are often responsible for managing one or more Funds as well as other accounts, such as separate accounts, and other pooled investment vehicles, such as collective trust funds or unregistered hedge funds. A portfolio manager may manage other accounts which have materially higher fee arrangements than a Fund and may, in the future, manage other accounts which have a performance-based fee. A portfolio manager also may make personal investments in accounts he or she manages or supports. The side-by-side management of the Funds along with other accounts may raise potential conflicts of interest by incenting a portfolio manager to direct a disproportionate amount of: (1) their attention; (2) limited investment opportunities, such as less-liquid securities or initial public offering; and/or (3) desirable trade allocations, to such other accounts. In addition, certain trading practices, such as cross-trading between Funds or between a Fund and another account, raise conflict of interest issues. The Adviser has adopted numerous compliance policies and procedures, including a Code of Ethics, and brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures, which seek to address the conflicts associated with managing multiple accounts for multiple clients. In addition, the Adviser has a designated Chief Compliance Officer (selected in accordance with the federal securities laws) and compliance staff whose activities are focused on monitoring the activities of the Adviser's investment franchises and employees in order to detect and address potential and actual conflicts of interest. However, there can be no assurance that the Adviser's compliance program will achieve its intended result.

**DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN**

The Trust has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act ("Rule 12b-1 Plan" or "Plan"). In accordance with its Plan, the Funds are authorized to pay an amount up to 0.25% of its average daily net assets each year for certain distribution-related activities. In addition, if the payment of management fees by the Fund is deemed to be indirect financing by the Funds of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Rule 12b-1 Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that the Adviser and other persons may use management fee revenue, as well as past profits or other resources, to pay for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares. The Adviser and such other persons, as well as their affiliates, may pay amounts to third parties for

distribution or marketing services on behalf of the Funds. The making of the types of payments described in this paragraph could create a conflict of interest for the party receiving such payments.

The Rule 12b-1 Plan was adopted in order to permit the implementation of the Funds' method of distribution. No fees are currently paid by the Funds under the Plan, and there are no current plans to impose such fees. In the event such fees were to be charged, over time they would increase the cost of an investment in the Funds.

The Distributor is required to provide a written report, at least quarterly to the Board, specifying in reasonable detail the amounts (if any) expended pursuant to the Rule 12b-1 Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made. Further, the Distributor will inform the Board of any Rule 12b-1 fees to be paid by the Distributor to Recipients. From time to time, the Adviser, at its expense, may provide additional compensation to dealers that sell or arrange for the sale of shares of a Fund. Such compensation provided by the Adviser may include financial assistance to dealers that enable the Adviser to participate in and/or present at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs for invited registered representatives and other employees, client and investor events and other dealer-sponsored events. Other compensation may be offered to the extent not prohibited by state laws or any self-regulatory agency, such as FINRA. The Adviser may make payments for events it deems appropriate, subject to applicable law. These payments may vary depending upon the nature of the event.

The Rule 12b-1 Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of the Distributor's compensation to be paid by the Fund, unless such amendment is approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the affected Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act). All material amendments must be approved by a majority of the Board and a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on a Rule 12b-1 Plan. During the term of the Rule 12b-1 Plan, the selection and nomination of non-interested Trustees of the Trust will be committed to the discretion of current non-interested Trustees. The Distributor will preserve copies of the Rule 12b-1 Plan, any related agreements, and all reports, for a period of not less than six years from the date of such document and for at least the first two years in an easily accessible place.

Any agreement related to the Rule 12b-1 Plan will be in writing and provide that: (a) it may be terminated by the Trust or the applicable Fund at any time upon sixty days' written notice, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the respective Rule 12b-1 Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust or the Fund; (b) it will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act); and (c) it will continue in effect for a period of more than one year from the date of its execution or adoption only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Board and a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such agreements.

**CODE OF ETHICS**

The Trust and the Adviser each have adopted a Code of Ethics in accordance with Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser's Code of Ethics applies to all of the Adviser's directors and officers and employees with investment advisory duties ("Access Personnel") and all of the Adviser's directors, officers and employees ("Supervised Personnel"). Each Code of Ethics provides that Access Personnel must refrain from certain trading practices. Each Code also requires all Access Personnel (and, in the Adviser Code, all Supervised Personnel) to report certain personal investment activities, including, but not limited to, purchases or sales of securities that may be purchased or held by a Fund. Violations of any Code of Ethics can result in penalties, suspension, or termination of employment.

**PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES**

In accordance with the 1940 Act, the Trust has adopted policies and procedures for voting proxies related to equity securities held by the Funds (the "Proxy Voting Policy"). The Trust's Proxy Voting Policy is designed to: (i) ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of shareholders of the Funds with a view toward maximizing the value of their investments; (ii) address conflicts of interests between these shareholders, on the one hand, and affiliates of the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor, on the other, that may arise regarding the voting of proxies; and (iii) provide for the disclosure of the Funds' proxy voting records and the Proxy Voting Policy.

The Proxy Voting Policy delegates to the Adviser the obligation to vote the Funds' proxies in the best interests of the Funds and their shareholders, subject to oversight by the Board.

To assist the Adviser in making proxy-voting decisions, the Adviser has adopted a Proxy Voting Policy ("Policy") that establishes voting guidelines ("Proxy Voting Guidelines") with respect to certain recurring issues. The Policy is reviewed on an annual basis by the Adviser's Proxy Committee ("Proxy Committee") and revised when the Committee determines that a change is appropriate. The Board annually reviews the Trust's Proxy Voting Policy and the Adviser's Policy and determines whether amendments are necessary or advisable. Voting under the Adviser's Policy may be executed through administrative screening per established guidelines with oversight by the Proxy Committee or upon vote by a quorum of the Proxy Committee. The Adviser allows its Investment Franchises to modify their voting instructions against that of the default policy on a case-by-case basis, provided sufficient justification is provided and approved by the Proxy Committee. The Adviser delegates to Institutional Shareholder Services ("ISS"), an independent service provider, the non- discretionary administration of proxy voting for the Trust, subject to oversight by the Adviser's Proxy Committee. In no circumstances shall ISS have the authority to vote proxies except in accordance with standing or specific instructions given to it by the Adviser.

The Adviser votes proxies in the best interests of the Funds and their shareholders. This entails voting client proxies with the objective of increasing the long-term economic value of Fund assets. The Adviser's Proxy Committee determines how proxies are voted by following established guidelines, which are intended to assist in voting proxies and are not considered to be rigid rules. The Proxy Committee is directed to apply the guidelines as appropriate. On occasion, however, a contrary vote may be warranted when such action is in the best interests of the Funds or if required by the Board or the Funds' Proxy Voting Policy. In such cases, the Adviser may consider, among other things:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the effect of the proposal on the underlying value of the securities

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the effect on marketability of the securities

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the effect of the proposal on future prospects of the issuer

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the composition and effectiveness of the issuer's board of directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the issuer's corporate governance practices

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•the quality of communications from the issuer to its shareholders

The Adviser may also take into account independent third party, general industry guidance or other corporate governance review sources when making decisions. It may additionally seek guidance from other senior internal sources with special expertise on a given topic where it is appropriate. The Adviser generally votes on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration whether implementation of an Environmental, Social, and Governance ("ESG")-related proposal is likely to enhance or protect shareholder value. The investment team's opinion concerning the management and prospects of the issuer may be taken into account in determining whether a vote for or against a proposal is in a Fund's best interests. Insufficient information, onerous requests or vague, ambiguous wording may indicate that a vote against a proposal is appropriate, even when the general principal appears to be reasonable.

The following examples illustrate the Adviser's policy with respect to some common proxy votes. This summary is not an exhaustive list of all the issues that may arise or of all matters addressed in the Guidelines, and whether the Adviser supports or opposes a proposal will depend upon the specific facts and circumstances described in the proxy statement and other available information.

Directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser generally supports the election of directors in uncontested elections, except when there are issues of accountability, responsiveness, composition, and/or independence.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser generally supports proposals for an independent chair taking into account factors such as the current board leadership structure, the company's governance practices, and company performance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser generally supports proxy access proposals that are in line with the market standards regarding the ownership threshold, ownership duration, aggregation provisions, cap on nominees, and do not contain any other unreasonably restrictive guidelines.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser reviews contested elections on a case-by-case basis taking into account such factors as the company performance, particularly the long-term performance relative to the industry; the management track record; the nominee qualifications and compensatory arrangements; the strategic plan of the dissident and its critique of the current management; the likelihood that the proposed goals and objectives can be achieved; the ownership stakes of the relevant parties; and any other context that is particular to the company and the nature of the election.

Capitalization & Restructuring

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser generally supports capitalization proposals that facilitate a corporate transaction that is also being supported and for general corporate purposes so long as the increase is not excessive and there are no issues of superior voting rights, company performance, previous abuses of capital, or insufficient justification for the need for additional capital.

Mergers and Acquisitions

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser reviews mergers and acquisitions on a case-by-case basis to balance the merits and drawbacks of the transaction and factors such as valuation, strategic rationale, negotiations and process, conflicts of interest, and the governance profile of the company post-transaction.

Compensation

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser reviews all compensation proposals for pay-for-performance alignment, with emphasis on long-term shareholder value; arrangements that risk pay for failure; independence in the setting of compensation; inappropriate pay to non-executive directors, and the quality and rationale of the compensation disclosure.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser will generally vote FOR advisory votes on executive compensation ("say on pay") unless there is a pay-for- performance misalignment; problematic pay practice or non-performance based element; incentive for excessive risk-taking, options backdating; or a lack of compensation committee communication and/or responsiveness to shareholder concerns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser will vote case-by-case on equity based compensation plans taking into account factors such as the plan cost; the plan features; and the grant practices as well as any overriding factors that may have a significant negative impact on shareholder interests.

Social and Environmental Issues

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The Adviser generally will vote in line with the Board's recommendations, with support limited to circumstances where it is considered that greater disclosure will directly enhance or protect shareholder value and is reflective of a clearly established reporting standard in the market.

Occasionally, conflicts of interest arise between the Adviser's interests and those of a Fund or another client. When this occurs, the Proxy Committee must document the nature of the conflict and vote the proxy in accordance with the Proxy Voting Guidelines unless such guidelines are judged by the Proxy Committee to be inapplicable to the proxy matter at issue. In the event that the Proxy Voting Guidelines are inapplicable or do not mitigate the conflict, the Adviser will seek the opinion of the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer or consult with an external independent adviser. In the case of a Proxy Committee member having a personal conflict of interest (e.g. a family member is on the board of the issuer), such member will abstain from voting. Finally, the Adviser reports to the Board annually any proxy votes that took place involving a conflict, including the nature of the conflict and the basis or rationale for the voting decision made.

The Funds' Proxy Voting Policy provides that the Funds, in accordance with SEC rules, annually will disclose on Form N-PX the Funds' proxy voting record. Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is updated each year by August 31st and is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll free 800-539- FUND (800-539-3863) or by accessing the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

**PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS**

Subject to the general supervision of the Board, the Adviser is responsible for making decisions with respect to the purchase and sale of portfolio securities on behalf of the Funds. The Adviser is also responsible for the implementation of those decisions, including the selection of broker/dealers to effect portfolio transactions, the negotiation of commissions, and the allocation of principal business and portfolio brokerage. Under the terms of the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser may delegate these responsibilities to a sub-adviser.

Transactions on stock exchanges involve the payment of brokerage commissions. In transactions on stock exchanges in the United States, these commissions are negotiated. Traditionally, commission rates have generally been fixed for trades on stock markets outside the United States. In recent years, however, an increasing number of overseas stock markets have adopted a system of negotiated commission rates. It is expected that equity securities will ordinarily be purchased in the primary markets for such securities, whether over-the-counter or listed, and that listed securities may be purchased in the over-the-counter market if such market is deemed the primary market. In the case of securities traded on the over-the- counter markets, there is generally no stated commission, but the price usually includes an undisclosed commission or markup. In underwritten offerings, the price includes a disclosed, fixed commission (the underwriter's concession) or discount.

Fixed income and convertible securities are bought and sold through broker-dealers acting on a principal basis. These trades are not charged a commission, but rather are marked up or marked down by the executing broker- dealer. The Adviser does not know the actual value of the markup/markdown. However, the Adviser attempts to ascertain whether the overall price of a security is reasonable through the use of competitive bids. Orders to buy or sell convertible securities and fixed income securities are placed on a competitive basis with a reasonable attempt made to obtain three competitive bids or offers. Exceptions are: (1) where the bid/ask spread is 5 basis points or less, provided the order is actually filled at the bid or better for sales and at the ask or better for purchases; (2) securities for which there are only one or two market makers; (3) block purchases considered relatively large; (4) swaps, a simultaneous sale of one security and purchase of another in substantially equal amounts for the same account, intended to take advantage of an aberration in a spread relationship, realize losses, etc.; and (5) purchases and/or sales of fixed income securities for which, typically, more than one offering of the same issue is unobtainable; subject to a judgment by the trader that the bid is competitive.

It is the policy of the Adviser to obtain the "best execution" of its clients' securities transactions. The Adviser strives to execute each client's securities transactions in such a manner that the client's total costs or proceeds in each transaction are the most favorable under the circumstances. Commission rates paid on securities transactions for client accounts must reflect comparative market rates.

In purchasing and selling each Fund's portfolio securities, it is the Adviser's policy to obtain quality execution at the most favorable prices through responsible broker/dealers and, in the case of agency transactions, at competitive commission rates where such rates are negotiable. In selecting broker/dealers to execute a Fund's portfolio transactions, consideration is given to such factors as the price of the security, the rate of the commission, the size and difficulty of the order, the reliability, integrity, financial condition, general execution and operational capabilities of competing brokers and dealers, their expertise in particular markets and the brokerage and research services they provide to the Adviser or the Funds. It is not the Adviser's practice to seek the lowest available commission rate where it is believed that a broker or dealer charging a higher commission rate would offer greater reliability or provide better price or execution.

As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Adviser may cause a Fund to pay broker- dealers that provide brokerage and research services a commission rate that exceeds the amount other broker/dealers would have charged for the transaction if the Adviser determines in good faith that the greater commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the executing broker/dealer viewed in terms of either a particular transaction or the Adviser's overall responsibilities to the Fund or to its other clients. The term "brokerage and research services" includes advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing, or selling securities, and the availability of securities or of purchasers or sellers of securities; furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts; and effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto such as clearance and settlement.

The brokerage and research services are in addition to and do not replace the services and research that the Adviser is required to perform and do not reduce the investment advisory fees payable to the Adviser by the Funds. Such information may be useful to the Adviser in serving the Funds and the Adviser's other clients. The Adviser also expects to share such information with certain of its affiliates, and such information is expected to be useful to such affiliates in serving their respective clients. The Adviser's use of such information for the benefit of its other clients and the use of such information by the Adviser's affiliates for the benefit of such affiliates' clients presents a conflict of interest insofar as the Funds will indirectly pay for services and research that do not solely benefit the Funds. Conversely, supplemental research information obtained by the placement of orders on behalf of other clients of the Adviser may be useful to the Adviser in carrying out its obligations to the Funds, which presents the same conflict of interest from the perspective of such other clients.

Brokerage commissions may never be used to compensate a third party for client referrals unless the client has directed such an arrangement. In addition, brokerage commissions may never be used to obtain research and/or services for the benefit of any employee or non-client entity.

The Adviser will make a good faith determination that the commissions paid are reasonable in relationship to the value of the services received and continually reviews the quality of execution it receives from and the commission rates charged by the brokers it uses to carry out trades for its clients. The Adviser will consider the full range and quality of a broker's services in placing brokerage including, but not limited to, the value of research provided, execution capability, commission rate, willingness and ability to commit capital and responsiveness. The lowest possible commission cost alone does not determine broker selection. The transaction that represents the best quality execution for a client account will be executed. Commission ranges and the actual commission paid for trades of listed stocks and over-the-counter stocks may vary depending on, but not limited to, the liquidity and volatility of the stock and services provided to the Adviser by the broker.

Some brokers executing trades for the Adviser's clients may, from time to time, receive liquidity rebates in connection with the routing of trades to Electronic Communications Networks. Since the Adviser is not a broker, however, it is ineligible to receive such rebates and does not obtain direct benefits for its clients from this broker practice.

Investment decisions for each Fund are made independently from those made for the other Funds or any other investment company or account managed by the Adviser. Such other investment companies or accounts may also invest in the same securities and may follow similar investment strategies as the Funds. The Adviser may combine transaction orders ("bunching" or "blocking" trades) for more than one client account where such action appears to be equitable and potentially advantageous for each account (e.g., for the purpose of reducing brokerage commissions or obtaining a more favorable transaction price.) The Adviser will aggregate transaction orders only if it believes that the aggregation is consistent with its duty to seek best execution for its clients and is consistent with the terms of investment advisory agreements with each client for whom trades are being aggregated. Both equity and fixed income securities may be aggregated. When making such a combination of transaction orders for a new issue or secondary market trade in an equity security, the Adviser adheres to the following objectives:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Fairness to clients both in the participation of execution of orders for their account, and in the allocation of orders for the accounts of more than one client.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Allocation of all orders in a timely and efficient manner.

In some rare cases, "bunching" or "blocking" trades may affect the price paid or received by a Fund or the size of the position obtained by the Fund in an adverse manner relative to the result that would have been obtained if only that particular Fund had participated in or been allocated such trades.

The aggregation of transactions for advisory accounts and proprietary accounts (including partnerships and other accounts in which the Adviser or its associated persons are partners or participants, and managed employee accounts) is permissible. However, no proprietary

account may be favored over any other participating account and such practice must be consistent with the Adviser's policies and procedures including its Code of Ethics.

Equity trade orders are executed based only on trade instructions received from portfolio managers by the trading desk. Portfolio managers may enter trades to meet the full target allocation immediately or may meet the allocation through moves in incremental blocks. Orders are processed on a "first-come, first-served" basis. At times, a rotation system may determine "first-come, first-served" treatment when the equity trading desk receives the same order for multiple accounts simultaneously. The Adviser will utilize a rotation whereby the Funds, even if aggregated with other orders, are in the first block(s) to trade within the rotation. To aggregate orders, the equity trading desk must determine that all accounts in the order will benefit. Any new trade that can be blocked with an existing open order may be added to the open order to form a larger block. The Adviser receives no additional compensation or remuneration of any kind as a result of the aggregation of trades. All accounts participating in a block execution receive the same execution price, an average share price, for securities purchased or sold on a trading day. Execution prices may not be carried overnight. Any portion of an order that remains unfilled at the end of a given day shall be rewritten (absent contrary instructions) on the following day as a new order. Accounts with trades executed the next day will receive a new daily average price to be determined at the end of the following day.

If the order is filled in its entirety, securities purchased in the aggregate transaction will be allocated among accounts participating in the trade in accordance with an Allocation Statement prepared at the time of order entry. If the order is partially filled, the securities will be allocated pro rata based on the Allocation Statement. Portfolio managers may allocate executed trades in a different manner than indicated on the Allocation Statement (e.g., non-pro rata) only if all client accounts receive fair and equitable treatment.

In some instances, such as trading in fixed income securities, it may not be practical to complete the Allocation Statement prior to the placement of the order. In that case, the trading desk will complete the Allocation Statement as soon as practicable, but no later than the end of the same business day on which the securities have been allocated to the trading desk by the broker.

Where the full amount of a block execution is not executed, the partial amount actually executed will be allocated on a pro rata basis whenever possible. The following execution methods may be used in place of a pro rata procedure: relative size allocations, security position weighting, priority for specialized accounts, or a special allocation based on compliance approval.

In making investment decisions for the Funds, the Adviser will not inquire or take into consideration whether an issuer of securities proposed for purchase or sale by a Fund is a customer of the Adviser, its parents, subsidiaries or affiliates, and, in dealing with their commercial customers, the Adviser, its parents, subsidiaries and affiliates will not inquire or take into consideration whether securities of such customers are held by the Funds. Portfolio securities will not be purchased from or sold to the Adviser, or the Distributor, or any affiliated person of any of them acting as principal, except to the extent permitted by rule or order of the SEC.

No brokerage commissions were paid by the Funds as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Affiliated Brokerage.** The Board has authorized the allocation of brokerage to affiliated broker-dealers on an agency basis to effect portfolio transactions. The Board has adopted procedures incorporating the standards of Rule 17e-1 under the 1940 Act, which require that the commission paid to affiliated broker-dealers must be "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received, or to be received, by other broker-dealers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities during a comparable period of time."

The Trust will not acquire portfolio securities issued by, make savings deposits in, or enter into repurchase or reverse repurchase agreements with the Adviser or its affiliates. From time to time, when determined by the Adviser or Sub- Adviser to be advantageous to the Funds, the Adviser may execute portfolio transactions through affiliated broker-dealers. All such transactions must be consistent with best execution and completed in accordance with procedures approved by the Board.

No payments were made to any affiliated brokers by the Funds as they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Allocation of Brokerage in Connection with Research Services.** During the last fiscal year ended June 30, the Adviser, through agreements or understandings with brokers, or otherwise through an internal allocation procedure, did not direct brokerage transactions of the Funds listed in this SAI to brokers due to research services provided.

**Securities of Regular Brokers or Dealers.** The SEC requires the Trust to provide certain information for those Funds that held securities of their regular brokers or dealers (or their parent companies) during the most recent fiscal year. The Funds did not hold any securities of their regular broker or dealers since they had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**Portfolio Turnover**

Each Fund may sell a portfolio investment soon after its acquisition if the Adviser believes that such a disposition is consistent with attaining the investment objective of the Fund. The Funds' portfolio turnover rates stated in the Prospectuses are calculated by dividing the lesser of each Fund's purchases or sales of portfolio securities for the year by the monthly average value of the portfolio securities. The calculation excludes all securities whose maturities, at the time of acquisition, were one year or less. Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of a Fund as a whole without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.

The turnover rate for a Fund will vary from year-to-year, and, depending on market conditions, could be greater in periods of unusual market movement and volatility. Transaction costs associated with turnover are borne directly by the Fund and, ultimately, by its shareholders. A high rate of portfolio turnover (generally, over 100% annually) generally will involve correspondingly greater transaction costs. High portfolio turnover may result in the realization of substantial net capital gains. To the extent short-term capital gains are realized, distributions attributable to such gains will be ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

Portfolio turnover rates are not presented as the Funds had not yet commenced operations prior to the date of this SAI.

**DIVIDENDS, CAPITAL GAINS AND DISTRIBUTIONS**

The Funds distribute substantially all of their net investment income and net capital gains, if any, to shareholders within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis to the extent required for the Funds to qualify for favorable federal tax treatment. The Funds ordinarily declare and pay dividends from their net investment income. Each Fund declares and pays capital gains annually. Ordinarily, dividends from net investment income, if any, are declared and paid monthly by each Fund.

The amount of distributions may vary from time to time depending on market conditions, the composition of a Fund's portfolio and expenses borne by a Fund. Dividends are calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day for shares.

For this purpose, the net income of a Fund, from the time of the immediately preceding determination thereof, shall consist of all interest income accrued on the portfolio assets of the Fund, dividend income, if any, income from securities loans, if any and realized capital gains and losses on the Fund's assets, less all expenses and liabilities of the Fund chargeable against income. Interest income shall include discount earned, including both original issue and market discount, on discount paper accrued ratably to the date of maturity. Expenses, including the compensation payable to the Adviser, are accrued each day. The expenses and liabilities of a Fund shall include those appropriately allocable to the Fund as well as a share of the general expenses and liabilities of the Trust in proportion to the Fund's share of the total net assets of the Trust.

**TAXES**

Information set forth in the Prospectuses that relates to federal income taxation is only a summary of certain key federal income tax considerations generally affecting purchasers of shares of the Funds. The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income and excise tax considerations generally affecting each Fund and its shareholders that are not described in the Prospectuses. No attempt has been made to present a complete explanation of the federal tax treatment of the Funds or the implications to shareholders and the discussions here and in each Fund's Prospectus are not intended as substitutes for careful tax planning. The following summary does not, except as otherwise set forth herein, discuss any state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences associated with an investment in the Fund. In addition, the following summary does not describe the tax consequences to an Authorized Participant from the creation and redemption of Creation Units. Accordingly, potential purchasers of shares of the Funds are urged to consult their tax advisers with specific reference to their own tax circumstances. Special tax considerations may apply to certain types of investors subject to special treatment under the Code, including, without limitation, financial institutions, insurance companies, pass-through entities (or investors therein), U.S. shareholders whose "functional currency" is not the U.S. dollar, tax-exempt organizations, dealers in securities or currencies, traders in securities or commodities that elect mark to market treatment, or persons that will hold shares as a position in a "straddle," "hedge" or as part of a "constructive sale" for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Unless otherwise noted, this discussion applies only to U.S. shareholders that hold shares as capital assets. A U.S. shareholder is an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, a U.S. corporation, a trust if it (a) is subject to the primary supervision of a court in the United States and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (b) has made a valid election to be treated as a U.S. person, or any estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of its source. Lastly, the tax discussion in the Prospectuses and this SAI is based on tax law in effect on the date of the Prospectuses and this SAI and it does not address any proposals to modify such tax laws; such laws and regulations may be changed by legislative, judicial, or administrative action, sometimes with retroactive effect.

**Qualification as a Regulated Investment Company**

Each Fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code. As a regulated investment company, a Fund is not subject to federal income tax on the portion of its net investment income (i.e., taxable interest, dividends and other taxable ordinary income, net of expenses) and net capital gain (i.e., the excess of long-term capital gains over short-term capital losses) that it distributes to shareholders, provided that it distributes at least the sum of 90% of its investment company taxable income (i.e., net investment income and the excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss) and 90% of its tax-exempt income (net of expenses allocable thereto) for the taxable year (the "Distribution Requirement") and satisfies certain other requirements of the Code that are described below. Distributions by a Fund made during the taxable year or, under specified circumstances, within twelve months after the close of the taxable year, will be considered distributions of income and gains for the taxable year and will therefore count toward satisfaction of the Distribution Requirement.

If a Fund has a net capital loss (i.e., an excess of capital losses over capital gains), the amount thereof may be carried forward and would retain its character as either a short-term capital loss or a long-term capital loss that can be used to offset such capital gains in future years.

There is no limitation on the number of years to which net capital losses may be carried. However, the amount of capital loss that can be carried forward and used in any single year is subject to an annual limitation if there is a more than 50% "change in ownership" of the Fund.

In addition to satisfying the Distribution Requirement, a regulated investment company must derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, certain payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock or securities or foreign currencies (to the extent such currency gains are directly related to the regulated investment company's principal business of investing in stock or securities), other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities, or currencies and net income from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (the "Income Requirement").

A regulated investment company, in determining its investment company taxable income and net capital gain (i.e., the excess of net long- term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) for any taxable year, may elect (unless it has made a taxable year election for excise tax purposes as discussed below, in which case different rules apply) to treat all or any part of certain net capital losses incurred after October 31 of a taxable year, and certain net ordinary losses incurred after October 31 or December 31 of a taxable year, as if they had been incurred in the succeeding taxable year.

In addition to satisfying the Income and Distribution Requirements described above, a Fund must satisfy an asset diversification test in order to qualify as a regulated investment company. Under this test, at the close of each quarter of a Fund's taxable year, at least 50% of the value of the Fund's assets must consist of cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other regulated investment companies and securities of other issuers (provided that, with respect to each issuer, the Fund has not invested more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets in securities of each such issuer and the Fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of each such issuer), and no more than 25% of the value of its total assets may be invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies), two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses (other than securities of other regulated investment companies), or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships. Generally, an option (call or put) with respect to a security is treated as issued by the issuer of the security, not the issuer of the option. For purposes of asset diversification testing, obligations issued or guaranteed by certain agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government, such as the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, the FFCB, FHLB, FHLMC, FNMA, GNMA, and SLMA, are treated as U.S. government securities.

Certain Funds may invest in futures contracts, options on futures contracts, and other similar investments that provide exposure to commodities such as gold or other precious metals, energy, or other commodities. Income or gain, if any, from such investments may not be qualifying income for purposes of the Income Requirements and a Fund's investments in such instruments may not be treated as an investment in a "security" for purposes of the asset diversification test.

If for any taxable year a Fund does not qualify as a regulated investment company after taking into account cure provisions available for certain failures to so qualify (certain of which would result in the imposition of a tax on the Fund), all of its taxable income (including its net capital gain) will be subject to tax at the regular corporate rate without any deduction for distributions to shareholders and such distributions will be taxable to the shareholders as dividends to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Such distributions may be eligible for: (i) the dividends-received deduction, in the case of corporate shareholders; or (ii) treatment as "qualified dividend income," in the case of non-corporate shareholders. In addition, to qualify again to be taxed as a regulated investment company in a subsequent year, the Fund would be required to distribute to shareholders its earnings and profits attributable to non- qualifying years. Further, if the Fund failed to qualify for a period greater than two taxable years, then, in order to qualify as a regulated investment company in a subsequent year, the Fund would be required to elect to recognize and pay tax on any net built-in gain (i.e., the excess of aggregate gain, including items of income, over aggregate loss that would have been realized if the Fund had been liquidated) or, alternatively, be subject to taxation on such built-in gain recognized for a period of five years.

**Excise Tax on Regulated Investment Companies**

A 4% non-deductible excise tax is imposed on a regulated investment company that fails to distribute in each calendar year an amount equal to at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary taxable income for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ended on October 31 of such calendar year (or, with respect to capital gain net income, at the election of a regulated investment company having a taxable year ending November 30 or December 31, for its taxable year (a "taxable year election")). Tax- exempt interest on municipal obligations is not subject to the excise tax. The balance of such income must be distributed during the next calendar year. For the foregoing purposes, any ordinary income or capital gain net income retained by a regulated investment company that is subject to corporate income tax will be treated as having been distributed during the taxable year ending in such calendar year.

Each Fund intends to make sufficient distributions or deemed distributions of its ordinary taxable income and capital gain net income prior to the end of each calendar year to avoid liability for the excise tax. However, investors should note that a Fund may in certain circumstances be required to liquidate portfolio investments to make sufficient distributions to avoid excise tax liability.

**Fund Investments**

In general, gain or loss recognized by a Fund on the disposition of an asset will be a capital gain or loss. In addition, gain will be recognized as a result of certain constructive sales, including short sales "against the box." However, gain recognized on the disposition of a debt obligation (including municipal obligations) purchased by a Fund at a market discount (generally, at a price less than its principal amount) will be treated as ordinary income to the extent of the portion of the market discount that accrued while the Fund held the debt obligation. In addition, under the rules of Code Section 988, gain or loss recognized on the disposition of a debt obligation denominated in a foreign currency or an option with respect thereto, and gain or loss recognized on the disposition of a foreign currency forward contract, futures contract, option or similar financial instrument, or of foreign currency itself, except for regulated futures contracts or non-equity options subject to Code Section 1256 (unless a Fund elects otherwise), generally will be treated as ordinary income or loss to the extent attributable to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

Certain transactions that may be engaged in by a Fund (such as regulated futures contracts, certain foreign currency contracts and options on stock indexes and futures contracts) will be subject to special tax treatment as "Section 1256 Contracts." Section 1256 Contracts are treated as if they are sold for their fair market value on the last business day of the taxable year, even though a taxpayer's obligations (or rights) under such Section 1256 Contracts have not terminated (by delivery, exercise, entering into a closing transaction, or otherwise) as of such date. Any gain or loss recognized as a consequence of the year-end deemed disposition of Section 1256 Contracts is taken into account for the taxable year together with any other gain or loss that was recognized previously upon the termination of Section 1256 Contracts during that taxable year. Any capital gain or loss for the taxable year with respect to Section 1256 Contracts (including any capital gain or loss arising as a consequence of the year-end deemed sale of such Section 1256 Contracts) generally is treated as 60% long- term capital gain or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. A Fund, however, may elect not to have this special tax treatment apply to Section 1256 Contracts that are part of a "mixed straddle" with other investments of the Fund that are not Section 1256 Contracts.

A Fund may enter into notional principal contracts, including interest rate swaps, caps, floors, and collars. Treasury Regulations provide, in general, that the net income or net deduction from a notional principal contract for a taxable year is included in or deducted from gross income for that taxable year. The net income or deduction from a notional principal contract for a taxable year equals the total of all of the periodic payments (generally, payments that are payable or receivable at fixed periodic intervals of one year or less during the entire term of the contract) that are recognized from that contract for the taxable year, all of the non-periodic payments (including premiums for caps, floors and collars) that are recognized from that contract for the taxable year and any termination payments that are recognized from that contract for the taxable year. No portion of a payment by a party to a notional principal contract is recognized prior to the first year to which any portion of a payment by the counterparty relates. A periodic payment is recognized ratably over the period to which it relates. In general, a non-periodic payment must be recognized over the term of the notional principal contract in a manner that reflects the economic substance of the contract. A non-periodic payment that relates to an interest rate swap, cap, floor, or collar is recognized over the term of the contract by allocating it in accordance with the values of a series of cash-settled forward or option contracts that reflect the specified index and notional principal amount upon which the notional principal contract is based (or under an alternative method provided in Treasury Regulations). A termination payment is recognized in the year the notional principal contract is extinguished, assigned, or terminated (i.e., in the year the termination payment is made).

Income from options on individual securities written by a Fund will not be recognized by the Fund for tax purposes until an option is exercised or lapses. Any gain recognized by a Fund on the lapse of, or any gain or loss recognized by a Fund from a closing transaction with respect to, an option written by the Fund will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. If the Fund enters into a closing transaction, the difference between the premiums received and the amount paid by the Fund to close out its position will generally be treated as short- term capital gain or loss. If an option written by the Fund is exercised, thereby requiring the Fund to sell the underlying security, the premium will increase the amount realized upon the sale of the security, and the character of any gain on such sale of the underlying security as short-term or long-term capital gain will depend on the holding period of the Fund in the underlying security. Because the Fund will not have control over the exercise of the options it writes, such exercises or other required sales of the underlying securities may cause the Fund to realize gains or losses at inopportune times.

A Fund may purchase securities of certain foreign investment funds or trusts that constitute passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs") for federal income tax purposes. If a Fund invests in a PFIC, it has three separate options. First, it may elect to treat the PFIC as a qualified electing fund (a "QEF"), in which event the Fund will each year have ordinary income equal to its pro rata share of the PFIC's ordinary earnings for the year and long-term capital gain equal to its pro rata share of the PFIC's net capital gain for the year, regardless of whether the Fund receives distributions of any such ordinary earnings or capital gains from the PFIC, and such amounts would be subject to the 90% and excise tax distribution requirements described above. In order to make this election with respect to a PFIC in which it invests, a Fund must obtain certain information from the PFIC on an annual basis, which the PFIC may be unwilling or unable to provide. Second, a Fund that invests in marketable stock of a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election with respect to such stock. Pursuant to such election, the Fund will include as ordinary income any excess of the fair market value of such stock at the close of any taxable year over the Fund's adjusted tax basis in the stock. If the adjusted tax basis of the PFIC stock exceeds the fair market value of the stock at the end of a given taxable year, such excess will be deductible as ordinary loss in an amount equal to the lesser of the amount of such excess or the net mark-to-market gains on the stock that the Fund included in income in previous years. Solely for purposes of Code Sections 1291 through 1298, the Fund's holding period with respect to its PFIC stock subject to the election will commence on the first day of the

first taxable year beginning after the last taxable year for which the mark-to-market election applied. If the Fund makes the mark-to- market election in the first taxable year it holds PFIC stock, it will not incur the tax described below under the third option.

Finally, if a Fund does not elect to treat the PFIC as a QEF and does not make a mark-to-market election, then, in general, (1) any gain recognized by the Fund upon the sale or other disposition of its interest in the PFIC or any excess distribution received by the Fund from the PFIC will be allocated ratably over the Fund's holding period of its interest in the PFIC stock, (2) the portion of such gain or excess distribution so allocated to the year in which the gain is recognized or the excess distribution is received shall be included in the Fund's gross income for such year as ordinary income (and the distribution of such portion by the Fund to shareholders will be taxable as a dividend, but such portion will not be subject to tax at the Fund level), (3) the Fund shall be liable for tax on the portions of such gain or excess distribution so allocated to prior years in an amount equal to, for each such prior year, (i) the amount of gain or excess distribution allocated to such prior year multiplied by the highest corporate tax rate in effect for such prior year, plus (ii) interest on the amount determined under clause (i) for the period from the due date for filing a return for such prior year until the date for filing a return for the year in which the gain is recognized or the excess distribution is received, at the rates and methods applicable to underpayments of tax for such period, and (4) the distribution by the Fund to its shareholders of the portions of such gain or excess distribution so allocated to prior years (net of the tax payable by the Fund thereon) will be taxable to the shareholders as a dividend.

Some of the debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by the Fund may be treated as debt securities that are issued originally at a discount. Generally, the amount of the original issue discount ("OID") is treated as interest income and is included in income over the term of the debt security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, usually when the debt security matures. A portion of the OID includable in income with respect to certain high-yield corporate debt securities (including certain pay-in-kind securities) may be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Some of the debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by the Fund in the secondary market may be treated as having market discount. Generally, any gain recognized on the disposition of, and any partial payment of principal on, a debt security having market discount is treated as ordinary income to the extent the gain, or principal payment, does not exceed the "accrued market discount" on such debt security. Market discount generally accrues in equal daily installments. The Fund may make one or more of the elections applicable to debt securities having market discount, which could affect the character and timing of recognition of income.

A Fund that holds the foregoing kinds of securities may be required to pay out as an income distribution each year an amount, which is greater than the total amount of cash interest the Fund actually received. Such distributions may be made from the cash assets of the Fund or by liquidation of portfolio securities, if necessary (including when it is not advantageous to do so). The Fund may realize gains or losses from such liquidations. In the event the Fund realizes net capital gains from such transactions, its shareholders may receive a larger capital gain distribution, if any, than they would in the absence of such transactions.

Gain or loss on the sale of securities by the Fund will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the securities have been held by the Fund for more than one year. Gain or loss on the sale of securities held for one year or less will be short-term capital gain or loss.

The Fund may invest in preferred securities or other securities the federal income tax treatment of which may not be clear or may be subject to recharacterization by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"). To the extent the tax treatment of such securities or the income from such securities differs from the tax treatment expected by the Fund, it could affect the timing or character of income recognized by the Fund, potentially requiring the Fund to purchase or sell securities, or otherwise change its portfolio, in order to comply with the tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies under the Code.

The Fund may invest a portion of its net assets in below investment grade securities. Investments in these types of securities may present special tax issues for the Fund. Federal income tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when the Fund may cease to accrue interest, OID or market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities, how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and interest and whether modifications or exchanges of debt obligations in a bankruptcy or workout context are taxable. These and other issues could affect the Fund's ability to distribute sufficient income to preserve its status as a regulated investment company or to avoid the imposition of U.S. federal income or excise tax.

**Fund Distributions**

Each Fund anticipates distributing substantially all of its investment company taxable income for each taxable year. Such distributions will be treated as dividends for federal income tax purposes and may be taxable to non-corporate shareholders as long-term capital gains (a "qualified dividend"), provided that certain requirements, as discussed below, are met. Dividends received by corporate shareholders and dividends that do not constitute qualified dividends are taxable as ordinary income. The portion of dividends received from a Fund that are qualified dividends generally will be determined on a look-through basis. If the aggregate qualified dividends received by the Fund are less than 95% of the Fund's gross income (as specially computed), the portion of dividends received from the Fund that constitute qualified dividends will be reported by the Fund and cannot exceed the ratio that the qualified dividends received by the Fund bears to its gross income. If the aggregate qualified dividends received by the Fund equal at least 95% of its gross income, then all of the dividends received from the Fund will constitute qualified dividends.

No dividend will constitute a qualified dividend (1) if it has been paid with respect to any share of stock that the Fund has held for less than 61 days (91 days in the case of certain preferred stock) during the 121-day period (181-day period in the case of certain preferred stock) beginning on the date that is 60 days (90 days in the case of certain preferred stock) before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend, excluding for this purpose, under the rules of Code Section 246(c), any period during which the Fund has an option to sell, is under a contractual obligation to sell, has made and not closed a short sale of, is the grantor of an option to buy, or has otherwise diminished its risk of loss by holding other positions with respect to, such (or substantially identical) stock; (2) if the non-corporate shareholder fails to meet the holding period requirements set forth in (1) with respect to its shares in the Fund to which the dividend is attributable; or (3) to the extent that the Fund (or shareholder, as applicable) is under an obligation (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in property substantially similar or related to stock with respect to which an otherwise qualified dividend is paid.

Qualified dividends are, in general, dividends from taxable U.S. corporations and certain foreign corporations. Dividends from a foreign corporation may be qualified dividends if (1) the stock with respect to which the dividend is paid is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, (2) the foreign corporation is incorporated in a possession of the United States, or (3) the foreign corporation is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States that includes an exchange of information program (and that the Treasury Department determines to be satisfactory for these purposes). The Treasury Department has issued guidance identifying which treaties are satisfactory for these purposes. Notwithstanding the above, dividends received from a foreign corporation that for the taxable year of the corporation in which the dividend was paid, or the preceding taxable year, is a PFIC will not constitute qualified dividends. Substitute payments received by a Fund representing dividends paid on securities loaned out by the Fund will not be considered qualified dividend income, and distributions by the Fund of such substitute payments will not be eligible to be treated as qualified dividends.

Distributions attributable to dividends received by a Fund from domestic corporations will qualify for the 50% dividends-received deduction ("DRD") for corporate shareholders only to the extent discussed below. Distributions attributable to dividends paid by a foreign corporation, a REIT or a corporation exempt from tax generally do not qualify for the DRD. Substitute payments received by a Fund representing dividends paid on securities loaned out by the Fund will not be treated as dividends eligible for the dividends paid deduction.

Ordinary income dividends paid by a Fund with respect to a taxable year may qualify for the 50% DRD generally available to corporations (other than corporations such as S corporations, which are not eligible for the deduction because of their special characteristics, and other than for purposes of special taxes such as the accumulated earnings tax and the personal holding company tax) to the extent of the amount of dividends received by the Fund from domestic corporations for the taxable year. No DRD will be allowed with respect to any dividend

(1)if it has been received with respect to any share of stock that the Fund has held for less than 46 days (91 days in the case of certain preferred stock) during the 91-day period (181-day period in the case of certain preferred stock) beginning on the date that is 45 days (90 days in the case of certain preferred stock) before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend, excluding for this purpose under the rules of Code Section 246(c) any period during which the Fund has an option to sell, is under a contractual obligation to sell, has made and not closed a short sale of, is the grantor of an option to buy, or has otherwise diminished its risk of loss by holding other positions with respect to, such (or substantially identical) stock; (2) to the extent that the Fund is under an obligation (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property; or (3) to the extent the stock on which the dividend is paid is treated as debt-financed under the rules of Code Section 246A. Moreover, the DRD for a corporate shareholder may be disallowed or reduced (1) if the corporate shareholder fails to satisfy the foregoing requirements with respect to its shares of the Fund or (2) by application of Code Section 246(b), which in general limits the DRD to 50% of the shareholder's taxable income (determined without regard to the DRD and certain other items).

If a Fund receives a dividend (other than a capital gain dividend) in respect of any share of REIT stock, then Fund dividends attributable to that REIT dividend income (as reduced by certain Fund expenses) may be reported by the Fund as eligible for the 20% deduction for "qualified REIT dividends" generally available to non-corporate shareholders under the Code. A dividend from a Fund may not be treated as a qualified REIT dividend (1) if it has been paid with respect to any share of REIT stock that the Fund has held for less than 46 days during the 91-day period beginning on the date that is 45 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend, excluding for this purpose, under the rules of Code Section 246(c), any period during which the Fund has an option to sell, is under a contractual obligation to sell, has made and not closed a short sale of, is the grantor of an option to buy, or has otherwise diminished its risk of loss by holding other positions with respect to, such (or substantially identical) stock; (2) if the non-corporate shareholder fails to meet the holding period requirements set forth in (1) with respect to its shares in the Fund to which the dividend is attributable; or (3) to the extent that the Fund (or shareholder, as applicable) is under an obligation (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in property substantially similar or related to stock with respect to which an otherwise qualified dividend is paid. Substitute payments received by a Fund representing qualified REIT dividends paid on REIT securities loaned out by the Fund will not be considered qualified REIT dividends, and distributions by the Fund of such substitute payments will not be eligible for the 20% deduction currently available for ordinary REIT dividends paid to non-corporate shareholders.

A Fund may either retain or distribute to shareholders its net capital gain for each taxable year. Each Fund currently intends to distribute any such amounts. If net capital gain is distributed and reported as a capital gain dividend, it will be taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gain, regardless of the length of time the shareholder has held his shares or whether such gain was recognized by the Fund prior to

the date on which the shareholder acquired his shares. The Code provides, however, that under certain conditions none of the capital gain recognized upon a Fund's disposition of domestic qualified "small business" stock will be subject to tax (with certain limitations).

Conversely, if a Fund elects to retain its net capital gain, the Fund will be subject to tax thereon (except to the extent of any available capital loss carryovers) at the corporate tax rates. If a Fund elects to retain its net capital gain, it is expected that the Fund also will elect to have shareholders of record on the last day of its taxable year treated as if each received a distribution of his pro rata share of such gain, with the result that each shareholder will be required to report his pro rata share of such gain on his tax return as long-term capital gain, will receive a refundable tax credit for his pro rata share of tax paid by the Fund on the gain, and will increase the tax basis for his shares by an amount equal to the deemed distribution less the tax credit. Organizations or persons not subject to U.S. federal income tax on such capital gains will be entitled to a refund of their pro rata share of such taxes paid by the Fund upon filing appropriate returns or claims for refund with the IRS.

Distributions by a Fund in excess of its current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of (and in reduction of) the shareholder's tax basis in his shares; any excess will be treated as gain from the sale of his shares, as discussed below.

Distributions by a Fund will be treated in the manner described above regardless of whether such distributions are paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Fund (if that option is available). Distributions reinvested in additional shares of the Fund through the means of a dividend reinvestment service, if available, will be taxable to shareholders acquiring the additional shares to the same extent as if such distributions had been received in cash. In addition, if the NAV at the time a shareholder purchases shares of a Fund reflects undistributed net investment income, recognized net capital gain, or unrealized appreciation in the value of the assets of the Fund, distributions of such amounts will be taxable to the shareholder in the manner described above, although such distributions economically constitute a return of capital to the shareholder. The amount of undistributed income and gain the Fund has at the time a shareholder purchases or sells shares can impact the amount of the shareholder's gain or loss on the sale and the treatment and tax rates applicable to the shareholder's return on its investment in the Fund. Before investing you may want to consult your tax adviser.

Ordinarily, shareholders are required to take distributions by a Fund into account in the year in which the distributions are made. However, dividends declared in October, November, or December of any year and payable to shareholders of record on a specified date in such a month will be deemed to have been received by the shareholders (and paid by a Fund) on December 31 of such calendar year if such dividends are actually paid in January of the following year. In addition, certain other distributions made after the close of the Fund's taxable year may be "spilled back" and treated as paid by the Fund (except for the purposes of the 4% nondeductible excise tax) during such taxable year. In such case, a shareholder will be treated as having received such dividends in the taxable year in which the distributions were actually made. Shareholders will be advised annually as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of distributions made (or deemed made) during the year.

Certain U.S. shareholders, including individuals and estates and trusts, are subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a portion of their "net investment income," which should include dividends from a Fund and net gains from the disposition of shares of a Fund. Exempt-interest dividends from the Funds generally are not included in net investment income for purposes of this tax. U.S. shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisers regarding the implications of the additional Medicare tax resulting from an investment in a Fund.

Each Fund will be required in certain cases to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury backup withholding taxes at the applicable rate on distributions paid to any shareholder (1) who has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) who is subject to backup withholding for failure to report the receipt of interest or dividend income properly, or (3) who has failed to certify to the Fund that it is not subject to backup withholding or is an "exempt recipient" (such as a corporation). Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or a credit against a shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability provided the required information is furnished to the IRS.

If a Fund invests in underlying regulated investment companies, distributions of short-term capital gains by such underlying funds would be recognized as ordinary income by the Fund and would not be able to be offset by the Fund's capital losses or capital loss carryforwards (if any). Losses of an underlying fund would not offset any income or gain of the Fund. Losses realized by a Fund on the sale of shares of underlying funds may be indefinitely or permanently deferred under the wash sale rules. Each of these effects is caused by the Fund's investment in the underlying funds and may result in tax distributions to Fund shareholders being of higher magnitudes.

**Sale of Shares**

A shareholder will generally recognize gain or loss on the sale of shares of a Fund in an amount equal to the difference between the proceeds of the sale the shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the shares. All or a portion of any loss may be disallowed if the shareholder purchases other shares of the same Fund within 30 days before or after the sale. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be increased to reflect the disallowed loss. In general, any gain or loss arising from (or treated as arising from) the sale of shares of a Fund will be considered capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the shares were held for longer than one year. However, any capital loss arising from the sale of shares held for six months or less will be disallowed to the extent of the amount of exempt-interest dividends received on such shares (unless the loss is with respect to shares of a Fund for which the holding period began after December 22, 2010, and the Fund declares exempt-interest dividends on a daily basis in an amount equal to at least 90% of its net tax-exempt interest

and distributes such dividends at least monthly) and (to the extent not disallowed) will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the amount of capital gain dividends received on such shares. For these purposes, the special holding period rules of Code Section 246(c) (discussed above in connection with qualified dividends, qualified REIT dividends and the dividends-received deduction) generally will apply in determining the holding period of shares. Capital losses in any year are deductible only to the extent of capital gains plus, in the case of a noncorporate taxpayer, $3,000 of ordinary income.

**Tax Shelter and Other Reporting Requirements**

If a shareholder realizes a loss on the disposition of shares of a Fund of at least $2 million in any single taxable year or at least $4 million in any combination of taxable years for an individual shareholder, or at least $10 million in any single taxable year or at least $20 million in any combination of taxable years for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers to determine the applicability of this requirement in light of their individual circumstances.

**Foreign Taxation**

Income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax treaties and conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. If more than 50% of the value of a Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may be able to elect to "pass through" to the Fund's shareholders the amount of eligible foreign income and similar taxes paid by the Fund. If this election is made, a shareholder generally subject to tax will be required to include in gross income (in addition to taxable dividends actually received) his or her pro rata share of the foreign taxes paid by the Fund, and may be entitled either to deduct (as an itemized deduction) his or her pro rata share of foreign taxes in computing his or her taxable income or to use it as a foreign tax credit against his or her U.S. federal income tax liability, subject to certain limitations. In particular, a shareholder must hold his or her shares (without protection from risk of loss) on the ex-dividend date and for at least 15 more days during the 30-day period surrounding the ex-dividend date to be eligible to claim a foreign tax credit with respect to a gain dividend. No deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by a non-corporate shareholder who does not itemize deductions. Each shareholder will be notified days after the close of the Fund's taxable year whether the foreign taxes paid by the Fund will "pass through" for that year.

Generally, a credit for foreign taxes is subject to the limitation that it may not exceed the shareholder's U.S. tax attributable to his or her total foreign source taxable income. For this purpose, if the pass-through election is made, the source of the Fund's income will flow through to shareholders of the Fund. With respect to a Fund, gains from the sale of securities will be treated as derived from U.S. sources and certain currency fluctuation gains, including fluctuation gains from foreign currency-denominated debt securities, receivables and payables will be treated as ordinary income derived from U.S. sources. The limitation on the foreign tax credit is applied separately to foreign source passive income, and to certain other types of income. A shareholder may be unable to claim a credit for the full amount of his or her proportionate share of the foreign taxes paid by the Fund.

**Foreign Shareholders**

Taxation of a shareholder who, as to the United States, is a nonresident alien individual or foreign corporation ("foreign shareholder"), depends on whether the income from a Fund is "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by such shareholder.

If the income from a Fund is not effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business carried on by a foreign shareholder, subject to the discussion below with respect to "interest-related dividends" and "short-term capital gain dividends," ordinary income dividends (including dividends that would otherwise be treated as qualified dividends to an applicable non-foreign shareholder) paid to such foreign shareholder would be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax (or lower applicable treaty rate) upon the gross amount of the dividend. Except as described below, such foreign shareholder would generally be exempt from U.S. federal income tax, including withholding tax, on gains realized on the sale of shares of a Fund or capital gain dividends unless the foreign shareholder is a nonresident alien individual present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the calendar year.

U.S. withholding tax generally does not apply to amounts properly designated by a Fund as an "interest-related dividend" or a "short- term capital gain dividend." The aggregate amount treated as an interest-related dividend for a year is limited to the Fund's qualified net interest income for the year, which is the excess of the sum of the Fund's qualified interest income (generally, its U.S.-source interest income) over the deductions properly allocable to such income. The aggregate amount treated as a "short-term capital gain dividend" is limited to the excess of the Fund's net short-term capital gain over its net long-term capital loss. In order to qualify for this exemption from withholding, a foreign investor needs to comply with applicable certification requirements relating to its non-U.S. status (including, in general, furnishing an IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E or substitute Form). In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if the Fund reported the payment as qualified net interest income or qualified short-term capital gain. Foreign investors should contact their intermediaries with respect to the application of these rules to their accounts.

If the income from a Fund is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business carried on by a foreign shareholder, then any dividends, and any gains realized upon the sale of shares of the Fund will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the rates applicable to U.S. citizens or domestic corporations, and, if the foreign shareholder is a corporation, the shareholder may be subject to an additional "branch profits tax" imposed at the rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate).

In the case of foreign noncorporate shareholders, a Fund may be required to withhold backup withholding taxes at the applicable rate on distributions that are otherwise exempt from withholding tax (or taxable at a reduced treaty rate) unless such shareholders furnish the Fund with proper notification of their foreign status.

Special rules may apply to a foreign shareholder receiving a Fund distribution if at least 50% of the Fund's assets consist of U.S. real property interests, including certain REITs and U.S. real property holding corporations (as defined in the Code and Treasury Regulations), at any time during the five-year period ending on the date of the distribution. Fund distributions that are attributable to gain from the disposition of a U.S. real property interest will be taxable as ordinary dividends and subject to withholding at a 30% or lower treaty rate if the foreign shareholder held no more than 5% of the Fund's shares at all times during the one-year period ending on the date of the distribution. If the foreign shareholder held at least 5% of the Fund's shares at any time during the one-year testing period, the distribution would be treated as income effectively connected with a trade or business within the U.S. and the foreign shareholder would be subject to withholding tax at a rate of 21% and would generally be required to file a U.S. federal income tax return. The distribution also may be subject to a 30% branch profits tax if the foreign shareholder is a corporation. Similar consequences would generally apply to a foreign shareholder's gain on the sale of Fund shares unless the Fund is domestically controlled (meaning that more than 50% of the value of the Fund's shares is held by U.S. shareholders at all times during the five-year period ending on the date of sale) or the foreign shareholder owns no more than 5% of the Fund's shares at all times during the five-year period ending on the date of sale. Finally, a domestically controlled Fund may be required to recognize a portion of its gain on the in-kind distribution of certain U.S. real property interests. A foreign shareholder may also be subject to certain "wash sale" rules to prevent the avoidance of the tax filing and payment obligations discussed above through the sale and repurchase of Fund shares. Foreign shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.

Under the "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act" and existing guidance thereunder, commonly known as "FATCA," a 30% withholding tax on dividends paid by the Fund generally applies if paid to a foreign entity unless: (i) if the foreign entity is a "foreign financial institution" as defined under FATCA, the foreign entity undertakes certain due diligence, reporting, withholding, and certification obligations, (ii) if the foreign entity is not a "foreign financial institution," it identifies certain of its U.S. investors, or (iii) the foreign entity is otherwise excepted under FATCA. If withholding is required under FATCA on a payment related to any Fund distribution, investors that otherwise would not be subject to withholding (or that otherwise would be entitled to a reduced rate of withholding) on such payment generally will be required to seek a refund or credit from the IRS to obtain the benefit of such exemption or reduction. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country, or future Treasury regulations or other guidance, may modify the foregoing requirements. The Funds will not pay any additional amounts in respect of amounts withheld under FATCA. Each investor should consult its tax adviser regarding the effect of FATCA based on its individual circumstances.

The tax consequences to a foreign shareholder entitled to claim the benefits of an applicable tax treaty might be different from those described herein. Foreign shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in a Fund, including the applicability of foreign taxes.

**Cost Basis Reporting**

A Fund is generally required by law to report to shareholders and the IRS on Form 1099-B "cost basis" information for shares of the Fund acquired on or after January 1, 2012, and sold or redeemed after that date. Upon a disposition of such shares, a Fund will be required to report the adjusted cost basis, the gross proceeds from the disposition, and the character of realized gains or losses attributable to such shares. These requirements do not apply to investments through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement plan. The "cost basis" of a share is generally its purchase price adjusted for returns of capital, and other corporate actions. "Cost basis" is used to determine whether a sale or other disposition of the shares results in a gain or loss.

The Fund will permit shareholders to elect among several IRS-accepted cost basis methods to determine the cost basis in their shares. If a shareholder does not affirmatively elect a cost basis method, then the Fund's default cost basis calculation method, which is currently the average cost method, will be applied to their account. The cost basis method elected or applied may not be changed after the settlement date of a sale of shares.

If a shareholder holds shares through a broker, the shareholder should contact that broker with respect to the reporting of cost basis information.

Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding specific questions with respect to the application of the new cost basis reporting rules and, in particular, which cost basis calculation method to elect.

**Effect of Future Legislation, Foreign, State, and Local Tax Considerations**

The foregoing general discussion of U.S. federal income and excise tax consequences is based on the Code and the Treasury 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 herein and any such changes or decisions may have a retroactive effect.

Rules of foreign, state, and local taxation of ordinary income dividends, qualified dividends, exempt-interest dividends and capital gain dividends from regulated investment companies may differ from the rules for U.S. federal income taxation described above. Shareholders

are urged to consult their tax advisers as to the consequences of these and other foreign, state and local tax rules affecting an investment in a Fund.

**ADDITIONAL INFORMATION**

**Description of Shares**

As a Delaware statutory trust, the Trust need not hold regular annual shareholder meetings and, in the normal course, does not expect to hold such meetings. The Trust, however, must hold shareholder meetings for such purposes as, for example: (1) approving certain agreements as required by the 1940 Act; (2) changing fundamental investment objectives, policies, and restrictions of the Funds; and (3) filling vacancies on the Board of Trustees of the Trust in the event that less than a majority of the Trustees were elected by shareholders. Under the Trust's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated February 26, 2019 ("Declaration of Trust"), each Trustee will continue in office until the termination of the Trust or his/her earlier death, incapacity, resignation, or removal. Vacancies may be filled by a majority of the remaining Trustees, except insofar as the 1940 Act may require the election by shareholders. Therefore, the Trust expects that there will be no meetings of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees unless and until such time as less than a majority of the Trustees holding office have been elected by shareholders or unless matters arise requiring a vote of shareholders under the Declaration of Trust or the 1940 Act. At such time, the Trustees then in office will call a shareholders meeting. In addition, holders of record of not less than two-thirds of the outstanding shares of the Trust may remove a Trustee from office by a vote cast in person or by proxy at a shareholder meeting called for that purpose at the request of holders of 10% or more of the outstanding shares of the Trust. The Funds have the obligation to assist in such shareholder communications. Except as set forth above, Trustees will continue in office and may appoint successor Trustees.

The Declaration of Trust authorizes the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of shares, which are units of beneficial interest, with no par value. The Declaration of Trust authorizes the Trustees to divide or re-divide any unissued shares of the Trust into one or more additional series by setting or changing in any one or more aspects their respective preferences, conversion, or other rights, voting power, restrictions, limitations as to dividends, qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption.

Shares have no subscription or preemptive rights and only such conversion or exchange rights as the Trustees may grant in their discretion. When issued for payment as described in the Prospectus and this SAI, the Trust's shares will be fully paid and non-assessable. In the event of a liquidation or dissolution of the Trust, shares of a Fund are entitled to receive the assets available for distribution belonging to the Fund, and a proportionate distribution, based upon the relative asset values of the respective series, of any general assets not belonging to any particular series that are available for distribution. The Board may classify and reclassify the shares of a Fund into classes of shares at a future date.

Fund shareholders are entitled to one vote per share (with proportional voting for fractional shares) on such matters as shareholders are entitled to vote ("share-based voting"). Alternatively (except where the 1940 Act requires share-based voting), the Trustees in their discretion may determine that shareholders are entitled to one vote per dollar of NAV (with proportional voting for fractional dollar amounts). Shareholders of all series and classes will vote together as a single class on all matters except (1) when required by the 1940 Act or when the Trustees have determined that a matter affects one or more series or classes materially differently, shares shall be voted by individual series or class; and (2) when the Trustees have determined that the matter affects only the interests of a particular series or class, then only shareholders of such series or class shall be entitled to vote thereon.

There normally will be no meetings of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees unless and until such time as less than a majority of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders, at which time the Trustees then in office will call a shareholders' meeting for the election of Trustees. A meeting shall be held for such purpose upon the written request of the holders of not less than one-third of the outstanding shares. Upon written request by ten or more shareholders of record meeting the qualifications of Section 16(c) of the 1940 Act, (i.e., persons who have been shareholders of record for at least six months, and who hold shares having an NAV of at least $25,000 or constituting 1% of the outstanding shares, whichever is less) stating that such shareholders wish to communicate with the other shareholders for the purpose of obtaining the signatures necessary to demand a meeting to consider removal of a Trustee, the Trust will provide a list of shareholders or disseminate appropriate materials (at the expense of the requesting shareholders). Except as set forth above, the Trustees shall continue to hold office and may appoint their successors.

The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to take certain actions without obtaining shareholder approval, if the Trustees determine that doing so would be in the best interests of shareholders. These actions include: (a) reorganizing a Fund with another investment company or another series of the Trust; (b) liquidating a Fund; (c) restructuring a Fund into a "master/feeder" structure, in which a Fund (the "feeder") would invest all of its assets in a separate "master" fund; and (d) amending the Declaration of Trust, unless shareholder consent is required by law.

Rule 18f-2 under the 1940 Act provides that any matter required to be submitted to the holders of the 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, as defined under the 1940 Act, of the series 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 the Fund and any other series in the matter are identical, or that the matter does

not affect any interest of other series of the Trust. 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 the Fund. However, Rule 18f-2 also provides that the ratification of 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 series.

**Shareholder and Trustee Liability**

The Delaware Statutory Trust Act provides that a shareholder of a Delaware statutory trust shall be entitled to the same limitation of personal liability extended to shareholders of Delaware corporations and the Declaration of Trust provides that shareholders of the Trust shall not be liable for the obligations of the Trust. The Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the trust property of any shareholder held personally liable solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder. The risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is considered to be extremely remote.

The Declaration of Trust states further that to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, no Trustee or officer of the Trust shall be personally liable in connection with the administration or preservation of the assets of the Funds or the conduct of the Trust's business; nor shall any Trustee, officer, or agent be personally liable to any person for any action or failure to act except for his own bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of his duties. The Declaration of Trust also provides that all persons having any claim against the Trustees or the Trust shall look solely to the assets of the Trust for payment.

**Jurisdiction and Waiver of Jury Trial**

In accordance with Section 3804(e) of the Delaware Act, the Trust Instrument provides that any suit, action or proceeding brought by or in the right of any shareholder or any person or entity claiming any interest in any Shares seeking to enforce any provision of, or based on any matter arising out of, or in connection with, the Trust Instrument or the Trust, any Fund or class or any shares, including any claim of any nature against the Trust, any Fund or class, the Trustees or officers of the Trust, shall be brought exclusively in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware to the extent there is subject matter jurisdiction in such court for the claims asserted or, if not, then in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware, and all shareholders and other such persons or entities hereby irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction of such courts (and the appropriate appellate courts therefrom) in any such suit, action or proceeding and irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any objection they may make now or hereafter have to the laying of the venue of any such suit, action or proceeding in such court or that any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court as been brought in an inconvenient forum and further, in connection with any such suit, action, or proceeding brought in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware, all shareholders and all other such persons or entities hereby irrevocably waive the right to a trial by jury to the fullest extent permitted by law. All shareholders and other such persons and entities agree that service of summons, complaint or other process in connection with any proceedings may be made by registered or certified mail or by overnight courier addressed to such person or entity at the address shown on the books and records of the Trust for such person or entity or at the address of the person or entity shown on the books and records of the Trust with respect to the Shares that such person or entity claims an interest in. Service of process in any such suit, action or proceeding against the Trust or any Trustee or officer of the Trust may be made at the address of the Trust's registered agent in the State of Delaware. Any service so made shall be effective as if personally made in the State of Delaware.

These exclusive jurisdiction provisions may make it more expensive for a shareholder to bring a suit and may limit a shareholder's ability to litigate a claim in the jurisdiction and in a manner that may be more favorable to the shareholder. A court may choose not to enforce this provision of the Trust Instrument. There is a question regarding the enforceability of the exclusive forum provision in the Trust Instrument because the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 permit shareholders to bring claims arising under such statutes in both state and federal courts.

**Derivative Actions Brought by Shareholders**

Pursuant to the Declaration of Trust, a shareholder may bring a derivative action on behalf of the Trust only if the shareholder or shareholders first make a pre-suit demand upon the Trustees to bring the subject action unless an effort to cause the Trustees to bring such action is excused. A demand on the Trustees shall only be excused if a majority of the Board, or a majority of any committee established to consider the merits of such action, has a personal financial interest in the action at issue. A Trustee shall not be deemed to have a personal financial interest in an action or otherwise be disqualified from ruling on a shareholder demand by virtue of the fact that such Trustee receives remuneration from his service on the Board or on the boards of one or more investment companies managed by the Adviser or that share the same principal underwriter. For purposes of this requirement, the Board may designate a committee of one Trustee to consider a shareholder demand if necessary to create a committee with a majority of Trustees who do not have a personal financial interest in the transaction at issue.

**Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings**

The Board has adopted policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of each Fund's portfolio holdings by the Fund, the Adviser, or their affiliates. These policies and procedures provide that each Fund's portfolio holdings information generally may not be disclosed to any party prior to the information becoming public. Certain limited exceptions are described below. These policies and procedures apply to disclosures to all categories of persons, including individual investors, institutional investors, intermediaries who sell shares of a

Fund, third parties providing services to the Funds (accounting agent, print vendors, etc.), rating and ranking organizations (Lipper, Morningstar, etc.) and affiliated persons of the Funds.

The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for monitoring each Fund's compliance with these policies and procedures, and for providing regular reports (at least annually) to the Board regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the policy and recommend changes, if necessary.

<u>Public Disclosure</u>

Each business day, each Fund's portfolio holdings information will generally be provided for dissemination through the facilities of the National Securities Clearing Corporation ("NSCC") and/or other fee-based subscription services to NSCC members and/or subscribers to those other fee-based subscription services, including Authorized Participants (as defined below), and to entities that publish and/or analyze such information in connection with the process of purchasing or redeeming Creation Units or trading shares of each Fund in the secondary market. This information typically reflects the Fund's anticipated holdings on the current business day.

For in-kind creations, a basket composition file, which includes the names and quantities of Deposit Securities to deliver in exchange for a Creation Unit of shares, together with an estimated Cash Component for the current business day, will be publicly disseminated daily prior to the opening of the Exchange via the NSCC. The basket represents one Creation Unit of a Fund. The Trust and the Adviser will not disseminate non-public information concerning a Fund's portfolio holdings. However, access to information concerning a Fund's portfolio holdings may be permitted to personnel of third party service providers, including a Fund's custodian, transfer agent, auditors, and counsel, as may be necessary to conduct business in the ordinary course in a manner consistent with such service providers' agreements with the Trust on behalf of a Fund. From time to time, information concerning portfolio holdings other than portfolio holding information made available in connection with the Creation Unit process, as discussed above, may be provided to other entities that provide services to the Funds, including rating or raking organizations, in the ordinary course of business, no earlier than one business day following the date of the information.

The Funds also disclose their complete portfolio holdings in their financial statements and are available upon request or on the Funds' website, VictorySharesLiterature.com. The Funds also file their complete portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters on Form N-PORT. You can find these filings on the SEC's website, www.sec.gov.

<u>Non-Public Disclosures</u>

The Adviser may authorize the disclosure of non-public portfolio holdings information under certain limited circumstances. The Funds' policies provide that non-public disclosures of a Fund's portfolio holdings may only be made if: (i) the Fund has a "legitimate business purpose" (as determined by the President of the Trust) for making such disclosure; and (ii) the party receiving the non-public information enters into a confidentiality agreement, which includes a duty not to trade on the non-public information and describes any compensation to be paid to the Fund or any "affiliated person" of the Adviser or Distributor, including any arrangement to maintain assets in the Fund or in other investment companies or accounts managed by the Adviser or by any "affiliated person" of the Adviser or Distributor.

The Adviser will consider any actual or potential conflicts of interest between the Adviser and a Fund's shareholders and will act in the best interest of the Fund's shareholders with respect to any such disclosure of portfolio holdings information. If a potential conflict can be resolved in a manner that does not present detrimental effects to Fund shareholders, the Adviser may authorize release of portfolio holdings information. Conversely, if the potential conflict cannot be resolved in a manner that does not present detrimental effects to Fund shareholders, the Adviser will not authorize such release.

**Expenses**

Unless agreed upon otherwise with a third party, all expenses incurred in administration of the Funds will be charged to a particular Fund, including investment management fees; fees and expenses of the Board; interest charges; taxes; brokerage commissions; expenses of valuing assets; expenses of continuing registration and qualification of the Funds and the shares under federal and state law; share issuance expenses; fees and disbursements of independent accountants and legal counsel; fees and expenses of custodians, including, transfer agents and shareholder account servicing organizations; expenses of preparing, printing and mailing prospectuses, reports, proxies, notices and statements sent to shareholders; expenses of shareholder meetings; costs of investing in underlying funds; and insurance premiums. The Funds are also liable for nonrecurring expenses, including litigation to which they may from time to time be a party. Expenses incurred for the operation of a particular Fund, including the expenses of communications with its shareholders, are paid by that Fund.

**Legal Counsel**

Sidley Austin LLP, 787 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10019, serves as counsel to the Trust.

**Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

[ ], located at [ ], serves as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Funds.

**Miscellaneous**

As used in the Prospectuses and in this SAI, "assets belonging to a fund" (or "assets belonging to the Fund") means the consideration received by the Trust upon the issuance or sale of shares of a Fund, together with all income, earnings, profits and proceeds derived from the investment thereof, including any proceeds from the sale, exchange, or liquidation of such investments and any funds or payments derived from any reinvestment of such proceeds and any general assets of the Trust, which general liabilities and expenses are not readily identified as belonging to a particular series that are allocated to that series by the Trustees. The Trustees may allocate such general assets in any manner they deem fair and equitable. It is anticipated that the factor that will be used by the Trustees in making allocations of general assets to a particular series will be the relative NAV of each respective series at the time of allocation. Assets belonging to a particular series are charged with the direct liabilities and expenses in respect of that series and with a share of the general liabilities and expenses of each of the series not readily identified as belonging to a particular series, which are allocated to each series in accordance with its proportionate share of the NAVs of the Trust at the time of allocation. The timing of allocations of general assets and general liabilities and expenses of the Trust to a particular series will be determined by the Trustees and will be in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Determinations by the Trustees as to the timing of the allocation of general liabilities and expenses and as to the timing and allocable portion of any general assets with respect to a particular series are conclusive.

As used in the Prospectuses and in this SAI, a "vote of a majority of the outstanding shares" of the Fund means the affirmative vote of the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are represented in person or by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.

**Each Prospectus and this SAI are not an offering of the securities described in these documents in any state in which such offering may not lawfully be made. No salesperson, dealer, or other person is authorized to give any information or make any representation other than those contained in a Prospectus and this SAI.**

**While this SAI and each Prospectus describe pertinent information about the Trust and the Funds, neither this SAI nor any Prospectus represents a contract between the Trust or a Fund and any shareholder.**

**APPENDIX A**

**Description of Security Ratings**

Set forth below are descriptions of the relevant ratings of some of the NRSROs. These NRSROs and the descriptions of the ratings are as of the date of this SAI and may subsequently change.

Ratings represent a rating agency's opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. In addition, rating agencies may fail to make timely changes to credit ratings in response to subsequent events and a rating may become stale in that it fails to reflect changes in an issuer's financial condition.

**Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's")**

**Global Long-Term Ratings.** Ratings assigned on Moody's global long-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. Moody's defines credit risk as the risk that an entity may not meet its contractual financial obligations as they come due and any estimated financial loss in the event of default or impairment. The contractual financial obligations addressed by Moody's ratings are those that call for, without regard to enforceability, the payment of an ascertainable amount, which may vary based upon standard sources of variation (e.g., floating interest rates), by an ascertainable date. Moody's rating addresses the issuer's ability to obtain cash sufficient to service the obligation, and its willingness to pay. Moody's ratings do not address non-standard sources of variation in the amount of the principal obligation (e.g., equity indexed), absent an express statement to the contrary in a press release accompanying an initial rating. Long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of 11 months or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default or impairment on contractual financial obligations and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default or impairment. The following describes the global long- term ratings by 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.

**Medium-Term Note Program Ratings.** Moody's assigns provisional ratings to medium-term note (MTN) or similar programs and definitive ratings to the individual debt securities issued from them (referred to as drawdowns or notes). MTN program ratings are intended to reflect the ratings likely to be assigned to drawdowns issued from the program with the specified priority of claim (e.g. senior or subordinated). To capture the contingent nature of a program rating, Moody's assigns provisional ratings to MTN programs. A provisional rating is denoted by a (P) in front of the rating.

The rating assigned to a drawdown from a rated MTN or bank/deposit note program is definitive in nature, and may differ from the program rating if the drawdown is exposed to additional credit risks besides the issuer's default, such as links to the defaults of other issuers, or has other structural features that warrant a different rating. In some circumstances, no rating may be assigned to a drawdown.

Moody's encourages market participants to contact Moody's Ratings Desks or visit moodys.com directly if they have questions regarding ratings for specific notes issued under a medium-term note program. Unrated notes issued under an MTN program may be assigned an NR (not rated) symbol.

Note: Moody's appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category. Additionally, a "(hyb)" indicator is appended to all ratings of hybrid securities issued by banks, insurers, finance companies, and securities firms.

Global Short-Term Ratings. Ratings assigned on Moody's global short-term rating scales are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risk of financial obligations issued by non-financial corporates, financial institutions, structured finance vehicles, project finance vehicles, and public sector entities. Short-term ratings are assigned to obligations with an original maturity of 13 or fewer months and reflect both on the likelihood of a default or impairment on contractual financial obligations and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default or impairment.

Moody's employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers: **P-1.** — Ratings of Prime-1 reflect a superior ability to repay short-term obligations.

**P-2.** — Ratings of Prime-2 reflect a strong ability to repay short-term obligations.

**P-3.** — Ratings of Prime-3 reflect 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.

Speculative Grade Liquidity Ratings. Moody's Speculative Grade Liquidity Ratings are opinions of an issuer's relative ability to generate cash from internal resources and the availability of external sources of committed financing, in relation to its cash obligations over the coming 12 months. Speculative Grade Liquidity Ratings will consider the likelihood that committed sources of financing will remain available. Other forms of liquidity support will be evaluated and consideration will be given to the likelihood that these sources will be available during the coming 12 months. Speculative Grade Liquidity Ratings are assigned to speculative grade issuers that are by definition Not Prime issuers.

**SGL-1** — Issuers rated SGL-1 possess very good liquidity. They are most likely to have the capacity to meet their obligations over the coming 12 months through internal resources without relying on external sources of committed financing.

**SGL-2** — Issuers rated SGL-2 possess good liquidity. They are likely to meet their obligations over the coming 12 months through internal resources but may rely on external sources of committed financing. The issuer's ability to access committed sources of financing is highly likely based on Moody's evaluation of near-term covenant compliance.

**SGL-3** — Issuers rated SGL-3 possess adequate liquidity. They are expected to rely on external sources of committed financing. Based on its evaluation of near-term covenant compliance, Moody's believes there is only a modest cushion, and the issuer may require covenant relief in order to maintain orderly access to funding lines.

**SGL-4** — Issuers rated SGL-4 possess weak liquidity. They rely on external sources of financing and the availability of that financing is, in Moody's opinion, highly uncertain.

**U.S. Municipal Short-Term Debt and Demand Obligation Ratings. Moody's uses the global short-term Prime rating scale for commercial paper issued by U.S. municipalities and nonprofits. These commercial paper programs may be backed by external letters of credit or liquidity facilities, or by an issuer's self-liquidity. For other short-term municipal obligations, Moody's uses one of two other short-term rating scales the Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) and Variable Municipal Investment Grade (VMIG) scales discussed below.**

The MIG scale is used for U.S. municipal cash flow notes, bond anticipation notes and certain other short-term obligations, which typically mature in three years or less. Under certain circumstances, the MIG scale is used for bond anticipation notes with maturities of up to five years.

**MIG-1.** This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

**MIG-2.** This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

**MIG-3.** This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.

**SG.** This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

**VMIG Ratings.** In the case of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), a two-component rating is assigned. The components are a long-term rating and a short-term demand obligation rating. The long-term rating addresses the issuer's ability to meet scheduled principal and interest payments. The short-term demand obligation rating addresses the ability of the issuer or the liquidity provider to make payments associated with the purchase-price-upon-demand feature ("demand feature") of the VRDO. The short-term demand obligation rating uses the VMIG scale. VMIG ratings with liquidity support use as an input the short-term Counterparty Risk Assessment of the support provider, or the long-term rating of the underlying obligor in the absence of third-party liquidity support. Transitions of VMIG ratings of demand obligations with conditional liquidity support differ from transitions on the Prime scale to reflect the risk that external liquidity support will terminate if the issuer's long-term rating drops below investment grade.

For VRDOs, Moody's typically assigns the VMIG short-term demand obligation rating if the frequency of the demand feature is less than every three years. If the frequency of the demand feature is less than three years but the purchase price is payable only with remarketing proceeds, the short-term demand obligation rating is "NR."

Industrial development bonds in the United States where the obligor is a corporate may carry a VMIG rating that reflects Moody's view of the relative likelihood of default and loss. In these cases, liquidity assessment is based on the liquidity of the corporate obligor.

**VMIG-1.** This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.

**VMIG-2.** This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.

**VMIG-3.** This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.

**SG.** This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have a sufficiently strong short-term rating or may lack the structural or legal protections.

**S&P Global Ratings**

An S&P Global Ratings issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects S&P Global Ratings' view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and this opinion may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.

Issue credit ratings can be either long-term or short-term. Short-term issue credit ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market, typically with an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Short-term issue credit ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. S&P Global Ratings would typically assign a long-term issue credit rating to an obligation with an original maturity of greater than 365 days. However, the ratings assigned by S&P Global Ratings to certain instruments may diverge from these guidelines based on market practices. Medium- term notes are assigned long-term ratings.

**Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings.** Issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on S&P Global Ratings analysis of the following considerations:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The likelihood of payment—the capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The nature of and provisions of the financial obligation, and the promise imputed by S&P Global Ratings; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The protection afforded by, and relative position of, the financial obligation in the event of a bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors' rights.

An issue rating is an assessment of default risk but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect lower priority in bankruptcy, as noted above. (Such differentiation may apply when an entity has both senior and subordinated obligations, secured and unsecured obligations, or operating company and holding company obligations.)

**AAA**— An obligation rated "AAA" has the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments 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 commitments on the obligation is still strong.

**BBB**— An obligation rated "BBB" exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

**BB, B, CCC, CC, and C** — Obligations rated "BB," "B," "CCC," "CC," and "C" are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. "BB" indicates the least degree of speculation and "C" the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposure to adverse conditions.

**BB**— An obligation rated "BB" is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

**B** — An obligation rated "B" is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated "BB," but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

**CCC**— An obligation rated "CCC" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

**CC**— An obligation rated "CC" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The "CC" rating is used when a default has not yet occurred, but S&P Global Ratings expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.

**C** — An obligation rated "C" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared with obligations that are rated higher.

**D** — An obligation rated "D" is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within the next five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or the next 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 debt restructuring.

**NR** — This indicates that a rating has not been assigned or is no longer assigned.

**Plus (+) or minus (-)** — 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 Issue Credit Ratings.** The following describes S&P Global Ratings' short-term issue credit 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 commitments on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on these obligations is extremely strong.

**A-2** — A short-term obligation rated "A-2" is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is satisfactory.

**A-3** — A short-term obligation rated "A-3" exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken an obligor's capacity to meet its financial 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 debt restructuring.

**Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings**. The following describes Standard & Poor's Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings.

An S&P Global Ratings U.S. municipal note rating reflects S&P Global Ratings' opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, S&P Global Ratings' analysis will review the following considerations:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Amortization schedule — the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Source of payment — the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.

**SP-1.** Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.

**SP-2.** Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.

**SP-3.** Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.

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

**D.** Assigned upon failure to pay the note when due, completion of a distressed debt restructuring, or the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions.

<u>Active Qualifiers</u>

S&P Global Ratings uses the following qualifiers that limit the scope of a rating. The structure of the transaction can require the use of a qualifier such as a 'p' qualifier, which indicates the rating addresses the principal portion of the obligation only. A qualifier appears as a suffix and is part of the rating.

**Federal deposit insurance limit: "L" qualifier** — Ratings qualified with "L" apply only to amounts invested up to federal deposit insurance limits.

**Principal: "p" qualifier** — This suffix is used for issues in which the credit factors, the terms, or both, that determine the likelihood of receipt of payment of principal are different from the credit factors, terms or both that determine the likelihood of receipt of interest on the obligation. The "p" suffix indicates that the rating addresses the principal portion of the obligation only and that the interest is not rated.

**Preliminary ratings: "prelim" qualifier** — Preliminary ratings, with the "prelim" suffix, may be assigned to obligors or obligations, including financial programs, in the circumstances described below. Assignment of a final rating is conditional on the receipt by S&P Global Ratings of appropriate documentation. S&P Global Ratings reserves the right not to issue a final rating. Moreover, if a final rating is issued, it may differ from the preliminary rating.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Preliminary ratings may be assigned to obligations, most commonly structured and project finance issues, pending receipt of final documentation and legal opinions.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Preliminary ratings may be assigned to obligations that will likely be issued upon the obligor's emergence from bankruptcy or similar reorganization, based on late-stage reorganization plans, documentation, and discussions with the obligor. Preliminary ratings may also be assigned to the obligors. These ratings consider the anticipated general credit quality of the reorganized or post-bankruptcy issuer as well as attributes of the anticipated obligation(s).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Preliminary ratings may be assigned to entities that are being formed or that are in the process of being independently established when, in S&P Global Ratings' opinion, documentation is close to final. Preliminary ratings may also be assigned to the obligations of these entities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Preliminary ratings may be assigned when a previously unrated entity is undergoing a well-formulated restructuring, recapitalization, significant financing, or other transformative event, generally at the point that investor or lender commitments are invited. The preliminary rating may be assigned to the entity and to its proposed obligation(s). These preliminary ratings consider the anticipated general credit quality of the obligor, as well as attributes of the anticipated obligation(s), assuming successful completion of the transformative event. Should the transformative event not occur, S&P Global Ratings would likely withdraw these preliminary ratings.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•A preliminary recovery rating may be assigned to an obligation that has a preliminary issue credit rating.

**Termination structures: "t" qualifier** — This symbol indicates termination structures that are designed to honor their contracts to full maturity or, should certain events occur, to terminate and cash settle all their contracts before their final maturity date.

**Counterparty instrument rating: "cir" qualifier** — This symbol indicates a counterparty instrument rating (CIR), which is a forward- looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an issuer in a securitization structure with respect to a specific financial obligation to a counterparty (including interest rate swaps, currency swaps, and liquidity facilities). The CIR is determined on an ultimate payment basis; these opinions do not take into account timeliness of payment.

**Fitch Ratings, Inc. ("Fitch")**

**International Long-Term Ratings**

**Investment Grade**

**AAA**— Highest credit quality. "AAA" ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.

**AA**— Very high credit quality. "AA" ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.

**A** — High credit quality. "A" ratings denote expectations of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.

**BBB**— Good credit quality. "BBB" ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.

**Speculative Grade**

**BB**— Speculative. "BB" ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial flexibility exists that supports the servicing of financial commitments.

**B** — Highly speculative. "B" ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment.

**CCC**— Substantial credit risk. Very low margin for safety. Default is a real possibility. **CC** — Very high levels of credit risk. Default of some kind appears probable.

**C** — Near default. A default or default-like process has begun, or the issuer is in standstill, or for a closed funding vehicle, payment capacity is irrevocably impaired. Conditions that are indicative of a "C" category rating for an issuer include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The issuer has entered into a grace or cure period following non-payment of a material financial obligation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The issuer has entered into a temporary negotiated waiver or standstill agreement following a payment default on a material financial obligation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The formal announcement by the issuer or their agent of a distressed debt exchange;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•A closed financing vehicle where payment capacity is irrevocably impaired such that it is not expected to pay interest and/or principal in full during the life of the transaction, but where no payment default is imminent.

**RD** — Restricted default. "RD" ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch's opinion has experienced:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•An uncured payment default or distressed debt exchange on a bond, loan, or other material financial obligation but

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Has not entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation, or other formal winding-up procedure, and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Has not otherwise ceased operating. This would include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The selective payment default on a specific class or currency of debt;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The uncured expiry of any applicable grace period, cure period or default forbearance period following a payment default on a bank loan, capital markets security or other material financial obligation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The extension of multiple waivers or forbearance periods upon a payment default on one or more material financial obligations, either in series or in parallel; or ordinary execution of a distressed debt exchange on one or more material financial obligations.

**D** — Default. "D" ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch's opinion has entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation, or other formal winding-up procedure or that has otherwise ceased business.

Default ratings are not assigned prospectively to entities or their obligations; within this context, non-payment on an instrument that contains a deferral feature or grace period will generally not be considered a default until after the expiration of the deferral or grace period, unless a default is otherwise driven by bankruptcy or other similar circumstance, or by a distressed debt exchange.

Imminent default, categorized under "C," typically refers to the occasion where a payment default has been intimated by the issuer and is all but inevitable. This may, for example, be where an issuer has missed a scheduled payment, but (as is typical) has a grace period during which it may cure the payment default. Another alternative would be where an issuer has formally announced a distressed debt exchange, but the date of the exchange still lies several days or weeks in the immediate future.

In all cases, the assignment of a default rating reflects the agency's opinion as to the most appropriate rating category consistent with the rest of its universe of ratings, and may differ from the definition of default under the terms of an issuer's financial obligations or local commercial practice.

**International Short-Term Ratings.** The following describes Fitch's two highest short-term ratings:

**F1.** Highest short-term credit quality. Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.

**F2.** Good short-term credit quality. Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.

**Notes to Long- and Short-term ratings:**

The modifiers "+" or "-" may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to "AAA" ratings and ratings below the "CCC" category. For the short-term rating category of "F1," a "+" may be appended.

**Withdrawn** —The rating has been withdrawn and the issue or issuer is no longer rated by Fitch. Ratings that have been withdrawn will be indicated by the symbol "WD."

**Rating Watch** — Rating Watches indicate that there is a heightened probability of a rating change and the likely direction of such a change. These are designated as "Positive," indicating that a rating could stay at its present level or potentially be upgraded, "Negative," to indicate that the rating could stay at its present level or potentially be downgraded, or "Evolving" if ratings may be raised, lowered, or affirmed. However, ratings can be raised or lowered without being placed on Rating Watch first.

A Rating Watch is typically event-driven and, as such, it is generally resolved over a relatively short period. The event driving the Watch may be either anticipated or have already occurred, but in both cases, the exact rating implications remain undetermined. The Watch period is typically used to gather further information and/or subject the information to further analysis. A Rating Watch must be reviewed and a RAC be published every six months after a rating has been placed on Rating Watch, except in the case described below.

Additionally, a Watch may be used where the rating implications are already clear, but where they remain contingent upon an event (e.g. shareholder or regulatory approval). The Watch will typically extend to cover the period until the event is resolved or its outcome is predictable with a high enough degree of certainty to permit resolution of the Watch. In these cases, where it has previously been communicated within the RAC that the Rating Watch will be resolved upon an event and where there are no material changes to the respective rating up to the event, the Rating Watch may not be reviewed within the six months interval. In any case, the affected ratings (and the Rating Watch) will remain subject to an annual review cycle.

**Rating Outlook** — Outlooks indicate the direction a rating is likely to move over a one- to two-year period. They reflect financial or other trends that have not yet reached or been sustained the level that would cause a rating action, but which may do so if such trends continue. A Positive Rating Outlook indicates an upward trend on the rating scale. Conversely, a Negative Rating Outlook signals a negative trend on the rating scale. Positive or Negative Rating Outlooks do not imply that a rating change is inevitable, and similarly, ratings with Stable Outlooks can be raised or lowered without a prior revision to the Outlook. Occasionally, where the fundamental trend has strong, conflicting elements of both positive and negative, the Rating Outlook may be described as "Evolving."

Outlooks are currently applied on the long-term scale to certain issuer ratings in corporate finance (including sovereigns, industrials, utilities, financial institutions and insurance companies) and to both issuer ratings and obligations ratings in public finance in the United States; to issues in infrastructure and project finance; to Insurer Financial Strength Ratings; to issuer and/or issue ratings in a number of National Rating scales; and to the ratings of structured finance transactions and covered bonds. Outlooks are not applied to ratings assigned on the short-term scale. For financial institutions, Outlooks are not assigned to Viability Ratings, Support Ratings and Support Rating Floors. Derivative counterparty ratings are also not assigned Outlooks.

Ratings in the "CCC," "CC," and "C" categories typically do not carry Outlooks since the volatility of these ratings is very high and outlooks would be of limited informational value. Defaulted ratings do not carry Outlooks.

xxxxx-00-0526

------

**Registration Statement**

**of**

**VICTORY PORTFOLIOS II**

**on**

**Form N-1A**

**PART C. OTHER INFORMATION** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Item 28.**  | **Exhibits** |  |
| (a) |  | **Articles of Incorporation**. |
|  | (1) | [<u>Registrant's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated February 26, 2019.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465919020193/a19-7054_1ex99dba1.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(a)  | [<u>Registrant's Certificate of Trust dated April 12, 2012.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047212001340/a2certificateoftrust.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(b) | [<u>Certificate of Amendment to Registrant's Certificate of Trust.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073013/a15-20091_1ex99dba2b.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(c)  | [<u>Certificate of Amendment to Registrant's Certificate of Trust.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465916152632/a16-18571_1ex99dba2c.htm) |
| (b) |  | [<u>By-Laws, Amended and Restated as of May 1, 2015.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915048077/a15-14769_1ex99dbdb.htm) |
| (c) |  | &nbsp;&nbsp; Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holder. None other than in the Second Amended and Restated <br> Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of the Registrant.<br>|
| (d) |  | **Investment Advisory Contracts**. |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Investment Advisory Agreement dated May 1, 2015, between Registrant and Victory Capital Manage-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915048077/a15-14769_1ex99dbdd1a.htm)<br> [<u>ment Inc. ("Victory Capital" or the "Adviser").</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915048077/a15-14769_1ex99dbdd1a.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(b) | Schedule A to Advisory Agreement dated May 21, 2015, current as of [ ]. (To be filed by amendment.)  |
| (e) |  | **Underwriting Contracts.** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>ETF Distribution Agreement dated as of March 1, 2025, with Victory Capital Services, Inc. ("VCS") with</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325003397/f41557d2.htm)<br> [<u>respect to each exchange-traded fund series of the Registrant</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325003397/f41557d2.htm).<br>|
|  | (2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Form of Authorized Participant Agreement with respect to each exchange-traded fund series of the Regis-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000089418914003008/ap_agmnt.htm)<br> [<u>trant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000089418914003008/ap_agmnt.htm)<br>|
|  | (3) | [<u>Distribution Agreement with VCS with respect to each mutual fund series of the Registrant</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325003397/f41557d3.htm). |
| (f) |  | **Bonus or Profit Sharing Contracts.** None. |
| (g) |  | **Custodian Agreements.** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | [<u>Global Custodial Services Agreement with Citibank, N.A. dated August 5, 2008.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbg3a.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(b) | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Global Custodial Services Agreement dated August 19, 2015.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbg3c.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(c) | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated July 15, 2016.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465917012565/a17-3236_1ex99dbg1b.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(d) | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated August 24, 2016.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465917012565/a17-3236_1ex99dbg1c.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(e) | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated February 27, 2017.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917020677/a17-10121_1ex99dbg1e.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(f) | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated March 1, 2019.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465919020193/a19-7054_1ex99dbg1f.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(g)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated June 18, 2020.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465920101924/a20-29846_1ex99dg1g.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(h)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated September 10, 2020.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d6.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(i)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated August 31, 2020.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d7.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(j)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated December 2, 2020.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386321001022/f8123d2.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(k)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated January 1, 2021.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d9.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(l)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated May 18, 2021.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d10.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(m)  | [<u>Amendment and Joinder to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated August 30, 2022.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d6.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (l)(n) | [<u>Amendment to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated April 24, 2023.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386323003885/f25126d5.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(o) | [<u>Amendment to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated June 1, 2024</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324004269/f38922d3.htm).  |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(p) | [<u>Amendment to the Master Global Custodial Services Agreement, dated June 10, 2025.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d3.htm) |
| (h) |  | **Other Material Contracts.** |
|  | (1) | [<u>Revised Form of Broker-Dealer Agreement with respect to each mutual fund series of the Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917064243/a17-22921_1ex99dbh1.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(a)  | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement with respect to each mutual fund series of the Registrant,</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3a.htm)<br> [<u>dated July 1, 2006, with Victory Capital Management Inc.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3a.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(b)  | [<u>Amendment No. 1 dated July 1, 2009, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3b.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(c) | [<u>Amendment No. 2 dated July 1, 2012, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3c.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(d) | [<u>Amendment No. 3 dated May 21, 2015, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3d.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(e) | [<u>Amendment No. 4 dated August 19, 2015, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465915073665/a15-20537_1ex99dbh3e.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(f) | [<u>Amendment No. 5 dated August 24, 2016, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465917012565/a17-3236_1ex99dbh2f.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(g) | [<u>Amendment No. 6 dated February 28, 2018, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1068663/000110465918024484/a18-9196_1ex99dbh1g.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(h) | [<u>Amendment No. 7 dated February 27, 2019, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465919020193/a19-7054_1ex99dbh2h.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(i) | [<u>Amendment No. 8 dated June 18, 2020, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465920101924/a20-29846_1ex99dh2g.htm). |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(j) | [<u>Amendment No 9 dated December 2, 2020, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d11.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(k) | [<u>Amendment No 10 dated May 18, 2021, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d12.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(l) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 11 dated November 18, 2021, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386322001045/f10757d6.htm)<br> [<u>dated July 1, 2006.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386322001045/f10757d6.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(m) | [<u>Amendment No. 12 dated May 24, 2022, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d7.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(n) | [<u>Amendment No. 13 dated August 30, 2022, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d8.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(o) | [<u>Amendment No. 14 dated January 1, 2023, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323003132/f25125d3.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(p) | [<u>Amendment No. 15 dated May 23, 2023, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d5.htm).  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(q) | [<u>Amendment No. 16 dated December 5, 2023, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324002322/f38171d2.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(r) | [<u>Amendment No. 17 dated May 21, 2024, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324004269/f38922d4.htm). |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(s) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 18 dated August 27, 2024, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement dated</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386325003951/f41497d6.htm)<br> [<u>July 1, 2006</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386325003951/f41497d6.htm).<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(t) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 19 dated October 22, 2024, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement dated</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386325003951/f41497d7.htm)<br> [<u>July 1, 2026</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386325003951/f41497d7.htm).<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(u) | [<u>Amendment No.20 dated May 20, 2025, to the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d4.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (3)(a)  | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Transfer Agency Agreement with FIS Investor Services LLC ("FIS") dated November 7, 2015, with respect</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh3a.htm)<br> [<u>to each mutual fund series of the Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh3a.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (3)(b) | [<u>Amendment dated November 1, 2016, to the Transfer Agency Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh3b.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (3)(c) | [<u>Amendment dated February 22, 2021, to the Transfer Agency Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321006108/f10051d8.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (3)(d) | [<u>Amendment dated August 24, 2021, to the Transfer Agency Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321006108/f10051d9.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (3)(e) | [<u>Data Protection Addendum dated May 30, 2018, to the Transfer Agency Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh3c.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Transfer Agency Services Agreement with Citibank, N.A. dated February 27, 2017, with respect to</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917020677/a17-10121_1ex99dbh3.htm)<br> [<u>exchange-traded fund series of the Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917020677/a17-10121_1ex99dbh3.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(b) | [<u>Amendment No. 1 dated March 1, 2019, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank, N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465919020193/a19-7054_1ex99dbh4b.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(c) | [<u>Amendment No. 2 dated June 18, 2020, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465920101924/a20-29846_1ex99dh4c.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(d) | [<u>Amendment No. 3 dated May 18, 2021, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d13.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(e) | [<u>Amendment No. 4 dated August 30, 2022, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d9.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(f) | [<u>Amendment No. 5 dated September 30, 2022, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d6.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(g) | [<u>Amendment No. 6 dated April 24, 2023, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d7.htm). |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(h) | [<u>Amendment No. 7 dated June 20, 2024, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324005274/f39332d4.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(i) | [<u>Amendment No. 8 dated November 15, 2024, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d5.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (4)(j) | [<u>Amendment No. 9 dated June 5, 2025, to the Transfer Agency Agreement with Citibank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d6.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(a)  | [<u>Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agreement dated October 1, 2015.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917002631/a17-1496_1ex99dbh7a.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(b) | [<u>Amendment to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agreement dated February 27, 2017.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465917012565/a17-3236_1ex99dbh3b.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(c) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 2 dated February 28, 2018, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh5c.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465918063932/a18-36345_1ex99dbh5c.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(d) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 3 dated February 27, 2019, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1068663/000110465919021702/a19-6868_1ex99dbh2d.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1068663/000110465919021702/a19-6868_1ex99dbh2d.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(e) | [<u>Amendment No. 4 dated July 1, 2019, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465919056585/a19-19337_1ex99dbh3e.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(f)  | [<u>Amendment No. 5 dated June 18, 2020, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465920101924/a20-29846_1ex99dh5f.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(g)  | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 6 dated August 25, 2020, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d14.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d14.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(h)  | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 7 dated to December 2, 2020, the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d15.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d15.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(i)  | [<u>Amendment No. 8 dated April 1, 2021, to the Sub-administration and Sub-accounting Services Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d16.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(j) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 9 dated November 30, 2021, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386322001045/f10757d8.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386322001045/f10757d8.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(k) | [<u>Amendment No. 10 dated June 29, 2022, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d10.htm) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(l) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 11 dated August 30, 2022, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d11.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006657/f23350d11.htm)<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(m) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 12 dated January 1, 2023, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1068663/000168386323003220/f25124d5.htm)<br> [<u>ment</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1068663/000168386323003220/f25124d5.htm).<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(n) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 13 dated April 24th, 2023, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d8.htm)<br> [<u>ment</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d8.htm).<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(o) | [<u>Amendment No. 14 dated June 25, 2024, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agreement</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324005274/f39332d5.htm). |
| &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(p) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 15 dated October 1, 2024, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324006085/f39338d3.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324006085/f39338d3.htm)<br>|

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (5)(q) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 16 dated as of June 10, 2025, to the Sub-Administration and Sub-Fund Accounting Agree-</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d7.htm)<br> [<u>ment.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d7.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (6)(a)  | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement between Registrant and Victory Capital dated</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d17.htm)<br> [<u>May 1, 2021.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d17.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (6)(b) | Schedule A to the Expense Limitation Agreement, current as of [ ]. (To be filed by amendment)  |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (7)(a)  | [<u>License Agreement dated as of May 1, 2015, between Victory Capital and Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917020677/a17-10121_1ex99dbh6.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (7)(b) | [<u>First Amendment dated April 18, 2017, to License Agreement.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000110465917064243/a17-22921_1ex99dbh7b.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (8)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Global Securities Lending Agency Agreement effective November 30, 2021, between Registrant and</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006842/f23417d3.htm)<br> [<u>CitiBank N.A.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386322006842/f23417d3.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (8)(b) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 1 and Schedule A to the Global Securities Lending Agency Agreement, current as of</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d10.htm)<br> [<u>April 24, 2023</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323005083/f25735d10.htm). <br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (8)(c) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amendment No. 2 and Schedule A to the Global Securities Lending Agency Agreement, current as of</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324004269/f38922d6.htm)<br> [<u>June 7, 2024</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324004269/f38922d6.htm). <br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (8)(d) | [<u>Amendment No. 3 to Global Securities Lending Agency Agreement as of November 1, 2024</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000168386325003951/f41497d9.htm). |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (8)(e) | [<u>Amendment No. 4 to Global Securities Lending Agency Agreement as of June 12, 2025.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d9.htm) |
| (i) | (1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Opinion of Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP dated October 24, 2025, relating to the VictoryShares</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d10.htm)<br> [<u>ETFs, Market Neutral Income and relevant share classes for June 30 fiscal year end funds.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d10.htm)<br>|
|  | (2) | &nbsp;&nbsp; Opinion of Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP relating to the VictoryShares Pioneer Mortgage-Backed <br> Securities ETF, VictoryShares Pioneer Active Credit ETF, and VictoryShares Pioneer Premium Equity <br> Income ETF. (To be filed by amendment)<br>|
| (j) | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | [<u>Consent of Sidley Austin LLP dated October 24, 2025.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d11.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(b) | Consent of Sidley Austin LLP (To be filed by amendment) |
| (j) | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm with respect to the Victory Portfolios II,</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d12.htm)<br> [<u>VictoryShares ETFs and Market Neutral Income Fund June 30 fiscal year end funds.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000119312525249983/f43195d12.htm)<br>|
| (k) |  | **Omitted Financial Statements**. None. |
| (l) |  | [<u>Initial Capital Agreements. Subscription Agreement between the Trust and the Initial Investor.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047212002638/exl.htm) |
| (m) |  | **Rule 12b-1 Plans** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Revised Class A Master Distribution Plan Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 with respect to each mutual fund series</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047213001184/compassclassadistrib.htm)<br> [<u>of the Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047213001184/compassclassadistrib.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(b) | [<u>Amended Exhibit A, current as of December 6, 2022</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323007225/f36640d6.htm)<u>.</u> |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(a) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Revised Class C Master Distribution Plan Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 with respect to each mutual fund series</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047213001184/compasscdistrib.htm)<br> [<u>of the Registrant.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000091047213001184/compasscdistrib.htm)<br>|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (2)(b) | [<u>Amended Exhibit A current as of December 6, 2022</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386323007225/f36640d7.htm). |
|  | (3) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Amended and Restated Distribution Plan Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 with respect to each exchange-traded fund</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325003397/f41557d4.htm)<br> [<u>series of the Registrant dated December 5, 2024</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325003397/f41557d4.htm). <br>|
| (n) |  | **Rule 18f-3 Plan** |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(a) | [<u>Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multi-Class Plan, amended and restated February 2, 2021.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386321004176/f9242d19.htm) |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp; (1)(b) | [<u>Schedule A to Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multi-Class Plan, current as July 1, 2024.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324006085/f39338d8.htm) |
| (o) |  | Reserved. |
| (p) |  | **Codes of Ethics** |
|  | (1) | [<u>Code of Ethics for the Registrant, as revised February 28, 2018.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465918028601/a18-9201_1ex99dbp1.htm) |
|  | (2) | [<u>Code of Ethics for Victory Capital, VCS, and WestEnd Advisors, LLC, dated April 1, 2025.</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386325005303/f42355d5.htm) |
| (q) |  | **Powers of Attorney** |
|  | (1) | &nbsp;&nbsp; [<u>Powers of Attorney of David Brooks Adcock, Nigel D.T. Andrews, E. Lee Beard, David C. Brown, John L.</u>](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465916126923/a16-11050_1ex99.htm)<br> [<u>Kelly, and David L. Meyer.</u>](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465916126923/a16-11050_1ex99.htm)<br>|
|  | (2) | [<u>Power of Attorney of Gloria S. Nelund.</u>](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802716/000110465916153019/a16-18677_1ex99.htm) |
|  | (3) | [<u>Power of Attorney of Timothy Pettee</u>](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1547580/000168386324002322/f38171d4.htm). |

---

------

**Item 29. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Registrant**

Information pertaining to persons controlled by, or under common control with Registrant is hereby incorporated by reference to the section captioned "Management of the Trust" in the Statement of Additional Information ("SAI").

**Item 30. Indemnification.**

Reference is made to Article VIII of the Registrant's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, Section 8 of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Section 6 of the ETF Distribution Agreement with VCS, Section 5 of the Distribution Agreement with VCA, Section 12 of the Global Custodial Services Agreement with Citibank, N.A., Section 9 of the Administration and Fund Accounting Agreement with Victory Capital, Section 7 of the Transfer Agency Services Agreement with Citibank, N.A. and Section 13 of the Form of Transfer Agency Agreement with FIS, each of which is incorporated by reference to the Exhibits. The Registrant has obtained from a major insurance carrier a trustees' and officers' liability policy covering certain types of errors and omissions. In no event will the Registrant indemnify any of its trustees, officers, employees, or agents against any liability to which such person would otherwise be subject by reason of his willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence in the performance of his duties, or by reason of his reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office or under his agreement with the Registrant. The Registrant will comply with Rule 484 under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and Release 11330 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 in connection with any indemnification.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities 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 such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in such Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in such Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

**Item 31. Business and Other Connections of the Investment Adviser**

Information pertaining to business and other connections of the Registrant's investment adviser, Victory Capital Management Inc. ("VCM" or "Adviser"), is hereby incorporated by reference to the section of the Prospectus captioned "Organization and Management of the Fund" and to the section of the SAI captioned "Investment Adviser and Other Service Providers." The Adviser is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. ("VCH"), a publicly traded Delaware corporation.

**The principal executive officers and directors of the Adviser and VCH are as follows:** 

David C. Brown Director, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Adviser and VCH <br> Michael D. Policarpo, II President, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Administrative Officer of Adviser and VCH, Director of Adviser <br> Nina Gupta Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of Adviser and VCH, Director of Adviser

The business address of the foregoing individuals is 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78256.

To the knowledge of Registrant, none of the directors or officers of the Adviser is or has been at any time during the past two fiscal years engaged in any other business, profession, vocation, or employment of a substantial nature.

**Item 32. Principal Underwriters.**

(a) Shares of the mutual fund series of Victory Portfolios II are distributed by Victory Capital Services, Inc. ("VCS"). VCS also acts as principal underwriter for Victory Portfolios, Victory Portfolios III, Victory Portfolios IV, Victory Variable Insurance Funds, and Victory Variable Insurance Funds II.

------

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

(b) The officers of VCS, all of whose principal business address is 4900 Tiedeman Road, Brooklyn, Ohio 44144, are set forth below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Name | Positions and Offices with Underwriter | Positions and Offices with Registrant |
| David C. Brown | Director | Trustee |
| Michael D. Policarpo, II | Director, President | None |
| Charles Mathes | &nbsp;&nbsp; Director, Chief Compliance <br> Officer<br>| None |
| Donald Inks | Chief Operations Officer | None |
| Christopher Ponte | Chief Financial Officer | Assistant Treasurer |

---

(c) Not applicable.

**Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records.**

(1) Victory Capital Management Inc., 15935 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78256 (records relating to its functions as investment adviser and administrator).

(2) Citibank, N.A., 388 Greenwich St., New York, New York 10013 (records relating to its function as custodian and transfer agent for certain funds).

(3) Citi Fund Services Ohio, Inc., 4400 Easton Commons, Suite 200, Columbus, Ohio 43219 (records relating to its functions as sub-administrator and sub-fund accountant).

(4) FIS Investor Services LLC, 4249 Easton Way, Suite 400, Columbus, Ohio 43219 (records relating to its functions as transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent for certain funds).

(5) Victory Capital Services, Inc., 4900 Tiedeman Road, 4th Floor, Brooklyn, Ohio 44144 (records relating to its function as distributor for certain funds).

**Item 34. Management Services. Not applicable.**

**Item 35. Undertakings. Not applicable.**

------

**SIGNATURES**

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the city of San Antonio and state of Texas, on the 10th day of March 2026.

VICTORY PORTFOLIOS II

(Registrant)

By:/s/ Thomas Dusenberry

------

Thomas Dusenberry

President

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities indicated on the 10th day of March 2026.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Signature | Title |
| /s/ Thomas Dusenberry<br>Thomas Dusenberry<br>| President (Principal Executive Officer) |
| /s/ Carol D. Trevino<br>Carol D. Trevino<br>| Treasurer (Principal Accounting Officer and Principal Financial Officer) |
| \*<br> David Brooks Adcock<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> Nigel D.T. Andrews<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> E. Lee Beard<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> David C. Brown<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> John L. Kelly<br>| Chairman of the Board and Trustee |
| \*<br> David L. Meyer<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> Gloria S. Nelund<br>| Trustee |
| \*<br> Timothy Pettee<br>| Trustee |

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\*By: /s/ Jay G. Baris

------

Jay G. Baris

Attorney-in-Fact

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