# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001537140
**File Stem:** 0001580642-25-007337
**Filing Date:** 2025-11
**Character Count:** 196367
**Document Hash:** 7d1d3129f470ff313611c4c05e9de38c
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001580642-25-007337.hdr.sgml**: 20251117

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001580642-25-007337

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 497

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 1

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20251117

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20251117

**EFFECTIVENESS DATE**: 20251117

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST III
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001537140

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 497
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-178833
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251490945

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 225 PICTORIA DRIVE
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 450
- **CITY:** CINCINNATI
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 45246
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 631-470-2621

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 17605 WRIGHT STREET
- **CITY:** OMAHA
- **STATE:** NE
- **ZIP:** 68130

## Series and Classes Contracts Data

### HCM Defender 100 Index ETF (Series ID: S000066141)

---

|  |  |  |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Class Name                 | Ticker Symbol | Class ID   |
| HCM Defender 100 Index ETF | QQH           | C000213732 |

---

### HCM Defender 500 Index ETF (Series ID: S000066142)

---

|  |  |  |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Class Name                 | Ticker Symbol | Class ID   |
| HCM Defender 500 Index ETF | LGH           | C000213733 |

---

## Series and Classes Contracts Data

### HCM Defender 100 Index ETF (Series ID: S000066141)

| Class ID   | Class Name                 | Ticker Symbol   |
|:---|:---|:---|
| C000213732 | HCM Defender 100 Index ETF | QQH             |

### HCM Defender 500 Index ETF (Series ID: S000066142)

| Class ID   | Class Name                 | Ticker Symbol   |
|:---|:---|:---|
| C000213733 | HCM Defender 500 Index ETF | LGH             |

**HCM Defender 100 Index ETF**

QQH

**HCM Defender 500 Index ETF**

LGH

each a series of Northern Lights Fund Trust III

**STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION<br>** 

<br> November 1, 2025

*Listed and traded on:*

*NYSE Arca, Inc.*

This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the combined Prospectus of the HCM Defender 100 Index ETF ("100 Index ETF") and HCM Defender 500 Index ETF ("500 Index ETF") (each a "Fund" and, together, the "Funds") dated November 1, 2025. The Funds' Prospectus is hereby incorporated by reference, which means it is legally part of this document. You can obtain copies of the Funds' Prospectus, annual or semiannual reports without charge by contacting the Funds' Distributor, Northern Lights Distributors, LLC, 4221 North 203<sup>rd</sup> Street, Suite 100, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022-3474 or by calling 770-642-4902. You may also obtain a Prospectus by visiting the website at www.howardcmetfs.com.

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**THE FUNDS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**1** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**TYPES OF INVESTMENTS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**1** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**16** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**18** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**MANAGEMENT** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**20** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**25** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**INVESTMENT ADVISER** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**26** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**THE DISTRIBUTOR** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**29** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**PORTFOLIO MANAGERS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**30** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**ALLOCATION OF PORTFOLIO BROKERAGE** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**31** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**PORTFOLIO TURNOVER** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**32** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**32** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**DESCRIPTION OF SHARES** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**34** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**35** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**PURCHASE, REDEMPTION AND PRICING OF SHARES** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**35** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**TAX STATUS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**45** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**50** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**LEGAL COUNSEL** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**50** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**50** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**APPENDIX A – PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**A-1** |

---

**THE FUNDS**

The Funds are each a diversified series of Northern Lights Fund Trust III, a Delaware statutory trust organized on December 5, 2011 (the "Trust"). The Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is governed by its Board of Trustees (the "Board").

The Funds may issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest. All shares of each Fund have equal rights and privileges. Each share of each Fund is entitled to one vote on all matters as to which shares are entitled to vote. In addition, each share of each Fund is entitled to participate equally with other shares (i) in dividends and distributions declared by such Fund and (ii) on liquidation to its proportionate share of the assets remaining after satisfaction of outstanding liabilities. Shares of such Fund are fully paid, non-assessable and fully transferable when issued and have no pre-emptive, conversion or exchange rights. Fractional shares have proportionately the same rights, including voting rights, as are provided for a full share.

Each Fund's investment objective, restrictions and policies are more fully described here and in the Prospectus. The Board may start other series and offer shares of a new fund under the Trust at any time.

**TYPES OF INVESTMENTS**

The investment objective of each Fund and the descriptions of each Fund's principal investment strategies are set forth under "Investment Objective" and Principal Investment Strategies" in the Prospectus. Each Fund's investment objective is not fundamental and may be changed without the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust.

The following pages contain more detailed information about the types of instruments in which each Fund may invest directly or indirectly as a principal or non-principal investment strategy. These instruments include other investment companies and strategies Howard Capital Management, Inc. (the "Adviser") employs in pursuit of each Fund's investment objective and a summary of related risks.

<u>Securities of Other Investment Companies</u> 

The Funds may invest in securities issued by other investment companies ("Underlying Funds"). The Funds intend to limit their investments in accordance with applicable law or as permitted by Rule 12d1-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). Among other things, such law limits these investments so that, as determined immediately after a securities purchase is made by a Fund: (a) not more than 5% of the value of its total assets will be invested in the securities of any one investment company; (b) 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; (c) not more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of any one investment company will be owned by the Fund; and (d) not more than 10% of the outstanding voting stock of any one closed-end investment company will be owned by the Fund together with all other investment companies that have the same advisor. Under certain sets of conditions, different sets of restrictions may be applicable. As a shareholder of another investment company, a Fund would bear, along with other shareholders, its proportionate share of that investment company's expenses, including advisory fees. These expenses would be in addition to the advisory and other expenses that the Fund bears directly in connection with its own operations. Investment companies in which a Fund may invest may also impose a sales or distribution charge in connection

with the purchase or redemption of their shares and other types of commissions or charges. Such charges will be payable by a Fund and, therefore, will be borne directly by the Fund's shareholders.

To the extent applicable, the Funds may rely on Section 12(d)(1)(F) and Rule 12d1-4 under the 1940 Act, which in conjunction with one another allow registered investment companies (such as the Funds) to exceed the limitations described above, provided the aggregate sales loads any investor pays (i.e., the combined distribution expenses of both the acquiring fund and the acquired funds) do not exceed the limits on sales loads established by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") for funds of funds, and the registered investment company "mirror votes" any securities purchased pursuant to Section 12(d)(1)(F).

Investments of the Funds in exchange traded funds ("ETFs") and mutual funds involve certain additional expenses and certain tax results, which would not be present in a direct investment in such underlying funds. Each investment company is subject to specific risks, depending on the nature of a Fund. Underlying ETFs and mutual funds may employ leverage, which magnifies the changes in the underlying stock or other index upon which they are based.

<u>Open-End Investment Companies</u>

Under certain circumstances an underlying fund may determine to make payment of a redemption by a Fund wholly or partly by a distribution in kind of securities from its portfolio, in lieu of cash, in conformity with the rules of the SEC. In such cases, a Fund may hold securities distributed by an underlying fund until the Adviser determines that it is appropriate to dispose of such securities.

Investment decisions by the investment advisers of the underlying fund(s) are made independently of a Fund and the Adviser. Therefore, the investment adviser of one underlying fund may be purchasing shares of the same issuer whose shares are being sold by the investment adviser of another such fund. The result would be an indirect expense to a Fund without accomplishing any investment purpose.

<u>Exchange Traded Funds</u>

The Funds may invest in ETFs. An ETF is a type of open-end fund, however, unlike a mutual fund, its shares are bought and sold on a securities exchange at market price and only certain financial institutions called authorized participants may buy and redeem shares of the ETF at net asset value. ETF shares can trade at either a premium or discount to net asset value. Each ETF, like a mutual fund, is subject to specific risks depending on the type of strategy (actively managed or passively tracking an index) and the composition of its underlying holdings. Investing in an ETF involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the ETF's underlying holdings. ETFs pay fees and incur operating expenses, which reduce the total return earned by the ETFs from their underlying holdings. An ETF may not achieve its investment objective or execute its investment strategy effectively, which may adversely affect the Funds' performance.

<u>Foreign Securities</u>

Investing in securities of foreign companies and countries involves certain considerations and risks that are not typically associated with investing in U.S. government securities and securities of domestic companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than a domestic one, and foreign companies are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial standards and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. There may

also be less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges, brokers and listed companies than exists in the United States. Interest and dividends paid by foreign issuers may be subject to withholding and other foreign taxes, which may decrease the net return on such investments as compared to dividends and interest paid to a Fund by domestic companies or the U.S. government. There may be the possibility of expropriations, seizure or nationalization of foreign deposits, confiscatory taxation, political, economic or social instability or diplomatic developments that could affect assets of a Fund held in foreign countries. Finally, the establishment of exchange controls or other foreign governmental laws or restrictions could adversely affect the payment of obligations.

To the extent currency exchange transactions do not fully protect a Fund against adverse changes in currency exchange rates, decreases in the value of currencies of the foreign countries in which a Fund will invest relative to the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding decrease in the U.S. dollar value of a Fund's assets denominated in those currencies (and possibly a corresponding increase in the amount of securities required to be liquidated to meet distribution requirements). Conversely, increases in the value of currencies of the foreign countries in which a Fund invests relative to the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding increase in the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets (and possibly a corresponding decrease in the amount of securities to be liquidated).

<u>Short Sales</u> 

*Short Sales (excluding Short Sales "Against the Box").* The Funds may sell securities short. A short sale is a transaction in which a Fund sells securities it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the market price of the securities.

To deliver the securities to the buyer, the Funds must arrange through a broker to borrow the securities and, in so doing, the Funds become obligated to replace the securities borrowed at their market price at the time of replacement, whatever that price may be. The Funds will make a profit or incur a loss as a result of a short sale depending on whether the price of the securities decreases or increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Funds purchase the security to replace the borrowed securities that have been sold. The amount of any loss would be increased (and any gain decreased) by any premium or interest a Fund is required to pay in connection with a short sale.

Each Fund's obligation to replace the securities borrowed in connection with a short sale will be secured by cash or liquid securities deposited as collateral with the broker.

*Short Sales "Against the Box."* The Funds may engage in short sales "against the box." In a short sale, a Fund sells a borrowed security and has a corresponding obligation to the lender to return the identical security. The seller does not immediately deliver the securities sold and is said to have a short position in those securities until delivery occurs. A Fund may engage in a short sale if at the time of the short sale the Fund owns or has the right to obtain without additional cost an equal amount of the security being sold short. This investment technique is known as a short sale "against the box." It may be entered into by a Fund to, for example, lock in a sale price for a security the Fund does not wish to sell immediately.

A Fund may make a short sale as a hedge, when it believes that the price of a security may decline, causing a decline in the value of a security owned by the Fund (or a security convertible or exchangeable for such security). In such case, any future losses in a Fund's long position should be offset by a gain in the short position and, conversely, any gain in the long position should be reduced by a loss in the short position. The extent to which such gains or losses are reduced will depend upon

the amount of the security sold short relative to the amount the Fund owns. There will be certain additional transaction costs associated with short sales "against the box," but the Funds will endeavor to offset these costs with the income from the investment of the cash proceeds of short sales.

If a Fund effects a short sale of securities at a time when it has an unrealized gain on the securities, it may be required to recognize that gain as if it had actually sold the securities (as a "constructive sale") on the date it effects the short sale. However, such constructive sale treatment may not apply if the Fund closes out the short sale with securities other than the appreciated securities held at the time of the short sale and if certain other conditions are satisfied. Uncertainty regarding the tax consequences of effecting short sales may limit the extent to which the Funds may effect short sales.

<u>Regulation as a Commodity Pool Operator</u>

The Adviser, on behalf of the Funds, has filed with the National Futures Association, 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 are not currently subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator. The Funds will only enter into futures contracts or futures options that are standardized and traded on a U.S. or foreign exchange or board of trade, or similar entity, or quoted on an automated quotation system, or where quoted prices are generally available in the over-the-counter market.

<u>Equity Securities</u> 

Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks and securities convertible into common stocks, such as convertible bonds, warrants, rights and options. The value of equity securities varies in response to many factors, including the activities and financial condition of individual companies, the business market in which individual companies compete and general market and economic conditions. Equity securities fluctuate in value, often based on factors unrelated to the value of the issuer of the securities, and such fluctuations can be significant.

<u>Common Stock</u>

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.

<u>Preferred Stock</u>

Preferred stock is a class of stock having a preference over common stock as to the payment of dividends and the recovery of investment should a company be liquidated, although preferred stock is usually junior to the debt securities of the issuer. Preferred stock typically does not possess voting rights and its market value may change based on changes in interest rates.

A fundamental risk of investing in common and preferred stock is the risk that the value of the stock might decrease. Stock values fluctuate in response to the activities of an individual company or in response to general market and/or economic conditions. Historically, common stocks have provided greater long-term returns and have entailed greater short-term risks than preferred stocks, fixed-income

securities and money market investments. The market value of all securities, including common and preferred stocks, is based upon the market's perception of value and not necessarily the book value of an issuer or other objective measures of a company's worth.

<u>Convertible Securities</u> 

Convertible securities include fixed income securities that may be exchanged or converted into a predetermined number of shares of the issuer's underlying common stock at the option of the holder during a specified period. Convertible securities may take the form of convertible preferred stock, convertible bonds or debentures, units consisting of "usable" bonds and warrants or a combination of the features of several of these securities. Convertible securities are senior to common stocks in an issuer's capital structure, but are usually subordinated to similar non-convertible securities. While providing a fixed-income stream (generally higher in yield than the income derivable from common stock but lower than that afforded by a similar nonconvertible security), a convertible security also gives an investor the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation of the issuing company depending upon a market price advance in the convertible security's underlying common stock.

<u>Real Estate Investment Trusts</u>

A Fund may invest in securities of real estate investment trusts ("REITs"). REITs are publicly traded corporations or trusts that specialize in acquiring, holding and managing residential, commercial or industrial real estate. A REIT is not taxed at the entity level on income distributed to its shareholders or unitholders if it distributes to shareholders or unitholders at least 95% of its taxable income for each taxable year and complies with regulatory requirements relating to its organization, ownership, assets and income.

REITs generally can be classified as "Equity REITs", "Mortgage REITs" and "Hybrid REITs." An Equity REIT invests the majority of its assets directly in real property and derives its income primarily from rents and from capital gains on real estate appreciation, which are realized through property sales. A Mortgage REIT invests the majority of its assets in real estate mortgage loans and services its income primarily from interest payments. A Hybrid REIT combines the characteristics of an Equity REIT and a Mortgage REIT. Although a Fund can invest in all three kinds of REITs, its emphasis is expected to be on investments in Equity REITs.

Investments in the real estate industry involve particular risks. The real estate industry has been subject to substantial fluctuations and declines on a local, regional and national basis in the past and may continue to be in the future. Real property values and income from real property continue to be in the future. Real property values and income from real property may decline due to general and local economic conditions, overbuilding and increased competition, increases in property taxes and operating expenses, changes in zoning laws, casualty or condemnation losses, regulatory limitations on rents, changes in neighborhoods and in demographics, increases in market interest rates, or other factors. Factors such as these may adversely affect companies that own and operate real estate directly, companies that lend to such companies, and companies that service the real estate industry.

Investments in REITs also involve risks. Equity REITs will be affected by changes in the values of and income from the properties they own, while Mortgage REITs may be affected by the credit quality of the mortgage loans they hold. In addition, REITs are dependent on specialized management skills and on their ability to generate cash flow for operating purposes and to make distributions to shareholders or unitholders REITs may have limited diversification and are subject to risks associated with obtaining financing for real property, as well as to the risk of self-liquidation. REITs also can be

adversely affected by their failure to qualify for tax-free pass-through treatment of their income under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or their failure to maintain an exemption from registration under the 1940 Act. By investing in REITs indirectly through a Fund, a shareholder bears not only a proportionate share of the expenses of the Fund, but also may indirectly bear similar expenses of some of the REITs in which it invests.

<u>Warrants and Rights</u> 

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. Rights are similar to warrants, but normally have a short duration and are distributed by the issuer to its shareholders.

<u>Depositary Receipts</u>

Sponsored and unsponsored American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), 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.

<u>Emerging Markets Securities</u>

Investing in emerging market securities imposes risks different from, or greater than, risks of investing in foreign developed countries. These risks include: smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; possible repatriation of investment income and capital. In addition, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales; future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization, or creation of government monopolies. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by a Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.

Additional risks of emerging markets securities may include: greater social, economic and political uncertainty and instability; more substantial governmental involvement in the economy; less governmental supervision and regulation; unavailability of currency hedging techniques; companies that are newly organized and small; differences in auditing and financial reporting standards, which may result in unavailability of material information about issuers; and less developed legal systems. In addition, emerging securities markets may have different clearance and settlement procedures, which may be unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions or otherwise make it difficult to

engage in such transactions. Settlement problems may cause a Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, hold a portion of its assets in cash pending investment, or be delayed in disposing of a portfolio security. Such a delay could result in possible liability to a purchaser of the security.

<u>Certificates of Deposit and Bankers' Acceptances</u>

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. 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.

<u>Commercial Paper</u>

Commercial paper consists of short-term (usually from 1 to 270 days) unsecured promissory notes issued by corporations in order to finance their current operations. It may be secured by letters of credit, a surety bond or other forms of collateral. Commercial paper is usually repaid at maturity by the issuer from the proceeds of the issuance of new commercial paper. As a result, investment in commercial paper is 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.

<u>Information on Time Deposits and Variable Rate Notes</u>

Time deposits are issued by a depository institution in exchange for the deposit of funds. The issuer agrees to pay the amount deposited plus interest to the depositor on the date specified with respect to the deposit. Time deposits do not trade in the secondary market prior to maturity. However, some time deposits may be redeemable prior to maturity and may be subject to withdrawal penalties.

The commercial paper obligations are typically unsecured and may include variable rate notes. The nature and terms of a variable rate note (i.e., a "Master Note") permit a Fund to invest fluctuating amounts at varying rates of interest pursuant to a direct arrangement between the Fund and the issuer. It permits daily changes in the amounts invested. Each Fund, typically, 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 investment arrangements between a 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 a Fund's investment restriction on illiquid investments unless such notes can be put back to the issuer (redeemed) on demand within seven days.

<u>Insured Bank Obligations</u>

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 elect to purchase bank obligations in small amounts so as to be 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.

<u>Closed-End Investment Companies</u>

A Fund may invest its assets in "closed-end" investment companies (or "closed-end funds"), subject to the investment restrictions set forth above. Shares of closed-end funds are typically offered to the public in a one-time initial public offering by a group of underwriters who retain a spread or underwriting commission of between 4% or 6% of the initial public offering price. Such securities are then listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange, the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (commonly known as "NASDAQ") or, in some cases, may be traded in other over-the-counter markets. Because the shares of closed-end funds cannot be redeemed upon demand to the issuer like the shares of an open-end investment company (such as a Fund), investors seek to buy and sell shares of closed-end funds in the secondary market.

The Funds generally purchase shares of closed-end funds only in the secondary market. Each Fund incurs normal brokerage costs on such purchases similar to the expenses the Fund would incur for the purchase of securities of any other type of issuer in the secondary market. A Fund may, however, also purchase securities of a closed-end fund in an initial public offering when, in the opinion of the Adviser, based on a consideration of the nature of the closed-end fund's proposed investments, the prevailing market conditions and the level of demand for such securities, they represent an attractive opportunity for growth of capital. The initial offering price typically will include a dealer spread, which may be higher than the applicable brokerage cost if a Fund purchased such securities in the secondary market.

The shares of many closed-end funds, after their initial public offering, frequently trade at a price per share, which is less than the NAV per share, the difference representing the "market discount" of such shares. This market discount may be due in part to the investment objective of long-term appreciation, which is sought by many closed-end funds, as well as to the fact that the shares of closed-end funds are not redeemable by the holder upon demand to the issuer at the next determined NAV but rather are subject to the principles of supply and demand in the secondary market. A relative lack of secondary market purchasers of closed-end fund shares also may contribute to such shares trading at a discount to their NAV.

A Fund may invest in shares of closed-end funds that are trading at a discount to NAV or at a premium to NAV. There can be no assurance that the market discount on shares of any closed-end fund purchased by a Fund will ever decrease. In fact, it is possible that this market discount may increase and a Fund may suffer realized or unrealized capital losses due to further decline in the market price of the securities of such closed-end funds, thereby adversely affecting the NAV of shares. Similarly, there can be no assurance that any shares of a closed-end fund purchased by a Fund at a premium will continue to trade at a premium or that the premium will not decrease subsequent to a purchase of such shares by a Fund.

Closed-end funds may issue senior securities (including preferred stock and debt obligations) for the purpose of leveraging the closed-end fund's common shares in an attempt to enhance the current return to such closed-end fund's common shareholders. A Fund's investment in the common shares of closed-end funds that are financially leveraged may create an opportunity for greater total return on its investment, but at the same time may be expected to exhibit more volatility in market price and NAV than an investment in shares of investment companies without a leveraged capital structure.

<u>United States Government Obligations</u>

These consist of various types of marketable securities issued by the United States Treasury, i.e., bills, notes and bonds. Such securities are direct obligations of the United States 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.

<u>United States Government Agencies</u>

These consist of debt securities issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the United States government, including the various types of instruments currently outstanding or which may be offered in the future. Agencies include, among others, the Federal Housing Administration, Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), Farmer's Home Administration, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Maritime Administration, and General Services Administration. Instrumentalities include, for example, each of the Federal Home Loan Banks, the National Bank for Cooperatives, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"), the Farm Credit Banks, the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae"), and the United States Postal Service. These securities are either: (i) backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government (e.g., United States Treasury Bills); (ii) guaranteed by the United States Treasury (e.g., Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed securities); (iii) supported by the issuing agency's or instrumentality's right to borrow from the United States Treasury (e.g., Fannie Mae Discount Notes); or (iv) supported only by the issuing agency's or instrumentality's own credit (e.g., Tennessee Valley Association).

Government-related guarantors (i.e. not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government) include Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. It is subject to general regulation by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Fannie Mae purchases conventional (i.e., not insured or guaranteed by any government agency) residential mortgages from a list of approved seller/servicers which include state and federally chartered savings and loan associations, mutual savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers. Pass-through securities issued by Fannie Mae are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest by Fannie Mae but are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government.

On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury Department and the Federal Housing Finance Authority (the "FHFA") announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had been placed into conservatorship, a statutory process designed to stabilize a troubled institution with the objective of returning the entity to normal business operations. The U.S. Treasury Department and the FHFA at the same time established a secured lending facility and a Secured Stock Purchase Agreement with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to ensure that each entity had the ability to fulfill its financial obligations. The FHFA announced that it does not anticipate any disruption in pattern of payments or ongoing business operations of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

<u>Securities Options</u>

A Fund may purchase and write (*i.e.,* sell) put and call options. Such options may relate to particular securities or stock indices, and may or may not be listed on a domestic or foreign securities exchange and may or may not be issued by the Options Clearing Corporation. Options trading is a highly specialized activity that entails greater than ordinary investment risk. Options may be more volatile than the underlying instruments, and therefore, on a percentage basis, an investment in options may be subject to greater fluctuation than an investment in the underlying instruments themselves.

A call option for a particular security gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) the obligation to sell, the underlying security at the stated exercise price at any time prior to the expiration of the option, regardless of the market price of the security. The premium paid to the writer is in consideration for undertaking the obligation under the option contract. A put option for a particular security gives the purchaser the right to sell the security at the stated exercise price at any time prior to the expiration date of the option, regardless of the market price of the security.

Stock index options are put options and call options on various stock indices. In most respects, they are identical to listed options on common stocks. The primary difference between stock options and index options occurs when index options are exercised. In the case of stock options, the underlying security, common stock, is delivered. However, upon the exercise of an index option, settlement does not occur by delivery of the securities comprising the index. The option holder who exercises the index option receives an amount of cash if the closing level of the stock index upon which the option is based is greater than, in the case of a call, or less than, in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the stock index and the

exercise price of the option expressed in dollars times a specified multiple. A stock index fluctuates with changes in the market value of the stocks included in the index. For example, some stock index options are based on a broad market index, such as the Standard & Poor's 500® Index or the Value Line Composite Index or a narrower market index, such as the Standard & Poor's 100®. Indices may also be based on an industry or market segment, such as the NYSE Arca Oil Index. Options on stock indices are currently traded on the Chicago Board Options Exchange, the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq PHLX.

A Fund's obligation to sell an instrument subject to a call option written by it, or to purchase an instrument subject to a put option written by it, may be terminated prior to the expiration date of the option by the Fund's execution of a closing purchase transaction, which is effected by purchasing on an exchange an option of the same series (*i.e.*, same underlying instrument, exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously written. A closing purchase transaction will ordinarily be effected to realize a profit on an outstanding option, to prevent an underlying instrument from being called, to permit the sale of the underlying instrument or to permit the writing of a new option containing different terms on such underlying instrument. The cost of such a liquidation purchase plus transactions costs may be greater than the premium received upon the original option, in which event a Fund will have paid a loss in the transaction. There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular option. An option writer unable to effect a closing purchase transaction will not be able to sell the underlying instrument until the option expires or the optioned instrument is delivered upon exercise. In such circumstances, the writer will be subject to the risk of market decline or appreciation in the instrument during such period.

If an option purchased by a Fund expires unexercised, the Fund realizes a loss equal to the premium paid. If a Fund enters into a closing sale transaction on an option purchased by it, the Fund will realize a gain if the premium received by the Fund on the closing transaction is more than the premium paid to purchase the option, or a loss if it is less. If an option written by a Fund expires on the stipulated expiration date or if a Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, it will realize a gain (or loss if the cost of a closing purchase transaction exceeds the net premium received when the option is sold). If an option written by a Fund is exercised, the proceeds of the sale will be increased by the net premium originally received and the Fund will realize a gain or loss.

<u>Certain Risks Regarding Options</u>

There are several risks associated with transactions in options. For example, there are significant differences between the securities and options markets that could result in an imperfect correlation between these markets, causing a given transaction not to achieve its objectives. In addition, a liquid secondary market for particular options, whether traded over-the-counter or on an exchange, may be absent for reasons which include the following: there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options or underlying securities or currencies; unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; the facilities of an exchange or the Options Clearing Corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading value; or 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 that had been issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.

Successful use by a Fund of options on stock indices will be subject to the ability of the Adviser to correctly predict movements in the directions of the stock market. This requires different skills and techniques than predicting changes in the prices of individual securities. In addition, a Fund's ability to effectively hedge all or a portion of the securities in its portfolio, in anticipation of or during a market decline, through transactions in put options on stock indices, depends on the degree to which price movements in the underlying index correlate with the price movements of the securities held by a Fund. Inasmuch as a Fund's securities will not duplicate the components of an index, the correlation will not be perfect. Consequently, a Fund bears the risk that the prices of its securities being hedged will not move in the same amount as the prices of its put options on the stock indices. It is also possible that there may be a negative correlation between the index and a Fund's securities that would result in a loss on both such securities and the options on stock indices acquired by the Fund.

The hours of trading for options may not conform to the hours during which the underlying securities are traded. To the extent that the options markets close before the markets for the underlying securities, significant price and rate movements can take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the options markets. The purchase of options is a highly specialized activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The purchase of stock index options involves the risk that the premium and transaction costs paid by a Fund in purchasing an option will be lost as a result of unanticipated movements in prices of the securities comprising the stock index on which the option is based.

There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an options exchange will exist for any particular option, or at any particular time, and for some options no secondary market on an exchange or elsewhere may exist. If a Fund is unable to close out a call option on securities that it has written before the option is exercised, the Fund may be required to purchase the optioned securities in order to satisfy its obligation under the option to deliver such securities. If a Fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options on securities that it has purchased, it would have to exercise the option in order to realize any profit and would incur transaction costs upon the purchase and sale of the underlying securities.

<u>Options on Futures Contracts</u>

A Fund may purchase and sell options on the same types of futures in which it may invest. Options on futures are similar to options on underlying instruments except that options on futures give 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), rather than to purchase or sell the futures contract, at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. Upon exercise of the option, the delivery of the futures position by the writer of the option to the holder of the option will be accompanied by the delivery of the accumulated balance in the writer's futures margin account which represents the amount by which the market price of the futures contract, at exercise, exceeds (in the case of a call) or is less than (in the case of a put) the exercise price of the option on the futures contract. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options prior to the exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid.

<u>Dealer Options</u>

A Fund may engage in transactions involving dealer options as well as exchange traded options. Certain additional risks are specific to dealer options. While a Fund might look to a clearing corporation to exercise exchange-traded options, if the Fund were to purchase a dealer option it would need to rely on the dealer from which it purchased the option to perform if the option were exercised. Failure by the

dealer to do so would result in the loss of the premium paid by a Fund as well as loss of the expected benefit of the transaction.

Exchange traded options generally have a continuous liquid market while dealer options may not. Consequently, a Fund may generally be able to realize the value of a dealer option it has purchased only by exercising or reselling the option to the dealer who issued it. Similarly, when a Fund writes a dealer option, it may generally be able to close out the option prior to its expiration only by entering into a closing purchase transaction with the dealer to whom a Fund originally wrote the option. While a Fund will seek to enter into dealer options only with dealers who will agree to and which are expected to be capable of entering into closing transactions with the Fund, there can be no assurance that the Fund will at any time be able to liquidate a dealer option at a favorable price at any time prior to expiration. Unless a Fund, as a covered dealer call option writer, is able to effect a closing purchase transaction, it will not be able to liquidate securities (or other assets) used as cover until the option expires or is exercised. In the event of insolvency of the other party, a Fund may be unable to liquidate a dealer option. With respect to options written by a Fund, the inability to enter into a closing transaction may result in material losses to the Fund.

The Staff of the SEC has taken the position that purchased dealer options are illiquid investments. In such cases, the dealer option would be considered illiquid only to the extent the maximum purchase price under the formula exceeds the intrinsic value of the option. Accordingly, the Funds will treat dealer options as subject to the Funds' limitation on illiquid investments. If the SEC changes its position on the liquidity of dealer options, the Funds will change its treatment of such instruments accordingly.

<u>Spread Transactions</u>

A Fund may purchase covered spread options from securities dealers. These covered spread options are not presently exchange-listed or exchange traded. The purchase of a spread option gives a Fund the right to put securities that it owns at a fixed dollar spread or fixed yield spread in relationship to another security that a Fund does not own, but which is used as a benchmark. The risk to a Fund, in addition to the risks of dealer options described above, is the cost of the premium paid as well as any transaction costs. The purchase of spread options will be used to protect a Fund against adverse changes in prevailing credit quality spreads, *i.e.,* the yield spread between high quality and lower quality securities. This protection is provided only during the life of the spread options.

<u>Repurchase Agreements</u>

The Funds may enter into repurchase agreements. In a repurchase agreement, an investor (such as a Fund) purchases a security (known as the "underlying security") from a securities dealer or bank. Any such dealer or bank must be deemed creditworthy by the Adviser. At that time, the bank or securities dealer agrees to repurchase the underlying security at a mutually agreed upon price on a designated future date. The repurchase price may be higher than the purchase price, the difference being income to a Fund, or the purchase and repurchase prices may be the same, with interest at an agreed upon rate due to a Fund on repurchase. In either case, the income to a Fund generally will be unrelated to the interest rate on the underlying securities. Repurchase agreements must be "fully collateralized," in that the market value of the underlying securities (including accrued interest) must at all times be equal to or greater than the repurchase price. Therefore, a repurchase agreement can be considered a loan collateralized by the underlying securities.

Repurchase agreements are generally for a short period of time, often less than a week, and will generally be used by a Fund to invest excess cash or as part of a temporary defensive strategy. Repurchase agreements that do not provide for payment within seven days will be treated as illiquid investments. In the event of a bankruptcy or other default by the seller of a repurchase agreement, a Fund could experience both delays in liquidating the underlying security and losses. These losses could result from: (a) possible decline in the value of the underlying security while a Fund is seeking to enforce its rights under the repurchase agreement; (b) possible reduced levels of income or lack of access to income during this period; and (c) expenses of enforcing its rights.

<u>Trading in Futures Contracts</u>

A futures contract provides for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific financial instrument (e.g., units of a stock index) for a specified price, date, time and place designated at the time the contract is made. Brokerage fees are paid when a futures contract is bought or sold and margin deposits must be maintained. Entering into a contract to buy is commonly referred to as buying or purchasing a contract or holding a long position. Entering into a contract to sell is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position.

Unlike when a Fund purchases or sells a security, no price would be paid or received by the Fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract. The margin required for a particular futures contract is set by the exchange on which the contract is traded, and may be significantly modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Futures contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margins that may range upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded.

If the price of an open futures contract changes (by increase in underlying instrument or index in the case of a sale or by decrease in the case of a purchase) so that the loss on the futures contract reaches a point at which the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, the broker will require an increase in the margin. However, if the value of a position increases because of favorable price changes in the futures contract so that the margin deposit exceeds the required margin, the broker will pay the excess to a Fund.

These subsequent payments, called "variation margin," to and from the futures broker, are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying assets fluctuate making the long and short positions in the futures contract more or less valuable, a process known as "marking to the market." A Fund expects to earn interest income on margin deposits.

Although certain futures contracts, by their terms, require actual future delivery of and payment for the underlying instruments, in practice most futures contracts are usually closed out before the delivery date. Closing out an open futures contract purchase or sale is effected by entering into an offsetting futures contract sale or purchase, respectively, for the same aggregate amount of the identical underlying instrument or index and the same delivery date. If the offsetting purchase price is less than the original sale price, a Fund realizes a gain; if it is more, a Fund realizes a loss. Conversely, if the offsetting sale price is more than the original purchase price, a Fund realizes a gain; if it is less, a Fund realizes a loss. The transaction costs must also be included in these calculations. There can be no assurance, however, that a Fund will be able to enter into an offsetting transaction with respect to a particular futures contract at a particular time.

<u>When-Issued, Forward Commitments and Delayed Settlements</u>

A Fund may purchase and sell securities on a when-issued, forward commitment or delayed settlement basis.

The Funds do not intend to engage in these transactions for speculative purposes but only in furtherance of its investment objectives.

A Fund will purchase securities on a when-issued, forward commitment or delayed settlement basis only with the intention of completing the transaction. If deemed advisable as a matter of investment strategy, however, a Fund may dispose of or renegotiate a commitment after it is entered into, and may sell securities it has committed to purchase before those securities are delivered to a Fund on the settlement date. In these cases a Fund may realize a taxable capital gain or loss. When a Fund engages in when-issued, forward commitment and delayed settlement transactions, it relies on the other party to consummate the trade. Failure of such party to do so may result in a Fund incurring a loss or missing an opportunity to obtain a price credited to be advantageous.

The market value of the securities underlying a when-issued purchase, forward commitment to purchase securities, or a delayed settlement and any subsequent fluctuations in their market value is taken into account when determining the market value of a Fund starting on the day a Fund agrees to purchase the securities. A Fund does not earn interest on the securities it has committed to purchase until it has paid for and delivered on the settlement date.

<u>Illiquid Investments and Restricted Securities</u>

A Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments. Illiquid investments may include securities subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale (e.g., because they have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act")) and securities that are otherwise not readily marketable (e.g., because trading in the security is suspended or because market makers do not exist or will not entertain bids or offers)). Securities that have not been registered under the Securities 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 securities 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 securities in order to dispose of them, resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of securities.

A large institutional market exists for certain securities that are not registered under the Securities 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 Securities 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 Securities 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 NASDAQ.

Under liquidity risk management program guidelines adopted by the 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 Securities Act, are liquid even though they are not registered.

<u>Lending Portfolio Securities</u>

For the purpose of achieving income, a Fund may lend its portfolio securities, provided (1) the loan is secured continuously by collateral consisting of U.S. government securities or cash or cash equivalents (cash, U.S. government securities, negotiable certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances or letters of credit) maintained on a daily mark-to-market basis in an amount at least equal to the current market value of the securities loaned, (2) the Fund may at any time call the loan and obtain the return of securities loaned, (3) the Fund will receive any interest or dividends received on the loaned securities, and (4) the aggregate value of the securities loaned will not at any time exceed one-third of the total assets of the Fund.

**INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS**

Each Fund has adopted the following investment restrictions that may not be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding shares" of the Fund, which, as used in this SAI, means the vote of the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Each Fund may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Issue senior securities, except as otherwise permitted under the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Borrow money, except (a) from a bank, provided that immediately after such borrowing there is an asset coverage of 300% for all borrowings of the Fund; or (b) from a bank or other persons for temporary purposes only, provided that such temporary borrowings are in an amount not exceeding 5% of the Fund's total assets at the time when the borrowing is made. This limitation does not preclude the Fund from entering into reverse repurchase transactions, provided that the Fund has an asset coverage of 300% for all borrowings and repurchase commitments of the Fund pursuant to reverse repurchase transactions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Purchase securities on margin, participate on a joint or joint and several basis in any securities trading account, or underwrite securities. This limitation does not preclude the Fund from obtaining such short-term credit as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of its portfolio securities, and except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act, by virtue of disposing of portfolio securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Purchase or sell real estate or interests in real estate. This limitation is not applicable to investments in marketable securities that are secured by or represent interests in real estate. This limitation does not preclude the Fund from investing in mortgage-related securities or investing in companies engaged in the real estate business or that have a significant portion of their assets in real estate (including real estate investment trusts);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. Invest more than 25% of the market value of its assets in the securities of companies engaged in any one industry or group of industries. This limitation does not apply to investment in the securities of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6. Purchase or sell commodities (unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other investments) or commodity futures contracts, except that the Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts and options to the full extent permitted under the 1940 Act, sell foreign currency contracts in accordance with any rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, invest in securities or other instruments backed by commodities, and invest in companies that are engaged in a commodities business or have a significant portion of their assets in commodities; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7. Make loans to others, except that the Fund may, in accordance with its investment objective and policies, (i) lend portfolio securities, (ii) purchase and hold debt securities or other debt instruments, including but not limited to loan participations and sub-participations, assignments, and structured securities, (iii) make loans secured by mortgages on real property, (iv) enter into repurchase agreements, (v) enter into transactions where each loan is represented by a note executed by the borrower, and (vi) make time deposits with financial institutions and invest in instruments issued by financial institutions. For purposes of this limitation, the term "loans" shall not include the purchase of a portion of an issue of publicly distributed bonds, debentures or other securities.

If a restriction on a Fund's investments is adhered to at the time an investment is made, a subsequent change in the percentage of Fund assets invested in certain securities or other instruments of a Fund's investment portfolio, resulting from changes in the value of the Fund's total assets, will not be considered a violation of the restriction; provided, however, that the asset coverage requirement applicable to borrowings shall be maintained in the manner contemplated by applicable law.

With respect to Fundamental Investment Restriction # 2, if a Fund's asset coverage falls below 300%, the Fund will reduce borrowing within 3 days in order to ensure that the Fund has 300% asset coverage.

With respect to Fundamental Investment Restriction # 5, if a Fund invests in one or more investment companies that concentrates its investments in a particular industry, the Fund will examine its other investment company holdings to ensure that the Fund is not indirectly concentrating its investments in a particular industry.

Although Fundamental Investment Restriction # 7 reserves for each Fund the ability to make loans, there is no present intent to loan money or portfolio securities and additional disclosure will be provided if such a strategy is implemented in the future.

**POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS** 

The Trust has adopted a policy regarding the disclosure of information about each Fund's portfolio holdings. The Funds and their service providers may not receive compensation or any other consideration (which includes any agreement to maintain assets in the Fund or in other investment companies or accounts managed by the Adviser or any affiliated person of the Adviser) in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information of the Funds. The Trust's policy is implemented and overseen by the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, subject to the oversight of the Board. Periodic reports regarding these procedures will be provided to the Board. The Trust, the Adviser and the Funds' distributor will not disseminate non-public information concerning the Trust. The Board must approve all material amendments to this policy.

Each business day, the Funds' 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, 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 the Funds in the secondary market. This information typically reflects the Funds' anticipated holdings as of the next Business Day.

Access to information concerning each Fund's portfolio holdings may be permitted to personnel of third party service providers, including the Funds' 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 the Funds.

The Funds disclose on the Adviser's website at www.howardcmetfs.com at the start of each Business Day the identities and quantities of the securities and other assets held by the Funds that will form the basis of each Fund's calculation of its NAV on that Business Day. The portfolio holdings so disclosed will be based on information as of the close of business on the prior Business Day and/or trades that have been completed prior to the opening of business on that Business Day and that are expected to settle on that Business Day. The Funds may also concurrently disclose this portfolio holdings information directly to ratings agencies on a daily basis.

*Quarterly Portfolio Schedule*. The Trust is required to disclose, after its first and third fiscal quarters, the complete schedule of each Fund's portfolio holdings with the SEC on Form N-PORT. The Trust discloses a complete schedule of each Fund's portfolio holdings with the SEC on Form N-CSR after its second and fourth quarters.

Form N-PORT and Form N-CSR for the Funds is available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Each Fund's Form N-PORT and Form N-CSR is available without charge, upon request, by calling 770-642-4902 or by writing to: HCM Funds, c/o Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC, 4221 North 203<sup>rd</sup> Street, Suite 100 Elkhorn, NE 68022.

**The Adviser**. Personnel of the Adviser, including personnel responsible for managing each Fund's portfolio, may have full daily access to Fund portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for the Adviser to provide its management, administrative, and investment services to the Funds. As required for purposes of analyzing the impact of existing and future market changes on the prices, availability, as demand and liquidity of such securities, as well as for the assistance of

portfolio managers in the trading of such securities, Adviser personnel may also release and discuss certain portfolio holdings with various broker-dealers.

**Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC.** Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC is the fund accountant, administrator, and custody administrator for the Funds; therefore, its personnel have full daily access to each Fund's portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for them to provide the agreed-upon services for the Trust.

**Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.** Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. is custodian and transfer agent for the Funds; therefore, its personnel have full daily access to each Fund's portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for them to provide the agreed-upon services for the Trust.

**RSM US LLP.** RSM US LLP is the Funds' independent registered public accounting firm; therefore, its personnel have access to the Funds' portfolio holdings in connection with the audits of the Funds' annual financial statements and providing other audit, tax and related services to the Funds.

**Thompson Hine LLP.** Thompson Hine LLP is counsel to the Funds; therefore, its personnel have access to each Fund's portfolio holdings in connection with review of each Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements and SEC filings.

**Derivatives Risk Consultant**. The Trust has engaged a derivatives risk consultant ("Consultant") to consult with the Board, and the Adviser, regarding the effectiveness of derivatives risk management. The Consultant therefore may have access to each Fund's portfolio holdings in order to provide such services to the Trust.

**Additions to List of Approved Recipients** 

The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer is the person responsible, and whose prior approval is required, for any disclosure of the Funds' portfolio securities at any time or to any persons other than those described above. In such cases, the recipient must have a legitimate business need for the information and in connection with the operation or administration of the Funds, as determined by the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, must be subject to a duty to keep the information confidential and not to trade on any material non-public information. There are no ongoing arrangements in place with respect to the disclosure of portfolio holdings. In no event shall the Funds, the Adviser, or any other party receive any direct or indirect compensation in connection with the disclosure of information about the Funds' portfolio holdings.

**Compliance with Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Procedures** 

The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports periodically to the Board with respect to compliance with the Funds' portfolio holdings disclosure procedures, and from time to time provides the Board any updates to the portfolio holdings disclosure policies and procedures.

There is no assurance that the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings will protect The Funds from the potential misuse of holdings information by individuals or firms in possession of that information.

**MANAGEMENT** 

The business of the Trust is managed under the direction of the Board in accordance with the Agreement and Declaration of Trust and the Trust's By-laws (the "Governing Documents"), which have been filed with the SEC and are available upon request. The Board consists of four (4) individuals, each of whom are not "interested persons" (as defined under the 1940 Act) of the Trust or any investment adviser to any series of the Trust ("Independent Trustees"). Pursuant to the Governing Documents, the Board shall elect officers including a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Chief Compliance Officer, a Principal Executive Officer and a Principal Accounting Officer. The Board retains the power to conduct, operate and carry on the business of the Trust and has the power to incur and pay any expenses which, in the opinion of the Board, are necessary or incidental to carry out any of the Trust's purposes. The Board, officers, employees and agents of the Trust, when acting in such capacities, shall not be subject to any personal liability except for his or her own bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties.

**Board Leadership Structure** 

The Board is led by John V. Palancia, who has served as the Chairman of the Board (the "Chairman") since May 2014. The Board has not appointed a Lead Independent Trustee because the Chairman is an Independent Trustee. Under the Governing Documents, the Chairman is responsible for (a) presiding at Board meetings, (b) calling special meetings on an as-needed basis, and (c) executing and administering Trust policies, including (i) setting the agendas for Board meetings and (ii) providing information to Trustees in advance of each Board meeting and between Board meetings. Generally, the Trust believes it best to have a non-executive Chairman, who together with the President (principal executive officer), are seen by its shareholders, business partners and other stakeholders as providing strong leadership. The Trust believes that its Chairman, the independent chair of the Audit Committee, and, as an entity, the full Board, provide effective leadership that is in the best interests of the Trust, its Funds and each shareholder.

**Board Risk Oversight** 

The Board is comprised entirely of Independent Trustees with an Audit Committee with a separate chair. The Board is responsible for overseeing risk management, and receives compliance reports that inform its oversight of risk management from the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer at quarterly meetings and on an ad hoc basis, when and if necessary. The Audit Committee considers financial reporting and risk within its area of responsibilities. Generally, the Board believes that its oversight of material risks is adequately maintained through the compliance-reporting chain where the Chief Compliance Officer is the primary recipient and communicator of such risk-related information.

**Trustee Qualifications** 

*Trustee Qualifications*.

Generally, the Fund believes that each Trustee is competent to serve because of his or her individual overall merits including his or her: (i) experience, (ii) qualifications, (iii) attributes and (iv) skills.

Patricia Luscombe, CFA, has more than 30 years in financial advisory and valuation services. She has delivered a broad range of corporate finance advice including fairness opinions and valuations. Ms. Luscombe joined Lincoln International in 2007 as a Managing Director and co-head of Lincoln's

Valuations & Opinions Group. In this position, she assists regulated investment funds, business development companies, private equity funds and hedge funds in the valuation of illiquid securities for fair value accounting purposes. Ms. Luscombe's clients range from closely held businesses to large, publicly-traded companies. Previously, Ms. Luscombe spent 16 years with Duff & Phelps Corporation, as a Managing Director in the firm's valuation and financial advisory business. Prior to joining Duff & Phelps Corporation, Ms. Luscombe was an Associate at Smith Barney, a division of Citigroup Capital Markets, Inc., where she managed a variety of financial transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and equity and debt financings. Ms. Luscombe is a member of the Chicago Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth, the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Chicago and former president of the Chicago Finance Exchange. Ms. Luscombe holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Stanford University, a Masters degree in economics from the University of Chicago and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. In addition, Ms. Luscombe is licensed under the Series 24, 79 and 63 of FINRA.

John V. Palancia has over 40 years of business experience in the financial services industry including serving as the Director of Global Futures Operations for Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. ("Merrill Lynch"). Mr. Palancia possesses an in depth understanding of broker-dealer operations from having served in various management capacities and has held industry registrations in both securities and futures. Based on his service at Merrill Lynch, he also possesses a strong understanding of risk management, balance sheet analysis, compliance and the regulatory framework under which regulated financial entities must operate. Additionally, he is well versed in the regulatory framework under which investment companies must operate based on his service as a member of three other mutual fund boards. This practical and extensive experience in the securities industry provides valuable insight into fund operations and enhances his ability to effectively serve as chairman of the Board. Mr. Palancia is a member of the Investment Company Institute and Mutual Fund Directors Forum. Mr. Palancia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics.

Mark H. Taylor has over 30 years of academic and professional experience in the accounting and auditing fields, which makes him particularly qualified to chair the Board's Audit Committee. Dr. Taylor holds PhD, Master's and Bachelors degrees in Accountancy and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and serves as a member of two other mutual fund boards within the Northern Lights Fund Complex. Dr. Taylor is the Director of the Lynn Pippenger School of Accountancy at the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida and served a three-year term as President of the American Accounting Association (AAA) (as President-Elect 8/22-7/23, President 8/23-8/24, and Past President 8/24-8/25). Dr. Taylor previously served as Vice President-Finance of the AAA, and as President of the Auditing Section of the AAA. He previously served a three-year term on the AICPA's Auditing Standards Board and completed a fellowship in the Professional Practice Group of the Office of the Chief Accountant at the headquarters of the United States Securities Exchange Commission. Dr. Taylor is a member of two research teams that received grants from the Center for Audit Quality to study how accounting firms' tone-at-the-top messaging impacts audit performance and how auditors manage the process of auditing fair value measurements and other complex estimates in financial statements. Dr. Taylor has had his research widely published in leading academic accounting and practice journals. He has teaching interests in corporate governance and accounting policy as well as auditing and assurance services at the graduate and undergraduate levels and possesses a strong understanding of the regulatory framework under which investment companies operate.

Jeffery D. Young has over 40 years of business management experience, including in the transportation industry and operations and information technologies. He is currently Co-owner and Vice President of the Latin America Agriculture Development Corporation, an agribusiness exporting fruit to the United States and other Central American countries. He has served as Assistant Vice President of

Transportation Systems at Union Pacific Railroad Company, where he was responsible for the development and implementation of large-scale command and control systems that support railroad operations and safety. In this position, Mr. Young was heavily involved in the regulatory compliance of safety and mission critical systems. Mr. Young also served as Chairman of the Association of American Railroads Policy Committee and represented both Union Pacific Railroad and the railroad industry in safety and regulatory hearings with the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Railroad Administration in Washington, DC. Mr. Young was a member of the Board of Directors of PS Technologies, a Union Pacific affiliate serving as a technology supplier to the railroad industry. His practical business experience and understanding of regulatory compliance provides a different perspective that brings diversity to Board deliberations.

*Trustees and Officers*. The Trustees and officers of the Trust, together with information as to their principal business occupations during the past five years and other information, are shown below. The business address of each Trustee and Officer is 225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 450, Cincinnati, OH 45246. All correspondence to the Trustees and Officers should be directed to c/o Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC, PO Box 46707, Cincinnati, OH 45246

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** | **Independent Trustees** |
| **Name,<br> Address,<br> Year of<br> Birth** | **Position(s)<br> Held with<br> Registrant** | **Length of<br> Service<br> and Term** | **Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years** | **Number of<br> Funds<br> Overseen<br> In The<br> Fund<br> Complex\*** | **Other Directorships<br> Held During Past 5<br> Years\*\*** |
| Patricia<br> Luscombe<br> 1961<br>| Trustee | Since January 2015, Indefinite | Managing Director of the Valuations and Opinions Group, Lincoln International LLC (since August 2007).<br>| 6 | Northern Lights Fund Trust III (for series not affiliated with the Fund since 2015); Monetta Mutual Funds (since November 2015). |
| John V.<br> Palancia<br> 1954 | Trustee, Chairman | Trustee, since February 2012, Indefinite; Chairman of the Board since May 2014. | Retired (since 2011); formerly, Director of Global Futures Operations Control, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. (1975-2011).<br>| 6 | Northern Lights Fund Trust III (for series not affiliated with the Fund since 2012); Northern Lights Fund Trust (since 2011); Northern Lights Variable Trust (since 2011); Alternative Strategies Fund (since 2012). |
| Mark H.<br> Taylor<br> 1964<br>| Trustee, Chairman of the Audit Committee | Since February 2012, Indefinite | PhD (Accounting), CPA; Professor and Director, Lynn Pippenger School of Accountancy, Muma College of Business, University of South Florida (2019 – present); Professor and Department of Accountancy Chair, Case Western Reserve University (2009-2019); President, American Accounting Association (AAA) since August 2022 (President-Elect 2022-2023, President 2023-2024; Past President 2024-2025). AAA Vice President-Finance (2017-2020); President, Auditing Section of the AAA; Member, AICPA Auditing Standards Board (2009-2012); Academic Fellow, Office of the Chief Accountant, United States Securities Exchange Commission (2005-2006); Center for Audit Quality research grants (2014, 2012). | 6 | Northern Lights Fund Trust III (for series not affiliated with the Fund since 2012); Northern Lights Fund Trust (since 2007); Northern Lights Variable Trust (since 2007); Alternative Strategies Fund (since June 2010). |
| Jeffery D. Young<br> 1956<br>| Trustee | Since January 2015, Indefinite | Co-owner and Vice President, Latin America Agriculture Development Corp. (since May 2015); President, Celeritas Rail Consulting (since June 2014); Asst. Vice President - Transportation Systems, Union Pacific Railroad Company (June 1976 to April 2014).<br>| 6 | Northern Lights Fund Trust III (for series not affiliated with the Fund since 2015). |

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\* As of June 30, 2025, the Trust was comprised of 27 active portfolios managed by 13 unaffiliated investment advisers. The term "Fund Complex" refers only to the Funds, HCM Dynamic Income Fund, HCM Sector Plus Fund, HCM Tactical Plus Fund, HCM Multi-Asset Plus Fund, and not to any other series of the Trust. The Funds do not hold themselves out as related to any other series within the Trust for investment purposes, nor do they share the same investment adviser with any other series.

\*\* Only includes directorships held within the past 5 years in a company with a class of securities registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or subject to the requirements of Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or any company registered as an investment company under the 1940 Act.

**Officers of the Trust**

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address,<br> Year of Birth** | **Position(s) Held<br> with Registrant** | **Length of<br> Service and<br> Term** | **Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years** |
| Brian Curley<br> 1970 | President | Since May 2023, indefinite | Vice President, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (since 2020); Vice President, Gemini Fund Services, LLC (2015-2020). |
| Timothy Burdick<br> 1986 | Vice President | Since May 2023, indefinite | Vice President and Senior Managing Counsel, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2023 – present); Vice President and Managing Counsel, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2022 – 2023); Assistant Vice President and Counsel, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2019 – 2022). |
| Richard Gleason<br> 1977 | Treasurer | Since May 2023, indefinite | Assistant Vice President, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (since 2020); Assistant Vice President, Gemini Fund Services, LLC (2015-2020). |
| Joseph Kulbacki<br> 1967<br>| Secretary | Since November 2024, indefinite | Senior Legal Administrator, Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (since 2024); Senior Paralegal, Voya Financial, Inc., (2023-2024), Senior Corporate Paralegal II, Argo AI (2022); Contract Paralegal (2020-2022); Corporate Governance Paralegal, GNC (2019-2020). |
| William Kimme<br> 1962 | Chief Compliance Officer | Since February 2012, indefinite | Senior Compliance Officer of Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC (since 2011). |

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*Audit Committee.* The Board has an Audit Committee that consists solely of Independent Trustees. The Audit Committee's responsibilities include: (i) recommending to the Board the selection, retention or termination of the Trust's independent auditors; (ii) reviewing with the independent auditors the scope, performance and anticipated cost of their audit; (iii) discussing with the independent auditors certain matters relating to the Trust's financial statements, including any adjustment to such financial statements recommended by such independent auditors, or any other results of any audit; (iv) reviewing on a periodic basis a formal written statement from the independent auditors with respect to their independence, discussing with the independent auditors any relationships or services disclosed in the statement that may impact the objectivity and independence of the Trust's independent auditors and recommending that the Board take appropriate action in response thereto to satisfy itself of the auditor's independence; and (v) considering the comments of the independent auditors and management's responses thereto with respect to the quality and adequacy of the Trust's accounting and financial reporting policies and practices and internal controls. The Audit Committee operates pursuant to an Audit Committee Charter. Dr. Taylor is Chairman of the Audit Committee. During the past fiscal year, the Audit Committee held four meetings.

*Compensation of Directors*. Since January 1, 2024, each Trustee (none of whom are affiliated with the Trust or an investment adviser to any series of the Trust) receives a quarterly fee of $30,000,

allocated among each of the various portfolios comprising the Trust, for his or her attendance at the regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, to be paid in advance of each calendar quarter, as well as reimbursement for any reasonable expenses incurred. In addition to their quarterly fees and reimbursements, the Chairman of the Board receives a quarterly fee of $7,500, and the Audit Committee Chairman receives a quarterly fee of $5,500. From January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023, each Trustee received a quarterly fee of $26,000, allocated among each of the various portfolios comprising the Trust, for his or her attendance at the regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, to be paid in advance of each calendar quarter, as well as reimbursement for any reasonable expenses incurred. From January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023, in addition to the quarterly fees and reimbursements, the Chairman of the Board received a quarterly fee of $6,250, and the Audit Committee Chairman received a quarterly fee of $4,500.

Additionally, in the event an in-person meeting of the Board other than its regularly scheduled meetings (a "Special Meeting") is required, each Independent Trustee will receive a fee of $2,500 per Special Meeting, as well as reimbursement for any reasonable expenses incurred, to be paid by the relevant series of the Trust or its investment adviser depending on the circumstances necessitating the Special Meeting. None of the executive officers receive compensation from the Trust. None of the executive officers receive compensation from the Trust.

The table below details the amount of compensation the Board received from each of the Funds and the Trust during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025. Each Trustee is expected to attend all quarterly meetings during the period. The Trust does not have a bonus, profit sharing, pension or retirement plan.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Name and<br> Position** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Aggregate<br> Compensation<br> From QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;<br> **Aggregate<br> Compensation<br> From LGH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Pension or<br> Retirement Benefits<br> Accrued as Part of<br> Funds Expenses** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Annual<br> Benefits Upon<br> Retirement** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Total Compensation<br> From Funds and Fund<br> Complex\* Paid to<br> Trustees** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Patricia Luscombe | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4215.15 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4187.71 |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$25986.01<br>|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;John V. Palancia | &nbsp;&nbsp;$5131.49 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$5098.08 |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$31635.14 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Mark H. Taylor | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4764.96 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4733.93 |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$29375.493 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Jeffery D. Young | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4215.15 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$4187.71 |  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$25986.01 |

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\* There are currently numerous series comprising the Trust. The term "Fund Complex" refers only to the Funds, HCM Dynamic Income Fund, HCM Sector Plus Fund, HCM Tactical Plus Fund, HCM Multi-Asset Plus Fund, and not to any other series of the Trust. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the aggregate Independent Trustees' fees paid by the entire Trust were $513,750.

 ****

*Trustees' Ownership of Shares in the Funds*. As of December 31, 2024, the Trustees beneficially owned the following amounts in the Funds:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Name of Trustee | &nbsp;&nbsp;Dollar Range of Equity<br> Securities in the Funds | &nbsp;&nbsp;Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All Registered<br> Investment Companies Overseen by Trustee in Family of Investment<br> Companies\* |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Patricia Luscombe |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$10001-$50000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;John V. Palancia |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$10001-$50000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Mark H. Taylor |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;$10001-$50000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Jeffery D. Young |  |  |

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**CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS**

A principal shareholder is any person who owns (either of record or beneficially) 5% or more of the outstanding shares of a fund. A control person is one who owns, either directly or indirectly more than 25% of the voting securities of a company or acknowledges the existence of control. A control person is one who owns beneficially or through controlled companies more than 25% of the voting securities of a company or acknowledged the existence of control.

Although the Trust generally does not have information concerning the beneficial ownership of Shares nominally held by Depository Trust Company ("DTC"), the following persons or "groups" (as that term is used in Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) are DTC members reflecting ownership of 5% or more of the Funds' outstanding shares as of October 1, 2025:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of Fund/Class** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Account Name** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Percentage Held of Record** |
| <br>**QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;AXOS CLEARING LLC<br> 1200 LANDMARK CENTER<br> 1299 FARNAM STREET, SUITE 800<br> OMAHA NE 68102-1916 | &nbsp;&nbsp;25.69% |
| <br>**QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;CHARLES SCHWAB & CO<br> 211 MAIN ST<br> SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 | &nbsp;&nbsp;20.59% |
| <br>**QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;FOLIO INVESTMENTS, INC.<br> 8180 GREENSBORO DR.,<br> MCLEAN, VA 22102 | &nbsp;&nbsp;6.66% |
| <br>**QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC<br> 499 WASHINGTON BLVD.,<br> JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310 | &nbsp;&nbsp;16.30% |
| <br>**QQH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;PERSHING LLC<br> 1 PERSHING PLAZA<br> JERSEY CITY, NJ 07302 | &nbsp;&nbsp;19.84% |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of Fund/Class** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Account Name** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**Percentage Held of Record** |
| <br>**LGH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;AXOS CLEARING LLC<br> 1200 LANDMARK CENTER<br> 1299 FARNAM STREET, SUITE 800<br> OMAHA NE 68102-1916 | &nbsp;&nbsp;26.17% |
| <br>**LGH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC<br> 499 WASHINGTON BLVD.,<br> JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310 | &nbsp;&nbsp;14.43% |
| <br>**LGH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;PERSHING LLC<br> 1 PERSHING PLAZA<br> JERSEY CITY, NJ 07302 | &nbsp;&nbsp;18.50% |
| <br>**LGH** | &nbsp;&nbsp;CHARLES SCHWAB & CO<br> 211 MAIN ST<br> SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 | &nbsp;&nbsp;21.62% |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;FOLIO INVESTMENTS, INC.<br> 8180 GREENSBORO DR., <br> MCLEAN, VA 22102 | &nbsp;&nbsp;6.83% |

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*Management Ownership Information.* 

As of October 1, 2025, the Trustees and officers of the Trust, as a group, beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Funds.

**INVESTMENT ADVISER**

***<u>Investment Adviser and Advisory Agreement</u>***

Howard Capital Management, Inc., 1145 Hembree Road, Roswell, GA 30076, serves as the Funds' investment adviser (the "Adviser"). The Adviser is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser manages separate accounts and mutual funds and has approximately $7.5 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2025. The Adviser is controlled by Vance Howard, who is the portfolio manager of the Funds, due to his 100% ownership of the Adviser.

Subject to the oversight of the Board, the Adviser is responsible for the overall management of each Fund's investment-related business affairs. Pursuant to an investment advisory agreement (the "Advisory Agreement") with the Trust, on behalf of each Fund, the Adviser, subject to the supervision of the Board, and in conformity with the stated policies of the Funds, manages the portfolio investment operations of the Funds. The Adviser has overall supervisory responsibilities for the general management and investment of each Fund's securities portfolio, as detailed below, which are subject to review and approval by the Board. In general, the Adviser's duties include setting each Fund's overall investment strategies and asset allocation.

Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser, under the supervision of the Board, agrees to invest the assets of each Fund in accordance with applicable law and the investment objective, policies and restrictions set forth in each Fund's current Prospectus and SAI, and subject to such further limitations as the Trust may from time to time impose by written notice to the Adviser. The Adviser shall act as the investment adviser to the Funds and, as such shall, (i) obtain and evaluate such information relating to the economy, industries, business, securities markets and securities as it may deem necessary or useful in discharging its responsibilities here under, (ii) formulate a continuing program for the investment of the assets of each Fund in a manner consistent with its investment objective, policies and restrictions, and (iii) determine from time to time securities to be purchased, sold, retained or lent by the Funds, and implement those decisions, including the selection of entities with or through which such purchases, sales or loans are to be effected; provided, that the Adviser or its designee, directly, will place orders pursuant to its investment determinations either directly with the issuer or with a broker or dealer, and if with a broker or dealer, (a) will attempt to obtain the best price and execution of its orders, and (b) may nevertheless in its discretion purchase and sell portfolio securities from and to brokers who provide the Adviser with research, analysis, advice and similar services and pay such brokers in return a higher commission or spread than may be charged by other brokers. The Adviser also provides the Funds with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing each Fund's investments and compensates all personnel of the Fund or the Adviser performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.

In addition, the Adviser, subject to the supervision of the Board, provides the management and supplemental administrative services necessary for the operation of the Funds. These services include providing assisting in the supervising of relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the Funds; assisting in the preparing of all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; assisting in maintaining the Funds' records and the registration of the shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; assisting in developing management and shareholder services for the Funds; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Board.

Each Fund pays an annual management fee (computed daily and payable monthly) of 0.77% of its average daily net assets to the Adviser pursuant to the Advisory Agreement.

Expenses not expressly assumed by the Adviser under the Advisory Agreement are paid by the Funds. Under the terms of the Advisory Agreement, each Fund is responsible for the payment of the following expenses among others: (a) the fees payable to the Adviser, (b) the fees and expenses of Board who are not affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Funds' distributor (c) the fees and certain expenses of the custodian and transfer and dividend disbursing agent, including the cost of maintaining certain required records of the Fund and of pricing the shares, (d) the charges and expenses of legal counsel and independent accountants for the Fund, (e) brokerage commissions and any issue or transfer taxes chargeable to the Fund in connection with its securities transactions, (f) all taxes and corporate fees payable by the Fund to governmental agencies, (g) the fees of any trade association of which the Fund may be a member, (h) the cost of fidelity and liability insurance, (i) the fees and expenses involved in registering and maintaining registration of the Fund and of shares with the SEC, qualifying its shares under state securities laws, including the preparation and printing of the Fund's registration statements and prospectuses for such purposes, (j) all expenses of shareholders and Board meetings (including travel expenses of trustees and officers of the Trust who are not directors, officers or employees of the Adviser) and of preparing, printing and mailing reports, proxy statements and prospectuses to shareholders in the amount necessary for distribution to the shareholders and (k) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund's business.

The Advisory Agreement continued in effect for two (2) years initially and continues from year to year provided such continuance is approved at least annually by (a) a vote of the majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting specifically called for the purpose of voting on such approval and by (b) the majority vote of either all of the Trustees or the vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated without penalty on 60 days written notice by a vote of a majority of the Trustees or by the Adviser, or by holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares (with respect to the Fund). The Advisory Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.

The Advisory Agreement for the Funds was last renewed by the Board at a meeting held on February 26-27, 2025. A discussion regarding the basis of the Board's renewal of the Advisory Agreement is available in the Funds' Form N-CSR for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025.

The table below provides information about the advisory fees paid to the Adviser by each Fund for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| ***June 30, 2023*** | ***June 30, 2023*** | ***June 30, 2023*** | ***June 30, 2023*** |
| ***Fund*** | ***Management<br> Fee*** | ***Fees Earned<br> by the<br> Adviser*** | ***Net Fees<br> Earned by<br> the Adviser*** |
| 100 Index ETF | 0.77% | $1980948 | $1980948 |
| 500 Index ETF | 0.77% | $1935198 | $1935198 |

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The table below provides information about the advisory fees paid to the Adviser by each Fund for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| ***June 30, 2024*** | ***June 30, 2024*** | ***June 30, 2024*** | ***June 30, 2024*** |
| ***Fund*** | ***Management<br> Fee*** | ***Fees Earned<br> by the<br> Adviser*** | ***Net Fees<br> Earned by<br> the Adviser*** |
| 100 Index ETF | 0.77% | $2940585 | $2940585 |
| 500 Index ETF | 0.77% | $2445601 | $2445601 |

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The table below provides information about the advisory fees paid to the Adviser by each Fund for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| ***June 30, 2025*** | ***June 30, 2025*** | ***June 30, 2025*** | ***June 30, 2025*** |
| ***Fund*** | ***Management<br> Fee*** | ***Fees Earned<br> by the<br> Adviser*** | ***Net Fees<br> Earned by<br> the Adviser*** |
| 100 Index ETF | 0.77% | $4052512 | $4052512 |
| 500 Index ETF | 0.77% | $3325463 | $3325463 |

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***<u>Codes of Ethics</u>***

The Trust, the Adviser, and the Funds' distributor have each adopted codes of ethics (each a "Code") under Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act that governs the personal securities transactions of their board members, officers and employees who may have access to current trading information of the Trust. Under the Codes, the Trustees are permitted to invest in securities that may also be purchased by the Funds.

In addition, the Trust has adopted a code of ethics (the "Trust Code"), which applies only to the Trust's executive officers to ensure that these officers promote professional conduct in the practice of corporate governance and management. The purpose behind these guidelines is to promote (i) honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships; (ii) full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that the Trust files with, or submits to, the SEC and in other public communications made by the Funds; (iii) compliance with applicable governmental laws, rule and regulations; (iv) the prompt internal reporting of violations of the Trust Code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the Trust Code; and (v) accountability for adherence to the Trust Code.

 ****

***<u>Proxy Voting Policies</u>***

The Board has adopted Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures ("Policies") on behalf of the Trust, which delegate the responsibility for voting proxies to the Adviser or its designee, subject to the Board's continuing oversight. The Policies require that the Adviser or its designee vote proxies received in a manner consistent with the best interests of the Funds and shareholders. The Policies also require the Adviser or its designee to present to the Board, at least annually, the Adviser's Proxy Policies, or the proxy policies of the Adviser's designee, and a record of each proxy voted by the Adviser or its designee on behalf of the Funds, including a report on the resolution of all proxies identified by the Adviser as involving a conflict of interest.

Where a proxy proposal raises a material conflict between the Adviser's interests and a Fund's interests, the Adviser will resolve the conflict by voting in accordance with the policy guidelines or at

the client's directive using the recommendation of an independent third party. If the third party's recommendations are not received in a timely fashion, the Adviser will abstain from voting the securities held by that client's account. A copy of the Adviser's and proxy voting policies is attached hereto as Appendix A.

*More information*. Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Funds during the most recent 12-month period ending June 30 is available (1) without charge, upon request, by calling the Funds at 770-642-4902; or (2) by accessing the proxy voting information on the Funds' website at <u>www.howardcmfunds.com</u>; or (3) on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov. In addition, a copy of the Funds' proxy voting policies and procedures are also available by calling 770-642-4902 and will be sent within three business days of receipt of a request.

**THE DISTRIBUTOR**

Northern Lights Distributors, LLC, located at 4221 North 203<sup>rd</sup> Street, Suite 100 Elkhorn, NE 68022 (the "Distributor") serves as the principal underwriter and national distributor for the shares of the Funds pursuant to an ETF Distribution Agreement with the Trust (the "ETF Distribution Agreement"). The Distributor is registered as a broker-dealer under the 1934 Act and each state's securities laws and is a member of the FINRA. The offering of shares is continuous. The ETF Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor, as agent in connection with the distribution of shares, will use reasonable efforts to facilitate the sale of the shares.

The ETF Distribution Agreement continued in effect for two years initially and shall continue from year to year, subject to annual approval by (a) the Board or a vote of a majority of the outstanding shares, and (b) by a majority of the Board by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.

The ETF Distribution Agreement may be terminated by the Funds at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the entire Board of the Trust or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Funds on 60 days written notice to the Distributor, or by the Distributor at any time, without the payment of any penalty, on 60 days written notice to the Funds. The ETF Distribution Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment.

***<u>Rule 12b-1 Plans</u>***

The Trust, with respect to each Fund, has adopted Master Distribution and Shareholder Servicing Plans pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the "Plans") for Shares pursuant to which the Funds are authorized to pay the Distributor, as compensation for Distributor's account maintenance services under the Plans. The Board has approved a distribution and shareholder servicing fee at the rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net assets. Such fees are to be paid by the Funds monthly, or at such other intervals as the Board shall determine. Such fees shall be based upon the Funds' average daily net assets during the preceding month, and shall be calculated and accrued daily. The Funds may pay fees to the Distributor at a lesser rate, as agreed upon by the Board and the Distributor. The Plans authorize payments to the Distributor as compensation for providing account maintenance services to Fund shareholders, including arranging for certain securities dealers or brokers, administrators and others ("Recipients") to provide these services and paying compensation for these services. The Funds will bear their own costs of distribution with respect to its shares. The Plans were adopted in order to permit the implementation of a Fund's method of distribution. No fees are currently paid by either Fund under the Plans, 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 a Fund.

The services to be provided by Recipients may include, but are not limited to, the following: assistance in the offering and sale of shares and in other aspects of the marketing of the shares to clients or prospective clients of the respective recipients; answering routine inquiries concerning the Funds; assisting in the establishment and maintenance of accounts or sub-accounts in the Funds and in processing purchase and redemption transactions; making the Funds' investment plan and shareholder services available; and providing such other information and services to investors in shares of the Funds as the Distributor or the Trust, on behalf of the Funds, may reasonably request. The distribution services shall also include any advertising and marketing services provided by or arranged by the Distributor with respect to the Funds.

The Distributor is required to provide a written report, at least quarterly to the Board, specifying in reasonable detail the amounts expended pursuant to the Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made. Further, the Distributor informs the Board of any Rule 12b-1 fees paid by the Distributor to Recipients.

The Plans may not be amended to increase materially the amount of the Distributor's compensation to be paid by each Fund, unless such amendment is approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the affected class of the Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act). All material amendments must be approved by a majority of the Board by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Plans. During the term of the Plans, 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 Plans, 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 a Plan will be in writing and provide that: (a) it may be terminated by the Trust or the Funds 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 Funds; (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 by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such agreement.

**PORTFOLIO MANAGER**

As described in the Prospectus, the portfolio manager listed below is responsible for the management of the Funds and, as of June 30, 2025, the other accounts set forth in the following tables.

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Other Registered Investment<br> Companies** | **Other Registered Investment<br> Companies** | **Other Pooled Investment<br> Vehicles** | **Other Pooled Investment<br> Vehicles** | **Other Accounts** | **Other Accounts** |
| **Portfolio<br> Manager** | **Number** | **Total<br> Assets** | **Number** | **Total<br> Assets** | **Number** | **Total<br> Assets** |
| Vance Howard | 4 | $4377496546.40 | 0 | $0 | 14712 | $1161310810.92 |

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Of the accounts above, none are subject to performance-based fees.

***<u>Conflicts of Interest</u>***

 ****

***<u>Compensation</u>***

Mr. Howard receives a salary from the Adviser. He also participates in the profits of the Adviser due to his 100% ownership of the Adviser.

***<u>Ownership of Securities</u>***

As of the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, Mr. Howard beneficially owned the following amounts in the Funds.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Dollar Range of Shares <br> Beneficially Owned** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;100 Index ETF | Over $1,000,000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;500 Index ETF | $500001 - $1000000 |

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**ALLOCATION OF PORTFOLIO BROKERAGE**

Specific decisions to purchase or sell securities for the Funds are made by the portfolio managers who are employees of the Adviser. The Adviser is authorized by the Board to allocate the orders placed by them on behalf of the Funds to brokers or dealers who may, but need not, provide research or statistical material or other services to the Funds or the Adviser for the Funds' use. Such allocation is to be in such amounts and proportions as the Adviser may determine.

In selecting a broker or dealer to execute each particular transaction, the Adviser will take the following into consideration:

● the best net price available;

● the reliability, integrity and financial condition of the broker or dealer;

● the size of and difficulty in executing the order; and

● the value of the expected contribution of the broker or dealer to the investment performance of the Funds on a continuing basis.

Brokers or dealers executing a portfolio transaction on behalf of the Funds may receive a commission in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for

executing the transaction if the Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of brokerage and research services provided to the Funds. In allocating portfolio brokerage, the Adviser may select brokers or dealers who also provide brokerage, research and other services to other accounts over which the Adviser exercises investment discretion. Some of the services received as the result of Fund transactions may primarily benefit accounts other than the Fund, while services received as the result of portfolio transactions effected on behalf of those other accounts may primarily benefit the Funds. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, the 100 Index ETF and 500 Index ETF paid $90,856 and $51,550, respectively, in brokerage commissions. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, the 100 Index ETF and 500 Index ETF paid $140,694 and $66,952, respectively, in brokerage commissions. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the 100 Index ETF and 500 Index ETF paid $131,739 and $65,392, respectively, in brokerage commissions.

**PORTFOLIO TURNOVER**

Each Fund's portfolio turnover rate is calculated by dividing the lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for the fiscal year by the monthly average of the value of the portfolio securities owned by the Fund during the fiscal year. The calculation excludes from both the numerator and the denominator securities with maturities at the time of acquisition of one year or less. High portfolio turnover involves correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which will be borne directly by the Fund. A 100% turnover rate would occur if all of a Fund's portfolio securities were replaced once within a one-year period. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, the 100 Index ETF's and 500 Index ETF's portfolio turnover rates were 124% and 114% of the average value of each portfolio, respectively. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the 100 Index ETF's and 500 Index ETF's portfolio turnover rates were 165% and 151% of the average value of each portfolio, respectively.

**OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS**

*Fund Administration and Fund Accounting Services*

Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC ("UFS"), which has its principal office at 225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 450, Cincinnati, OH 45246, serves as administrator and fund accountant for the Funds pursuant to the ETF Services Agreement with the Trust and subject to the supervision of the Board. UFS is primarily in the business of providing administrative, fund accounting and transfer agent services to retail and institutional mutual funds. UFS is an affiliate of the Distributor. UFS may also provide persons to serve as officers of the Funds. Such officers may be directors, officers or employees of UFS or its affiliates.

The ETF Services Agreement is dated August 26, 2021. The ETF Services Agreement remained in effect for two years from the effective date of the ETF Services Agreement, and will remain in effect subject to annual approval of the Board for one-year periods thereafter. The ETF Services Agreement is terminable by the Board or UFS on ninety days' written notice and may be assigned provided the non-assigning party provides prior written consent. This ETF Services Agreement provides that in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of UFS or reckless disregard of its obligations thereunder, UFS shall not be liable for any action or failure to act in accordance with its duties thereunder.

Under the ETF Services Agreement, UFS provides administrative services, including: (i) providing services of persons competent to perform such administrative and clerical functions as are necessary to provide effective administration of the Funds; (ii) facilitating the performance of administrative and professional services to the Funds by others, including the Funds' custodian; (iii) preparing, but not paying for, the periodic updating of the Funds' Registration Statement, Prospectus

and Statement of Additional Information in conjunction with Fund counsel, including the printing of such documents for the purpose of filings with the SEC and state securities administrators, and preparing reports to the Funds' shareholders and the SEC; (iv) preparing in conjunction with Fund counsel, but not paying for, all filings under the securities or "Blue Sky" laws of such states or countries as are designated by the Distributor, which may be required to register or qualify, or continue the registration or qualification, of each Fund and/or its shares under such laws; (v) preparing notices and agendas for meetings of the Board and minutes of such meetings in all matters required by the 1940 Act to be acted upon by the Board; and (vi) monitoring daily and periodic compliance with respect to all requirements and restrictions of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code and the Prospectuses.

UFS also provides the Funds' with accounting services, including: (i) daily computation of NAV; (ii) maintenance of security ledgers and books and records as required by the 1940 Act; (iii) production of each Fund's listing of portfolio securities and general ledger reports; (iv) reconciliation of accounting records; (v) calculation of yield and total return for the Funds; (vi) maintenance of certain books and records described in Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act, and reconciliation of account information and balances among the Funds' custodian and Adviser; and (vii) monitoring and evaluation of daily income and expense accruals, and sales and redemptions of shares.

For the services rendered to each Fund under the ETF Services Agreement the Funds pay UFS the greater of an annual minimum fee or an asset based fee, which scales downward based upon net assets. Each Fund also pays UFS for any out-of-pocket expenses.

For the fiscal years ended June 30, the Funds paid the following fees for fund administration and fund accounting services:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fund** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2025** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2024** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2023** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;100 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$289982 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$203909 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$138870 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;500 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$252857 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$189834 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$148445 |

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**<u>Transfer Agent</u>**

Brown Brothers Harriman& Co. ("BBH"), 50 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02110, acts as transfer, dividend disbursing, and shareholder servicing agent for the Funds pursuant to the Custodian and Transfer Agency Agreement (the "Agreement") between BBH and the Trust, on behalf of the Funds (the "Transfer Agent"). Under the Agreement, the Transfer Agent is responsible for administering and performing transfer agent functions, dividend distribution, shareholder administration, and maintaining necessary records in accordance with applicable rules and regulations.

For the fiscal years ended June 30, the Funds paid the following fees for transfer agent services:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fund** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2025** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2024** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2023** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;100 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$10809 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$9450 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$12233 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;500 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$15136 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$11640 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$12513 |

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**<u>Custodian</u>**

BBH, located at 50 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02110 (the "Custodian"), serves as the custodian of the Funds' assets pursuant to a custody agreement (the "Custody Agreement") by and between the Custodian and the Trust on behalf of the Funds. The Custodian's responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling the Funds' cash and securities, handling the receipt and delivery of

securities, and collecting interest and dividends on the Funds' 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 Funds may employ foreign sub-custodians that are approved by the Board to hold foreign assets.

**<u>Compliance Officer</u>**

Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC ("NLCS"), 4221 North 203<sup>rd</sup> Street, Suite 100 Elkhorn, NE 68022, an affiliate of UFS and the Distributor, provides a Chief Compliance Officer to the Trust as well as related compliance services pursuant to a consulting agreement between NLCS and the Trust. NLCS's compliance services consist primarily of reviewing and assessing the policies and procedures of the Trust and its service providers pertaining to compliance with applicable federal securities laws, including Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. For the compliance services rendered to the Funds, the Funds pay NLCS a one-time fee plus an annual asset based fee, which scales downward based upon net assets. The Funds also pay NLCS for any out-of-pocket expenses.

For the fiscal years ended June 30, the Funds paid the following fees for compliance services:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fund** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2025** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2024** | &nbsp;&nbsp;**2023** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;100 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$29513 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$23325 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$21027 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;500 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$31679 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$24611 | &nbsp;&nbsp;$15080 |

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**DESCRIPTION OF SHARES**

Each share of beneficial interest of the Trust has one vote in the election of Trustees. Cumulative voting is not authorized for the Trust. This means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of Trustees can elect 100% of the Trustees if they choose to do so, and, in that event, the holders of the remaining shares will be unable to elect any Trustees.

Shareholders of the Trust and any other future series of the Trust will vote in the aggregate and not by series except as otherwise required by law or when the Board determines that the matter to be voted upon affects only the interest of the shareholders of a particular series or classes. Matters such as election of Trustees are not subject to separate voting requirements and may be acted upon by shareholders of the Trust voting without regard to series.

The Trust is authorized to issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest. Each share has equal, per-class, dividend, distribution and liquidation rights. There are no conversion or preemptive rights applicable to any shares. All shares issued are fully paid and non-assessable.

**ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM**

The Trust has established an Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Program (the "Program") as required by the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 ("USA PATRIOT Act"). To ensure compliance with this law, the Trust's Program provides for the development of internal practices, procedures and controls, designation of anti-money laundering compliance officers, an ongoing training program and an independent audit function to determine the effectiveness of the Program.

Procedures to implement the Program include, but are not limited to, determining that a Fund's Distributor and Transfer Agent have established proper anti-money laundering procedures, reporting suspicious and/or fraudulent activity and a providing a complete and thorough review of all new opening account applications. The Trust will not transact business with any person or entity whose identity cannot be adequately verified under the provisions of the USA PATRIOT Act.

**PURCHASE, REDEMPTION AND PRICING OF SHARES**

**<u>Calculation of Share Price</u>**

As indicated in the Prospectus under the heading "How Shares are Priced," NAV of a share is determined by dividing the total value of a Fund's portfolio investments and other assets, less any liabilities, by the total number of shares outstanding of a Fund.

Generally, each Fund's domestic securities (including underlying ETFs which hold portfolio securities primarily listed on foreign (non-U.S.) exchanges) are valued each day at the last quoted sales price on each security's primary exchange. Securities traded or dealt in upon one or more securities exchanges 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 mean between the current bid and ask prices on such exchange. Securities primarily traded in the 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, securities 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 as further described below. Securities that are not traded or dealt in any securities exchange (whether domestic or foreign) and for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily available generally shall be valued at the last sale price or, in the absence of a sale, at the mean between the current bid and ask price on such over-the-counter market.

Certain securities or investments for which daily market quotes are not readily available may be valued, pursuant to guidelines established by the Board, with reference to other securities or indices. Debt securities not traded on an exchange may be valued at prices supplied by a pricing agent(s) based on broker or dealer supplied valuations or matrix pricing, a method of valuing securities by reference to the value of other securities with similar characteristics, such as rating, interest rate and maturity. Short-term debt obligations having 60 days or less remaining until maturity, at time of purchase, may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

Exchange traded options are valued at the last quoted sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the mean between the current bid and ask prices on the exchange on which such options are traded. Futures and options on futures are valued at the settlement price determined by the exchange. Other securities for which market quotes are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in

good faith by the Board or persons acting at their direction. Swap agreements and other derivatives are generally valued daily based upon quotations from market makers or by a pricing service in accordance with the valuation procedures approved by the Board.

Under certain circumstances, each Fund may use an independent pricing service to calculate the fair market value of foreign equity securities on a daily basis by applying valuation factors to the last sale price or the mean price as noted above. The fair market values supplied by the independent pricing service will generally reflect market trading that occurs after the close of the applicable foreign markets of comparable securities or the value of other instruments that have a strong correlation to the fair-valued securities. The independent pricing service will also take into account the current relevant currency exchange rate. A security that is fair valued may be valued at a price higher or lower than actual market quotations or the value determined by other funds using their own fair valuation procedures. Because foreign securities may trade on days when Fund shares are not priced, the value of securities held by each Fund can change on days when Fund shares cannot be redeemed or purchased. In the event that a foreign security's market quotations are not readily available or are deemed unreliable (for reasons other than because the foreign exchange on which it trades closed before each Fund's calculation of NAV), the security will be valued at its fair market value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with procedures approved by the Board as discussed below. Without fair valuation, it is possible that short-term traders could take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity and dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Fair valuation of each Fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that it will prevent dilution of each Fund's NAV by short-term traders. In addition, because each Fund may invest in underlying ETFs which hold portfolio securities primarily listed on foreign (non-U.S.) exchanges, and these exchanges may trade on weekends or other days when the underlying ETFs do not price their shares, the value of these portfolio securities may change on days when you may not be able to buy or sell Fund shares.

Investments initially valued in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are converted to U.S. dollars using exchange rates obtained from pricing services. As a result, the NAV of each Fund's shares may be affected by changes in the value of currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. The value of securities traded in markets outside the United States or denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar may be affected significantly on a day that the Exchange is closed and an investor is not able to purchase, redeem or exchange shares.

Fund shares are valued at the close of regular trading on the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) (the "NYSE Close") on each day that the Exchange is open. For purposes of calculating the NAV, the Funds normally use pricing data for domestic equity securities received shortly after the NYSE Close and do not normally take into account trading, clearances or settlements that take place after the NYSE Close. Domestic fixed income and foreign securities are normally priced using data reflecting the earlier closing of the principal markets for those securities. Information that becomes known to the Funds or their agents after the NAV has been calculated on a particular day will not generally be used to retroactively adjust the price of the security or the NAV determined earlier that day.

When market quotations are insufficient or not readily available, the Funds may value securities at fair value or estimate their value as determined in good faith by the Board or its designees, pursuant to procedures approved by the Board. Fair valuation may also be used by the Board or its designee if extraordinary events occur after the close of the relevant market but prior to the NYSE Close.

**<u>Creation Units</u>**

Each Fund sells and redeems shares in Creation Units on a continuous basis through the Distributor, 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. As of the date of this SAI, the NYSE observes the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

A Creation Unit is an aggregation of 50,000 shares. The Board may declare a split or a consolidation in the number of shares outstanding of a Fund or Trust, and make a corresponding change in the number of shares in a Creation Unit.

**<u>Authorized Participants</u>**

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.

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.

**<u>Transaction Fees</u>**

A fixed fee payable to the Custodian 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 the Funds 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 the Funds for, among other things, any difference between the market value at which the securities and/or financial instruments were purchased by the Funds and the cash-in-lieu amount, applicable registration fees, brokerage commissions and certain taxes. In addition, purchasers of Creation Units are responsible for the costs of transferring the Deposit Securities to the account of a Fund.

Investors who use the services of a broker, or other such intermediary may be charged a fee for such services. The Transaction Fees for each Fund are listed in the table below.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;Fee for In-Kind and Cash<br> Purchases | &nbsp;&nbsp;Maximum Additional <br> Variable Charge for Cash <br> Purchases\* |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;100 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$500 | &nbsp;&nbsp;2.00% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;500 Index ETF | &nbsp;&nbsp;$1000 | &nbsp;&nbsp;2.00% |

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\* The maximum Transaction Fee may be up to 2.00% of the amount invested.

**<u>The Clearing Process</u>**

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).

**<u>Foreign Securities</u>**

Because the portfolio securities of the Funds may trade on days that the Exchange is closed or are otherwise not Business Days for the Funds, shareholders may not be able to redeem their shares of the Funds, or to purchase or sell shares of the Funds on the Exchange, on days when the NAV of the Funds could be significantly affected by events in the relevant foreign markets.

**<u>Purchasing Creation Units</u>**

<u>Portfolio Deposit</u>

The consideration for a Creation Unit generally consists of the Deposit Securities and a 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 NAV per Creation Unit and the Deposit Securities. Thus, the Cash Component is equal to the difference between (x) the NAV per Creation Unit of the 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 a Fund. If (x) is less than (y), the authorized participant will receive the Cash Component from a 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 a Fund and the (estimated) Cash Component, effective through and including the previous Business Day, per Creation Unit. The Deposit Securities announced are applicable to purchases of Creation Units until the next announcement of Deposit Securities.

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. The Funds 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, the Funds 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. The Funds 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 Securities 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>

An authorized participant must submit an irrevocable purchase order no later than the earlier of (i) 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time or (ii) the closing time of the bond markets and/or the trading session on the Exchange, on any Business Day in order to receive that Business Day's NAV ("Cut-off Time"). The Cut-off Time for Custom Orders is generally two hours earlier. The Business Day the order is deemed received by the Distributor is referred to as the "Transmittal Date." An order to create Creation Units is deemed received on a Business Day 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 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") for cash and the second Business Day following the Transmittal Date for securities ("T+2").

<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 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 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.

<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 a 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 a Fund for any losses incurred by the 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 a Fund to maintain an account into which an authorized participant may deliver Deposit Securities (or cash-in-lieu), with adjustments determined by the 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 a 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 the Fund, immediately available or same day funds in U.S. dollars estimated by a 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 absolute right to reject or revoke acceptance of a purchase order transmitted to it by the Distributor if (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 the Fund; (c) the Deposit Securities delivered do not conform to the Deposit Securities for the applicable date; (d) acceptance of the Deposit Securities would have certain adverse tax consequences to a Fund; (e) the acceptance of the Portfolio Deposit would, in the opinion of counsel, be unlawful; (f) the acceptance of the Portfolio Deposit would otherwise, in the discretion of the Trust, Fund or the Adviser, have an adverse effect on the Trust, Fund or the rights of beneficial owners; or (g) 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, the 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. The Funds, 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 confirms the issuance of a Creation Unit, against receipt of payment, at such NAV. The Distributor transmits a confirmation of acceptance to the authorized participant that placed the order.

Except as provided below, a Creation Unit is not issued until a Fund obtains good title to the Deposit Securities and the Cash Component, along with any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee. The delivery of Creation Units generally occurs no later than T+2.

In certain cases, authorized participants 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 the applicable local sub-custodian(s) have confirmed to the Custodian that the Deposit Securities (or cash -in-lieu) have been delivered to a Fund's account at the applicable local sub-custodian(s), the Distributor and the Adviser shall be notified of such delivery, and the Fund will issue and cause the delivery of the Creation Unit. While, as stated above, Creation Units are generally delivered on T+2, a Fund may settle Creation Unit transactions on a basis other than T+2 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.

Each Fund may issue a Creation Unit prior to receiving good title to the Deposit Securities, under the following circumstances. Pursuant to the applicable Participant Agreement, each Fund may issue a Creation Unit notwithstanding that (certain) Deposit Securities have not been delivered, in reliance on an undertaking by the relevant authorized participant to deliver the missing Deposit Securities as soon as possible, which undertaking is secured by such authorized participant's delivery to and maintenance with the Custodian of collateral having a value equal to at least 115% of the value of the missing Deposit Securities ("Collateral"), as adjusted by time to time by the Adviser. Such Collateral will have a value greater than the NAV of the Creation Unit on the date the order is placed. Such collateral must be delivered no later than 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on T+1. The only Collateral that is acceptable to the Funds is cash in U.S. Dollars.

While (certain) Deposit Securities remain undelivered, the Collateral shall at all times have a value equal to at least 115% (as adjusted by the Adviser) of the daily marked-to-market value of the missing Deposit Securities. At any time, each Fund may use the Collateral to purchase the missing securities, and the authorized participant will be liable to each 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 securities have been received by a Fund. More information regarding the Funds' current procedures for collateralization is available from the Distributor.

<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.

**<u>Redeeming a Creation Unit</u>**

<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 a 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 NAV per Creation Unit and the Redemption Securities. Thus, the Cash Component is equal to the difference between (x) the NAV 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 a Fund. If (x) is less than (y), the authorized participant will pay the Cash Component to a 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 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>

Each Fund may, in its sole discretion, permit or require the substitution of cash-in-lieu to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Redemption Security. Each 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 complies 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 Securities 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 submitting a redemption request is deemed to represent to a Fund that it or, if applicable, the investor on whose behalf it is acting, (i) owns outright or has full legal authority and legal beneficial right to tender for redemption the Creation Unit to be redeemed and can receive the entire proceeds of the redemption, and (ii) all of the shares that are in the Creation Unit to be redeemed have not been borrowed, loaned or pledged to another party nor are they the subject of a repurchase agreement, securities lending agreement or such other arrangement that would preclude the delivery of such shares to the Fund. 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 the 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>

An authorized participant must submit an irrevocable redemption order no later than the Cut-off Time. The Cut-off Time for Custom Orders is generally two hours earlier. The Business Day the order is deemed received by the Distributor is referred to as the "Transmittal Date." 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.

<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 is effected through DTC. The authorized participant, or the investor on whose behalf it is acting, is recorded on the book-entry system of DTC.

The Redemption Basket is generally delivered to the redeeming authorized participant within T+2. Except under the circumstances described below, however, a Redemption Basket generally is not issued until the Creation Unit(s) are delivered to the Fund, along with the Cash Component, any cash-in-lieu and Transaction Fee.

In certain cases, authorized participants 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+2 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.

<u>Cash Redemption Method</u>

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.

**TAX STATUS**

The following discussion is general in nature and should not be regarded as an exhaustive presentation of all possible tax ramifications. All shareholders should consult a qualified tax advisor regarding their investment in a Fund.

Each Fund has qualified and intends to continue to qualify and has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Tax Code"), and intends to continue to so qualify, which requires compliance with certain requirements concerning the sources of its income, diversification of its assets, and the amount and timing of its distributions to shareholders. Such qualification does not involve supervision of management or investment practices or policies by any government agency or bureau. By so qualifying, a Fund should not be subject to federal income or excise tax on its net investment income or net capital gain, which are distributed to shareholders in accordance with the applicable timing requirements. Net investment income and net capital gain of a Fund will be computed in accordance with Section 852 of the Tax Code.

Net investment income is made up of dividends and interest less expenses. Net capital gain for a fiscal year is computed by taking into account any capital loss carryforward of a Fund. Capital losses may be carried forward indefinitely and retain the character of the original loss. Capital loss carry forwards are available to offset future realized capital gains. To the extent that these carry forwards are used to offset future capital gains it is probable that the amount offset will not be distributed to shareholders.

As of June 30, 2025, the components of accumulated earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| <br>**Portfolio** | **Undistributed**<br>**Ordinary**<br>**Income** | **Undistributed**<br>**Long-Term**<br>**Capital Gains** | **Post October Loss**<br>**and**<br>**Late Year Loss** | **Capital Loss**<br>**Carry**<br>**Forwards** | **Other**<br>**Book/Tax**<br>**Differences** | **Unrealized**<br>**Appreciation/**<br>**(Depreciation)** | **Total**<br>**Accumulated**<br>**Earnings/(Deficits)** |
| 100 Index ETF | $1371319 | $— | $— | $(78588324) | $— | 148855265 | $71638260 |
| 500 Index ETF | 1672384 |  |  | (42556827) |  | 110623108 | 69738665 |

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As of June 30, 2025, the Funds had capital loss carry forwards for federal income tax purposes available to offset future capital gains, as follows:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Non-Expiring** | **Non-Expiring** | | |
| <br>**Portfolio** | **Short-Term** | **Long-Term** |<br>**Total** |<br>**CLCF Utilized** |
| 100 Index ETF | $78588324 | $— | $78588324 | $5256164 |
| 500 Index ETF | 42556827 |  | 42556827 | 6491352 |

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Each Fund intends to distribute all of its net investment income, any excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, and any excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses in accordance with the timing requirements imposed by the Code and therefore should not be required to pay any federal income or excise taxes. Dividends from net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually in December by the Funds. The Funds distribute their net realized capital gains, if any, to shareholders annually no later than December 31 of

each year. Both types of distributions will be in shares of a Fund unless a shareholder elects to receive cash.

To be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Tax Code, a Fund must also (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, net income from certain publicly traded partnerships and gains from the sale or other disposition of securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to the business of investing in such securities or currencies, and (b) diversify its holding so that, at the end of each fiscal quarter, (i) at least 50% of the market value of a Fund's assets is represented by cash, U.S. government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies, and other securities (for purposes of this calculation, generally limited in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the market value of a Fund's assets and 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer) and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its assets is invested in the securities of (other than U.S. government securities or the securities of other regulated investment companies) any one issuer, two or more issuers that a Fund controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses, or the securities of certain publicly traded partnerships.

If a Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M in any fiscal year, it will be treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes. As such the Fund would be required to pay income taxes on its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, at the rates generally applicable to corporations. Shareholders of the Fund generally would not be liable for income tax on the Fund's net investment income or net realized capital gains in their individual capacities. Distributions to shareholders, whether from a Fund's net investment income or net realized capital gains, would be treated as taxable dividends to the extent of current or accumulated earnings and profits of a Fund.

Each Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on certain undistributed amounts of ordinary income and capital gain under a prescribed formula contained in Section 4982 of the Tax Code. The formula requires payment to shareholders during a calendar year of distributions representing at least 98% of a Fund's ordinary income for the calendar year and at least 98.2% of its capital gain net income (i.e., the excess of its capital gains over capital losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31 during such year plus 100% of any income that was neither distributed nor taxed to a Fund during the preceding calendar year. Under ordinary circumstances, each Fund expects to time its distributions so as to avoid liability for this tax.

The following discussion of tax consequences is for the general information of shareholders that are subject to tax. Shareholders who own IRAs or other qualified retirement plans are exempt from income taxation under the Tax Code.

Distributions of taxable net investment income and the excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss are taxable to shareholders as ordinary income.

Distributions of net capital gain ("capital gain dividends") generally are taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gain; regardless of the length of time the shares of the Trust have been held by such shareholders.

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. U.S. shareholders are urged to

consult their own tax advisors regarding the implications of the additional Medicare tax resulting from an investment in a Fund.

Redemption of shares by a shareholder will result in the recognition of taxable gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized and the shareholder's tax basis in his or her shares. Such gain or loss is treated as a capital gain or loss if the shares are held as capital assets. However, any loss realized upon the redemption of shares within six months from the date of their purchase will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as capital gain dividends during such six-month period. All or a portion of any loss realized upon the redemption of shares may be disallowed to the extent shares are purchased (including shares acquired by means of reinvested dividends) within 30 days before or after such redemption.

Distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain will be taxable as described above, whether received in additional cash or shares. Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of additional shares will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each share so received equal to the NAV of a share on the reinvestment date.

All distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each taxable shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends or distributions declared in October, November or December as of a record date in such a month, if any, will be deemed to have been received by shareholders on December 31, if paid during January of the following year. Redemptions of shares may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and are also subject to these reporting requirements.

Under the Tax Code, a Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service all distributions of taxable income and capital gains as well as gross proceeds from the redemption or exchange of shares, except in the case of certain exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions of Section 3406 of the Code, distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of a regulated investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income tax in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and with required certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax law, or if a Fund is notified by the IRS or a broker that withholding is required due to an incorrect TIN or a previous failure to report taxable interest or dividends. If the withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in additional shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld.

**<u>Options, Futures, Forward Contracts and Swap Agreements</u>**

To the extent such investments are permissible for a Fund, the Fund's transactions in options, futures contracts, hedging transactions, forward contracts, straddles and foreign currencies will be subject to special tax rules (including mark-to-market, constructive sale, straddle, wash sale and short sale rules), the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer losses to the Fund, cause adjustments in the holding periods of the Fund's securities, convert long-term capital gains into short-term capital gains and convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders.

To the extent such investments are permissible, certain of a Fund's hedging activities (including its transactions, if any, in foreign currencies or foreign currency-denominated instruments) are likely to produce a difference between its book income and its taxable income. If a Fund's book income exceeds its taxable income, the distribution (if any) of such excess book income will be treated as (i) a dividend

to the extent of a Fund's remaining earnings and profits (including earnings and profits arising from tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter, as a return of capital to the extent of the recipient's basis in the shares, and (iii) thereafter, as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset. If a Fund's book income is less than taxable income, a Fund could be required to make distributions exceeding book income to qualify as a regulated investment company that is accorded special tax treatment.

**<u>Passive Foreign Investment Companies</u>**

Investment by a Fund in certain passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs") could subject the Fund to a U.S. federal income tax (including interest charges) on distributions received from the company or on proceeds received from the disposition of shares in the company, which tax cannot be eliminated by making distributions to Fund shareholders. However, a Fund may elect to treat a PFIC as a qualified electing fund ("QEF"), in which case the Fund will be required to include its share of the company's income and net capital gains annually, regardless of whether it receives any distribution from the company.

Each Fund also may make an election to mark the gains (and to a limited extent losses) in such holdings "to the market" as though it had sold and repurchased its holdings in those PFICs on the last day of the Fund's taxable year. Such gains and losses are treated as ordinary income and loss. The QEF and mark-to-market elections may accelerate the recognition of income (without the receipt of cash) and increase the amount required to be distributed for a Fund to avoid taxation. Making either of these elections, therefore, may require each Fund to liquidate other investments (including when it is not advantageous to do so) to meet its distribution requirement, which also may accelerate the recognition of gain and affect a Fund's total return.

**<u>Foreign Currency Transactions</u>**

Each Fund's transactions in foreign currencies, foreign currency-denominated debt securities and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent such income or loss results from fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned.

**<u>Foreign Taxation</u>**

Income received by each 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 U.S. may reduce or eliminate such taxes. If more than 50% of the value of a Fund's total assets at the close of 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 a 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 shareholder who does not itemize deductions. Each shareholder will be notified within 60 days after the close of a 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 a Fund's income will flow through to shareholders of the Fund. With respect to each 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 a Fund. The foreign tax credit can be used to offset only 90% of the revised alternative minimum tax imposed on corporations and individuals and foreign taxes generally are not deductible in computing alternative minimum taxable income.

**<u>Original Issue Discount and Pay-In-Kind Securities</u>**

Current federal tax law requires the holder of a U.S. Treasury or other fixed income zero coupon security to accrue as income each year a portion of the discount at which the security was purchased, even though the holder receives no interest payment in cash on the security during the year. In addition, pay-in-kind securities will give rise to income, which is required to be distributed and is taxable even though the Fund holding the security receives no interest payment in cash on the security during the year.

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 a 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 a 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. Each 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.

Some debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of one year or less from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by each Fund may be treated as having acquisition discount, or OID in the case of certain types of debt securities. Generally, each Fund is required to include the acquisition discount, or OID, 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. Each Fund may make one or more of the elections applicable to debt securities having acquisition discount, or OID, 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 that 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). Each Fund may realize gains

or losses from such liquidations. In the event a 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.

Shareholders of each Fund may be subject to state and local taxes on distributions received from the Fund and on redemptions of shares.

A brief explanation of the form and character of the distribution accompany each distribution. In January of each year each Fund issues to every shareholder a statement of the federal income tax status of all distributions.

Shareholders should consult their tax advisors about the application of federal, state and local and foreign tax law in light of their particular situation.

**INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**

The Board has selected RSM US LLP, located at 555 Seventeenth Street, Suite 1200, Denver, CO 80202 as the Funds' independent registered public accounting firm for the current fiscal year. The firm provides services including the annual audits of the Funds' financial statements and other audit, tax and related services to the Funds.

**LEGAL COUNSEL**

Thompson Hine LLP, located at 41 South High Street, Suite 1700, Columbus, OH 43215, serves as the Trust's legal counsel.

**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**

The audited financial statements and report of the independent registered public accounting firm required to be included in this SAI are hereby incorporated by reference to the Funds' <u>Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025</u>. You can obtain copies of the Financial Statements without charge by calling the Funds at 770-642-4902.

**<u>APPENDIX A</u>**

**PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES<br> HOWARD CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.**

**Proxy Voting**

Non-Mutual Fund Clients.

Howard Capital Management does not vote proxies on behalf of clients. All proxy materials received on behalf of a client account are to be sent directly to our client or a designated representative of the client, who is responsible for voting the proxy. Howard Capital Management personnel may answer client questions regarding proxy-voting matters in an effort to assist the client in determining how to vote the proxy. However, the final decision of how to vote the proxy rests with the client.

Mutual Fund Clients.

For each Client Account that is a registered investment company the Firm votes all proxies after carefully considering proxy solicitation materials and other available facts, except when it abstains from voting as described below. The Firm instructs each custodian for a Mutual Fund client to deliver to the Firm all proxy solicitation materials that the custodian receives for that account. The Firm reviews the securities held in its Mutual Fund Accounts on a regular basis to confirm that the Firm receives copies of all proxy solicitation materials concerning such securities. The Firm marks each proxy solicitation with the date it is received by the Firm. The Firm will also monitor the positions it takes in ETFs holdings to ensure that it never holds more than 3% of the outstanding voting shares of the ETF. Should The Firm hold positions that exceed 3% of the outstanding voting shares of an ETF, The Firm will rely upon Mirror Voting for Proxies, ensuring the Funds vote its shares in the same proportion that all shares of the ETFs are voted, or in accordance with instructions received from fund shareholders.

The CCO makes all voting decisions on behalf of a Mutual Fund client based solely on the CCO's determination of the best interests of that Account. The Firm uses reasonable efforts to respond to each proxy solicitation by the deadline for such response.

The CCO may designate an appropriate Employee to be responsible for ensuring that all proxy statements are received and that the Firm responds to them in a timely manner.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Company
Information. If the Firm is considering voting a proxy, it reviews all proxy solicitation materials it receives concerning securities
held in a Mutual Fund Account. The Firm evaluates all such information and may seek additional information from the party soliciting
the proxy and independent corroboration of such information when the Firm considers it appropriate and when it is reasonably available.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Proxy
Voting Policies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. Guidelines.
The Firm follows any proxy voting guidelines and procedures provided by Client Accounts for which the Firm votes proxies. If no guideline
exists for a particular vote, the Firm votes FOR a proposal when it believes that the proposal serves the best interests of the Mutual
Fund Account whose proxy is solicited because, on balance, the following factors predominate:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) If
adopted, the proposal would have a positive economic effect on shareholder value;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) If
adopted, the proposal would pose no threat to existing rights of shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) The
dilution, if any, of existing shares that would result from adoption of the proposal is warranted by the benefits of the proposal; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) If
adopted, the proposal would not limit or impair the accountability of management and the board of directors to shareholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. The
Firm votes **AGAINST** a proposal if it believes that, on balance, the following factors predominate:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) If
adopted, the proposal would have an adverse economic effect on shareholder value;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) If
adopted, the proposal would limit the rights of shareholders in a manner or to an extent that is not warranted by the benefits of adoption
of the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) If
adopted, the proposal would cause significant dilution of shares that is not warranted by the benefits of the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) If
adopted, the proposal would limit or impair accountability of management or the board of directors to shareholders; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) The
proposal is a shareholder initiative that the Firm believes wastes time and resources of the company or reflects the grievance of one
individual.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c. Abstentions.
The Firm abstains from voting proxies when it believes that it is appropriate. Usually, this occurs when the Firm believes that a proposal
holds negative but non-quantifiable implications for shareholder value but may express a legitimate concern or, for accounts other than
registered investment companies, when the Firm believes that a proposal will not have a material effect on the Firm's investment
strategy for Mutual Fund Accounts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Conflicts
of Interest. Due to the size and nature of the Firm's operations and the Firm's limited affiliations in the securities industry,
the Firm does not expect that material conflicts of interest will arise between the Firm and a Mutual Fund Account over proxy voting.
The Firm recognizes, however, that such conflicts may arise from time to time, such as, for example, when the Firm or one of its affiliates
has a business arrangement that could be affected by the outcome of a proxy vote or has a personal or business relationship with a person
seeking appointment or re-appointment as a director of a company. If a material conflict of interest arises, the Firm will vote all proxies
in accordance with Part VII.A.2. The Firm will not place its own interests ahead of the interests of its Mutual Fund Accounts in voting
proxies.

If the Firm determines that the proxy voting policies in Part VII.2 do not adequately address a material conflict of interest related to a proxy, it will provide the affected Client Account with copies of all proxy solicitation materials that the Firm receives with respect to that proxy, notify that Client Account of the actual or potential conflict of interest and of the Firm's intended response to the proxy request (which response will be in accordance with the policies set forth in Part VI.A.2(b)), and request that the Client Account consent to the Firm's intended response. If the Client Account consents to the Firm's intended response or fails to respond to the notice within a reasonable period of time specified in the notice, the Firm will vote the proxy as described in the notice. If the Client Account objects to the intended response, the Firm will vote the proxy as directed by the Client Account.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Disclosures
to Clients. The Firm includes in Part 2A of its Form ADV (1) a summary of these

policies and procedures relating to proxy voting, (2) an offer to provide a copy of such policies and procedures to clients on request, and (3) information concerning how a client may obtain a report summarizing how the Firm voted proxies on behalf of such client. At the request of a Client Account or Investor (other than a Client Account that is a registered investment company under the ICA (a "Registered Fund")), the Firm provides that Client Account or Investor with a copy of this Part VII and a report summarizing all proxy solicitations the Firm received with respect to that Client Account during the period requested and action taken by the Firm on each such proxy. Regarding the proxy votes in respect of the portfolio securities in a Registered Fund, the Firm will provide that Registered Fund with the information required to be disclosed by that Registered Fund pursuant to Rule 30bl-4 of the ICA and SEC Form N-PX promulgated thereunder, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. The
name of the issuer of the portfolio security;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. The
exchange ticker symbol of the portfolio security;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c. The
CUSP number for the portfolio security (unless not available through reasonable practical means, e.g., in the case of certain foreign
issuers);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;d. The
shareholder meeting date;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;e. A
brief identification of the matter voted on;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;f. Whether
the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a security holder;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;g. Whether
the Firm cast its vote on the matter;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;h. How
the Firm cast its vote (e.g., for or against proposal, or abstain; for or withhold regarding election of directors); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;i. Whether
the Firm cast its vote for or against management.

Records.

See the Firm's Books and Records policy regarding Records that the Firm must maintain relating to these.