Management
Investment manager:
Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC
Subadvisers:
Western Asset Management Company, Western Asset Management Company Limited and Western Asset Management Company
Pte. Ltd. References to the subadviser include each applicable subadviser.
Investment professionals:
Stephen A. Walsh, S. Kenneth Leech, Keith J. Gardner, Matthew C. Duda, Gordon S. Brown and Robert O.
Abad. Messrs. Walsh, Gardner and Duda have been a part of the portfolio management team for the fund since 2006. Messrs. Brown and Abad have been a part of the portfolio management team for the fund since 2012. Mr. Leech has been a part of the
portfolio management team for the fund since May 2013. These investment professionals work together with a broader investment management team. It is anticipated that Mr. Walsh will step down as a member of the funds portfolio management
team effective on or about March 31, 2014.
Purchase and sale of fund shares
You may purchase, redeem or exchange shares of the fund each day the New York Stock Exchange is open, at the funds net asset value determined
after receipt of your request in good order, subject to any applicable sales charge.
The funds initial and subsequent investment
minimums generally are as follows:
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Investment minimum initial/additional investment ($)
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Class A
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Class A2**
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Class C
(Class R
1
prior to
August 1, 2012)
1
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Class C
1
(Class C
prior to
August 1, 2012)
2
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Class FI
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Class R
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Class I
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Class IS
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General
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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Uniform Gifts or Transfers to Minor Accounts
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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IRAs
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250/50
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250/50
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250/50
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250/50
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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SIMPLE IRAs
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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Systematic Investment Plans
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50/50
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50/50
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50/50
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50/50
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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N/A
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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Eligible Investment Programs
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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N/A
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund and certain rollover IRAs
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
2
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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Other Retirement Plans
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None/None
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None/None
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None/None
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N/A
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None*
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N/A
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Institutional Investors
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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1,000/50
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N/A
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N/A
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1 million/None
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1 million/None
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1
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Initial investments in Class C (formerly Class R1) shares may be combined with existing investment amounts in Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares
for the purposes of satisfying the initial investment minimums of Class C (formerly Class R1) shares.
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2
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Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares are not available for purchase by new or existing investors (except for certain retirement plan programs
authorized by LMIS prior to August 1, 2012). Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares will continue to be available for dividend reinvestment and incoming exchanges.
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Available to investors investing directly with the fund.
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**
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Available to investors investing through a financial intermediary with a direct transfer agent relationship with the fund.
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Your financial intermediary may impose different investment minimums.
For more information about how to purchase, redeem or exchange shares, and to learn which classes of shares are available to you, you should contact your financial intermediary, or, if you hold your
shares or plan to purchase shares through the fund, you should contact the fund by phone at 1-877-721-1926 or by mail at Legg Mason Funds, P.O. Box 55214, Boston, MA 02205-8504.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Tax information
The fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
Payments to broker/dealers and other financial intermediaries
The funds related companies may pay broker/dealers or other financial intermediaries (such as a bank or an insurance company) for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments
create a conflict of interest by influencing your broker/dealer or other intermediary or its employees or associated persons to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your financial adviser or salesperson or visit your financial
intermediarys or salespersons website for more information.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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More on the funds investment strategies, investments and risks
The fund was named Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt
Portfolio prior to June 30, 2012.
The fund seeks to maximize total return.
Under normal circumstances, the fund invests at least 80% of its assets in fixed income securities issued by governments, government-related entities and corporations located in emerging markets and
related investments. The fund may invest up to 50% of its assets in non-U.S. dollar denominated fixed income securities. The fund will be invested in at least three emerging market countries, which are countries that, at the time of investment, are
represented in the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Global or categorized by the World Bank in its annual categorization as middle- or low-income.
The funds 80% policy may be changed upon 60 days prior notice to shareholders.
The funds investment strategies may be changed without shareholder approval. The funds investment objective may be changed by the Board of Trustees (the Board) without
shareholder approval and on notice to shareholders.
The fund is classified as non-diversified, which means it may invest a
larger percentage of its assets in a smaller number of issuers than a diversified fund.
Maturity and duration
The fund may invest in securities of any maturity. The maturity of a fixed income security is a measure of the time remaining until the final
payment on the security is due.
The subadviser attempts to maintain the dollar-weighted average effective duration of the funds
portfolio, as estimated by the subadviser, within a range of 20% (above or below) of the duration of the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Global. As of May 31, 2013, the indexs duration was approximately 7.30 years.
Effective duration seeks to measure the expected sensitivity of market price to changes in interest rates, taking into account the anticipated
effects of structural complexities (for example, some bonds can be prepaid by the issuer). The assumptions that are made about a securitys features and options when calculating effective duration may prove to be incorrect. As a result,
investors should be aware that effective duration is not an exact measurement and may not reliably predict a securitys price sensitivity to changes in yield or interest rates.
Credit quality
The fund may invest without limit in high yield debt and related
investments rated below investment grade (that is, securities rated below the Baa/BBB categories or, if unrated, determined to be of comparable credit quality by the subadviser). Below investment grade securities are commonly referred to as
junk bonds.
If a security is rated by multiple nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs)
and receives different ratings, the fund will treat the security as being rated in the lowest rating category received from an NRSRO. Rating categories may include sub-categories or gradations indicating relative standing.
Derivatives
The fund may engage in
a variety of transactions using derivatives, such as futures, options, swaps (including credit default swaps) and warrants. Derivatives are financial instruments whose value depends upon, or is derived from, the value of something else, such as one
or more underlying investments, indexes or currencies. Derivatives may be used by the fund for any of the following purposes:
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As a hedging technique in an attempt to manage risk in the funds portfolio
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As a substitute for buying or selling securities
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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More on the funds investment strategies, investments and risks contd
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As a means of changing investment characteristics of the funds portfolio
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As a cash flow management technique
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As a means of attempting to enhance returns
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As a means of providing additional exposure to types of investments or market factors
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The fund from time to time may sell protection on debt securities by entering into credit default swaps. In these transactions, the fund is
generally required to pay the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt security to the counterparty in the event of a default on or downgrade of the debt security and/or a similar credit event. In return, the fund receives from the
counterparty a periodic stream of payments over the term of the contract. If no default occurs, the fund keeps the stream of payments and has no payment obligations. As the seller, the fund would effectively add leverage to its portfolio because, in
addition to its net assets, the fund would be subject to investment exposure on the par (or other agreed-upon) value it had undertaken to pay. Credit default swaps may also be structured based on an index or the debt of a basket of issuers, rather
than a single issuer, and may be customized with respect to the default event that triggers purchase or other factors (for example, a particular number of defaults within a basket, or defaults by a particular combination of issuers within the
basket, may trigger a payment obligation).
Using derivatives, especially for non-hedging purposes, may involve greater risks to the fund
than investing directly in securities, particularly as these instruments may be very complex and may not behave in the manner anticipated by the fund. Certain derivative transactions may have a leveraging effect on the fund.
When the fund enters into derivative transactions, it may be required to segregate assets, or enter into offsetting positions, in accordance with
applicable regulations. Such segregation will not limit the funds exposure to loss, however, and the fund will have investment risk with respect to both the derivative itself and the assets that have been segregated to cover the funds
derivative exposure. If the segregated assets represent a large portion of the funds portfolio, this may impede portfolio management or the funds ability to meet redemption requests or other current obligations.
As noted above, instead of, and/or in addition to, investing directly in particular securities, the fund may use derivatives, such as credit default
swaps and futures contracts, synthetic instruments and other instruments that are intended to provide economic exposure to a security, an issuer, an index or basket of securities, or a market. The fund may use one or more types of these instruments
without limit.
The funds subadviser may choose not to make use of derivatives.
Fixed income securities
Fixed
income securities represent obligations of corporations, governments and other entities to repay money borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. These securities may pay fixed, variable or floating rates of interest. However, some fixed
income securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay current interest but are issued at a discount from their face values. Other debt instruments, such as certain mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities, make periodic payments of
interest and/or principal. Some debt instruments are partially or fully secured by collateral supporting the payment of interest and principal. Fixed income securities are commonly referred to as notes, debt,
debt obligations, debt securities, corporate debt, bonds and corporate bonds, and these terms are used in this Prospectus interchangeably, and, where used, are not intended to be limiting.
Foreign and emerging markets securities
The fund may invest without limit in U.S. dollar denominated securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets. The fund may invest up to 50% of its assets in
non-U.S. dollar denominated securities of foreign issuers. The value of the funds securities may decline because of factors affecting foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable government actions, political or financial
instability or the more limited availability of accurate information about foreign issuers, as well as factors affecting the particular issuers. The fund invests in foreign securities issued by issuers located in
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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emerging market countries. The fund considers a country to be an emerging market country, if, at the time of investment, it is represented in the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Global or
categorized by the World Bank in its annual categorization as middle or low-income. To the extent the fund invests in these securities, the risks associated with investments in foreign issuers will generally be more pronounced.
Sovereign debt
The fund may invest
in sovereign debt, including emerging market sovereign debt. Sovereign debt securities may include:
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Fixed income securities issued or guaranteed by governments, governmental agencies or instrumentalities and their political subdivisions
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Fixed income securities issued by government-owned, controlled or sponsored entities
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Interests in entities organized and operated for the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics of instruments issued by any of the
above issuers
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Brady Bonds, which are debt securities issued under the framework of the Brady Plan as a means for debtor nations to restructure their
outstanding external indebtedness
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Participations in loans between governments and financial institutions
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Fixed income securities issued by supranational entities such as the World Bank. A supranational entity is a bank, commission or company
established or financially supported by the national governments of one or more countries to promote reconstruction or development
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Sovereign government and supranational debt involve many of the risks of foreign and emerging markets investments as well as the risk of debt moratorium, repudiation or renegotiation and the fund
may be unable to enforce its rights against the issuers.
Corporate debt
Corporate debt securities are fixed income securities usually issued by businesses to finance their operations. Various types of business entities may issue these securities, including corporations,
trusts, limited partnerships, limited liability companies and other types of non-governmental legal entities. Notes, bonds, debentures and commercial paper are the most common types of corporate debt securities, with the primary difference being
their maturities and secured or unsecured status. Commercial paper has the shortest term and is usually unsecured. The broad category of corporate debt securities includes debt issued by U.S. or foreign companies of all kinds, including those with
small, mid and large capitalizations. Corporate debt may be rated investment grade or below investment grade and may carry variable or floating rates of interest.
Loans
The primary risk in an investment in loans is that borrowers may be unable to
meet their interest and/or principal payment obligations. Loans in which the fund invests may be made to finance highly leveraged borrowers which may make such loans especially vulnerable to adverse changes in economic or market conditions. Loans in
which the fund may invest may be either collateralized or uncollateralized and senior or subordinate. Investments in uncollateralized and/or subordinate loans entail a greater risk of nonpayment than do investments in loans that hold a more senior
position in the borrowers capital structure or are secured with collateral. In addition, loans are generally subject to liquidity risk. The fund may acquire an interest in loans by purchasing participations in and/or assignments of portions of
loans from third parties or by investing in pools of loans, such as collateralized debt obligations as further described under Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities.
Variable and floating rate securities
Variable rate securities reset at specified
intervals, while floating rate securities reset whenever there is a change in a specified index rate. In most cases, these reset provisions reduce the impact of changes in
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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More on the funds investment strategies, investments and risks contd
market interest rates on the value of the security. However, the value of these securities may decline if their interest rates do not rise as much, or as quickly, as other interest rates.
Conversely, these securities will not generally increase in value if interest rates decline. The fund may also invest in inverse floating rate debt instruments (inverse floaters). An inverse floater may exhibit greater price volatility
than a fixed rate obligation of similar credit quality.
Structured instruments
The fund may invest in various types of structured instruments, including securities that have demand, tender or put features, or interest rate reset features. These may include instruments issued
by structured investment or special purpose vehicles or conduits, and may be asset-backed or mortgage-backed securities. Structured instruments may take the form of participation interests or receipts in underlying securities or other assets, and in
some cases are backed by a financial institution serving as a liquidity provider. Some of these instruments may have an interest rate swap feature which substitutes a floating or variable interest rate for the fixed interest rate on an underlying
security. Structured instruments are a type of derivative instrument and the payment and credit qualities of these instruments derive from the assets embedded in the structure. For structured securities that have embedded leverage features, small
changes in interest or prepayment rates may cause large and sudden price movements. Structured instruments are often subject to heightened liquidity risk.
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities
The fund may invest in mortgage-backed
and asset-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may be issued by private issuers, by government-sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae (formally known as the Federal National Mortgage Association) or Freddie Mac (formally known as the Federal
Home Loan Mortgage Corporation) or by agencies of the U.S. government, such as Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect participations in, or are collateralized by and
payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property.
Unlike mortgage-related securities issued or guaranteed by agencies of the U.S.
government or government-sponsored entities, mortgage-related securities issued by private issuers do not have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee (but may have other credit enhancement), and may, and frequently do, have less
favorable collateral, credit risk or other underwriting characteristics. Mortgage-backed securities are also particularly susceptible to prepayment and extension risks, because prepayments on the underlying mortgages tend to increase when interest
rates fall and decrease when interest rates rise.
Asset-backed securities represent participations in, or are secured by and payable
from, assets such as installment sales or loan contracts, leases, credit card receivables and other categories of receivables. Certain asset-backed securities present a heightened level of risk because, in the event of default, the liquidation value
of the underlying assets may be inadequate to pay any unpaid principal or interest.
The value of mortgage-backed and asset-backed
securities may be affected by changes in credit quality or value of the mortgage loans or other assets that support the securities. In addition, for mortgage-backed securities, when market conditions result in an increase in the default rates on the
underlying mortgages and the foreclosure values of the underlying real estate are below the outstanding amount of the underlying mortgages, collection of the full amount of accrued interest and principal on these investments may be doubtful. For
mortgage derivatives and structured securities that have embedded leverage features, small changes in interest or prepayment rates may cause large and sudden price movements. Mortgage derivatives can also become illiquid and hard to value in
declining markets.
The fund may invest in collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and collateralized debt obligations
(CDOs), which include collateralized bond obligations (CBOs), collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and other similarly structured securities.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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CMOs are debt obligations collateralized by mortgage loans or mortgage pass-through securities. CMOs
are a type of mortgage-backed security. Typically, CMOs are collateralized by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac Certificates, but may also be collateralized by whole loans or private pass-throughs (referred to as Mortgage Assets).
Payments of principal and of interest on the Mortgage Assets, and any reinvestment income thereon, provide the funds to pay debt service on the CMOs. In a CMO, a series of bonds or certificates is issued in multiple classes. Each class of CMOs,
often referred to as a tranche, is issued at a specified fixed or floating coupon rate and has a stated maturity or final distribution date. Principal prepayments on the Mortgage Assets may cause the CMOs to be retired substantially
earlier than their stated maturities or final distribution dates. Interest is paid or accrues on all classes of the CMOs on a monthly, quarterly or semi-annual basis. The principal of and interest on the Mortgage Assets may be allocated among the
several classes of a series of a CMO in innumerable ways. As market conditions change, and particularly during periods of rapid or unanticipated changes in market interest rates, the attractiveness of the CMO classes and the ability of the structure
to provide the anticipated investment characteristics may be significantly reduced. Such changes can result in volatility in the market value, and in some instances reduced liquidity, of the CMO class.
CDOs are a type of asset-backed security. A CBO is a trust or other special purpose entity which is typically backed by a diversified pool of fixed
income securities (which may include high risk, below investment grade securities). A CLO is a trust or other special purpose entity that is typically collateralized by a pool of loans, which may also include, among others, domestic and non-U.S.
senior secured loans, senior unsecured loans, and subordinated corporate loans, including loans that may be rated below investment grade or equivalent unrated loans. Like CMOs, CDOs generally issue separate series or tranches which vary
with respect to risk and yield. CDO tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to defaults due to collateral default and disappearance of subordinate tranches, market anticipation of defaults, as well as
investor aversion to CDO securities as a class. Interest on certain tranches of a CDO may be paid in kind (paid in the form of obligations of the same type rather than cash), which involves continued exposure to default risk with respect to such
payments.
Stripped securities
Certain fixed income securities, called stripped securities, may represent the right to receive either payments of principal (POs) or payments of interest (IOs) on underlying
pools of mortgages or on government securities. The value of these types of instruments may change more drastically than debt securities that pay both principal and interest during periods of changing interest rates. Interest-only and principal-only
mortgage-backed securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect not only their prices but can also change the prepayment assumptions about those investments and income flows the fund receives from them.
Zero coupon, pay-in-kind and deferred interest securities
Zero coupon, pay-in-kind and deferred interest securities may be used by issuers to manage cash flow and maintain liquidity. Zero coupon securities pay no interest during the life of the obligation
but are issued at prices below their stated maturity value. Because zero coupon securities pay no interest until maturity, their prices may fluctuate more than other types of securities with the same maturity in the secondary market. However, zero
coupon bonds are useful as a tool for managing duration.
Pay-in-kind securities have a stated coupon, but the interest is generally paid
in the form of obligations of the same type as the underlying pay-in-kind securities (e.g. bonds) rather than in cash. These securities are more sensitive to the credit quality of the underlying issuer and their secondary market prices may fluctuate
more than other types of securities with the same maturity.
Deferred interest securities are obligations that generally provide for a
period of delay before the regular payment of interest begins and are issued at a significant discount from face value.
Certain zero
coupon, pay-in-kind and deferred interest securities are subject to tax rules applicable to debt obligations acquired with original issue discount. The fund would generally have to accrue income on
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More on the funds investment strategies, investments and risks contd
these securities for federal income tax purposes before it receives corresponding cash payments. Because the fund intends to make sufficient annual distributions of its taxable income, including
accrued non-cash income, in order to maintain its federal income tax status and avoid fund-level income and excise taxes, the fund might be required to liquidate portfolio securities at a disadvantageous time, or borrow cash, to make these
distributions.
When-issued securities, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions
The fund may purchase securities under arrangements (including on a when-issued, delayed delivery or forward commitment basis) where the securities
will not be delivered or paid for immediately. The fund will set aside assets to pay for these securities at the time of the agreement. Such transactions involve a risk of loss if the value of the securities declines prior to the settlement date or
if the assets set aside to pay for these securities decline in value prior to the settlement date. Therefore, these transactions may have a leveraging effect on the fund, making the value of an investment in the fund more volatile and increasing the
funds overall investment exposure. Typically, no income accrues on securities the fund has committed to purchase prior to the time delivery of the securities is made, although the fund may earn income on securities it has set aside to cover
these positions.
Preferred stock and convertible securities
The fund may invest in preferred stock and convertible securities. Preferred stock represents an interest in a company that generally entitles the holder to receive, in preference to the holders of
common stock, dividends and a fixed share of the proceeds resulting from a liquidation of the company. Preferred stocks may pay fixed or adjustable rates of return. Convertible fixed income securities convert into shares of common stock of their
issuer. Preferred stock and convertible fixed income securities share investment characteristics of both fixed income and equity securities. However, the value of these securities tends to vary more with fluctuations in the underlying common stock
and less with fluctuations in interest rates and tends to exhibit greater volatility.
Equity securities
Although the fund invests principally in fixed income securities and related investments, the fund may from time to time invest in or receive equity
securities and equity-like securities. Equity securities include warrants, rights, exchange traded and over-the-counter common stocks, baskets of equity securities such as exchange traded funds, depositary receipts, trust certificates, limited
partnership interests and shares of other investment companies and real estate investment trusts.
Equity securities represent an
ownership interest in the issuing company. Holders of equity securities are not creditors of the company, and in the event of the liquidation of the company, would be entitled to their pro rata share of the companys assets, if any, after
creditors, including the holders of fixed income securities, and holders of any senior equity securities are paid. Equity securities generally have greater price volatility than fixed income securities.
Warrants and rights permit, but do not obligate, their holders to subscribe for other securities. Warrants and rights are subject to the same market
risks as stocks, but may be more volatile in price. An investment in warrants or rights may be considered speculative. In addition, the value of a warrant or right does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities and a warrant
or right ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date.
Borrowings and reverse repurchase agreements
The fund may enter into borrowing transactions. Borrowing may make the value of an investment in the fund more volatile and increase the
funds overall investment exposure. The fund may be required to liquidate portfolio securities at a time when it would be disadvantageous to do so in order to make payments with respect to any borrowings. Interest on any borrowings will be a
fund expense and will reduce the value of the funds shares.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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The fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements, which have characteristics like borrowings. In
a reverse repurchase agreement, the fund sells securities to a counterparty, in return for cash, and the fund agrees to repurchase the securities at a later date and for a higher price, representing the cost to the fund for the cash received.
Forward roll transactions
The fund may engage in forward roll transactions (also referred to as mortgage dollar rolls). A forward roll transaction involves a forward commitment by the fund (see When-issued securities,
delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions). In general, in a forward roll transaction, the fund sells a mortgage- backed security while simultaneously agreeing to repurchase a similar security from the same party (the counterparty)
on a specified future date at a lower fixed price. The fund may enter into a forward roll transaction with the intention of entering into an offsetting transaction whereby, rather than accepting delivery of the security on the specified date, the
fund sells the security and agrees to repurchase a similar security at a later time.
An obligation to repurchase securities on a
specified future date involves a risk of loss if the value of the securities that the fund is obligated to purchase declines below the purchase price prior to the repurchase date. Forward roll transactions may have a leveraging effect on the fund,
making the value of an investment in the fund more volatile and increasing the funds overall investment exposure.
Short-term
investments
The fund may invest in cash, money market instruments and short-term securities, including repurchase agreements, U.S.
government securities, bank obligations and commercial paper. A repurchase agreement is a transaction in which the fund purchases a security from a seller, subject to the obligation of the seller to repurchase that security from the fund at a higher
price. The repurchase agreement thereby determines the yield during the funds holding period, while the sellers obligation to repurchase is secured by the value of the underlying security held by the fund.
Government securities
U.S.
government securities are obligations of, or guaranteed by, the U.S. government, its agencies or government-sponsored entities. U.S. government securities include issues by non-governmental entities (like financial institutions) that carry direct
guarantees from U.S. government agencies as part of government initiatives in response to the market crisis or otherwise. Although the U.S. government guarantees principal and interest payments on securities issued by the U.S. government and some of
its agencies, such as securities issued by Ginnie Mae, this guarantee does not apply to losses resulting from declines in the market value of these securities.
Some of the U.S. government securities that the fund may hold are not guaranteed or backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, such as those issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Although the U.S. government has recently provided financial support to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, there can be no assurance that it will support these or other government-sponsored enterprises in the future.
Defensive investing
The fund may
depart from its principal investment strategies in response to adverse market, economic or political conditions by taking temporary defensive positions, including by investing without limit in any type of money market instruments and short-term debt
securities or holding cash without regard to any percentage limitations. Although the subadviser has the ability to take defensive positions, it may choose not to do so for a variety of reasons, even during volatile market conditions.
Credit downgrades and other credit events
Credit rating or credit quality of a security is determined at the time of purchase. If, after purchase, the credit rating on a security is downgraded or the credit quality deteriorates, or if the
duration of a security is
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extended, the subadviser will decide whether the security should be held or sold. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults on a security held by the fund, or if an obligor of
such a security has difficulty meeting its obligations, the fund may obtain a new or restructured security or underlying assets. In that case, the fund may become the holder of securities or other assets that it could not purchase or might not
otherwise hold (for example, because they are of lower quality or are subordinated to other obligations of the issuer) at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or can be sold only at a loss. In addition, the fund may incur expenses in an
effort to protect the funds interest in securities experiencing these events.
Other investments
The fund may also use other strategies and invest in other securities that are described, along with their risks, in the SAI. However, the fund
might not use all of the strategies and techniques or invest in all of the types of securities described in this Prospectus or in the SAI. New types of mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, derivative instruments, hedging instruments and
other securities or instruments are developed and marketed from time to time. Consistent with its investment limitations, the fund may invest in new types of securities and instruments.
Percentage and other limitations
For purposes of the funds limitations
expressed as a percentage of assets or net assets, the term assets means net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes. The funds compliance with its investment limitations and requirements is usually
determined at the time of investment. If a percentage limitation is complied with at the time of an investment, any subsequent change in percentage resulting from a change in values or assets, or a change in credit quality, will not constitute a
violation of that limitation.
Selection process
The subadviser uses a top-down approach and allocates the funds investments among various emerging market countries. In allocating among different countries, the following are some
of the factors the subadviser considers:
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Currency, inflation and interest rate trends
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Liquidity of markets for that countrys debt
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The subadviser then selects those individual securities that appear to be most undervalued and to offer the highest potential returns relative to
the amount of credit, interest rate, liquidity and other risks presented by these securities. The funds subadviser engages in independent fundamental analysis to evaluate the creditworthiness of corporate and governmental issuers.
More on risks of investing in the fund
Market and interest rate risk.
The market prices of fixed
income and other securities owned by the fund may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. If the market prices of the securities owned by the fund fall, the value of your investment in the fund will decline. The value of a security may
fall due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic or political conditions, inflation, changes in interest or currency rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. The equity and debt
capital markets in the United States and internationally have experienced unprecedented volatility.
The financial crisis that began in
2008 has caused a significant decline in the value and liquidity of many securities; in particular, the values of some sovereign debt and of securities of issuers that invest in
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sovereign debt and related investments have fallen, credit has become more scarce worldwide and there has been significant uncertainty in the markets. Governmental and non-governmental issuers
(notably in Europe) have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts; and many other issuers have faced difficulties refinancing existing obligations. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including in the United
States, Europe and beyond. Further defaults or restructurings by governments and others of their debt could have additional adverse effects on economies, financial markets and asset valuations around the world. In response to the crisis, the U.S.
and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. The withdrawal of this support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are
not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the value and liquidity of certain securities. This environment could make identifying investment risks and opportunities especially difficult for the subadviser, and
whether or not the fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to countries experiencing economic and financial difficulties, the value and liquidity of the funds investments may be negatively affected. In
addition, policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are changing many aspects of financial regulation. The impact of these changes on the markets, and the practical implications for market participants, may not be
fully known for some time.
Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. The value of a
security may also fall due to specific conditions that affect a particular sector of the securities market or a particular issuer.
When
interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities generally falls. A change in interest rates will not have the same impact on all fixed income securities. Generally, the longer the maturity or duration of a fixed income security, the
greater the impact of a rise in interest rates on the securitys value. However, calculations of duration and maturity may be based on estimates and may not reliably predict a securitys price sensitivity to changes in interest rates.
Moreover, securities can change in value in response to other factors, such as credit risk. In addition, different interest rate measures (such as short- and long-term interest rates and U.S. and foreign interest rates), or interest rates on
different types of securities or securities of different issuers, may not necessarily change in the same amount or in the same direction. When interest rates go down, the income received by the fund, and the funds yield, may decline.
Certain fixed income securities pay interest at variable or floating rates. Variable rate securities tend to reset at specified
intervals, while floating rate securities may reset whenever there is a change in a specified index rate. In most cases, these reset provisions reduce the impact of changes in market interest rates on the value of the security. However, some
securities do not track the underlying index directly, but reset based on formulas that may produce a leveraging effect; others may also provide for interest payments that vary inversely with market rates. The market prices of these securities may
fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. Rates of interest generated by the fund may decline due to a decrease in market interest rates.
Credit risk.
If an obligor (such as the issuer itself or a
party offering credit enhancement) for a security held by the fund fails to pay, otherwise defaults, is perceived to be less creditworthy, becomes insolvent or files for bankruptcy, a securitys credit rating is downgraded or the credit quality
or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment in the fund could decline. If the fund enters into financial contracts (such as certain derivatives, repurchase agreements, reverse repurchase agreements, and when-issued,
delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions), the fund will be subject to the credit risk presented by the counterparty. In addition, the fund may incur expenses in an effort to protect the funds interests or to enforce its rights.
Credit risk is broadly gauged by the credit ratings of the securities in which the fund invests. However, ratings are only the opinions of the companies issuing them and are not guarantees as to quality. Securities rated in the lowest category of
investment grade (Baa/BBB) may possess certain speculative characteristics.
The fund is subject to greater levels of credit risk to the
extent it holds below investment grade debt securities (that is, securities rated below the Baa/BBB categories or unrated securities of comparable quality), or
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junk bonds. These securities have a higher risk of issuer default because, among other reasons, issuers of junk bonds often have more debt in relation to total capitalization than
issuers of investment grade securities. These securities are considered speculative, tend to be less liquid and are more difficult to value than higher rated securities and may involve major risk of exposure to adverse conditions and negative
sentiments. These securities may be in default or in danger of default as to principal and interest. Unrated securities of comparable quality share these risks.
The fund may invest in securities which are subordinated to more senior securities of the issuer, or which represent interests in pools of such subordinated securities. The fund is more likely to
suffer a credit loss on subordinated securities than on non-subordinated securities of the same issuer. If there is a default, bankruptcy or liquidation of the issuer, most subordinated securities are paid only if sufficient assets remain after
payment of the issuers non-subordinated securities. In addition, any recovery of interest or principal may take more time. As a result, even a perceived decline in creditworthiness of the issuer is likely to have a greater impact on
subordinated securities.
Derivatives risk.
Derivatives involve special risks and costs and may result in losses to the fund. Using derivatives can increase losses and reduce opportunities for gains when market prices, interest rates or
currencies, or the derivative instruments themselves, behave in a way not anticipated by the fund, especially in abnormal market conditions. Using derivatives also can have a leveraging effect (which may increase investment losses) and increase fund
volatility, which is the degree to which the funds share price may fluctuate within a short time period. Some derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the funds initial investment. The other parties to
certain derivative contracts present the same types of credit risk as issuers of fixed income securities. Derivatives also tend to involve greater liquidity risk and they may be difficult to value. The fund may be unable to terminate or sell its
derivative positions. In fact, many over-the-counter derivative instruments will not have liquidity beyond the counterparty to the instrument. The funds use of derivatives may also increase the amount of taxes payable by shareholders. Recent
legislation calls for new regulation of the derivatives markets. The extent and impact of the regulation are not yet fully known and may not be for some time. New regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, may limit their availability, or
may otherwise adversely affect their value or performance.
Investments by the fund in structured securities, a type of derivative
instrument, raise certain tax, legal, regulatory and accounting issues that may not be presented by direct investments in securities. These issues could be resolved in a manner that could hurt the performance of the fund.
Credit default swap contracts, a type of derivative instrument, involve special risks and may result in losses to the fund. Credit default swaps may
in some cases be illiquid, and they increase credit risk since the fund has exposure to both the issuer of the referenced obligation and the counterparty to the credit default swap.
The absence of a central exchange or market for swap transactions has led, in some instances, to difficulties in trading and valuation, especially in the event of market disruptions. Recent
legislation, noted above, will require most swaps to be executed through a centralized exchange or regulated facility and be cleared through a regulated clearinghouse. The swap market could be disrupted or limited as a result of this legislation,
which could adversely affect the fund. Moreover, the establishment of a centralized exchange or market for swap transactions may not result in swaps being easier to trade or value.
Risks associated with the use of derivatives are magnified to the extent that a large portion of the funds assets are committed to derivatives in general or are invested in just one or a few
types of derivatives.
Foreign investments and emerging markets
risk.
The funds investments in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involve additional risk. Foreign countries in which the
fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the funds investments may decline because of factors affecting the particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers
generally, such as unfavorable government actions, and political or financial instability. Lack of information may also affect the value of these securities.
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The value of the funds foreign investments may also be affected by foreign tax laws, special
U.S. tax considerations and restrictions on receiving the investment proceeds from a foreign country. Dividends or interest on, or proceeds from the sale of, foreign securities may be subject to non-U.S. withholding taxes.
In some foreign countries, less information is available about issuers and markets because of less rigorous accounting and regulatory standards than
in the United States. It may be difficult for the fund to pursue claims against a foreign issuer in the courts of a foreign country. Some securities issued by non-U.S. governments or their subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities may not be
backed by the full faith and credit of such governments. Even where a security is backed by the full faith and credit of a government, it may be difficult for the fund to pursue its rights against the government. Some non-U.S. governments have
defaulted on principal and interest payments, and more may do so.
The risks of foreign investments are heightened when investing in
issuers in emerging market countries. Emerging market countries typically have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more advanced countries. They are often particularly sensitive to
market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in price volatility. Investors should be able to tolerate sudden, sometimes substantial, fluctuations in
the value of their investments. Emerging market countries may have policies that restrict investment by foreigners or that prevent foreign investors from withdrawing their money at will. An investment in emerging market securities should be
considered speculative.
Currency risk.
The value of investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies increases or decreases as the rates of exchange between those currencies and the U.S. dollar change. Currency conversion
costs and currency fluctuations could erase investment gains or add to investment losses. Currency exchange rates can be volatile, and are affected by factors such as general economic conditions, the actions of the U.S. and foreign governments or
central banks, the imposition of currency controls and speculation.
Leveraging
risk.
The fund may take on leveraging risk by, among other things, engaging in borrowing, derivative, when-issued, delayed-delivery or forward commitment transactions, reverse
repurchase agreements or forward rolls. When the fund engages in transactions that have a leveraging effect on the funds portfolio, the value of the fund will be more volatile and all other risks will tend to be compounded. This is because
leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the funds underlying assets or creates investment risk with respect to a larger pool of assets than the fund would otherwise have, potentially resulting in the
loss of all assets. Engaging in such transactions may cause the fund to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations or meet segregation requirements.
Liquidity
risk.
Liquidity risk exists when particular investments are difficult to sell. Although most of the funds investments must be liquid at the time of investment, investments may
become illiquid after purchase by the fund, particularly during periods of market turmoil. When the fund holds illiquid investments, the portfolio may be harder to value, especially in changing markets, and if the fund is forced to sell these
investments to meet redemption requests or for other cash needs, the fund may suffer a loss. In addition, when there is illiquidity in the market for certain investments, the fund, due to limitations on illiquid investments, may be unable to achieve
its desired level of exposure to a certain sector.
Risk of increase
in expenses.
Your actual costs of investing in the fund may be higher than the expenses shown in Annual fund operating expenses for a variety of reasons. For example,
expense ratios may be higher than those shown if a fee limitation is changed or terminated or if average net assets decrease. Net assets are more likely to decrease and fund expense ratios are more likely to increase when markets are volatile.
Prepayment or call risk.
Many fixed income securities give the issuer the option to repay or call the security prior to its maturity date. Issuers often exercise this right when interest rates fall. Accordingly, if the
fund holds a fixed income security subject to prepayment or call risk, it may not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities generally experience when interest rates fall. Upon prepayment of
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the security, the fund would also be forced to reinvest the proceeds at then current yields, which would be lower than the yield of the security that was paid off. In addition, if the fund
purchases a fixed income security at a premium (at a price that exceeds its stated par or principal value), the fund may lose the amount of the premium paid in the event of prepayment.
Extension risk.
When interest rates rise, repayments of fixed
income securities, particularly asset- and mortgage-backed securities, may occur more slowly than anticipated, extending the effective duration of these fixed income securities at below market interest rates and causing their market prices to
decline. This may cause the funds share price to be more volatile.
Non-diversification risk.
The fund is classified as non-diversified, which means it may invest a larger percentage of its assets in a smaller number of issuers than a diversified fund. To the extent the fund
invests its assets in a smaller number of issuers, the fund will be more susceptible to negative events affecting those issuers than a diversified fund.
Valuation risk.
Many factors may influence the price at which
the fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differhigher or lowerfrom the funds last valuation, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities
that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value some investments, the fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair value
methodologies. Investors who purchase or redeem fund shares on days when the fund is holding fair-valued securities may receive fewer or more shares, or lower or higher redemption proceeds, than they would have received if the fund had not
fair-valued the security or had used a different valuation methodology. The value of foreign securities, certain fixed income securities and currencies, as applicable, may be materially affected by events after the close of the market on which they
are valued, but before the fund determines its net asset value.
Cash
management and defensive investing risk.
The value of the investments held by the fund for cash management or defensive investing purposes can fluctuate. Like other fixed income
securities, they are subject to risk, including market, interest rate and credit risk. If the fund holds cash uninvested, it will be subject to the credit risk of the depository institution holding the cash. If the fund holds cash uninvested, the
fund will not earn income on the cash and the funds yield will go down. If a significant amount of the funds assets are used for cash management or defensive investing purposes, it may not achieve its investment objective.
Portfolio selection risk.
The value of your investment may decrease if the subadvisers judgment about the quality, relative yield, value or market trends affecting a particular security, industry, sector, country or
region, or about interest rates, is incorrect.
Please note that there are other factors that could adversely affect your investment and
that could prevent the fund from achieving its investment objective. More information about risks appears in the SAI. Before investing, you should carefully consider the risks that you will assume.
Portfolio holdings
A description
of the funds policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio holdings is available in the SAI. The fund posts its complete portfolio holdings at http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/prospectuses (click on the
name of the fund) on a quarterly basis. The fund intends to post its complete portfolio holdings 14 calendar days following the quarter-end. The fund intends to post partial information concerning the funds portfolio holdings (such as top 10
holdings or sector breakdowns, for example) on the Legg Mason funds website on a monthly basis. The fund intends to post this partial information 10 business days following each month-end. Such information will remain available until the next
months or quarters holdings are posted.
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More on fund management
Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (LMPFA) is the
funds investment manager. LMPFA, with offices at 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10018, also serves as the investment manager of other Legg Mason-sponsored funds. LMPFA provides administrative and certain oversight services to the fund.
LMPFA was formed in April 2006 as a result of an internal reorganization to consolidate advisory services after Legg Mason, Inc. (Legg Mason) acquired substantially all of Citigroups asset management business in December 2005. As
of June 30, 2013, LMPFAs total assets under management were approximately $ billion.
Western Asset Management Company (Western Asset), Western Asset Management Company Limited (Western Asset London) and Western Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd.
(Western Asset Singapore) provide the day-to-day portfolio management of the fund as subadviser.
Western Asset, established
in 1971, has offices at 385 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91101 and 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10018. Western Asset London was founded in 1984 and has offices at 10 Exchange Square, Primrose Street, London EC2A 2EN.
Western Asset Singapore was established in 2000 and has offices at 1 George Street #23-01, Singapore 049145.
Western Asset London and
Western Asset Singapore provide certain subadvisory services relating to currency transactions and investments in non-U.S. dollar-denominated securities and related foreign currency instruments. Western Asset London generally manages global and
non-U.S. dollar fixed income mandates, and Western Asset Singapore generally manages Asian (other than Japan) fixed income mandates. Each office provides services relating to relevant portions of Western Assets broader portfolios as
appropriate.
Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore undertake investment-related activities including investment management,
research and analysis, and securities settlement.
Western Asset employs a team approach to investment management that utilizes relevant
staff in multiple offices around the world. For funds that permit non-U.S. or global investments, those offices add local sector investment experience as well as the ability to trade in local markets. Although the investment professionals at Western
Asset London and Western Asset Singapore are responsible for the management of the investments in their local sectors, Western Asset provides overall supervision of their activities for the fund to maintain a cohesive investment management approach.
Western Asset, Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore act as investment advisers to institutional accounts, such as
corporate pension plans, mutual funds and endowment funds. As of June 30, 2013, the total assets under management of Western Asset and its supervised affiliates, including Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore, were approximately
$ billion.
LMPFA pays the subadviser a portion of the management fee that it
receives from the fund. The fund does not pay any additional advisory or other fees for advisory services provided by Western Asset, Western Asset London or Western Asset Singapore.
LMPFA, Western Asset, Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Legg Mason. Legg Mason, whose principal executive offices are at 100 International Drive,
Baltimore, Maryland 21202, is a global asset management company. As of June 30, 2013, Legg Masons asset management operations, including Western Asset and its supervised affiliates, had aggregate assets under management of approximately
$ billion.
Investment professionals
The fund is managed by a broad team of investment professionals. The particular mix of investment professionals involved in developing and
implementing investment strategies for the fund depends on the asset classes in which the fund invests. Senior members of the portfolio management team are responsible for the development of investment strategy and oversight for the fund and
coordination of other relevant investment team members. They work together with the broader Western Asset investment management team on portfolio structure, duration weighting and term structure decisions.
The individuals responsible for day-to-day portfolio management, development of investment strategy, oversight and coordination of the fund are
Stephen A. Walsh, S. Kenneth Leech, Keith J. Gardner, Matthew C. Duda, Gordon S. Brown and Robert O. Abad. Messrs. Walsh, Gardner and Duda have been a part of the
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portfolio management team for the fund since 2006. Messrs. Brown and Abad have been a part of the portfolio management team for the fund since 2012. Mr. Leech has been a part of the
portfolio management team for the fund since May 2013.
Messrs. Walsh, Leech, Gardner, Duda and Abad have been employed by Western Asset
as investment professionals for at least the past five years. Mr. Brown has been employed by Western Asset as an investment professional since 2011. Prior to joining Western Asset, Mr. Brown was Senior Investment Manager of Emerging Market
Rates and Currencies at Baillie Gifford & Co. from 2001 to 2011. It is anticipated that Mr. Walsh will step down as a member of the funds portfolio management team effective on or about March 31, 2014.
The SAI provides information about the investment professionals compensation, other accounts managed by the investment professionals and any
fund shares held by the investment professionals.
Management fee
The fund pays a management fee at an annual rate of 0.75% of its average daily net assets.
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013, the fund paid LMPFA an effective management fee of 0.74% of the funds average daily net assets for management services.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Boards approval of the funds management agreement and subadvisory agreements is available in
the funds Annual Report for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013.
Expense limitation
The manager has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse operating expenses (other than interest, brokerage, taxes, extraordinary expenses and acquired
fund fees and expenses) so that total annual operating expenses are not expected to exceed 1.25% for Class A shares, 1.45% for Class A2 shares, 2.00% for Class C (formerly Class R1) shares, 1.70% for Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares, 1.20%
for Class FI shares, 1.50% for Class R shares, 0.95% for Class I shares and 0.80% for Class IS shares, subject to recapture as described below. These arrangements are expected to continue until December 31, 2014, may be terminated prior to that
date by agreement of the manager and the Board, and may be terminated at any time after that date by the manager. These arrangements, however, may be modified by the manager to decrease total annual operating expenses at any time. The manager is
also permitted to recapture amounts waived and/or reimbursed to a class during the same fiscal year if the class total annual operating expenses have fallen to a level below the limit described above. In no case will the manager recapture any
amount that would result, on any particular business day of the fund, in the class total annual operating expenses exceeding the applicable limit described above or any other lower limit then in effect.
Distribution
LMIS, a wholly-owned
broker/dealer subsidiary of Legg Mason, serves as the funds sole and exclusive distributor.
The fund has adopted a Rule 12b-1
shareholder services and distribution plan. Under the plan, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees, based on annualized percentages of average daily net assets, of up to 0.25% for Class A shares; up to 0.25% for Class A2 shares; up to
1.00% for Class C (formerly Class R1) shares; up to 0.70% for Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares; up to 0.25% for Class FI shares and up to 0.50% for Class R shares. These fees are an ongoing expense and, over time, will increase the cost of your
investment and may cost you more than other types of sales charges. Class I shares and Class IS shares are not subject to distribution and/or service fees under the plan.
In addition, the distributor, the manager and/or their affiliates make payments for distribution, shareholder servicing, marketing and promotional activities and related expenses out of their
profits and other available sources, including profits from their relationships with the fund. These payments are not reflected as additional expenses in the fee table contained in this Prospectus. The recipients of these payments may include the
funds distributor and affiliates of the manager, as well as non-affiliated broker/dealers, insurance
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companies, financial institutions and other financial intermediaries through which investors may purchase shares of the fund, including your financial intermediary. The total amount of these
payments is substantial, may be substantial to any given recipient and may exceed the costs and expenses incurred by the recipient for any fund-related marketing or shareholder servicing activities. The payments described in this paragraph are often
referred to as revenue sharing payments. Revenue sharing arrangements are separately negotiated between the distributor, the manager and/or their affiliates, and the recipients of these payments.
Revenue sharing payments create an incentive for an intermediary or its employees or associated persons to recommend or sell shares of the fund to
you. Contact your financial intermediary for details about revenue sharing payments it receives or may receive. Revenue sharing payments, as well as payments under the shareholder services and distribution plan (where applicable), also benefit the
manager, the distributor and their affiliates to the extent the payments result in more assets being invested in the fund on which fees are being charged.
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Choosing a class of shares to buy
Individual investors can generally invest in Class A, Class A2
and Class C (formerly Class R1) shares. Individual investors who invest through a financial intermediary with a direct transfer agent relationship with the fund may purchase Class A2 shares. Individual investors who invest directly with the fund and
who meet the $1,000,000 minimum initial investment requirement may purchase Class I shares.
Retirement Plan and Institutional
Investors and Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries should refer to Retirement and Institutional Investors eligible investors below for a description of the classes available to them. Each class has different sales charges
and expenses, allowing you to choose a class that may be appropriate for you.
When choosing which class of shares to buy, you should
consider:
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How much you plan to invest
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How long you expect to own the shares
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The expenses paid by each class detailed in the fee table and example at the front of this Prospectus
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Whether you qualify for any reduction or waiver of sales charges
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Availability of share classes
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When choosing between Class A, Class A2 and Class C (formerly Class R1) shares, keep in mind that generally speaking, the larger the size of your investment and the longer your investment
horizon, the more likely it will be that Class C (formerly Class R1) shares will not be as advantageous as Class A or Class A2 shares. The annual distribution and/or service fees on Class C (formerly Class R1) shares may cost you more over the
longer term than the front-end sales charge and service fees you would have paid for larger purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares. If you are eligible to purchase Class I shares, you should be aware that Class I shares are not subject to a
front-end sales charge and generally have lower annual expenses than Class A, Class A2 or Class C (formerly Class R1) shares. Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares are not available for purchase by new or existing investors (except for certain
retirement plan programs authorized by LMIS prior to August 1, 2012). Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares will continue to be available for dividend reinvestment and incoming exchanges.
Each class of shares, except Class A2 and Class IS shares, is authorized to pay fees for recordkeeping services to Service Agents. As a result, operating expenses of classes that incur new or
additional recordkeeping fees may increase over time.
You may buy shares:
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Through banks, brokers, dealers, insurance companies, investment advisers, financial consultants or advisers, mutual fund supermarkets and other
financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the distributor to sell shares of the fund (each called a Service Agent)
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Your Service Agent may provide shareholder services that differ from the services provided by other Service Agents. Services provided by your Service Agent may vary by class. You should ask your
Service Agent to explain the shareholder services it provides for each class and the compensation it receives in connection with each class. Remember that your Service Agent may receive different compensation depending on the share class in which
you invest.
Your Service Agent may not offer all classes of shares. You should contact your Service Agent for further information.
More information about the funds classes of shares is available through the Legg Mason funds website. Youll find
detailed information about sales charges and ways you can qualify for reduced or waived sales charges, including:
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The front-end sales charges that apply to the purchase of Class A or Class A2 shares
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The contingent deferred sales charges that apply to the redemption of Class C (formerly Class R1) shares, Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares and
certain Class A or Class A2 shares
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Who qualifies for lower sales charges on Class A or Class A2 shares
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Who qualifies for a sales load waiver
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To visit the website, go to http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/products, and click on the name of the fund in the dropdown menu.
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Comparing the funds classes
The following table compares key features of the funds classes.
You should review the fee table and example at the front of this Prospectus carefully before choosing your share class. Your Service Agent can help you choose a class that may be appropriate for you. Please contact your Service Agent regarding the
availability of Class FI, Class R or Class IS shares or, if you plan to purchase shares through the fund, contact the fund. You may be required to provide appropriate documentation confirming your eligibility to invest in these share classes. Your
Service Agent may receive different compensation depending upon which class you choose.
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Key features
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Initial sales charge
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Contingent deferred
sales charge
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Annual distribution and/
or service fees
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Exchange privilege
1
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Class
A
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Initial sales charge
You may qualify for
reduction or waiver of initial sales charge
Generally lower annual expenses than Class C (formerly Class R1)
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Up to 4.25%; reduced or waived for large purchases and certain investors. No charge for purchases of $1,000,000 or more
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1.00% on purchases of $1,000,000 or more if you redeem within 18 months of purchase; waived for certain investors
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0.25% of average daily net assets
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Class A shares of funds sold by the distributor
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Class
A2
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Initial sales charge
You may qualify for
reduction or waiver of initial sales charge
Generally lower annual expenses than Class C (formerly Class R1)
Only offered to clients of financial intermediaries with a direct transfer agent relationship with
the fund
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Up to 4.25%; reduced or waived for large purchases and certain investors. No charge for purchases of $1,000,000 or more
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1.00% on purchases of $1,000,000 or more if you redeem
within 18 months of purchase; waived for certain investors
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0.25% of average daily net assets
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Class A2 shares of funds sold by a financial intermediary with a direct
transfer
agent relationship with the fund or, if such fund does not offer Class A2, Class A Shares
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Class C (Class R1 prior to
August 1, 2012)
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No initial sales charge
Contingent deferred sales charge for only 1 year
Generally higher annual
expenses than Class A
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None
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1.00% if you redeem within 1 year of purchase; waived for certain investors
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1.00% of average daily net assets
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Class C shares of funds sold by the distributor
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Class C1 (Class C prior to
August 1, 2012)
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Closed to new purchases (except for certain retirement plan programs authorized by LMIS prior to August 1, 2012)
No initial sales
charge
Contingent deferred sales
charge for only 1 year
Generally higher annual
expenses than Class A
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None
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1.00% if you redeem within 1 year of purchase; waived for certain investors
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0.70% of average daily net assets
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Class C1 shares of funds sold by the distributor or, if a fund sold by the distributor does not offer Class C1 shares, Class C
shares
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26
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Comparing the funds classes contd
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Key features
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Initial sales charge
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Contingent deferred
sales charge
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Annual distribution and/
or service fees
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Exchange privilege
1
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Class
FI
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No initial or contingent deferred sales charge
Only offered to Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries, Retirement Plans and other eligible
investors
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None
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None
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0.25% of average daily net assets
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Class FI shares of funds sold by the distributor
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Class
R
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No initial or contingent deferred sales charge
Only offered to eligible Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund,
Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries and Eligible Investment Programs
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None
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None
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0.50% of average daily net assets
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Class R shares of funds sold by the distributor
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Class I
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No initial or contingent deferred sales charge
Only offered to Institutional Investors, Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries and other
eligible investors
Generally lower annual
expenses than the other classes except for Class IS
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None
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None
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None
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Class I shares of funds sold by the distributor
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Class
IS
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No initial or contingent deferred sales charge
Only offered to eligible Retirement Plans and Institutional Investors
Generally lower annual
expenses than the other classes
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None
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None
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None
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Class IS shares of funds sold by the distributor
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1
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Ask your Service Agent about the funds available for exchange.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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27
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Sales charges
Class A and Class A2 shares
You buy Class A or Class A2 shares at the offering price, which is the net asset value plus a sales charge. You pay a lower rate as the size of your investment increases to certain levels
called breakpoints. You do not pay a sales charge on the funds distributions or dividends that you reinvest in additional Class A or Class A2 shares.
The table below shows the rate of sales charge you pay, depending on the amount you purchase. It also shows the amount of broker/dealer compensation that will be paid out of the sales charge if you
buy shares from a Service Agent. For Class A or Class A2 shares sold by the distributor, the distributor will receive the sales charge imposed on purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares (or any contingent deferred sales charge paid on
redemptions) and will retain the full amount of such sales charge. Service Agents will receive a distribution and/or service fee payable on Class A or Class A2 shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets represented
by the Class A or Class A2 shares serviced by them.
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Amount of Investment ($)
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Sales charge
as a % of
offering price
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Sales charge
as a % of net
amount
invested
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Broker/dealer
commission as
a % of
offering price
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Less than 100,000
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4.25
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4.44
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4.00
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100,000 but less than 250,000
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3.50
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3.63
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3.00
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250,000 but less than 500,000
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2.50
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2.56
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2.00
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500,000 but less than 750,000
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2.00
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2.04
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1.60
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750,000 but less than 1 million
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1.50
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1.52
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1.20
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1 million or more
1
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-0-
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-0-
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up to 0.75
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1
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The distributor may pay a commission of up to 0.75% to a Service Agent for purchase amounts of $1 million or more. In such cases, starting in the
thirteenth month after purchase, the Service Agent will also receive an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class A or Class A2 shares held by its clients. Prior to the
thirteenth month, the distributor will retain this fee. Where the Service Agent does not receive the payment of this commission, the Service Agent will instead receive the annual distribution and/or service fee starting immediately after purchase.
Please contact your Service Agent for more information.
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Investments of $1,000,000 or more
You do not pay an initial sales charge when you buy $1,000,000 or more of Class A or Class A2 shares. However, if you redeem these Class A
or Class A2 shares within 18 months of purchase, you will pay a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00%.
Qualifying for a reduced
Class A or Class A2 sales charge
There are several ways you can combine multiple purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares of
funds sold by the distributor to take advantage of the breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. In order to take advantage of reductions in sales charges that may be available to you when you purchase fund shares, you must inform your Service Agent
or the fund if you are eligible for a letter of intent or a right of accumulation and if you own shares of other funds that are eligible to be aggregated with your purchases. Certain records, such as account statements, may be necessary in order to
verify your eligibility for a reduced sales charge.
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Accumulation Privilege
allows you to combine the current value of shares of the fund with other shares of funds sold by the
distributor that are owned by:
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your spouse and children under the age of 21
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with the dollar amount of your next purchase of Class A or Class A2 shares, as applicable, for purposes of calculating the initial sales charges.
If you hold fund shares in accounts at two or more Service Agents, please contact your Service Agents to determine which shares may be combined.
Shares of money market funds sold by the distributor acquired by exchange from other funds offered with a sales charge may be combined.
Shares of money market funds sold by the distributor that were not acquired by exchange from other funds offered with a sales charge may not be combined. Please contact your Service Agent or the fund for additional information.
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28
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Sales charges contd
Certain trustees and other fiduciaries may be entitled to combine accounts in determining their
sales charge.
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Letter of Intent
allows you to purchase Class A or Class A2 shares of funds sold by the distributor over a 13-month period and
pay the same sales charge, if any, as if all shares had been purchased at once. At the time you enter into the letter of intent, you select your asset goal amount. Generally, purchases of shares of funds sold by the distributor that are purchased
during the 13-month period by:
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your spouse, and children under the age of 21
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are eligible for inclusion under the letter of intent, based on the public offering price at the time of the purchase and any capital appreciation on those shares. In addition, you can include the
current value of any eligible holdings toward your asset goal amount.
If you hold shares of funds sold by the distributor in accounts at
two or more Service Agents, please contact your Service Agents to determine which shares may be credited toward your asset goal amount.
Shares of money market funds sold by the distributor acquired by exchange from other funds offered with a sales charge may be credited toward your
asset goal amount. Please contact your Service Agent for additional information.
If you do not meet your asset goal amount, shares in
the amount of any sales charges due, based on the amount of your actual purchases, will be redeemed from your account.
Waivers for
certain Class A or Class A2 investors
Class A or Class A2 initial sales charges are waived for certain types of investors,
including:
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Employees of Service Agents
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Investors who redeemed Class A or Class A2 shares of a fund sold by the distributor in the past 60 days, if the investors Service
Agent is notified
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Directors and officers of any Legg Mason-sponsored fund
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Employees of Legg Mason and its subsidiaries
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Investors investing through certain Retirement Plans
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Investors who rollover fund shares from a qualified retirement plan into an individual retirement account administered on the same retirement
plan platform
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If you qualify for a waiver of the Class A or Class A2 initial sales charge, you must notify
your Service Agent or the fund at 1-877-721-1926 at the time of purchase and provide sufficient information at the time of purchase to permit verification that the purchase qualifies for the initial sales charge waiver.
If you want to learn about additional waivers of Class A or Class A2 initial sales charges, contact your Service Agent, consult the SAI or
visit the Legg Mason funds website, http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/products and click on the name of the fund in the dropdown menu.
Class C shares (Class R1 shares prior to August 1, 2012)
You buy Class C shares
at net asset value with no initial sales charge. However, if you redeem your Class C shares within one year of purchase, you will pay a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00%.
LMIS generally will pay Service Agents selling Class C shares a commission of up to 1.00% of the purchase price of the Class C shares they sell. LMIS will retain the contingent deferred sales
charges and an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 1.00% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class C shares serviced by these Service Agents until the thirteenth month after purchase. Starting in the thirteenth month after
purchase, these Service Agents will receive an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 1.00% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class C shares serviced by them.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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29
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Class C1 shares (Class C shares prior to August 1, 2012)
Class C1 shares are not available for purchase by new or existing investors (except for certain retirement plan programs authorized by LMIS prior to
August 1, 2012). Class C1 shares are available for dividend reinvestment and incoming exchanges. You buy Class C1 shares at net asset value with no initial sales charge. However, if you redeem your Class C1 shares within one year of purchase,
you will pay a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00%.
Prior to August 1, 2012, LMIS generally paid Service Agents selling Class
C1 shares a commission of up to 0.75% of the purchase price of the Class C1 shares they sold. LMIS will retain the contingent deferred sales charges and an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 0.70% of the average daily net assets
represented by the Class C1 shares serviced by these Service Agents until the thirteenth month after purchase. Starting in the thirteenth month after purchase, these Service Agents will receive an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to
0.70% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class C1 shares serviced by them.
Class FI shares
You buy Class FI shares at net asset value with no initial sales charge and no contingent deferred sales charge when redeemed. Service Agents
receive an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class FI shares serviced by them.
Class R shares
You buy Class R shares at net asset value with no initial sales charge
and no contingent deferred sales charge when redeemed. Service Agents receive an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 0.50% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class R shares serviced by them.
Class I shares and Class IS shares
You buy Class I and Class IS shares at net asset value with no initial sales charge and no contingent deferred sales charge when redeemed. Class I
and Class IS shares are not subject to any distribution and/or service fees.
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30
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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More about contingent deferred sales charges
The contingent deferred sales charge is based on the net asset value at
the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is less, and therefore you do not pay a sales charge on amounts representing appreciation or depreciation.
In addition, you do not pay a contingent deferred sales charge:
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When you exchange shares for shares of another fund sold by the distributor
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On shares representing reinvested distributions and dividends
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On shares no longer subject to the contingent deferred sales charge
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Each time you place a request to redeem shares, the fund will first redeem any shares in your account that are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and then redeem the shares in your
account that have been held the longest.
If you redeem shares of a fund sold by the distributor and pay a contingent deferred sales
charge, you may, under certain circumstances, reinvest all or part of the redemption proceeds within 60 days and receive pro rata credit for any contingent deferred sales charge imposed on the prior redemption. Please contact your Service Agent for
additional information.
The distributor receives contingent deferred sales charges as partial compensation for its expenses in selling
shares, including the payment of compensation to your Service Agent.
Contingent deferred sales charge waivers
The contingent deferred sales charge for each share class will generally be waived:
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On payments made through certain systematic withdrawal plans
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On certain distributions from a Retirement Plan
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For Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund
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For involuntary redemptions of small account balances
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For 12 months following the death or disability of a shareholder
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If you want to learn more about additional waivers of contingent deferred sales charges, contact your Service Agent, consult the SAI or visit the Legg Mason funds website,
http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/products and click on the name of the fund in the dropdown menu.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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31
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Retirement and Institutional Investors eligible investors
Retirement Plans
Retirement Plans include 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit-sharing plans, non-qualified deferred
compensation plans and other similar employer-sponsored retirement plans. Retirement Plans do not include individual retirement vehicles, such as traditional and Roth individual retirement accounts, Coverdell education savings accounts, individual
403(b)(7) custodial accounts, Keogh plans, SEPs, SARSEPs, SIMPLE IRAs or similar accounts.
Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts
held on the books of the fund can generally invest in Class A, Class A2, Class C (formerly Class R1), Class FI, Class R, Class I and Class IS shares. Certain Retirement Plan programs authorized by LMIS prior to August 1, 2012 can also
invest in Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares.
Investors who rollover fund shares from a Retirement Plan into an individual
retirement account administered on the same retirement plan platform may hold, purchase and exchange shares of the fund to the same extent as the applicable Retirement Plan.
Although Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund are not subject to minimum initial investment requirements for any of these share classes, certain investment minimums
may be imposed by a financial intermediary. The distributor may impose certain additional requirements. Please contact your Service Agent for more information.
Other Retirement Plans
Other Retirement Plans include Retirement Plans
investing through brokerage accounts and also include certain Retirement Plans with direct relationships to the fund that are neither Institutional Investors nor investing through omnibus accounts. Other Retirement Plans and individual retirement
vehicles, such as IRAs, are treated like individual investors for purposes of determining sales charges and any applicable sales charge reductions or waivers.
Other Retirement Plans do not include arrangements whereby an investor would rollover fund shares from a Retirement Plan into an individual retirement account administered on the same
retirement plan platform. Such arrangements are deemed to be Retirement Plans and are subject to the rights and privileges described under Retirement and Institutional Investors eligible investors Retirement
Plans.
Other Retirement Plan investors can generally invest in Class A, Class A2, Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class I
shares. Individual retirement vehicles may also choose between these share classes.
Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries
Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries are investors who invest in the fund through financial intermediaries that
(i) charge such investors an ongoing fee for advisory, investment, consulting or similar services, or (ii) have entered into an agreement with the distributor to offer Class A, Class A2, Class FI, Class R or Class I shares through a
no-load network or platform (Eligible Investment Programs). Such investors may include pension and profit sharing plans, other employee benefit trusts, endowments, foundations and corporations. Eligible Investment Programs may also
include college savings vehicles such as Section 529 plans and direct retail investment platforms through mutual fund supermarkets, where the sponsor links its clients account (including IRA accounts on such platforms) to a
master account in the sponsors name. The financial intermediary may impose separate investment minimums.
Clients of Eligible
Financial Intermediaries may generally invest in Class A, Class A2, Class FI, Class R and Class I shares. Class I shares are available for exchange from Class A, Class A2, Class C (formerly Class R1) or Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares
of the fund by participants in Eligible Investment Programs under certain limited circumstances.
Institutional Investors
Institutional Investors may include corporations, banks, trust companies, insurance companies, investment companies,
foundations, endowments, defined benefit plans and other similar entities. The distributor
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32
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Retirement and Institutional Investors eligible investors contd
or the financial intermediary may impose additional eligibility requirements or criteria to determine if an investor, including the types of investors listed above, qualifies as an Institutional
Investor.
Institutional Investors may invest in Class I or Class IS shares if they meet the $1,000,000 minimum initial investment
requirement. Institutional Investors may also invest in Class A, Class A2 and Class C (formerly Class R1) shares, which have different investment minimums, fees and expenses.
Class A shares Retirement Plans
Retirement Plans may buy Class A
shares. Under certain programs for current and prospective Retirement Plan investors sponsored by financial intermediaries, the initial sales charge and contingent deferred sales charge for Class A shares are waived where:
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Such Retirement Plans recordkeeper offers only load-waived shares,
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Fund shares are held on the books of the fund through an omnibus account, and
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The Retirement Plan has more than 100 participants or has total assets exceeding $1 million.
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LMIS does not pay Service Agents selling Class A shares to Retirement Plans with a direct omnibus relationship with the fund a commission on
the purchase price of Class A shares sold by them. However, for certain Retirement Plans that are permitted to purchase shares at net asset value, LMIS may pay Service Agents commissions of up to 1.00% of the purchase price of the Class A
shares that are purchased with regular ongoing plan contributions. Please contact your Service Agent for more information.
Class A2
shares Retirement Plans
Retirement Plans may buy Class A2 shares. Under certain programs for current and prospective Retirement
Plan investors sponsored by financial intermediaries, the initial sales charge and contingent deferred sales charge for Class A2 shares are waived where:
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Such Retirement Plans recordkeeper offers only load-waived shares,
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Fund shares are held on the books of the fund through an omnibus account, and
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The Retirement Plan has more than 100 participants or has total assets exceeding $1million.
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LMIS does not pay Service Agents selling Class A2 shares to Retirement Plans with a direct omnibus relationship with the fund a commission on the
purchase price of Class A2 shares sold by them. However, for certain Retirement Plans that are permitted to purchase shares at net asset value, LMIS may pay Service Agents commissions of up to 1.00% of the purchase price of the Class A2 shares that
are purchased with
regular ongoing plan contributions. Please contact your Service Agent for more information.
Class C shares (Class R1 shares prior to August 1, 2012) Retirement Plans
Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund may buy Class C shares at net asset value without paying a contingent deferred sales charge. LMIS does not pay Service Agents
selling Class C shares to Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund a commission on the purchase price of Class C shares sold by them. Instead, immediately after purchase, LMIS may pay these Service Agents an annual
distribution and/or service fee of up to 1.00% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class C shares serviced by them.
Certain retirement plan programs with exchange features in effect prior to November 20, 2006, as approved by LMIS, will be eligible for
exchange from Class C shares to Class A shares in accordance with the program terms. Please see the SAI for more details.
Class C1
shares (Class C shares prior to August 1, 2012) Retirement Plans
Certain retirement plan programs authorized by LMIS prior
to August 1, 2012 may buy Class C1 shares at net asset value without paying a contingent deferred sales charge. LMIS does not pay Service Agents selling Class C1 shares through such programs a commission on the purchase price of Class C1 shares
sold by
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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33
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them. Instead, immediately after purchase, LMIS may pay these Service Agents an annual distribution and/or service fee of up to 0.70% of the average daily net assets represented by the Class C1
shares serviced by them.
Certain retirement plan programs with exchange features in effect prior to November 20, 2006, as approved
by LMIS, will be eligible for exchange from Class C1 shares to Class A shares in accordance with the program terms. Please see the SAI for more details.
Class FI shares
Class FI shares are offered only to Clients of Eligible Financial
Intermediaries and Retirement Plan programs.
Class R shares
Class R shares are offered only to Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund (either at the plan level or at the level of the financial intermediary), to Clients of
Eligible Financial Intermediaries and through Eligible Investment Programs.
Class I shares
On June 11, 2008, all then outstanding shares of the fund were designated Class I shares. Class I shares are offered only to Institutional
Investors and individual investors (investing directly with the fund) who meet the $1,000,000 minimum initial investment requirement, Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund and certain rollover IRAs, Clients of Eligible
Financial Intermediaries and other investors as authorized by LMIS. However, investors that held shares prior to June 11, 2008 will be permitted to make additional investments in Class I shares.
Certain waivers of these requirements for individuals associated with the fund, Legg Mason or its affiliates are discussed in the SAI.
Class IS shares
Class IS shares
may be purchased only by Retirement Plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund, certain rollover IRAs and Institutional Investors, and other investors authorized by LMIS. In order to purchase Class IS shares, an investor must hold its
shares in one account with the fund, which account is not subject to payment of recordkeeping or similar fees by the fund to any intermediary.
Other considerations
Plan sponsors, plan fiduciaries and other financial
intermediaries may choose to impose qualification requirements that differ from the funds share class eligibility standards. In certain cases this could result in the selection of a share class with higher distribution and/or service fees than
otherwise would have been charged. The fund is not responsible for, and has no control over, the decision of any plan sponsor, plan fiduciary or financial intermediary to impose such differing requirements. Please consult with your plan sponsor,
plan fiduciary or financial intermediary for more information about available share classes.
Your Service Agent may not offer all share
classes. Please contact your Service Agent for additional details.
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34
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Buying shares
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Generally
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You may buy shares at their net asset value next determined after receipt by your Service
Agent or the transfer agent of your purchase request in good order, plus any applicable sales charge.
You must provide the following information for your order to be processed:
Name of fund being
bought
Class of shares being bought
Dollar amount or number
of shares being bought
Account number (if existing account)
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Through a
Service Agent
|
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You should contact your Service Agent to open a brokerage account and make arrangements to
buy shares.
Your Service Agent may charge an annual account
maintenance fee.
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Through the fund
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Investors should contact the fund at 1-877-721-1926 to open an account and make
arrangements to buy shares.
For initial purchases, complete and send
your account application to the fund at the following address:
Legg Mason Funds
P.O. Box
55214
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8504
Subsequent purchases should be sent to the same address. Enclose a check to pay for the shares.
For more information, please call the fund between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (Eastern time).
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Through a
systematic
investment
plan
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You may authorize your Service Agent or the transfer agent to transfer funds automatically from (i) a regular bank account, (ii)
cash held in a brokerage account with a Service Agent or (iii) certain money market funds, in order to buy shares on a regular basis.
Amounts transferred must
meet the applicable minimums (see Purchase and sale of fund shares)
Amounts may be
transferred monthly, every alternate month, quarterly, semi-annually or annually
If you do not have
sufficient funds in your account on a transfer date, you may be charged a fee
For more information, please contact your Service Agent or the fund or consult the SAI.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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35
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Exchanging shares
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Generally
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You may exchange shares of the fund for the same class of shares of other funds sold by
the distributor on any day that both the fund and the fund into which you are exchanging are open for business. For investors who qualify as Clients of Eligible Financial Intermediaries and participate in Eligible Investment Programs made available
through their financial intermediaries (such as investors in fee-based advisory or mutual fund wrap programs), an exchange may be made from Class A, Class A2, Class C (formerly Class R1) or Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares to Class I
shares of the same fund under certain limited circumstances. Please refer to the section of this prospectus titled Retirement and Institutional Investors eligible investors or contact your financial intermediary for more
information.
If you hold Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares, you may
exchange those shares for Class C1 shares of other funds sold by the distributor, or if a fund does not offer Class C1, for Class C shares. However, once you exchange Class C1 shares for Class C shares, you would not be permitted to exchange
from Class C shares back to Class C1 shares.
Investors that hold
Class A2 shares may exchange those shares for Class A2 shares of other funds sold by a financial intermediary with a direct transfer agent relationship with such funds, or if such fund does not offer Class A2, for Class A shares.
An exchange of shares of one fund for shares of another fund is considered a
sale and generally results in a capital gain or loss for federal income tax purposes, unless you are investing through an IRA, 401(k) or other tax-advantaged account. An exchange of shares of one class directly for shares of another class of the
same fund normally should not be taxable for federal income tax purposes. You should talk to your tax advisor before making an exchange.
The exchange privilege is not intended as a vehicle for short-term trading. The fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage
in a pattern of excessive exchanges.
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Legg Mason offers a distinctive family of funds tailored to help meet the varying needs of large and small
investors
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You may exchange shares at their net asset value next determined after receipt by your
Service Agent or the transfer agent of your exchange request in good order.
If you bought shares through a Service Agent, contact your Service Agent to learn which funds your
Service Agent makes available to you for exchanges
If you bought shares directly from the fund, contact the fund at 1-877-721-1926 to learn which
funds are available to you for exchanges
Exchanges may be made only between accounts that have identical registrations
Not all funds offer all classes
Some funds are offered
only in a limited number of states. Your Service Agent or the fund will provide information about the funds offered in your state
Always be sure to read the prospectus of the fund into which you are exchanging shares.
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Investment minimums, sales charges and other requirements
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In most instances, your
shares will not be subject to an initial sales charge or a contingent deferred sales charge at the time of the exchange. You may be charged an initial or contingent deferred sales charge if the shares being exchanged were not subject to a sales
charge
Except as noted above, your contingent deferred sales charge (if any) will continue to be measured from the date of your original purchase of shares subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge, and you will be subject to the contingent deferred sales charge of the fund that you originally purchased
You will generally be
required to meet the minimum investment requirement for the class of shares of the fund or share class into which your exchange is made (except in the case of systematic exchange plans)
Your exchange will also be subject to any other requirements of the fund or share class into which you are exchanging shares
The fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage in a pattern of excessive
exchanges
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Exchanging shares contd
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By telephone
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Contact your Service Agent or, if you hold shares directly with the fund, call the fund at 1-877-721-1926 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30
p.m. (Eastern time) for information. Exchanges are priced at the net asset value next determined.
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By mail
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Contact your Service Agent or, if you hold shares directly with the fund, write to the
fund at the following address:
Legg Mason Funds
P.O. Box 55214
Boston,
Massachusetts 02205-8504
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Through a systematic exchange plan
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You may be permitted to schedule automatic exchanges of shares of the fund for shares of other funds available for exchange. All
requirements for exchanging shares described above apply to these exchanges. In addition:
Exchanges may be made
monthly, every alternate month, quarterly, semi-annually or annually
Each exchange must meet the applicable investment minimums for systematic investment plans (see
Purchase and sale of fund shares)
For more
information, please contact your Service Agent or the fund or consult the SAI.
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Redeeming shares
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Generally
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You may redeem shares at their net asset value next determined after receipt by your
Service Agent or the transfer agent of your redemption request in good order, less any applicable contingent deferred sales charge.
If the shares are held by a fiduciary or corporation, partnership or similar entity, other documents may be required.
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Redemption proceeds
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Your redemption proceeds normally will be sent within 3 business days after your request
is received in good order, but in any event within 7 days, except that your proceeds may be delayed for up to 10 days if your share purchase was made by check.
Your redemption proceeds may be delayed, or your right to receive redemption proceeds suspended, if the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
is closed (other than on weekends or holidays) or trading is restricted, if an emergency exists, or otherwise as permitted by order of the SEC.
If you have a brokerage account with a Service Agent, your redemption proceeds will be sent to your Service Agent. Your redemption proceeds can be
sent by check to your address of record or by wire or electronic transfer (ACH) to a bank account designated by you. To change the bank account designated to receive wire or electronic transfers, you will be required to deliver a new written
authorization and may be asked to provide other documents. You may be charged a fee on a wire or an electronic transfer (ACH).
In other cases, unless you direct otherwise, your proceeds will be paid by check mailed to your address of record.
The fund reserves the right to pay redemption proceeds by giving you
securities. You may pay transaction costs to dispose of the securities, and you may receive less for them than the price at which they were valued for purposes of the redemption.
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By mail
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Contact your Service Agent or, if you hold shares directly with the fund, write to the
fund at the following address:
Legg Mason Funds
P.O. Box 55214
Boston,
Massachusetts 02205-8504
Your written request must
provide the following:
The fund name, the class of shares being redeemed and your account number
The dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed
Signature of each owner
exactly as the account is registered
Signature guarantees, as applicable (see Other things to know about
transactions)
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By telephone
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If your account application permits, you may be eligible to redeem shares by telephone. Contact your Service Agent or, if you hold
shares directly with the fund, call the fund at 1-877-721-1926 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (Eastern time) for more information. Please have the following information ready when you call:
Name of fund being redeemed
Class of shares being
redeemed
Account number
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Redeeming shares contd
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Automatic cash withdrawal plans
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You may be permitted to schedule automatic redemptions of a portion of your shares. To qualify, you must own shares of the fund
with a value of at least $10,000 ($5,000 for Retirement Plan accounts) and each automatic redemption must be at least $50.
The following conditions apply:
Redemptions may be made
monthly, every alternate month, quarterly, semi-annually or annually
If your shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge, the charge will be required to be
paid upon redemption. However, the charge will be waived if your automatic redemptions are equal to or less than 2% per month of your account balance on the date the redemptions commence, up to a maximum of 12% in one year
You must elect to have all dividends and distributions reinvested
For more information, please contact your Service Agent or the fund or consult the SAI.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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39
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Other things to know about transactions
When you buy, exchange or redeem shares, your request must be in good
order. This means you have provided the following information, without which your request may not be processed:
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In the case of a purchase (including a purchase as part of an exchange transaction), the class of shares being bought
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In the case of an exchange or redemption, the class of shares being exchanged or redeemed (if you own more than one class)
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Dollar amount or number of shares being bought, exchanged or redeemed
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In certain circumstances, the signature of each owner exactly as the account is registered (see Redeeming shares)
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The fund generally will not permit non-resident aliens with non-U.S. addresses to establish accounts. U.S. citizens
with APO/FPO addresses or addresses in the United States (including its territories) and resident aliens with U.S. addresses are permitted to establish accounts with the fund. Subject to the requirements of local law, U.S. citizens residing in
foreign countries are permitted to establish accounts with the fund.
In certain circumstances, such as during periods of market
volatility, severe weather and emergencies, shareholders may experience difficulties placing exchange or redemption orders by telephone. In that case, shareholders should consider using the funds other exchange and redemption procedures
described under Exchanging shares and Redeeming shares.
The transfer agent or the fund will employ reasonable
procedures to confirm that any telephone exchange or redemption request is genuine, which may include recording calls, asking the caller to provide certain personal identification information, sending you a written confirmation or requiring other
confirmation procedures from time to time. If these procedures are followed, neither the fund nor its agents will bear any liability for these transactions.
The fund has the right to:
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Suspend the offering of shares
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Waive or change minimum initial and additional investment amounts
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Reject any purchase or exchange order
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Change, revoke or suspend the exchange privilege
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Suspend telephone transactions
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Suspend or postpone redemptions of shares on any day when trading on the NYSE is restricted or as otherwise permitted by the SEC
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Close your account after a period of inactivity, as determined by state law, and transfer your shares to the appropriate state
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For your protection, the fund or your Service Agent may request additional information in connection with large
redemptions, unusual activity in your account, or otherwise to ensure your redemption request is in good order. Please contact your Service Agent or the fund for more information.
Signature guarantees
To be in good order, your redemption request must include a
signature guarantee if you:
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Are redeeming shares and sending the proceeds to an address or bank not currently on file
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Changed your account registration or your address within 30 days
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Want the check paid to someone other than the account owner(s)
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Are transferring the redemption proceeds to an account with a different registration
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You can obtain a signature guarantee from most banks, dealers, brokers, credit unions and federal savings and loan institutions, but not from a
notary public.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Other things to know about transactions contd
Anti-money laundering
Federal anti-money laundering regulations require all financial institutions to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each person who opens an account. When you sign your account
application, you may be asked to provide additional information in order for the fund to verify your identity in accordance with these regulations. Accounts may be restricted and/or closed, and the monies withheld, pending verification of this
information or as otherwise required under these and other federal regulations.
Small account fees/Mandatory redemptions
Small accounts may be subject to a small account fee or to mandatory redemption, as described below, depending on whether the account is held
directly with the fund or through a Service Agent.
Direct accounts
Direct accounts generally include accounts held in the name of the individual investor on the funds books and records. To offset the relatively higher impact on fund expenses of servicing
smaller direct accounts, if your shares are held in a direct account and the value of your account is below $1,000 (if applicable, $250 for retirement plans that are not employer-sponsored) for any reason (including declines in net asset value), the
fund may charge you a fee of $3.75 per account that is determined and assessed quarterly on the last business day of the quarter (with an annual maximum of $15.00 per account). The small account fee will be charged by redeeming shares in your
account. If the value of your account is $3.75 or less, the amount in the account may be exhausted to pay the small account fee. The small account fee will not be assessed on systematic investment plans until the end of the first quarter after the
account has been established for 15 months. Payment of the small account fee through a redemption of fund shares may result in tax consequences to you (see Taxes for more information).
The small account fee will not be charged on, if applicable: (i) Retirement Plans (but will be charged on other plans that are not
employer-sponsored such as traditional and Roth individual retirement accounts, Coverdell education savings accounts, individual 403(b)(7) custodial accounts, Keogh plans, SEPs, SARSEPs, SIMPLE IRAs or similar accounts); (ii) Legg Mason funds
that have been closed to subsequent purchases for all classes; (iii) accounts that do not have a valid address as evidenced by mail being returned to the fund or its agents; and (iv) Class FI, Class R, Class I and Class IS shares.
If your share class is no longer offered, you may not be able to bring your account up to the minimum investment amount (although you
may exchange into existing accounts of other Legg Mason funds in which you hold the same share class, to the extent otherwise permitted by those funds and subject to any applicable sales charges).
Some shareholders who hold accounts in Classes A and B of the same fund, or Classes C and C1 (formerly Classes R1 and C) of the same fund, may have
those accounts aggregated for the purposes of these calculations. Please contact the fund or your Service Agent for more information.
Non-direct accounts
Non-direct accounts include omnibus accounts and accounts jointly maintained by the Service Agent and the fund. Such accounts are not
subject to the small account fee that may be charged to direct accounts.
The fund reserves the right to ask you to bring your non-direct
account up to a minimum investment amount determined by your Service Agent if the aggregate value of the fund shares in your account is less than $500 for any reason (including solely due to declines in net asset value and/or failure to invest at
least $500 within a reasonable period). You will be notified in writing and will have 60 days to make an additional investment to bring your account value up to the required level. If you choose not to do so within this 60-day period, the fund may
close your account and send you the redemption proceeds. If your share class is no longer offered, you may not be able to bring your account up to the minimum investment amount. Some shareholders who hold accounts in multiple classes of the same
fund may have those accounts aggregated for the purposes of these calculations. If your account is closed, you will not be eligible to have your account reinstated without imposition of any sales charges that may apply to your new purchase. Please
contact your Service Agent for more information. Any redemption of fund shares may result in tax consequences to you (see Taxes for more information).
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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All accounts
The fund may, with prior notice, change the minimum size of accounts subject to mandatory redemption, which may vary by class, implement fees for small non-direct accounts or change the amount of
the fee for small direct accounts.
Subject to applicable law, the fund may, with prior notice, adopt other policies from time to time
requiring mandatory redemption of shares in certain circumstances.
For more information, please contact your Service Agent or the
fund or consult the SAI.
Frequent trading of fund shares
Frequent purchases and redemptions of fund shares may interfere with the efficient management of the fund, increase fund transaction costs, and have a negative effect on the funds long-term
shareholders. For example, in order to handle large flows of cash into and out of the fund, the subadviser may need to allocate more assets to cash or other short-term investments or sell securities, rather than maintaining full investment in
securities selected to achieve the funds investment objective. Frequent trading may cause the fund to sell securities at less favorable prices. Transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and market spreads, can detract from the
funds performance. In addition, the return received by long-term shareholders may be reduced when trades by other shareholders are made in an effort to take advantage of certain pricing discrepancies, when, for example, it is believed that the
funds share price, which is determined at the close of the NYSE on each trading day, does not accurately reflect the value of the funds investments. Funds investing in foreign securities have been particularly susceptible to this form of
arbitrage, but other funds could also be affected.
Because of the potential harm to funds sold by the funds distributor and their
long-term shareholders, the Board has approved policies and procedures that are intended to detect and discourage excessive trading and market timing abuses through the use of various surveillance techniques. Under these policies and procedures, the
fund may limit additional exchanges or purchases of fund shares by shareholders who are believed by the manager to be engaged in these abusive trading activities in the fund or in other funds sold by the distributor. In the event that an exchange or
purchase request is rejected, the shareholder may nonetheless redeem its shares. The intent of the policies and procedures is not to inhibit legitimate strategies, such as asset allocation, dollar cost averaging, or similar activities that may
nonetheless result in frequent trading of fund shares.
Under the funds policies and procedures, the fund reserves the right to
restrict or reject purchases of shares (including exchanges) without prior notice whenever a pattern of excessive trading by a shareholder is detected in funds sold by the distributor. A committee established by the manager administers the policy.
The policy provides that the committee may take action, which may include using its best efforts to restrict a shareholders trading privileges in funds sold by the distributor, if that shareholder has engaged in one or more Round
Trips across all funds sold by the distributor. However, the committee has the discretion to determine that action is not necessary if it is determined that the pattern of trading is not abusive or harmful. In making such a determination, the
committee will consider, among other things, the nature of the shareholders account, the reason for the frequent trading, the amount of trading and the particular funds in which the trading has occurred. Additionally, the committee has the
discretion to make inquiries or to take any action against a shareholder whose trading appears inconsistent with the frequent trading policy, regardless of the number of Round Trips. Examples of the types of actions the committee may take include
heightened surveillance of a shareholder account, providing a written warning letter to an account holder, restricting the shareholder from purchasing additional shares in the fund altogether or imposing other restrictions (such as requiring
purchase orders to be submitted by mail) that would deter the shareholder from trading frequently in the fund. The committee will generally follow a system of progressive deterrence, although it is not required to do so.
A Round Trip is defined as a purchase (including subscriptions and exchanges) into a fund sold by the distributor followed by a sale
(including redemptions and exchanges) of the same or a similar number of shares out of that fund within 30 days of such purchase. Purchases and sales of the funds shares pursuant to an automatic investment plan or similar program for periodic
transactions are not considered in determining Round Trips. These policies and procedures do not apply to money market funds sold by the distributor.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Other things to know about transactions contd
The policies apply to any account, whether a direct account or accounts with financial
intermediaries such as investment advisers, broker/dealers or retirement plan administrators, commonly called omnibus accounts, where the intermediary holds fund shares for a number of its customers in one account. The funds ability to monitor
trading in omnibus accounts may, however, be severely limited due to the lack of access to an individual investors trading activity when orders are placed through these types of accounts. There may also be operational and technological
limitations on the ability of the funds service providers to identify or terminate frequent trading activity within the various types of omnibus accounts. The distributor has entered into agreements with intermediaries requiring the
intermediaries to, among other things, help identify frequent trading activity and prohibit further purchases or exchanges by a shareholder identified as having engaged in frequent trading.
The fund has also adopted policies and procedures to prevent the selective release of information about the funds holdings, as such information may be used for market-timing and similar
abusive practices.
The policies provide for ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of current policies and surveillance tools, and the
Board reserves the right to modify these or adopt additional policies and restrictions in the future. Shareholders should be aware, however, that any surveillance techniques currently employed by the fund or other techniques that may be adopted in
the future may not be effective, particularly where the trading takes place through certain types of omnibus accounts. Furthermore, the fund may not apply its policies consistently or uniformly, resulting in the risk that some shareholders may be
able to engage in frequent trading while others will bear the costs and effects of that trading.
Although the fund will attempt to
monitor shareholder transactions for certain patterns of frequent trading activity, there can be no assurance that all such trading activity can be identified, prevented or terminated. Monitoring of shareholder transactions may only occur for
shareholder transactions that exceed a certain transaction amount threshold, which may change from time to time. The fund reserves the right to refuse any client or reject any purchase order for shares (including exchanges) for any reason.
Record ownership
If
you hold shares through a Service Agent, your Service Agent may establish and maintain your account and be the shareholder of record. In the event that the fund holds a shareholder meeting, your Service Agent, as record holder, will be entitled to
vote your shares and may seek voting instructions from you. If you do not give your Service Agent voting instructions, your Service Agent, under certain circumstances, may nonetheless be entitled to vote your shares.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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43
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Dividends, other distributions and taxes
Dividends and other distributions
The fund generally pays dividends quarterly from its net investment income, if any, and potentially from short-term capital gains. The fund
generally distributes long-term capital gain, if any, once in December and at such other times as are necessary. The fund may pay additional distributions and dividends in order to avoid a federal tax.
Unless you elect to receive dividends and/or other distributions in cash, your dividends and capital gain distributions will be automatically
reinvested in shares of the same class you hold, at the net asset value determined on the reinvestment date. You do not pay a sales charge on reinvested distributions or dividends.
If you hold Class A, Class A2, Class C (formerly Class R1) or Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares directly with the fund, you may instruct the fund to have your dividends and/or distributions
invested in the corresponding class of shares (or if Class C1 shares are not available, Class C shares) of another fund sold by the distributor, subject to the following conditions:
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You have a minimum account balance of $10,000 in the fund and
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The other fund is available for sale in your state.
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To change those instructions, you must notify your Service Agent or the fund at least three days before the next distribution is to be paid.
Please contact your Service Agent or the fund to discuss what options are available to you for receiving your dividends and other distributions.
The Board reserves the right to revise the dividend policy or postpone the payment of dividends if warranted in the Boards judgment due to
unusual circumstances.
Taxes
The following discussion is very general, applies only to shareholders who are U.S. persons, and does not address shareholders subject to special rules, such as those who hold fund shares through an
IRA, 401(k) plan or other tax-advantaged account. Except as specifically noted, the discussion is limited to federal income tax matters, and does not address state, local, foreign or non-income taxes. Further information regarding taxes, including
certain federal income tax considerations relevant to non-U.S. persons, is included in the SAI. Because each shareholders circumstances are different and special tax rules may apply, you should consult your tax adviser about federal, state,
local and/or foreign tax considerations that may be relevant to your particular situation.
In general, redeeming shares, exchanging
shares and receiving dividends and distributions (whether received in cash or reinvested in additional shares or shares of another fund) are all taxable events. An exchange between classes of shares of the same fund normally is not taxable for
federal income tax purposes, whether or not the shares are held in a taxable account.
The following table summarizes the tax status of
certain transactions related to the fund.
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Transaction
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Federal income tax status
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Redemption or exchange of shares
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Usually capital gain or loss; long-term only if shares are owned more than one year
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Dividends of investment income and distributions of net short-term capital gain
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Ordinary income
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Distributions of net capital gain (excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss)
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Long-term capital gain
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Distributions attributable to short-term capital gains are taxable to you as ordinary income. The fund does not
expect any distributions to be treated as qualified dividend income, which for noncorporate shareholders may be taxable at reduced rates. Distributions of net capital gain reported by the fund as capital gain dividends are taxable to you as
long-term capital gain regardless of how long you have owned your shares. Noncorporate shareholders ordinarily pay tax at reduced rates on long-term capital gain.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Dividends, other distributions and taxes contd
You may want to avoid buying shares when the fund is about to declare a dividend or capital gain
distribution because it will be taxable to you even though it may economically represent a return of a portion of your investment.
Beginning in 2013, a Medicare contribution tax will be imposed at the rate of 3.8% on net investment income of U.S. individuals with income
exceeding specified thresholds, and on undistributed net investment income of certain estates and trusts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends and capital gain distributions paid by the fund and gain on the redemption
or exchange of fund shares.
A dividend declared by the fund in October, November or December and paid during January of the following
year will, in certain circumstances, be treated as paid in December for tax purposes.
If the fund meets certain requirements with
respect to its holdings, it may elect to pass through to shareholders foreign taxes that it pays, in which case each shareholder will include the amount of such taxes in computing gross income, but will be eligible to claim a credit or
deduction for such taxes, subject to generally applicable limitations on such deductions and credits. In addition, the funds investment in certain foreign securities, foreign currencies or foreign currency derivatives may accelerate fund
distributions to shareholders and increase the distributions taxed to shareholders as ordinary income.
After the end of each year, your
Service Agent or the fund will provide you with information about the distributions and dividends you received and any redemptions of shares during the previous year. Because each shareholders circumstances are different and special tax rules
may apply, you should consult your tax adviser about your investment in the fund.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Share price
You may buy, exchange or redeem shares at their net asset value next determined after receipt of your request in good
order, adjusted for any applicable sales charge. The funds net asset value per share is the value of its assets minus its liabilities divided by the number of shares outstanding. Net asset value is calculated separately for each class of
shares.
The fund calculates its net asset value every day the NYSE is open. The fund generally values its securities and other assets
and calculates its net asset value as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE, normally at 4:00 p.m. (Eastern time). If the NYSE closes at another time, the fund will calculate its net asset value as of the actual closing time. The NYSE is
closed on certain holidays listed in the SAI.
In order to buy, redeem or exchange shares at a certain days price, you must place
your order with your Service Agent or the transfer agent before the NYSE closes on that day. If the NYSE closes early on that day, you must place your order prior to the actual closing time. It is the responsibility of the Service Agent to transmit
all orders to buy, exchange or redeem shares to the transfer agent on a timely basis.
Valuation of the funds securities and other
assets is performed in accordance with procedures approved by the Board. These procedures delegate most valuation functions to the manager, which, in turn, uses independent third party pricing services approved by the funds Board. Under the
procedures, assets are valued as follows:
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The valuations for fixed income securities and certain derivative instruments are typically the prices supplied by independent third party
pricing services, which may use market prices or broker/dealer quotations or a variety of fair valuation techniques and methodologies. Short-term fixed income securities that will mature in 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, unless it is
determined that using this method would not reflect an investments fair value.
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Equity securities and certain derivative instruments that are traded on an exchange are valued at the closing price or, if that price is
unavailable or deemed by the manager not representative of market value, the last sale price. Where a security is traded on more than one exchange (as is often the case overseas), the security is generally valued at the price on the exchange
considered by the manager to be the primary exchange. In the case of securities not traded on an exchange, or if exchange prices are not otherwise available, the prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services that use a
variety of techniques and methodologies.
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The valuations of securities traded on foreign markets and certain fixed income securities will generally be based on prices determined as of the
earlier closing time of the markets on which they primarily trade, unless a significant event has occurred. When the fund holds securities or other assets that are denominated in a foreign currency, the fund will normally use the currency exchange
rates as of 4:00 p.m. (Eastern time). The fund uses a fair value model developed by an independent third party pricing service to value foreign equity securities on days when a certain percentage change in the value of a domestic equity
security index suggests that the closing prices on foreign exchanges may no longer represent the value of those securities at the time of closing of the NYSE. Foreign markets are open for trading on weekends and other days when the fund does not
price its shares. Therefore, the value of the funds shares may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem the funds shares.
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If independent third party pricing services are unable to supply prices for a portfolio investment, or if the prices supplied are deemed by the
manager to be unreliable, the market price may be determined by the manager using quotations from one or more broker/dealers. When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the manager believes that they are unreliable, the manager may
price securities using fair value procedures approved by the Board. These procedures permit, among other things, the use of a matrix, formula or other method that takes into consideration market indices, yield curves and other specific adjustments
to determine fair value. Fair value of a security is the amount, as determined by the manager in good faith, that the fund might reasonably expect to receive upon a current sale of the security. The fund may also use fair value procedures if the
manager determines that a significant event has occurred between the time at which a market price is determined and the time at which the funds net asset value is calculated.
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Many factors may influence the price at which the fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differhigher
or lowerfrom the funds last valuation, and such differences could be
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Share price contd
significant, particularly for securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. Moreover, valuing securities using fair value methodologies
involves greater reliance on judgment than valuing securities based on market quotations. A fund that uses fair value methodologies may value those securities higher or lower than another fund using market quotations or its own fair value
methodologies to price the same securities. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the value assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the time at which the fund determines its net asset value. Investors
who purchase or redeem fund shares on days when the fund is holding fair-valued securities may receive a greater or lesser number of shares, or higher or lower redemption proceeds, than they would have received if the fund had not fair-valued the
security or had used a different methodology.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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47
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Financial highlights
The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand
the performance of each class for the past five years, unless otherwise noted. No financial highlights are presented for Class A2 or Class R because no Class A2 or Class R shares were outstanding for the periods shown. The returns for Class A2 and
Class R shares will differ from those of the other classes to the extent their expenses differ. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share. Total return represents the rate that a shareholder would have earned (or lost) on a
fund share assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The information in the following tables has been derived from the funds financial statements, which have been audited by
, an independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the funds financial statements, is included in the annual report (available upon request).
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For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
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Class A Shares
1
|
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2013
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2012
2
|
|
|
2011
|
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2010
3
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Net asset value, beginning
of year
|
|
|
$5.64
|
|
|
|
$5.30
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|
|
|
$4.93
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|
|
|
$4.94
|
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Income (loss) from operations:
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Net investment income
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|
0.23
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|
|
0.27
|
|
|
|
0.29
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|
|
|
0.04
|
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Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
0.32
|
|
|
|
0.24
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|
|
|
(0.05)
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Total income (loss) from operations
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|
0.45
|
|
|
|
0.59
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|
|
|
0.53
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|
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(0.01)
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Less distributions from:
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Net investment income
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(0.22)
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(0.25)
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(0.16)
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Total distributions
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(0.22)
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|
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(0.25)
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(0.16)
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|
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Net asset value, end of
year
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$5.87
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$5.64
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$5.30
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|
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$4.93
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Total
return
4
|
|
|
8.14
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%
|
|
|
11.57
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%
|
|
|
10.67
|
%
|
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|
(0.20)
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%
|
Net assets, end of year
(000s)
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$36,023
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$10,685
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$991
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|
|
$105
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Ratios to average net assets:
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
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Gross expenses
|
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|
1.22
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%
|
|
|
1.40
|
%
|
|
|
1.57
|
%
|
|
|
1.56
|
%
5
|
Net
expenses
6,7,8
|
|
|
1.21
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
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|
|
1.25
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5
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Net investment income
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|
3.91
|
|
|
|
4.95
|
|
|
|
5.40
|
|
|
|
5.74
|
5
|
Portfolio turnover
rate
|
|
|
21
|
%
|
|
|
16
|
%
|
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|
21
|
%
|
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|
62
|
%
|
1
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Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
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2
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For the year ended February 29, 2012.
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3
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For the period January 13, 2010 (commencement of operations) to February 28, 2010.
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4
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Performance figures, exclusive of sales charges, may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the
absence of compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
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6
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
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7
|
As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class A shares did not exceed 1.25%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
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8
|
The impact of compensating balance arrangements, if any, was less than 0.01%.
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48
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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Financial highlights contd
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For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
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Class C Shares
1
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2013
2
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Net asset value, beginning
of period
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$5.76
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Income from operations:
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Net investment income
|
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0.11
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Net realized and unrealized gain
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0.09
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Total income from operations
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0.20
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Less distributions from:
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Net investment income
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(0.11)
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Total distributions
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(0.11)
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Net asset value, end of
period
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$5.85
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Total
return
3
|
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3.49
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%
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Net assets, end of period
(000s)
|
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|
$1,071
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Ratios to average net assets:
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|
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Gross
expenses
4
|
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|
1.89
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%
|
Net
expenses
4,5,6
|
|
|
1.88
|
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Net investment
income
4
|
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|
3.17
|
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Portfolio turnover
rate
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21
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%
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1
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Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
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2
|
For the period August 1, 2012 (commencement of operations) to February 28, 2013.
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3
|
Performance figures, exclusive of CDSC, may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence
of compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized
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5
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
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6
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As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class C shares did not exceed 2.00%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
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Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
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49
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For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
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Class C1
¨
Shares
1
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2013
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2012
2
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2011
3
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Net asset value, beginning
of year
|
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$5.64
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|
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$5.29
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|
|
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$5.40
|
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Income (loss) from operations:
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|
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Net investment income
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0.20
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0.25
|
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|
|
0.13
|
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Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
|
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|
0.22
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|
|
0.32
|
|
|
|
(0.11)
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Total income from operations
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|
0.42
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|
0.57
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|
0.02
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Less distributions from:
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Net investment income
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(0.19)
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|
|
(0.22)
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|
|
(0.13)
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Total distributions
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|
|
(0.19)
|
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|
|
(0.22)
|
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|
|
(0.13)
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Net asset value, end of
year
|
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$5.87
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|
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$5.64
|
|
|
|
$5.29
|
|
Total
return
4
|
|
|
7.62
|
%
|
|
|
11.03
|
%
|
|
|
0.41
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%
|
Net assets, end of year
(000s)
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|
$1,928
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|
|
$1,053
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|
|
$735
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Ratios to average net assets:
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|
|
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|
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|
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Gross expenses
|
|
|
1.83
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%
|
|
|
1.98
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%
|
|
|
1.81
|
%
5
|
Net
expenses
6,7,8
|
|
|
1.69
|
|
|
|
1.68
|
|
|
|
1.70
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5
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Net investment income
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|
3.45
|
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4.61
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|
4.88
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5
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Portfolio turnover
rate
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21
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%
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16
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%
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21
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%
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¨
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On August 1, 2012, Class C shares were reclassified as Class C1 shares.
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1
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Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
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2
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For the year ended February 29, 2012.
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3
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For the period September 2, 2010 (commencement of operations) to February 28, 2011.
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4
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Performance figures, exclusive of CDSC, may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence
of compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
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6
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
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7
|
As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class C1 shares did not exceed 1.70%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
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8
|
The impact of compensating balance arrangements, if any, was less than 0.01%.
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|
50
|
|
Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
|
Financial highlights contd
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For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
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Class FI Shares
1
|
|
2013
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|
2012
2
|
|
Net asset value, beginning
of year
|
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|
$5.63
|
|
|
|
$5.40
|
|
Income from operations:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
|
|
0.05
|
|
Net realized and unrealized gain
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
0.28
|
|
Total income from operations
|
|
|
0.45
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
Less distributions from:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
(0.23)
|
|
|
|
(0.10)
|
|
Total distributions
|
|
|
(0.23)
|
|
|
|
(0.10)
|
|
Net asset value, end of
year
|
|
|
$5.85
|
|
|
|
$5.63
|
|
Total
return
3
|
|
|
8.07
|
%
|
|
|
6.19
|
%
|
Net assets, end of year
(000s)
|
|
|
$9,337
|
|
|
|
$561
|
|
Ratios to average net assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross expenses
|
|
|
1.26
|
%
|
|
|
1.25
|
%
4
|
Net
expenses
5,6,7
|
|
|
1.15
|
|
|
|
1.20
|
4
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
3.96
|
|
|
|
4.65
|
4
|
Portfolio turnover
rate
|
|
|
21
|
%
|
|
|
16
|
%
|
1
|
Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
|
2
|
For the period December 7, 2011 (commencement of operations) through February 29, 2012.
|
3
|
Performance figures may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence of compensating
balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
|
5
|
As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class FI shares did not exceed 1.20%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
|
6
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
|
7
|
The impact of compensating balance arrangements, if any, was less than 0.01%.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
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Class I Shares
1,2
|
|
2013
|
|
|
2012
3
|
|
|
2011
|
|
|
2010
|
|
|
2009
|
|
Net asset value, beginning
of year
|
|
|
$5.61
|
|
|
|
$5.28
|
|
|
|
$4.93
|
|
|
|
$3.51
|
|
|
|
$4.90
|
|
Income (loss) from operations:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
0.25
|
|
|
|
0.29
|
|
|
|
0.31
|
|
|
|
0.32
|
|
|
|
0.32
|
|
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
0.32
|
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
|
|
1.31
|
|
|
|
(1.31)
|
|
Total income (loss) from operations
|
|
|
0.47
|
|
|
|
0.61
|
|
|
|
0.54
|
|
|
|
1.63
|
|
|
|
(0.99)
|
|
Less distributions from:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
(0.24)
|
|
|
|
(0.28)
|
|
|
|
(0.19)
|
|
|
|
(0.21)
|
|
|
|
(0.36)
|
|
Net realized gains
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.04)
|
|
Total distributions
|
|
|
(0.24)
|
|
|
|
(0.28)
|
|
|
|
(0.19)
|
|
|
|
(0.21)
|
|
|
|
(0.40)
|
|
Net asset value, end of
year
|
|
|
$5.84
|
|
|
|
$5.61
|
|
|
|
$5.28
|
|
|
|
$4.93
|
|
|
|
$3.51
|
|
Total
return
4
|
|
|
8.48
|
%
|
|
|
11.99
|
%
|
|
|
11.00
|
%
|
|
|
46.61
|
%
|
|
|
(20.67)
|
%
|
Net assets, end of year
(000s)
|
|
|
$573,115
|
|
|
|
$121,915
|
|
|
|
$61,593
|
|
|
|
$18,141
|
|
|
|
$19,710
|
|
Ratios to average net assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross expenses
|
|
|
0.85
|
%
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
|
|
1.24
|
%
|
|
|
1.95
|
%
|
|
|
1.21
|
%
|
Net
expenses
5,6
|
|
|
0.85
|
7
|
|
|
0.95
|
7
|
|
|
0.95
|
7
|
|
|
0.95
|
7
|
|
|
0.75
|
8
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
4.26
|
|
|
|
5.33
|
|
|
|
5.85
|
|
|
|
7.03
|
|
|
|
7.48
|
|
Portfolio turnover
rate
|
|
|
21
|
%
|
|
|
16
|
%
|
|
|
21
|
%
|
|
|
62
|
%
|
|
|
35
|
%
|
1
|
Effective June 11, 2008, existing shares of the Fund were redesignated Class I shares.
|
2
|
Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
|
3
|
For the year ended February 29, 2012.
|
4
|
Performance figures may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence of compensating
balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
|
5
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
|
6
|
The impact of compensating balance arrangements, if any, was less than 0.01%.
|
7
|
As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class I shares did not exceed 0.95%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
|
8
|
As a result of a voluntary expense limitation, the ratio of expenses, other than interest, brokerage, taxes and extraordinary expenses, to
average net assets did not exceed 0.75%.
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund
|
Financial highlights contd
|
|
|
|
|
For a share of each class of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year ended February 28, unless otherwise noted:
|
|
Class IS Shares
1
|
|
2013
2
|
|
Net asset value, beginning
of period
|
|
|
$5.85
|
|
Income (loss) from operations:
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income
|
|
|
0.02
|
|
Net realized and unrealized loss
|
|
|
(0.02)
|
|
Total income from
operations
3
|
|
|
0.00
|
|
Net asset value, end of
period
|
|
|
$5.85
|
|
Total
return
4,5
|
|
|
0.00
|
%
|
Net assets, end of period
(000s)
|
|
|
$855
|
|
Ratios to average net assets:
|
|
|
|
|
Gross
expenses
6
|
|
|
0.86
|
%
|
Net
expenses
6,7,8,9
|
|
|
0.80
|
|
Net investment
income
6
|
|
|
4.20
|
|
Portfolio turnover
rate
|
|
|
21
|
%
|
1
|
Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.
|
2
|
For the period January 31, 2013 (commencement of operations) to February 28, 2013.
|
3
|
Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.
|
4
|
Performance figures may reflect compensating balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence of compensating
balance arrangements, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
|
5
|
Amount represents less than 0.005%.
|
7
|
Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.
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The impact of compensating balance arrangements, if any, was less than 0.01%.
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As a result of an expense limitation arrangement, the ratio of expenses, other than brokerage, interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, to average net assets of Class IS shares did not exceed 0.80%. This expense limitation arrangement cannot be terminated prior to December 31, 2014 without the Board of Trustees consent.
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Legg Mason Funds Privacy and Security Notice
Your Privacy and the Security of Your Personal Information is Very Important to the Legg Mason Funds
This Privacy and Security Notice (the Privacy Notice) addresses the Legg Mason Funds privacy and data protection practices with
respect to nonpublic personal information the Funds receive. The Legg Mason Funds include any funds sold by the Funds distributor, Legg Mason Investor Services, LLC, as well as Legg Mason-sponsored closed-end funds and certain closed-end funds
managed or sub-advised by Legg Mason or its affiliates. The provisions of this Privacy Notice apply to your information both while you are a shareholder and after you are no longer invested with the Funds.
The Type of Nonpublic Personal Information the Funds Collect About You
The Funds collect and maintain nonpublic personal information about you in connection with your shareholder account. Such information may include, but is not limited to:
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Personal information included on applications or other forms;
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Account balances, transactions, and mutual fund holdings and positions;
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Online account access user IDs, passwords, security challenge question responses; and
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Information received from consumer reporting agencies regarding credit history and creditworthiness (such as the amount of an individuals
total debt, payment history, etc.).
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How the Funds Use Nonpublic Personal Information About You
The Funds do not sell or share your nonpublic personal information with third parties or with affiliates for their marketing purposes, or with other
financial institutions or affiliates for joint marketing purposes, unless you have authorized the Funds to do so. The Funds do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about you except as may be required to perform transactions or services
you have authorized or as permitted or required by law. The Funds may disclose information about you to:
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Employees, agents, and affiliates on a need to know basis to enable the Funds to conduct ordinary business or comply with obligations
to government regulators;
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Service providers, including the Funds affiliates, who assist the Funds as part of the ordinary course of business (such as printing,
mailing services, or processing or servicing your account with us) or otherwise perform services on the Funds behalf, including companies that may perform marketing services solely for the Funds;
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The Funds representatives such as legal counsel, accountants and auditors; and
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Fiduciaries or representatives acting on your behalf, such as an IRA custodian or trustee of a grantor trust.
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Except as otherwise permitted by applicable law, companies acting on the Funds behalf are contractually obligated to keep nonpublic personal
information the Funds provide to them confidential and to use the information the Funds share only to provide the services the Funds ask them to perform.
The Funds may disclose nonpublic personal information about you when necessary to enforce their rights or protect against fraud, or as permitted or required by applicable law, such as in connection
with a law enforcement or regulatory request, subpoena, or similar legal process. In the event of a corporate action or in the event a Fund service provider changes, the Funds may be required to disclose your nonpublic personal information to third
parties. While it is the Funds practice to obtain protections for disclosed information in these types of transactions, the Funds cannot guarantee their privacy policy will remain unchanged.
Keeping You Informed of the Funds Privacy and Security Practices
The Funds will notify you annually of their privacy policy as required by federal law. While the Funds reserve the right to modify this policy at any time they will notify you promptly if this
privacy policy changes.
Legg Mason Funds Privacy and Security Notice contd
The Funds Security Practices
The Funds maintain appropriate physical, electronic and procedural safeguards designed to guard your nonpublic personal information. The Funds
internal data security policies restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to authorized employees, who may use your nonpublic personal information for Fund business purposes only.
Although the Funds strive to protect your nonpublic personal information, they cannot ensure or warrant the security of any information you provide
or transmit to them, and you do so at your own risk. In the event of a breach of the confidentiality or security of your nonpublic personal information, the Funds will attempt to notify you as necessary so you can take appropriate protective steps.
If you have consented to the Funds using electronic communications or electronic delivery of statements, they may notify you under such circumstances using the most current email address you have on record with them.
In order for the Funds to provide effective service to you, keeping your account information accurate is very important. If you believe that your
account information is incomplete, not accurate or not current, or if you have questions about the Funds privacy practices, write the Funds using the contact information on your account statements, email the Funds by clicking on the Contact Us
section of the Funds website at www.leggmason.com, or contact the Funds at 1-877-721-1926.
[These pages are not
part of the Prospectus.]
Western Asset
Emerging Markets Debt Fund
You may visit the funds website, http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/prospectuses, for a free copy of a Prospectus, Statement of
Additional Information (SAI) or an Annual or Semi-Annual Report.
Shareholder reports
Additional information about the funds investments is available in the funds Annual and
Semi-Annual Reports to shareholders. In the funds Annual Report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the funds performance during its last fiscal year. The independent
registered public accounting firms report and financial statements in the funds Annual Report are incorporated by reference into (are legally a part of) this Prospectus.
The fund sends only one report to a household if more than one account has the same last name and same address. Contact your Service Agent or the fund if you do not want this policy to apply to you.
Statement of additional information
The SAI provides more detailed information about the fund and is incorporated by reference into (is legally a part of) this Prospectus.
You can make inquiries about the fund or obtain shareholder reports or the SAI (without charge) by contacting your Service
Agent, by calling the fund at 1-877-721-1926, or by writing to the fund at 100 First Stamford Place, Attn: Shareholder Services 5
th
Floor, Stamford, Connecticut 06902.
Information about the fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the Securities and Exchange Commissions (the SEC) Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information
on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the fund are available on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Copies of this information may be obtained for a duplicating fee by electronic request at the following
E-mail address:
publicinfo@sec.gov,
or by writing the SECs Public Reference Room, Washington, D.C.
20549-1520.
If someone makes a statement about the fund that is not in this Prospectus, you should not rely upon that information.
Neither the fund nor the distributor is offering to sell shares of the fund to any person to whom the fund may not lawfully sell its shares.
(Investment Company Act
file no. 811-04254)
LMFX012759 09/13
September , 2013
LEGG MASON PARTNERS INCOME TRUST
WESTERN ASSET EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND
Class A (LWEAX), Class
A2, Class C (WAEOX), Class C1 (LWECX), Class FI (LMWDX), Class R (WAERX) Class I (SEMDX) and Class IS (LWISX)
620 Eighth
Avenue
New York, New York 10018
1-877-721-1926
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This Statement of Additional Information (the SAI) is not a prospectus and is meant to be read in conjunction with the
current Prospectus of Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (the fund), dated June 30, 2013, as amended or supplemented from time to time, and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into the Prospectus.
The fund is a series of Legg Mason Partners Income Trust (the Trust), a Maryland statutory trust. The fund was named Western
Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio prior to June 30, 2012.
Additional information about the funds investments
is available in the funds annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The annual report contains financial statements that are incorporated herein by reference. The funds Prospectus and copies of the annual and semi-annual reports
may be obtained free of charge by contacting banks, brokers, dealers, insurance companies, investment advisers, financial consultants or advisers, mutual fund supermarkets and other financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with
the funds distributor to sell shares of the fund (each called a Service Agent), by writing the Trust at 100 First Stamford Place, Attn: Shareholder Services5th Floor, Stamford, Connecticut 06902, by calling 1-877-721-1926, by
sending an e-mail request to prospectus@leggmason.com or by visiting the funds website at http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors. Legg Mason Investor Services, LLC (LMIS or the distributor), a wholly-owned
broker/dealer subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc. (Legg Mason), serves as the funds sole and exclusive distributor.
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THIS SAI IS NOT A PROSPECTUS AND IS AUTHORIZED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS ONLY IF
PRECEDED OR ACCOMPANIED BY AN EFFECTIVE PROSPECTUS.
No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any
representations not contained in the Prospectus or this SAI in connection with the offerings made by the Prospectus and, if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or its
distributor. The Prospectus and this SAI do not constitute offerings by the fund or by the distributor in any jurisdiction in which such offerings may not lawfully be made.
2
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end
management investment company. The fund is classified as non-diversified under the 1940 Act.
The funds Prospectus
discusses the funds investment objective and strategies. The following discussion supplements the description of the funds investment strategies in its Prospectus.
Investment Objective
The fund seeks to maximize total return.
Principal Investment Strategies and Certain Limitations
Following is a summary of the principal investment strategies and certain investment limitations of the fund.
Under normal circumstances, the fund invests at least 80% of its assets in fixed income securities issued by governments, government-related entities and corporations located in emerging markets and
related investments. The fund may invest without limit in high yield debt securities and related investments rated below investment grade (that is, securities rated below the Baa/BBB categories, or, if unrated, determined to be of comparable credit
quality by the subadviser). Below investment grade securities are commonly referred to as junk bonds. The fund may invest up to 50% of its assets in non-U.S. dollar denominated fixed income securities. These investments include, but are
not limited to, instruments designed to restructure outstanding emerging market debt such as participations in loans between governments and financial institutions. The fund will be invested in at least three emerging market countries, which are
countries that, at the time of investment, are represented in the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Global or categorized by the World Bank in its annual categorization as middle- or low-income. The fund may invest in securities of any maturity.
The subadviser attempts to maintain the dollar-weighted average effective duration of the funds portfolio, as estimated by the funds subadviser, within a range of 20% (above or below) of the duration of the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Bond
Index Global.
Instead of, and/or in addition to, investing directly in particular securities, the fund may use instruments
such as derivatives, including options, interest rate swaps, credit default swaps and options on credit default swaps, foreign currency futures, forwards and options, and futures contracts, and synthetic instruments that are intended to provide
economic exposure to the securities or the issuer or to be used as a hedging technique. The fund may use one or more types of these instruments without limit. For additional information regarding derivatives, see More on the funds
investment strategies, investments and risksDerivatives in the funds Prospectus. These instruments are taken into account when determining compliance with the funds 80% policy.
The fund may also engage in a variety of transactions using derivatives in order to change the investment characteristics of its
portfolio (such as shortening or lengthening duration) and for other purposes.
The fund may invest up to 10% of its assets in
common stock, convertible securities, warrants or other equity securities.
The fund is classified as
non-diversified, which means it may invest a larger percentage of its assets in a smaller number of issuers than a diversified fund.
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SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION REGARDING INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND RISK
FACTORS
The funds principal investment strategies are summarized above. The following provides additional
information about these principal strategies and describes other investment strategies and practices that may be used by the fund. To the extent permitted by law and the funds investment policies, the fund may engage in the practices described
below.
Debt and Fixed Income Securities
The fund may invest in a variety of debt and fixed income securities. These securities share three principal risks: First, the level of interest income generated by the funds fixed income
investments may decline due to a decrease in market interest rates. Thus, when fixed income securities mature or are sold, they may be replaced by lower-yielding investments. Second, their values fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Thus, a
decrease in interest rates will generally result in an increase in the value of the funds fixed income investments. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the value of the funds fixed income investments will generally
decline. However, a change in interest rates will not have the same impact on all fixed rate securities. For example, the magnitude of these fluctuations will generally be greater when the funds duration or average maturity is longer. In
addition, certain fixed income securities are subject to credit risk, which is the risk that an issuer of securities will be unable to pay principal and interest when due, or that the value of the security will suffer because investors believe the
issuer is unable to pay. Common types of these instruments, and their associated risks, are discussed below.
Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Related Securities
Asset-Backed Securities.
An asset-backed security represents an interest in a pool of assets such as receivables from credit card loans, automobile loans and other trade receivables. Changes in the
markets perception of the asset backing the security, the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the loan pool, the originator of the loans, or the financial institution providing any credit enhancement, will all affect the value of an
asset-backed security, as will the exhaustion of any credit enhancement. The risks of investing in asset-backed securities ultimately depend upon the payment of the consumer loans by the individual borrowers. In its capacity as purchaser of an
asset-backed security, the fund would generally have no recourse to the entity that originated the loans in the event of default by the borrower. Additionally, in the same manner as described below under Mortgage-Related Securities with
respect to prepayment of a pool of mortgage loans underlying mortgage- related securities, the loans underlying asset-backed securities are subject to prepayments, which may shorten the weighted average life of such securities and may lower their
return.
The fund may purchase commercial paper, including asset-backed commercial paper (ABCP) that is issued by
structured investment vehicles or other conduits. These conduits may be sponsored by mortgage companies, investment banking firms, finance companies, hedge funds, private equity firms and special purpose finance entities. ABCP typically refers to a
debt security with an original term to maturity of up to 270 days, the payment of which is supported by cash flows from underlying assets, or one or more liquidity or credit support providers, or both. Assets backing ABCP, which may be included in
revolving pools of assets with large numbers of obligors, include credit card, car loan and other consumer receivables and home or commercial mortgages, including subprime mortgages. The repayment of ABCP issued by a conduit depends primarily on the
cash collections received from the conduits underlying asset portfolio and the conduits ability to issue new ABCP. Therefore, there could be losses to the fund investing in ABCP in the event of credit or market value deterioration in the
conduits underlying portfolio, mismatches in the timing of the cash flows of the underlying asset interests and the repayment obligations of maturing ABCP, or the conduits inability to issue new ABCP. To protect investors from these
risks, ABCP programs may be structured with various protections, such as credit enhancement, liquidity support, and commercial paper stop-issuance and wind-down triggers. However there can be no guarantee that these protections will be sufficient to
prevent losses to investors in ABCP.
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Some ABCP programs provide for an extension of the maturity date of the ABCP if, on the
related maturity date, the conduit is unable to access sufficient liquidity through the issue of additional ABCP. This may delay the sale of the underlying collateral and the fund may incur a loss if the value of the collateral deteriorates during
the extension period. Alternatively, if collateral for ABCP commercial paper deteriorates in value, the collateral may be required to be sold at inopportune times or at prices insufficient to repay the principal and interest on the ABCP. ABCP
programs may provide for the issuance of subordinated notes as an additional form of credit enhancement. The subordinated notes are typically of a lower credit quality and have a higher risk of default. A fund purchasing these subordinated notes
will therefore have a higher likelihood of loss than investors in the senior notes.
Asset-backed securities are relatively
new and untested instruments and may be subject to greater risk of default during periods of economic downturn than other securities which could result in possible losses to the fund. In addition, the secondary market for asset-backed securities may
not be as liquid as the market for other securities which may result in the funds experiencing difficulty in valuing asset-backed securities.
Mortgage-Related Securities.
Mortgage-related securities may be private, governmental or government-related, depending on the issuer or guarantor. Private mortgage-related securities may represent
pass-through pools consisting of residential mortgage loans created by non-governmental issuers, such as commercial banks, savings and loan associations and private mortgage insurance companies. Private mortgage-related securities may also consist
of mortgages secured by different types of properties, such as apartment buildings, shopping centers, hotels, office buildings and industrial complexes. Governmental mortgage-related securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the United
States. The Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), the principal guarantor of such securities, is a wholly owned United States government corporation within the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Government-sponsored mortgage-related securities are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government. Issuers of such securities include Fannie Mae (formally known as the Federal National Mortgage Association) and Freddie Mac
(formally known as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation). Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored corporation which is subject to general regulation by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Pass-through securities issued by Fannie Mae
are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest by Fannie Mae. Freddie Mac is a stockholder-owned corporation chartered by Congress and subject to general regulation by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Participation
certificates representing interests in mortgages from Freddie Macs national portfolio are guaranteed as to the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of principal by Freddie Mac. The U.S. government has, however, provided financial
support to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, but there can be no assurances that it will support these or other government-sponsored entities in the future. Private, U.S. governmental or government-sponsored entities create mortgage loan pools offering
pass-through investments in addition to those described above. The mortgages underlying these securities may be alternative mortgage instruments, that is, mortgage instruments whose principal or interest payments may vary or whose terms to maturity
may be shorter than previously customary. As new types of mortgage-related securities are developed and offered to investors, the fund, consistent with its investment objective and policies, will consider making investments in such new types of
securities.
Mortgage-related securities provide a monthly payment consisting of interest and principal payments. Additional
payments may be made out of unscheduled repayments of principal resulting from the sale of the underlying residential property, refinancing or foreclosure, net of fees or costs that may be incurred. Prepayments of principal on mortgage-related
securities may tend to increase due to refinancing of mortgages as interest rates decline. Mortgage pools created by private organizations generally offer a higher rate of interest than government and government-sponsored pools because no direct or
indirect guarantees of payments are applicable with respect to the former pools. See Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities Issued by Nongovernmental Entities below. Prompt payment of principal and interest on Ginnie Mae mortgage
pass-through certificates is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. Fannie Mae guaranteed mortgage pass-through certificates and Freddie Mac participation certificates are solely the obligations of those entities but Fannie Mae
obligations are
5
supported by the discretionary authority of the United States government to purchase its obligations. Municipal housing bonds include mortgage revenue bonds and multi-family housing bond
programs. See Single Family and Multi-Family Housing Bonds below.
Collateralized mortgage obligations are a type
of bond secured by an underlying pool of mortgages or mortgage pass-through certificates that are structured to direct payments on underlying collateral to different series or classes of the obligations. To the extent that the fund purchases
mortgage-related securities at a premium, mortgage foreclosures and prepayments of principal by mortgagors (which may be made at any time without penalty) may result in some loss of the funds principal investment to the extent of the premium
paid. The funds yield may be affected by reinvestment of prepayments at higher or lower rates than the original investment. In addition, like other debt securities, the values of mortgage-related securities, including government and
government-sponsored mortgage pools, generally will fluctuate in response to market interest rates. The average maturity of pass-through pools of mortgage-related securities varies with the maturities of the underlying mortgage instruments. In
addition, a pools stated maturity may be shortened by unscheduled payments on the underlying mortgages. Factors affecting mortgage prepayments include the level of interest rates, general economic and social conditions, the location of the
mortgaged property and age of the mortgage. Because prepayment rates of individual pools vary widely, it is not possible to accurately predict the average life of a particular pool. Common practice is to assume that prepayments will result in an
average life ranging from two to ten years for pools of fixed-rate 30-year mortgages. Pools of mortgages with other maturities or different characteristics will have varying average life assumptions.
Structured Mortgage-Backed Securities.
The fund may invest in structured mortgage-backed securities. The interest rate or, in some
cases, the principal payable at the maturity of a structured mortgage-backed security may change positively or inversely in relation to one or more interest rates, financial indices or other financial indicators (reference prices). A
structured mortgage-backed security may be leveraged to the extent that the magnitude of any change in the interest rate or principal payable on a structured security is a multiple of the change in the reference price. Thus, structured
mortgage-backed securities may decline in value due to adverse market changes in reference prices. The structured mortgage-backed securities purchased by the fund may include interest only (IO) and principal only (PO)
securities, floating rate securities linked to the Cost of Funds Index (COFI floaters), other lagging rate floating rate securities, floating rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate (capped
floaters), leveraged floating rate securities (super floaters), leveraged inverse floating rate securities (inverse floaters), leveraged or super IOs and POs, inverse IOs, dual index floaters and range floaters.
Risks of Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Related Securities.
Payments of principal of and interest on mortgage-backed
securities and asset-backed securities are made more frequently than are payments on conventional debt securities. In addition, holders of mortgage-backed securities and of certain asset-backed securities (such as asset-backed securities backed by
home equity loans) may receive unscheduled payments of principal at any time representing prepayments on the underlying mortgage loans or financial assets. When the holder of the security attempts to reinvest prepayments or even the scheduled
payments of principal and interest, it may receive a rate of interest that is higher or lower than the rate on the mortgage-backed security or asset-backed security originally held. To the extent that mortgage-backed securities or asset-backed
securities are purchased by the fund at a premium, mortgage foreclosures and principal prepayments may result in a loss to the extent of the premium paid. If mortgage-backed securities or asset-backed securities are bought at a discount, however,
both scheduled payments of principal and unscheduled prepayments will increase current and total returns and will accelerate the recognition of income which, when distributed to shareholders, will be taxable as ordinary income.
Asset-backed securities may present certain risks not relevant to mortgage-backed securities. Assets underlying asset-backed securities
such as credit card receivables are generally unsecured, and debtors are entitled to the protection of various state and federal consumer protection laws, some of which provide a right of set-off that may reduce the balance owed.
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Many mortgage-backed and structured securities are considered to be derivative instruments.
Different types of derivative securities are subject to different combinations of prepayment, extension, interest rate and/or other market risks. Conventional mortgage pass-through securities and sequential pay collateralized mortgage obligations
(CMOs) are subject to all of these risks, but are typically not leveraged. Planned amortization classes (PACs), targeted amortization classes (TACs) and other senior classes of sequential and parallel pay CMOs
involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than other mortgage-backed securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within expected prepayment ranges or collars.
The risk of early prepayments is the primary risk associated with mortgage IOs, super floaters and other leveraged floating rate
mortgage-backed securities. The primary risks associated with COFI floaters, other lagging rate floaters, capped floaters, inverse floaters, POs and leveraged inverse IOs are the potential extension of average life and/or depreciation
due to rising interest rates. The residual classes of CMOs are subject to both prepayment and extension risk.
Other types of
floating rate derivative debt securities present more complex types of interest rate risks. For example, range floaters are subject to the risk that the coupon will be reduced to below market rates if a designated interest rate floats outside of a
specified interest rate band or collar. Dual index or yield curve floaters are subject to depreciation in the event of an unfavorable change in the spread between two designated interest rates.
In addition to the interest rate, prepayment and extension risks described above, the risks associated with transactions in these
securities may include: (1) leverage and volatility risk and (2) liquidity and valuation risk.
Asset-Backed
Securities and Mortgage-Backed Securities Issued by Nongovernmental Entities.
Certain of the mortgage-backed securities, as well as certain of the asset-backed securities, in which the fund may invest will be issued by private issuers, and
therefore may have exposure to subprime loans as well as to the mortgage and credit markets generally. Such mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities may take a form similar to the pass-through mortgage-backed securities issued by
agencies or instrumentalities of the United States, or may be structured in a manner similar to the other types of mortgage-backed securities or asset-backed securities described below. Private issuers include originators of or investors in mortgage
loans and receivables such as savings and loan associations, savings banks, commercial banks, investment banks, finance companies and special purpose finance subsidiaries of these types of institutions.
Unlike mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or certain government-sponsored entities, mortgage-backed
securities issued by private issuers do not have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee, but may have credit enhancement provided by external entities such as banks or financial institutions or achieved through the structuring of the
transaction itself.
In addition, mortgage-backed securities that are issued by private issuers are not subject to the
underwriting requirements for the underlying mortgages that are applicable to those mortgage-backed securities that have a government or government-sponsored entity guarantee. As a result, the mortgage loans underlying private mortgage-backed
securities may, and frequently do, have less favorable collateral, credit risk or other underwriting characteristics than government or government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities and have wider variances in a number of terms including interest
rate, term, size, purpose and borrower characteristics. Privately issued pools more frequently include second mortgages, high loan-to-value mortgages and manufactured housing loans. The coupon rates and maturities of the underlying mortgage loans in
a private-label mortgage-backed securities pool may vary to a greater extent than those included in a government guaranteed pool, and the pool may include subprime mortgage loans. Subprime loans refer to loans made to borrowers with weakened credit
histories or with a lower capacity to make timely payments on their loans. For these reasons, the loans underlying these securities have had in many cases higher default rates than those loans that meet government underwriting requirements.
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The risk of non-payment is greater for mortgage-backed securities that are backed by
mortgage pools that contain subprime loans, but a level of risk exists for all loans. Market factors adversely affecting mortgage loan repayments may include a general economic turndown, high unemployment, a general slowdown in the real estate
market, a drop in the market prices of real estate, or an increase in interest rates resulting in higher mortgage payments by holders of adjustable rate mortgages.
If the fund purchases subordinated mortgage-backed securities, the subordinated mortgage-backed securities may serve as a credit support for the senior securities purchased by other investors. In
addition, the payments of principal and interest on these subordinated securities generally will be made only after payments are made to the holders of securities senior to the funds securities. Therefore, if there are defaults on the
underlying mortgage loans, the fund will be less likely to receive payments of principal and interest, and will be more likely to suffer a loss. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are not traded on an exchange and there may be a limited
market for the securities, especially when there is a perceived weakness in the mortgage and real estate market sectors. Without an active trading market, mortgage-backed securities held in the funds portfolio may be particularly difficult to
value because of the complexities involved in assessing the value of the underlying mortgage loans.
Credit
Enhancements.
Credit enhancements for certain mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities issued by nongovernmental entities typically are provided by external entities such as banks or financial institutions or by the structure of a
transaction itself. Credit enhancements provided for certain mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities issued by non-governmental entities typically take one of two forms: (a) liquidity protection or (b) protection against
losses resulting from ultimate default by an obligor on the underlying assets. Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the entity administering the pool of assets, to ensure that the receipt of payments on the
underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion. Protection against losses resulting from default ensures ultimate payment of the obligations on at least a portion of the assets in the pool. This protection may be provided through guarantees, insurance
policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties, through various means of structuring the transaction or through a combination of these approaches. The degree of credit support provided for each issue is generally
based on historical information with respect to the level of credit risk associated with the underlying assets. Delinquencies or losses in excess of those anticipated could adversely affect the return on an investment in a security. The fund will
not pay any additional fees for credit support, although the existence of credit support may increase the price of a security or decrease the yield or amount distributable on the security.
Examples of such credit support arising out of the structure of the transaction include senior-subordinated securities
(multiple class securities with one or more classes being senior to other subordinated classes as to the payment of principal and interest, with the result that defaults on the underlying assets are borne first by the holders of the subordinated
class), creation of reserve funds (in which case cash or investments, sometimes funded from a portion of the payments on the underlying assets, are held in reserve against future losses) and overcollateralization (in which
case the scheduled payments on, or the principal amount of, the underlying assets exceeds that required to make payment of the securities and pay any servicing or other fees). The fund may purchase subordinated securities that, as noted above, may
serve as a form of credit support for senior securities purchased by other investors.
Bank Obligations
The fund may invest in all types of bank obligations, including certificates of deposit (CDs) and
bankers acceptances. U.S. commercial banks organized under federal law are supervised and examined by the Comptroller of the Currency and are required to be members of the Federal Reserve System and to be insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation (the FDIC). U.S. banks organized under state law are supervised and examined by state banking authorities, but are members of the Federal Reserve System only if they elect to join. Most state banks are insured by
the FDIC (although such insurance may not be of material benefit to the fund, depending upon the principal amount of CDs of each held by the fund) and are subject to federal
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examination and to a substantial body of federal law and regulation. As a result of federal and state laws and regulations, U.S. branches of U.S. banks are, among other things, generally required
to maintain specified levels of reserves, and are subject to other supervision and regulation designed to promote financial soundness.
Obligations of foreign branches of U.S. banks, such as CDs and time deposits, may be general obligations of the parent bank in addition to the issuing branch, or may be limited by the terms of a specific
obligation and governmental regulation. Such obligations are subject to different risks than are those of U.S. banks or U.S. branches of foreign banks. These risks include foreign economic and political developments, foreign governmental
restrictions that may adversely affect payment of principal and interest on the obligations, foreign exchange controls and foreign withholding and other taxes on interest income. Foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign branches of foreign banks
are not necessarily subject to the same or similar regulatory requirements that apply to U.S. banks, such as mandatory reserve requirements, loan limitations and accounting, auditing and financial recordkeeping requirements. In addition, less
information may be publicly available about a foreign branch of a U.S. bank or about a foreign bank than about a U.S. bank.
Obligations of U.S. branches of foreign banks may be general obligations of the parent bank, in addition to the issuing branch, or may be
limited by the terms of a specific obligation and by federal and state regulation as well as governmental action in the country in which the foreign bank has its head office. A U.S. branch of a foreign bank with assets in excess of $1 billion may or
may not be subject to reserve requirements imposed by the Federal Reserve System or by the state in which the branch is located if the branch is licensed in that state. In addition, branches licensed by the Comptroller of the Currency and branches
licensed by certain states (State Branches) may or may not be required to: (a) pledge to the regulator, by depositing assets with a designated bank within the state; and (b) maintain assets within the state in an amount equal
to a specified percentage of the aggregate amount of liabilities of the foreign bank payable at or through all of its agencies or branches within the state. The deposits of State Branches may not necessarily be insured by the FDIC. In addition,
there may be less publicly available information about a U.S. branch of a foreign bank than about a U.S. bank.
Collateralized Debt Obligations
Collateralized debt obligations (CDOs) include collateralized bond obligations (CBOs), collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and other similarly structured securities.
CDOs are types of asset-backed securities. A CBO is a trust or other special purpose entity (SPE) which is typically backed by a diversified pool of fixed income securities (which may include high risk, below investment grade
securities). A CLO is a trust or other SPE that is typically collateralized by a pool of loans, which may include, among others, domestic and non-U.S. senior secured loans, senior unsecured loans, and subordinate corporate loans, including loans
that may be rated below investment grade or equivalent unrated loans. Although certain CDOs may receive credit enhancement in the form of a senior-subordinate structure, over-collateralization or bond insurance, such enhancement may not always be
present, and may fail to protect the fund against the risk of loss on default of the collateral. Certain CDOs may use derivatives contracts to create synthetic exposure to assets rather than holding such assets directly. CDOs may charge
management fees and administrative expenses, which are in addition to those of the fund.
For both CBOs and CLOs, the
cashflows from the SPE are split into two or more portions, called tranches, varying in risk and yield. The riskiest portion is the equity tranche, which bears the first loss from defaults from the bonds or loans in the SPE and serves to
protect the other, more senior tranches from default (though such protection is not complete). Since it is partially protected from defaults, a senior tranche from a CBO or CLO typically has higher ratings and lower yields than its underlying
securities, and may be rated investment grade. Despite the protection from the equity tranche, CBO or CLO tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to defaults due to collateral default and
disappearance of subordinate tranches, market anticipation of defaults, as well as investor aversion to CBO or CLO securities as a class. Interest on certain tranches of a CDO may be paid in kind (paid in the form of obligations of the same type
rather than cash), which involves continued exposure to default risk with respect to such payments.
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The risks of an investment in a CDO depend largely on the type of the collateral securities
and the class of the CDO in which the fund invests. Normally, CBOs, CLOs and other CDOs are privately offered and sold, and thus, are not registered under the securities laws. As a result, investments in CDOs may be characterized by the fund as
illiquid securities. However, an active dealer market may exist for CDOs, allowing a CDO to qualify for Rule 144A transactions. In addition to the normal risks associated with fixed income securities discussed elsewhere in this SAI and the
funds Prospectus (e.g., interest rate risk and credit risk), CDOs carry additional risks including, but not limited to: (i) the possibility that distributions from collateral securities will not be adequate to make interest or other
payments; (ii) the quality of the collateral may decline in value or default; (iii) the fund may invest in tranches of CDOs that are subordinate to other tranches; (iv) the complex structure of the security may not be fully understood
at the time of investment and may produce disputes with the issuer or unexpected investment results; and (v) the CDOs manager may perform poorly.
Convertible Securities and Synthetic Convertible Securities
Convertible
securities are fixed income securities that may be converted at either a stated price or stated rate into underlying shares of common stock. Convertible securities have general characteristics similar to both fixed income and equity securities.
Although to a lesser extent than with fixed income securities generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase as interest rates decline. In addition, because of the
conversion feature, the market value of convertible securities tends to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying common stocks and, therefore, also will react to variations in the general market for equity securities. A
significant feature of convertible securities is that as the market price of the underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and so they may not experience market value declines to the same
extent as the underlying common stock. When the market price of the underlying common stock increases, the prices of the convertible securities tend to rise as a reflection of the value of the underlying common stock. While no securities investments
are without risk, investments in convertible securities generally entail less risk than investments in common stock of the same issuer.
As fixed income securities, convertible securities are investments which provide for a stable stream of income with generally higher yields than common stocks. Of course, like all fixed income securities,
there can be no assurance of current income because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their obligations. Convertible securities, however, generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of
similar quality because of the potential for capital appreciation. A convertible security, in addition to providing fixed income, offers the potential for capital appreciation through the conversion feature, which enables the holder to benefit from
increases in the market price of the underlying common stock. However, there can be no assurance of capital appreciation because securities prices fluctuate.
Convertible securities generally are subordinated to other similar but non-convertible securities of the same issuer, although convertible bonds, as corporate debt obligations, enjoy seniority in right of
payment to all equity securities, and convertible preferred stock is senior to common stock of the same issuer. Because of the subordination feature, however, convertible securities typically have lower ratings than similar non-convertible
securities.
Unlike a convertible security which is a single security, a synthetic convertible security is comprised of two
distinct securities that together resemble convertible securities in certain respects. Synthetic convertible securities are created by combining non-convertible bonds or preferred shares with common stocks, warrants or stock call options. The
options that will form elements of synthetic convertible securities will be listed on a securities exchange or on NASDAQ. The two components of a synthetic convertible security, which will be issued with respect to the same entity, generally are not
offered as a unit, and may be purchased and sold by the fund at different times. Synthetic convertible securities differ from convertible securities in certain respects, including that each component of a synthetic convertible security has a
separate market value and responds differently to market fluctuations. Investing in synthetic convertible securities involves the risk normally involved in holding the securities comprising the synthetic convertible security.
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Loans
Loans are negotiated and underwritten by a bank or syndicate of banks and other institutional investors. The fund may acquire an interest in loans through the primary market by acting as one of a group of
lenders of a loan. The primary risk in an investment in loans is that the borrower may be unable to meet its interest and/or principal payment obligations. The occurrence of such a default with regard to a loan in which the fund had invested would
have an adverse affect on the funds net asset value. In addition, a sudden and significant increase in market interest rates may cause a decline in the value of these investments and in the funds net asset value. Other factors, such as
rating downgrades, credit deterioration, or large downward movement in stock prices, a disparity in supply and demand of certain securities or market conditions that reduce liquidity could reduce the value of loans, impairing the funds net
asset value. Loans in which the fund may invest may be collateralized or uncollateralized and senior or subordinate. Investments in uncollateralized and/or subordinate loans entail a greater risk of nonpayment than do investments in loans which hold
a more senior position in the borrowers capital structure or that are secured with collateral.
In the case of
collateralized senior loans, however, there is no assurance that sale of the collateral would raise enough cash to satisfy the borrowers payment obligation or that the collateral can or will be liquidated. As a result, the fund might not
receive payments to which it is entitled and thereby may experience a decline in the value of its investment and its net asset value. In the event of bankruptcy, liquidation may not occur and the court may not give lenders the full benefit of their
senior positions. If the terms of a senior loan do not require the borrower to pledge additional collateral, the fund will be exposed to the risk that the value of the collateral will not at all times equal or exceed the amount of the
borrowers obligations under the senior loans. To the extent that a senior loan is collateralized by stock in the borrower or its subsidiaries, such stock may lose all of its value in the event of bankruptcy of the borrower.
The fund may also acquire an interest in loans by purchasing participations (Participations) in and/or assignments
(Assignments) of portions of loans from third parties. By purchasing a Participation, the fund acquires some or all of the interest of a bank or other lending institution in a loan to a borrower. Participations typically will result in
the fund having a contractual relationship only with the lender and not the borrower. The fund will have the right to receive payments or principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the lender selling the Participation and
only upon receipt by the lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with purchasing Participations, the fund generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the loan,
nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the fund may not directly benefit from any collateral supporting the loan in which it has purchased the Participation. As a result, the fund will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the
lender that is selling the Participation.
When the fund purchases Assignments from lenders, the fund will acquire direct
rights against the borrower on the loan. However, since Assignments are arranged through private negotiations between potential assignees and assignors, the rights and obligations acquired by the fund as the purchaser of an Assignment may differ
from, and be more limited than, those held by the lender from which the fund is purchasing the Assignments.
Certain of the
Participations or Assignments acquired by the fund may involve unfunded commitments of the lenders or revolving credit facilities under which a borrower may from time to time borrow and repay amounts up to the maximum amount of the facility. In such
cases, the fund would have an obligation to advance its portion of such additional borrowings upon the terms specified in the loan documentation.
The fund may acquire loans of borrowers that are experiencing, or are more likely to experience, financial difficulty, including loans of borrowers that have filed for bankruptcy protection. Although
loans in which the fund will invest generally will be secured by specific collateral, there can be no assurance that liquidation of such collateral would satisfy the borrowers obligation in the event of nonpayment of scheduled interest or
principal, or that such collateral could be readily liquidated. In the event of bankruptcy of a borrower, the fund could experience delays or limitations with respect to its ability to realize the benefits of the collateral securing a senior loan.
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In addition, the fund may have difficulty disposing of its investments in loans. The
liquidity of such securities is limited and the fund anticipates that such securities could be sold only to a limited number of institutional investors. The lack of a liquid secondary market could have an adverse impact on the value of such
securities and on the funds ability to dispose of particular loans or Assignments or Participations when necessary to meet the funds liquidity needs or in response to a specific economic event, such as a deterioration in the
creditworthiness of the borrower. The lack of a liquid secondary market for loans may also make it more difficult for the fund to assign a value to those securities for purposes of valuing the funds investments and calculating its net asset
value.
Deferred Interest Bonds
Deferred interest bonds are debt obligations that generally provide for a period of delay before the regular payment of interest begins and that are issued at a significant discount from face value. The
original discount approximates the total amount of interest the bonds will accrue and compound over the period until the first interest accrual date at a rate of interest reflecting the market rate of the security at the time of issuance. Although
this period of delay is different for each deferred interest bond, a typical period is approximately one-third of the bonds term to maturity. Such investments benefit the issuer by mitigating its initial need for cash to meet debt service, but
some also provide a higher rate of return to attract investors who are willing to defer receipt of such cash.
Foreign
Securities
Risks of Non-U.S. Investments.
The risks of investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers or issuers
with significant exposure to non-U.S. markets may be related, among other things, to (i) differences in size, liquidity and volatility of, and the degree and manner of regulation of, the securities markets of certain non-U.S. markets compared
to the securities markets in the U.S.; (ii) economic, political and social factors; and (iii) foreign exchange matters, such as restrictions on the repatriation of capital, fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the
currencies in which the funds portfolio securities are quoted or denominated, exchange control regulations and costs associated with currency exchange. The political and economic structures in certain foreign countries, particularly emerging
markets, are expected to undergo significant evolution and rapid development, and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristic of more developed countries.
Unanticipated political or social developments may affect the values of the funds investments in such countries. The economies and
securities and currency markets of many emerging markets have experienced significant disruption and declines. There can be no assurances that these economic and market disruptions will not continue.
Securities of some foreign companies are less liquid, and their prices are more volatile, than securities of comparable domestic
companies. Certain foreign countries are known to experience long delays between the trade and settlement dates of securities purchased or sold resulting in increased exposure of the fund to market and foreign exchange fluctuations brought about by
such delays, and to the corresponding negative impact on fund liquidity.
The interest payable on the funds foreign
securities may be subject to foreign withholding taxes, which will reduce the funds return on its investments. Additionally, the operating expenses of the fund making such investment can be expected to be higher than those of an investment
company investing exclusively in U.S. securities, since the costs of investing in foreign securities, such as custodial costs, valuation costs and communication costs, are higher than the costs of investing exclusively in U.S. securities.
Foreign Securities Markets and Regulations.
There may be less publicly available information about non-U.S. markets
and issuers than is available with respect to U.S. securities and issuers. Non-U.S. companies
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generally are not subject to accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. The trading markets for most
non-U.S. securities are generally less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than the markets for comparable securities in the U.S. The markets for securities in certain emerging markets are in the earliest stages of their development. Even
the markets for relatively widely traded securities in certain non-U.S. markets, including emerging countries, may not be able to absorb, without price disruptions, a significant increase in trading volume or trades of a size customarily undertaken
by institutional investors in the U.S. Additionally, market making and arbitrage activities are generally less extensive in such markets, which may contribute to increased volatility and reduced liquidity. The less liquid a market, the more
difficult it may be for the fund to accurately price its portfolio securities or to dispose of such securities at the times determined by a subadviser to be appropriate. The risks associated with reduced liquidity may be particularly acute in
situations in which the funds operations require cash, such as in order to meet redemptions and to pay its expenses.
Emerging Market Countries.
Emerging markets include any country which, at the time of investment, is represented in the JPMorgan
Emerging Markets Bond Index Global or is categorized by the World Bank in its annual categorization as middle- or low-income. These securities may be U.S. dollar denominated or non-U.S. dollar denominated and include: (a) debt obligations
issued or guaranteed by foreign national, provincial, state, municipal or other governments with taxing authority or by their agencies or instrumentalities, including Brady Bonds; (b) debt obligations of supranational entities; (c) debt
obligations (including dollar and non-dollar denominated) and other debt securities of foreign corporate issuers; and (d) non-dollar denominated debt obligations of U.S. corporate issuers. The fund may also invest in securities denominated in
currencies of emerging market countries. There is no minimum rating criteria for the funds investments in such securities.
Economic, Political and Social Factors.
Certain non-U.S. countries, including emerging markets, may be subject to a greater degree of economic, political and social instability. Such instability
may result from, among other things: (i) authoritarian governments or military involvement in political and economic decision making; (ii) popular unrest associated with demands for improved economic, political and social conditions;
(iii) internal insurgencies; (iv) hostile relations with neighboring countries; and (v) ethnic, religious and racial disaffection and conflict. Such economic, political and social instability could significantly disrupt the financial
markets in such countries and the ability of the issuers in such countries to repay their obligations. In addition, it may be difficult for the fund to pursue claims against a foreign issuer in the courts of a foreign country. Investing in emerging
countries also involves the risk of expropriation, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. In the event of such expropriation,
nationalization or other confiscation in any emerging country, the fund could lose its entire investment in that country. Certain emerging market countries restrict or control foreign investment in their securities markets to varying degrees. These
restrictions may limit the funds investment in those markets and may increase the expenses of the fund. In addition, the repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain markets in the region is subject to restrictions such as
the need for certain governmental consents. Even where there is no outright restriction on repatriation of capital, the mechanics of repatriation may affect certain aspects of the funds operation. Economies in individual non-U.S. countries may
differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross domestic product, rates of inflation, currency valuation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments positions. Many non-U.S.
countries have experienced substantial, and in some cases extremely high, rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, very negative effects on the economies and
securities markets of certain emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by trade barriers, exchange controls,
managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. These economies also have been, and may continue to be, affected adversely and significantly by economic
conditions in the countries with which they trade. Whether or not the fund invests in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to countries experiencing economic, financial and other difficulties, the value and liquidity of the
funds investments may be negatively affected by the conditions in the countries experiencing the difficulties.
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Custodian Services and Related Investment Costs.
Custodian services and other costs
relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the U.S. Such markets have settlement and clearance procedures that differ from those in the U.S. In certain markets there have been times when
settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. The inability of the fund to make intended securities purchases because of settlement problems could cause the
fund to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of a portfolio security caused by settlement problems could result either in losses to the fund because of a subsequent decline in value of the portfolio security or could result
in possible liability to the fund. In addition, security settlement and clearance procedures in some emerging countries may not fully protect the fund against loss or theft of its assets.
Withholding and Other Taxes.
The fund may be subject to taxes, including withholding taxes imposed by certain non-U.S. countries
on income (possibly including, in some cases, capital gains) earned with respect to the funds investments in such countries. These taxes will reduce the return achieved by the fund. Treaties between the U.S. and such countries may reduce the
otherwise applicable tax rates.
Currency.
The value of the securities quoted or denominated in foreign currencies may
be adversely affected by fluctuations in the relative currency exchange rates and by exchange control regulations. The funds investment performance may be negatively affected by a devaluation of a currency in which the funds investments
are quoted or denominated. Further, the funds investment performance may be significantly affected, either positively or negatively, by currency exchange rates because the U.S. dollar value of securities quoted or denominated in another
currency will increase or decrease in response to changes in the value of such currency in relation to the U.S. dollar.
Currency exchange rates generally are determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets and the relative
merits of investments in different countries as seen from an international perspective. Currency exchange rates can also be affected unpredictably by intervention by U.S. or foreign governments or central banks or by currency controls or political
developments in the United States or abroad.
The rate of exchange between the U.S. dollar and other currencies is determined
by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets. Changes in the exchange rate may result over time from the interaction of many factors directly or indirectly affecting economic conditions and political developments in other
countries. Of particular importance are rates of inflation, interest rate levels, the balance of payments and the extent of government surpluses or deficits in the United States and the particular foreign country. All these factors are in turn
sensitive to the monetary, fiscal and trade policies pursued by the governments of the United States and other foreign countries important to international trade and finance. Government intervention may also play a significant role. National
governments rarely voluntarily allow their currencies to float freely in response to economic forces. Sovereign governments use a variety of techniques, such as intervention by a countrys central bank or imposition of regulatory controls or
taxes, to affect the exchange rates of their currencies.
ADRs, EDRs and GDRs.
The fund may also purchase American
Depositary Receipts (ADRs), American Depositary Debentures, American Depositary Notes, American Depositary Bonds, European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), or other securities
representing underlying shares of foreign companies. ADRs are publicly traded on exchanges or over-the-counter in the United States and are issued through sponsored or unsponsored arrangements. In a sponsored ADR arrangement,
the foreign issuer assumes the obligation to pay some or all of the depositorys transaction fees, whereas under an unsponsored arrangement, the foreign issuer assumes no obligation and the depositorys transaction fees are paid by the ADR
holders. In addition, less information is available in the United States about an unsponsored ADR than about a sponsored ADR, and the financial information about a company may not be as reliable for an unsponsored ADR as it is for a sponsored ADR.
The fund may invest in ADRs through both sponsored and unsponsored arrangements.
Sovereign Government and Supranational
Debt.
The fund may invest in all types of debt securities of governmental issuers in all countries, including emerging markets. These sovereign debt securities may include:
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debt securities issued or guaranteed by governments, governmental agencies or instrumentalities and political subdivisions located in emerging market countries; debt securities issued by
government owned, controlled or sponsored entities located in emerging market countries; interests in entities organized and operated for the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics of instruments issued by any of the above issuers;
Brady Bonds, which are debt securities issued under the framework of the Brady Plan as a means for debtor nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness; participations in loans between emerging market governments and financial
institutions; or debt securities issued by supranational entities such as the World Bank or the European Economic Community. A supranational entity is a bank, commission or company established or financially supported by the national governments of
one or more countries to promote reconstruction or development.
Sovereign debt is subject to risks in addition to those
relating to non-U.S. investments generally. As a sovereign entity, the issuing government may be immune from lawsuits in the event of its failure or refusal to pay the obligations when due. The debtors willingness or ability to repay in a
timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its non-U.S. reserves, the availability of sufficient non-U.S. exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the
economy as a whole, the sovereign debtors policy toward principal international lenders and the political constraints to which the sovereign debtor may be subject. Sovereign debtors may also be dependent on disbursements or assistance from
foreign governments or multinational agencies, the countrys access to trade and other international credits, and the countrys balance of trade. Assistance may be dependent on a countrys implementation of austerity measures and
reforms, which measures may limit or be perceived to limit economic growth and recovery. Some sovereign debtors have rescheduled their debt payments, declared moratoria on payments or restructured their debt to effectively eliminate portions of it,
and similar occurrences may happen in the future. There is no bankruptcy proceeding by which sovereign debt on which governmental entities have defaulted may be collected in whole or in part.
Europe - Recent Events.
A number of countries in Europe have experienced severe economic and financial difficulties. Many
non-governmental issuers, and even certain governments, have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts; many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit or refinancing existing obligations; financial institutions have in
many cases required government or central bank support, have needed to raise capital, and/or have been impaired in their ability to extend credit; and financial markets in Europe and elsewhere have experienced extreme volatility and declines in
asset values and liquidity. These difficulties may continue, worsen or spread within and without Europe. Responses to the financial problems by European governments, central banks and others, including austerity measures and reforms, may not work,
may result in social unrest and may limit future growth and economic recovery or have other unintended consequences. Further defaults or restructurings by governments and others of their debt could have additional adverse effects on economies,
financial markets and asset valuations around the world. In addition, one or more countries may abandon the euro, the common currency of the European Union, and/or withdraw from the European Union. The impact of these actions, especially if they
occur in a disorderly fashion, is not clear but could be significant and far-reaching. Whether or not the fund invests in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries, these events could
negatively affect the value and liquidity of the funds investments.
Eurodollar or Yankee Obligations.
Eurodollar
bank obligations are dollar denominated debt obligations issued outside the U.S. capital markets by foreign branches of U.S. banks and by foreign banks. Yankee obligations are dollar denominated obligations issued in the U.S. capital markets by
foreign issuers. Eurodollar (and to a limited extent, Yankee) obligations are subject to certain sovereign risks. One such risk is the possibility that a foreign government might prevent dollar denominated funds from flowing across its borders.
Other risks include: adverse political and economic developments in a foreign country; the extent and quality of government regulation of financial markets and institutions; the imposition of foreign withholding taxes; and expropriation or
nationalization of foreign issuers.
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High Yield Securities
High yield securities are medium or lower rated securities and unrated securities of comparable quality, sometimes referred to as
junk bonds. Generally, such securities offer a higher current yield than is offered by higher rated securities, but also are predominantly speculative with respect to the issuers capacity to pay interest and repay principal in
accordance with the terms of the obligations. The market values of certain of these securities also tend to be more sensitive to individual corporate developments and changes in economic conditions than higher quality bonds. In addition, medium and
lower rated securities and comparable unrated securities generally present a higher degree of credit risk. The risk of loss because of default by these issuers is significantly greater because medium and lower rated securities generally are
unsecured and frequently subordinated to the prior payment of senior indebtedness. In addition, the market value of securities in lower rated categories is more volatile than that of higher quality securities, and the markets in which medium and
lower rated securities are traded are more limited than those in which higher rated securities are traded. The existence of limited markets may make it more difficult for the fund to obtain accurate market quotations for purposes of valuing its
securities and calculating its net asset value. Moreover, the lack of a liquid trading market may restrict the availability of securities for the fund to purchase and may also have the effect of limiting the ability of the fund to sell securities at
their fair value either to meet redemption requests or to respond to changes in the economy or the financial markets.
Lower
rated debt obligations also present risks based on payment expectations. If an issuer calls the obligation for redemption, the fund may have to replace the security with a lower yielding security, resulting in a decreased return for investors. Also,
the principal value of bonds moves inversely with movements in interest rates; in the event of rising interest rates, the value of the securities held by the fund may decline more than a portfolio consisting of higher rated securities. If the fund
experiences unexpected net redemptions, it may be forced to sell its higher rated bonds, resulting in a decline in the overall credit quality of the securities held by the fund and increasing the exposure of the fund to the risks of lower rated
securities. Investments in zero coupon bonds may be more speculative and subject to greater fluctuations in value because of changes in interest rates than bonds that pay interest currently.
Subsequent to its purchase by the fund, an issue of securities may cease to be rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum
required for purchase by the fund. Neither event will require sale of these securities by the fund, but a subadviser will consider the event in determining whether the fund should continue to hold the security.
Municipal Securities
Shareholders should note that, although interest paid on municipal securities is generally exempt from regular federal income tax, the fund does not anticipate holding municipal securities in
sufficient quantities to qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends. As a result, distributions by the fund to its shareholders are expected to be treated for federal income tax purposes as ordinary dividends without regard to the character in the
hands of the fund of any interest that it receives on municipal securities.
Municipal securities (which are also
referred to herein as municipal obligations or Municipal Bonds) generally include debt obligations (bonds, notes or commercial paper) issued by or on behalf of any of the 50 states and their political subdivisions, agencies
and public authorities, certain other governmental issuers (such as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam) or other qualifying issuers, participations or other interests in these securities and other related investments. The interest paid on
municipal securities is excluded from gross income for regular federal income tax purposes, although it may be subject to federal alternative minimum tax (AMT).
Municipal securities are issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities, such as airports, bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass
transportation,
16
schools, streets, water and sewer works, gas, and electric utilities. They may also be issued to refund outstanding obligations, to obtain funds for general operating expenses, or to obtain funds
to loan to other public institutions and facilities and in anticipation of the receipt of revenue or the issuance of other obligations.
The two principal classifications of municipal securities are general obligation securities and limited obligation or revenue securities. General obligation securities
are secured by a municipal issuers pledge of its full faith, credit, and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. Accordingly, the capacity of the issuer of a general obligation bond as to the timely payment of interest and the
repayment of principal when due is affected by the issuers maintenance of its tax base. Revenue securities are payable only from the revenues derived from a particular facility or class of facilities or, in some cases, from the proceeds of a
special excise tax or other specific revenue source. Accordingly, the timely payment of interest and the repayment of principal in accordance with the terms of the revenue security is a function of the economic viability of the facility or revenue
source. Revenue securities include private activity bonds (described below) which are not payable from the unrestricted revenues of the issuer. Consequently, the credit quality of private activity bonds is usually directly related to the credit
standing of the corporate user of the facility involved. Municipal securities may also include moral obligation bonds, which are normally issued by special purpose public authorities. If the issuer of moral obligation bonds is unable to
meet its debt service obligations from current revenues, it may draw on a reserve fund the restoration of which is a moral commitment but not a legal obligation of the state or municipality which created the issuer.
Private Activity Bonds.
Private activity bonds are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to provide funds, usually through
a loan or lease arrangement, to a private entity for the purpose of financing construction of privately operated industrial facilities, such as warehouse, office, plant and storage facilities and environmental and pollution control facilities. Such
bonds are secured primarily by revenues derived from loan repayments or lease payments due from the entity, which may or may not be guaranteed by a parent company or otherwise secured. Private activity bonds generally are not secured by a pledge of
the taxing power of the issuer of such bonds. Therefore, repayment of such bonds generally depends on the revenue of a private entity. The continued ability of an entity to generate sufficient revenues for the payment of principal and interest on
such bonds will be affected by many factors, including the size of the entity, its capital structure, demand for its products or services, competition, general economic conditions, government regulation and the entitys dependence on revenues
for the operation of the particular facility being financed.
Under current federal income tax law, interest on Municipal
Bonds issued after August 7, 1986 which are specified private activity bonds, and the proportionate share of any exempt-interest dividend paid by a regulated investment company that receives interest from such private activity bonds, will be
treated as an item of tax preference for purposes of the AMT, which is imposed on individuals and corporations by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code). For regular federal income tax purposes such interest will remain
fully tax-exempt. Bonds issued in 2009 and 2010 generally will not be treated as private activity bonds, and interest earned on such bonds generally will not be treated as a tax preference item. Although interest on all tax-exempt obligations
(including private activity bonds) is generally included in adjusted current earnings of corporations for AMT purposes, interest on bonds issued in 2009 and 2010 generally is not included in adjusted current earnings.
Industrial Development Bonds.
Industrial development bonds (IDBs) are issued by public authorities to obtain funds to
provide financing for privately-operated facilities for business and manufacturing, housing, sports, convention or trade show facilities, airport, mass transit, port and parking facilities, air or water pollution control facilities, and certain
facilities for water supply, gas, electricity or sewerage or solid waste disposal. Although IDBs are issued by municipal authorities, the payment of principal and interest on IDBs is dependent solely on the ability of the user of the facilities
financed by the bonds to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any, of the real and personal property being financed as security for such payments. IDBs are considered municipal securities if the interest paid is exempt from regular
federal income tax. Interest earned on IDBs may be subject to the AMT.
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Tender Option Bonds.
A tender option bond is a municipal bond (generally held
pursuant to a custodial arrangement) having a relatively long maturity and bearing interest at a fixed rate substantially higher than prevailing short-term tax-exempt rates, that has been coupled with the agreement of a third party, such as a
financial institution, pursuant to which such institution grants the security holders the option, at periodic intervals, to tender their securities to the institution and receive the face value thereof. As consideration for providing the option, the
institution generally receives periodic fees equal to the difference between the municipal bonds fixed coupon rate and the rate, as determined by a remarketing or similar agent, that would cause the securities, coupled with the tender option,
to trade at par. Thus, after payment of this fee, the security holder would effectively hold a demand obligation that bears interest at the prevailing short-term tax-exempt rate. (See the discussion of Structured Notes and Related Instruments,
below.)
Municipal Leases.
Municipal leases or installment purchase contracts are issued by a state or local government
to acquire equipment or facilities. Municipal leases frequently have special risks not normally associated with general obligation bonds or revenue bonds. Many leases include non-appropriation clauses that provide that the governmental
issuer has no obligation to make future payments under the lease or contract unless money is appropriated for such purpose by the appropriate legislative body on a yearly or other periodic basis. Although the obligations are typically secured by the
leased equipment or facilities, the disposition of the property in the event of non-appropriation or foreclosure might, in some cases, prove difficult or, if sold, may not fully cover the funds exposure.
Participation Interests.
Tax-exempt participation interests in municipal obligations (such as private activity bonds and municipal
lease obligations) are typically issued by a financial institution. A participation interest gives the fund an undivided interest in the municipal obligation in the proportion that the funds participation interest bears to the total principal
amount of the municipal obligation. Participation interests in municipal obligations may be backed by an irrevocable letter of credit or guarantee of, or a right to put to, a bank (which may be the bank issuing the participation interest, a bank
issuing a confirming letter of credit to that of the issuing bank, or a bank serving as agent of the issuing bank with respect to the possible repurchase of the participation interest) or insurance policy of an insurance company. The fund has the
right to sell the participation interest back to the institution or draw on the letter of credit or insurance after a specified period of notice, for all or any part of the full principal amount of the funds participation in the security, plus
accrued interest.
Issuers of participation interests will retain a service and letter of credit fee and a fee for providing
the liquidity feature, in an amount equal to the excess of the interest paid on the instruments over the negotiated yield at which the participations were purchased on behalf of the fund. The issuer of the participation interest may bear the cost of
insurance backing the participation interest, although the fund may also purchase insurance, in which case the cost of insurance will be an expense of the fund. Participation interests may be sold prior to maturity. Participation interests may
include municipal lease obligations. Purchase of a participation interest may involve the risk that the fund will not be deemed to be the owner of the underlying municipal obligation for purposes of the ability to claim tax exemption of interest
paid on that municipal obligation.
Municipal Notes.
There are four major varieties of municipal notes: Tax and Revenue
Anticipation Notes (TRANs); Tax Anticipation Notes (TANs); Revenue Anticipation Notes (RANs); and Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs). TRANs, TANs and RANs are issued by states, municipalities and other
tax-exempt issuers to finance short-term cash needs or, occasionally, to finance construction. Many TRANs, TANs and RANs are general obligations of the issuing entity payable from taxes or designated revenues, respectively, expected to be received
within the related fiscal period. BANs are issued with the expectation that their principal and interest will be paid out of proceeds from renewal notes or bonds to be issued prior to the maturity of the BANs. BANs are issued most frequently by both
general obligation and revenue bond issuers usually to finance such items as land acquisition, facility acquisition and/or construction and capital improvement projects.
Tax-exempt Commercial Paper.
Tax-exempt commercial paper is a short-term obligation with a stated maturity of 270 days or less. It is issued by state and local governments or their agencies to
finance seasonal
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working capital needs or as short-term financing in anticipation of longer term financing. While tax-exempt commercial paper is intended to be repaid from general revenues or refinanced, it
frequently is backed by a letter of credit, lending arrangement, note repurchase agreement or other credit facility agreement offered by a bank or financial institution.
Demand Instruments.
Municipal bonds may be issued as floating- or variable-rate securities subject to demand features (demand instruments). Demand instruments usually have a stated
maturity of more than one year but contain a demand feature (or put) that enables the holder to redeem the investment. Variable-rate demand instruments provide for automatic establishment of a new interest rate on set dates.
Floating-rate demand instruments provide for automatic adjustment of interest rates whenever a specified interest rate (e.g., the prime rate) changes.
These floating and variable rate instruments are payable upon a specified period of notice which may range from one day up to one year. The terms of the instruments provide that interest rates are
adjustable at intervals ranging from daily to up to one year and the adjustments are based upon the prime rate of a bank or other appropriate interest rate adjustment index as provided in the respective instruments. Variable rate instruments include
participation interests in variable- or fixed-rate municipal obligations owned by a bank, insurance company or other financial institution or affiliated organizations. Although the rate of the underlying municipal obligations may be fixed, the terms
of the participation interest may result in the fund receiving a variable rate on its investment.
Because of the variable
rate nature of the instruments, when prevailing interest rates decline the funds yield will decline and its shareholders will forgo the opportunity for capital appreciation. On the other hand, during periods when prevailing interest rates
increase, the funds yield will increase and its shareholders will have reduced risk of capital depreciation.
Custodial Receipts.
The fund may acquire custodial receipts or certificates underwritten by securities dealers or banks that
evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both on certain municipal obligations. The underwriter of these certificates or receipts typically purchases municipal obligations and deposits the obligations in an irrevocable
trust or custodial account with a custodian bank, which then issues receipts or certificates that evidence ownership of the periodic unmatured coupon payments and the final principal payment on the obligations. Although under the terms of a
custodial receipt, the fund would be typically authorized to assert its rights directly against the issuer of the underlying obligation, the fund could be required to assert through the custodian bank those rights as may exist against the underlying
issuer. Thus, in the event the underlying issuer fails to pay principal and/or interest when due, the fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the fund had purchased a direct
obligation of the issuer. In addition, in the event that the trust or custodial account in which the underlying security has been deposited is determined to be an association taxable as a corporation, instead of a non-taxable entity, the yield on
the underlying security would be reduced in recognition of any taxes paid.
Additional Risks Relating to Municipal
Securities
Tax risk.
The Code imposes certain continuing requirements on issuers of tax-exempt bonds regarding the
use, expenditure and investment of bond proceeds and the payment of rebates to the U.S. government. Failure by the issuer to comply after the issuance of tax-exempt bonds with certain of these requirements could cause interest on the bonds to become
includable in gross income retroactive to the date of issuance.
From time to time, proposals have been introduced before
Congress for the purpose of restricting or eliminating the federal income tax exemption for interest on municipal obligations, and similar proposals may be introduced in the future. In addition, the federal income tax exemption has been, and may in
the future be, the subject of litigation. If one of these proposals were enacted, the availability of tax-exempt obligations for investment by the fund and the value of the funds investments would be affected.
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Opinions relating to the validity of municipal obligations and to the exclusion of interest
thereon from gross income for regular federal and/or state income tax purposes are rendered by bond counsel to the respective issuers at the time of issuance. The fund and its service providers will rely on such opinions and will not review the
proceedings relating to the issuance of municipal obligations or the bases for such opinions.
Information risk.
Information about the financial condition of issuers of municipal obligations may be less available than about corporations whose securities are publicly traded.
State and Federal law risk.
Municipal obligations are subject to the provisions of bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting the rights and remedies of creditors, such as the federal
Bankruptcy Code, and laws, if any, that may be enacted by Congress or state legislatures extending the time for payment of principal or interest, or both, or imposing other constraints upon enforcement of such obligations or upon the ability of
municipalities to levy taxes. There is also the possibility that, as a result of litigation or other conditions, the power or ability of any one or more issuers to pay, when due, the principal of and interest on its or their municipal obligations
may be materially affected.
Market and ratings risk.
The yields on municipal obligations are dependent on a variety of
factors, including economic and monetary conditions, general market conditions, supply and demand, general conditions of the municipal market, size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligation and the rating of the issue. Adverse
economic, business, legal or political developments might affect all or a substantial portions of the funds municipal obligations in the same manner.
Unfavorable developments in any economic sector may have far-reaching ramifications for the overall or any states municipal market.
Although the ratings of tax-exempt securities by ratings agencies are relative and subjective, and are not absolute standards of quality,
such ratings reflect the assessment of the ratings agency, at the time of issuance of the rating, of the economic viability of the issuer of a general obligation bond or, with respect to a revenue bond, the special revenue source, with respect to
the timely payment of interest and the repayment of principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation, but do not reflect an assessment of the market value of the obligation. See Appendix A for additional information regarding ratings.
Consequently, municipal obligations with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different yields when purchased in the open market, while municipal obligations of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.
Risks associated with sources of liquidity or credit support.
Issuers of municipal obligations may employ various
forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts and demand features, and insurance, provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. Changes in the credit
quality of the entities providing the enhancement could affect the value of the securities or the funds share price. Banks and certain financial institutions are subject to extensive governmental regulation which may limit both the amounts and
types of loans and other financial commitments which may be made and interest rates and fees which may be charged. The profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of capital for the purpose of financing
lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. Also, general economic conditions play an important part in the operation of the banking industry, and exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers
might affect a banks ability to meet its obligations under a letter of credit.
Other.
Securities may be sold in
anticipation of a market decline (a rise in interest rates) or purchased in anticipation of a market rise (a decline in interest rates). In addition, a security may be sold and another purchased at approximately the same time to take advantage of
what a subadviser believes to be a temporary disparity in the normal yield relationship between the two securities. In general, the secondary market for tax-exempt securities in the funds portfolio may be less liquid than that for taxable
fixed income securities. Accordingly, the ability of the fund to make purchases and sales of securities in the foregoing manner may be
20
limited. Yield disparities may occur for reasons not directly related to the investment quality of particular issues or the general movement of interest rates, but instead due to such factors as
changes in the overall demand for or supply of various types of tax-exempt securities or changes in the investment objectives of investors.
Taxable Municipal Obligations.
The market for taxable municipal obligations is relatively small, which may result in a lack of liquidity and in price volatility of those securities. Interest on
taxable municipal obligations is includable in gross income for regular federal income tax purposes. While interest on taxable municipal obligations may be exempt from personal taxes imposed by the state within which the obligation is issued, such
interest will nevertheless generally be subject to all other state and local income and franchise taxes.
Risks Inherent
in an Investment in Different Types of Municipal Securities
General Obligation Bonds
.
General obligation
bonds are backed by the issuers pledge of its full faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. However, the taxing power of any governmental entity may be limited by provisions of state constitutions or laws and
an entitys credit will depend on many factors. Some such factors are the entitys tax base, the extent to which the entity relies on federal or state aid, and other factors which are beyond the entitys control.
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds (IDRs)
.
IDRs are tax-exempt securities issued by states, municipalities,
public authorities or similar entities to finance the cost of acquiring, constructing or improving various projects. These projects are usually operated by corporate entities. IDRs are not general obligations of governmental entities backed by their
taxing power. Issuers are only obligated to pay amounts due on the IDRs to the extent that funds are available from the unexpended proceeds of the IDRs or receipts or revenues of the issuer. Payment of IDRs is solely dependent upon the
creditworthiness of the corporate operator of the project or corporate guarantor. Such corporate operators or guarantors that are industrial companies may be affected by many factors, which may have an adverse impact on the credit quality of the
particular company or industry.
Hospital and Health Care Facility Bonds
.
The ability of hospitals and other
health care facilities to meet their obligations with respect to revenue bonds issued on their behalf is dependent on various factors. Some such factors are the level of payments received from private third-party payors and government programs and
the cost of providing health care services. There can be no assurance that payments under governmental programs will be sufficient to cover the costs associated with their bonds. It may also be necessary for a hospital or other health care facility
to incur substantial capital expenditures or increased operating expenses to effect changes in its facilities, equipment, personnel and services. Hospitals and other health care facilities are additionally subject to claims and legal actions by
patients and others in the ordinary course of business. There can be no assurance that a claim will not exceed the insurance coverage of a health care facility or that insurance coverage will be available to a facility.
Single Family and Multi-Family Housing Bonds
.
Multi-family housing revenue bonds and single family mortgage revenue bonds
are state and local housing issues that have been issued to provide financing for various housing projects. Multi-family housing revenue bonds are payable primarily from mortgage loans to housing projects for low to moderate income families.
Single-family mortgage revenue bonds are issued for the purpose of acquiring notes secured by mortgages on residences. The ability of housing issuers to make debt service payments on their obligations may be affected by various economic and
non-economic factors. Such factors include: occupancy levels, adequate rental income in multi-family projects, the rate of default on mortgage loans underlying single family issues and the ability of mortgage insurers to pay claims. All
single-family mortgage revenue bonds and certain multi-family housing revenue bonds are prepayable over the life of the underlying mortgage or mortgage pool. Therefore, the average life of housing obligations cannot be determined. However, the
average life of these obligations will ordinarily be less than their stated maturities. Mortgage loans are frequently partially or completely prepaid prior to their final stated maturities.
Power Facility Bonds
.
The ability of utilities to meet their obligations with respect to bonds they issue is dependent on
various factors. These factors include the rates that they may charge their customers, the demand
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for a utilitys services and the cost of providing those services. Utilities are also subject to extensive regulations relating to the rates which they may charge customers. Utilities can
experience regulatory, political and consumer resistance to rate increases. Utilities engaged in long-term capital projects are especially sensitive to regulatory lags in granting rate increases. Utilities are additionally subject to increased costs
due to governmental environmental regulation and decreased profits due to increasing competition. Any difficulty in obtaining timely and adequate rate increases could adversely affect a utilitys results of operations. The subadviser cannot
predict the effect of such factors on the ability of issuers to meet their obligations with respect to bonds.
Water and
Sewer Revenue Bonds
.
Water and sewer bonds are generally payable from user fees. The ability of state and local water and sewer authorities to meet their obligations may be affected by a number of factors.
Some such factors are the failure of municipalities to utilize fully the facilities constructed by these authorities, declines in revenue
from user charges, rising construction and maintenance costs, impact of environmental requirements, the difficulty of obtaining or discovering new supplies of fresh water, the effect of conservation programs, the impact of no growth
zoning ordinances and the continued availability of federal and state financial assistance and of municipal bond insurance for future bond issues.
University and College Bonds
.
The ability of universities and colleges to meet their obligations is dependent upon various factors. Some of these factors of which an investor should be aware
are the size and diversity of their sources of revenues, enrollment, reputation, management expertise, the availability and restrictions on the use of endowments and other funds and the quality and maintenance costs of campus facilities. Also, in
the case of public institutions, the financial condition of the relevant state or other governmental entity and its policies with respect to education may affect an institutions ability to make payments on its own.
Lease Rental Bonds
.
Lease rental bonds are predominantly issued by governmental authorities that have no taxing power or
other means of directly raising revenues. Rather, the authorities are financing vehicles created solely for the construction of buildings or the purchase of equipment that will be used by a state or local government. Thus, the bonds are subject to
the ability and willingness of the lessee government to meet its lease rental payments, which include debt service on the bonds. Lease rental bonds are subject to the risk that the lessee government is not legally obligated to budget and appropriate
for the rental payments beyond the current fiscal year. These bonds are also subject to the risk of abatement in many states as rents cease in the event that damage, destruction or condemnation of the project prevents its use by the lessee. Also, in
the event of default by the lessee government, there may be significant legal and/or practical difficulties involved in the reletting or sale of the project.
Capital Improvement Facility Bonds
.
Capital improvement bonds are bonds issued to provide funds to assist political subdivisions or agencies of a state through acquisition of the underlying
debt of a state or local political subdivision or agency. The risks of an investment in such bonds include the risk of possible prepayment or failure of payment of proceeds on and default of the underlying debt.
Solid Waste Disposal Bonds
.
Bonds issued for solid waste disposal facilities are generally payable from tipping fees and
from revenues that may be earned by the facility on the sale of electrical energy generated in the combustion of waste products. The ability of solid waste disposal facilities to meet their obligations depends upon the continued use of the facility,
the successful and efficient operation of the facility and, in the case of waste-to-energy facilities, the continued ability of the facility to generate electricity on a commercial basis. Also, increasing environmental regulation on the federal,
state and local level has a significant impact on waste disposal facilities. While regulation requires more waste producers to use waste disposal facilities, it also imposes significant costs on the facilities.
Moral Obligation Bonds
.
A moral obligation bond is a type of revenue bond issued by a state or municipality pursuant to
legislation authorizing the establishment of a reserve fund to pay principal and interest payments if the issuer is unable to meet its obligations. The establishment of such a reserve fund generally
22
requires appropriation by the state legislature, which is not legally required. Accordingly, the establishment of a reserve fund is generally considered a moral commitment but not a legal
obligation of the state or municipality that created the issuer.
Refunded Bonds
.
Refunded bonds are typically
secured by direct obligations of the U.S. government, or in some cases obligations guaranteed by the U.S. government, placed in an escrow account maintained by an independent trustee until maturity or a predetermined redemption date. These
obligations are generally non-callable prior to maturity or the predetermined redemption date. In a few isolated instances to date, however, bonds which were thought to be escrowed to maturity have been called for redemption prior to maturity.
Airport, Port and Highway Revenue Bonds
.
Certain facility revenue bonds are payable from and secured by the
revenue from the ownership and operation of particular facilities, such as airports, highways and port authorities. Airport operating income may be affected by the ability of airlines to meet their obligations under the agreements with airports.
Similarly, payment on bonds related to other facilities is dependent on revenues from the projects, such as use fees from ports, tolls on turnpikes and bridges and rents from buildings. Therefore, payment may be adversely affected by reduction in
revenues due to such factors and increased cost of maintenance or decreased use of a facility. The subadviser cannot predict what effect conditions may have on revenues which are required for payment on these bonds.
Special Tax Bonds
. Special tax bonds are payable from and secured by the revenues derived by a municipality from a
particular tax. Examples of such special taxes are a tax on the rental of a hotel room, the purchase of food and beverages, the rental of automobiles or the consumption of liquor. Special tax bonds are not secured by the general tax revenues of the
municipality, and they do not represent general obligations of the municipality. Therefore, payment on special tax bonds may be adversely affected by a reduction in revenues realized from the underlying special tax. Also, should spending on the
particular goods or services that are subject to the special tax decline, the municipality may be under no obligation to increase the rate of the special tax to ensure that sufficient revenues are raised from the shrinking taxable base.
Tax Allocation Bonds
.
Tax allocation bonds are typically secured by incremental tax revenues collected on property within
the areas where redevelopment projects financed by bond proceeds are located. Such payments are expected to be made from projected increases in tax revenues derived from higher assessed values of property resulting from development in the particular
project area and not from an increase in tax rates. Special risk considerations include: reduction of, or a less than anticipated increase in, taxable values of property in the project area; successful appeals by property owners of assessed
valuations; substantial delinquencies in the payment of property taxes; or imposition of any constitutional or legislative property tax rate decrease.
Tobacco Settlement Revenue Bonds
.
Tobacco settlement revenue bonds are secured by a state or local governments proportionate share in the Master Settlement Agreement (MSA).
The MSA is an agreement, reached out of court in November 1998 between the attorneys general of 46 states (Florida, Minnesota, Mississippi and Texas all settled independently) and six other U.S. jurisdictions (including the District of Columbia,
Puerto Rico and Guam), and the four largest U.S. tobacco manufacturers at that time (Philip Morris, RJ Reynolds, Brown & Williamson, and Lorillard). Subsequently, smaller tobacco manufacturers signed on to the MSA. The MSA basically
provides for payments annually by the manufacturers to the states and jurisdictions in perpetuity, in exchange for releasing all claims against the manufacturers and a pledge of no further litigation. The MSA established a base payment schedule and
a formula for adjusting payments each year. Manufacturers pay into a master escrow trust based on their market share, and each state receives a fixed percentage of the payment as set forth in the MSA. Annual payments are highly dependent on annual
domestic cigarette shipments and inflation, as well as several other factors. As a result, payments made by tobacco manufacturers could be negatively impacted by a decrease in tobacco consumption over time. A market share loss by the MSA companies
to non-MSA participating manufacturers would also cause a downward adjustment in the payment amounts. A participating manufacturer filing for bankruptcy could cause delays or reductions in bond payments.
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Certain tobacco settlement revenue bonds are issued with turbo redemption
features. Under this turbo structure, all available excess revenues are applied as an early redemption to the designated first turbo maturity until it is completely repaid, and then to the next turbo maturity until paid in full, and so on. The
result is that the returned principal creates an average maturity that could be much shorter than the legal final maturity.
Transit Authority Bonds
.
Mass transit is generally not self-supporting from fare revenues. Therefore, additional financial
resources must be made available to ensure operation of mass transit systems as well as the timely payment of debt service. Often such financial resources include federal and state subsidies, lease rentals paid by funds of the state or local
government or a pledge of a special tax. If fare revenues or the additional financial resources do not increase appropriately to pay for rising operating expenses, the ability of the issuer to adequately service the debt may be adversely affected.
Convention Facility Bonds
.
Bonds in the convention facilities category include special limited obligation
securities issued to finance convention and sports facilities payable from rental payments and annual governmental appropriations. The governmental agency is not obligated to make payments in any year in which the monies have not been appropriated
to make such payments. In addition, these facilities are limited use facilities that may not be used for purposes other than as convention centers or sports facilities.
Correctional Facility Bonds
.
Bonds in the correctional facilities category include special limited obligation securities issued to construct, rehabilitate and purchase correctional
facilities payable from governmental rental payments and/or appropriations.
Stripped Securities
Stripped securities may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government, or by private originators of, or investors in,
government securities or mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing. Stripped securities have greater volatility than other types of
securities. Although mortgage securities are purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers, the market for such securities has not yet been fully developed. Accordingly, stripped
securities may be illiquid.
Stripped securities are structured with two or more classes of securities that receive different
proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of assets. A common type of stripped mortgage security will have at least one class receiving only a small portion of the principal. In the most extreme case, one class will receive
all of the interest (IO or interest-only class), while the other class will receive all of the principal (PO or principal-only class). The yield to maturity on IOs, POs and other mortgage-backed securities that are purchased
at a substantial premium or discount generally are extremely sensitive not only to changes in prevailing interest rates but also to the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets, and a rapid rate of
principal payments may have a material adverse effect on such securities yield to maturity. If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the fund may fail to fully recoup its initial
investment in these securities even if the securities have received the highest rating by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO).
Structured Notes and Related Instruments
Structured notes and
other related instruments are privately negotiated debt obligations where the principal and/or interest is determined by reference to the performance of a benchmark asset, market or interest rate (an embedded index), such as selected
securities, an index of securities or specified interest rates, or the differential performance of two assets or markets, such as indexes reflecting bonds. Structured instruments may be issued by corporations, including banks, as well as by
governmental agencies and frequently are assembled in the form of medium-term notes, but a variety of forms is available and may be used in particular circumstances. The terms of such structured instruments normally provide that their principal
and/or interest payments are to be
24
adjusted upwards or downwards (but ordinarily not below zero) to reflect changes in the embedded index while the instruments are outstanding. As a result, the interest and/or principal payments
that may be made on a structured product may vary widely, depending on a variety of factors, including the volatility of the embedded index and the effect of changes in the embedded index on principal and/ or interest payments. The rate of return on
structured notes may be determined by applying a multiplier to the performance or differential performance of the referenced index(es) or other asset(s). Application of a multiplier involves leverage that will serve to magnify the potential for gain
and the risk of loss. Investment in indexed securities and structured notes involves certain risks, including the credit risk of the issuer and the normal risks of price changes in response to changes in interest rates. Further, in the case of
certain indexed securities or structured notes, a decline in the reference instrument may cause the interest rate to be reduced to zero, and any further declines in the reference instrument may then reduce the principal amount payable on maturity.
Finally, these securities may be less liquid than other types of securities, and may be more volatile than their underlying reference instruments.
U.S. Government Obligations
U.S. government securities include
(1) U.S. Treasury bills (maturity of one year or less), U.S. Treasury notes (maturity of one to ten years) and U.S. Treasury bonds (maturities generally greater than ten years) and (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government
agencies or instrumentalities which are supported by any of the following: (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. government (such as Ginnie Mae certificates); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow an amount limited to a specific line
of credit from the U.S. government (such as obligations of the Federal Home Loan Banks); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of agencies or instrumentalities (such as securities issued by
Fannie Mae); or (d) only the credit of the instrumentality (such as securities issued by Freddie Mac). U.S. government securities include issues by non-governmental entities (like financial institutions) that carry direct guarantees from U.S.
government agencies as part of government initiatives in response to the market crisis or otherwise. In the case of obligations not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, the fund must look principally to the agency or
instrumentality issuing or guaranteeing the obligation for ultimate repayment and may not be able to assert a claim against the United States itself in the event the agency or instrumentality does not meet its commitments. Neither the U.S.
government nor any of its agencies or instrumentalities guarantees the market value of the securities it issues. Therefore, the market value of such securities will fluctuate in response to changes in interest rates.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities
Variable and floating rate securities provide for a periodic adjustment in the interest rate paid on the obligations. The terms of such obligations provide that interest rates are adjusted periodically
based upon an interest rate adjustment index as provided in the respective obligations. The adjustment intervals may be regular, and range from daily up to annually, or may be event-based, such as based on a change in the prime rate.
The fund may invest in floating rate debt instruments (floaters) and engage in credit spread trades. The interest rate on a
floater is a variable rate which is tied to another interest rate, such as a corporate bond index or Treasury bill rate. The interest rate on a floater resets periodically, typically every six months. While, because of the interest rate reset
feature, floaters may provide the fund with a certain degree of protection against rising interest rates, the fund will participate in any declines in interest rates as well. A credit spread trade is an investment position relating to a difference
in the prices or interest rates of two bonds or other securities or currencies, where the value of the investment position is determined by movements in the difference between the prices or interest rates, as the case may be, of the respective
securities or currencies.
The fund may also invest in inverse floating rate debt instruments (inverse floaters).
The interest rate on an inverse floater resets in the opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floating rate security may exhibit greater price volatility than a fixed rate obligation of
similar credit quality.
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A floater may be considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a
magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index rate of interest. The higher degree of leverage inherent in some floaters is associated with greater volatility in their market values.
Such instruments may include variable amount master demand notes that permit the indebtedness thereunder to vary in addition to providing
for periodic adjustments in the interest rate. The absence of an active secondary market with respect to particular variable and floating rate instruments could make it difficult for the fund to dispose of a variable or floating rate note if the
issuer defaulted on its payment obligation or during periods that the fund is not entitled to exercise its demand rights, and the fund could, for these or other reasons, suffer a loss with respect to such instruments. In determining average-weighted
portfolio maturity, an instrument will be deemed to have a maturity equal to either the period remaining until the next interest rate adjustment or the time the fund involved can recover payment of principal as specified in the instrument, depending
on the type of instrument involved.
Zero Coupon and Pay-In-Kind Securities
A zero coupon bond is a security that makes no fixed interest payments but instead is issued at a discount from its face value. The bond
is redeemed at its face value on the specified maturity date. Zero coupon bonds may be issued as such, or they may be created by a broker who strips the coupons from a bond and separately sells the rights to receive principal and interest. The
prices of zero coupon bonds tend to fluctuate more in response to changes in market interest rates than do the prices of interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The fund generally accrues income on zero coupon bonds prior to the
receipt of cash payments. Since the fund must distribute substantially all of its income to shareholders to qualify as a regulated investment company under federal income tax law, to the extent that the fund invests in zero coupon bonds, it may have
to dispose of other securities, including at times when it may be disadvantageous to do so, to generate the cash necessary for the distribution of income attributable to its zero coupon bonds. Pay-in-kind securities have characteristics similar to
those of zero coupon securities, but interest on such securities may be paid in the form of obligations of the same type rather than cash.
Derivatives
General
.
The fund may utilize options, futures contracts (sometimes referred to as futures), options on futures
contracts, forward contracts, swaps, caps, floors, collars, indexed securities, various mortgage-related obligations, structured or synthetic financial instruments and other derivative instruments (collectively, Financial Instruments).
The fund may use Financial Instruments for any purpose, including as a substitute for other investments, to attempt to enhance its portfolios return or yield and to alter the investment characteristics of its portfolio (including to attempt to
mitigate risk of loss in some fashion, or hedge). Except as otherwise provided in the Prospectus, this SAI or by applicable law, the fund may purchase and sell any type of Financial Instrument. The fund may choose not to make use of
derivatives for a variety of reasons, and no assurance can be given that any derivatives strategy employed will be successful.
Recent legislation calls for new regulation of the derivatives markets. The extent and impact of the regulation are not yet fully known
and may not be for some time. Any new regulations could adversely affect the value, availability and performance of derivative instruments, may make them more costly, and may limit or restrict their use by the fund.
The use of Financial Instruments may be limited by applicable law and any applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the SEC), the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the CFTC), or the exchanges on which some Financial Instruments may be traded. (Note, however, that some Financial Instruments that the fund may use may not be
listed on any exchange and may not be regulated by the SEC or the CFTC.) In addition, the funds ability to use Financial Instruments may be limited by tax considerations.
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In addition to the instruments and strategies discussed in this section, the subadviser may
discover additional opportunities in connection with Financial Instruments and other similar or related techniques. These opportunities may become available as the subadviser develops new techniques, as regulatory authorities broaden the range of
permitted transactions and as new Financial Instruments or other techniques are developed. The subadviser may utilize these opportunities and techniques to the extent that they are consistent with the funds investment objective and permitted
by its investment limitations and applicable regulatory authorities. These opportunities and techniques may involve risks different from or in addition to those summarized herein.
This discussion is not intended to limit the funds investment flexibility, unless such a limitation is expressly stated, and
therefore will be construed by the fund as broadly as possible. Statements concerning what the fund may do are not intended to limit any other activity. Also, as with any investment or investment technique, even when the Prospectus or this
discussion indicates that the fund may engage in an activity, it may not actually do so for a variety of reasons, including cost considerations.
Summary of Certain Risks
.
The use of Financial Instruments involves special considerations and risks, certain of which are summarized below, and may result in losses to the fund. In general,
the use of Financial Instruments may increase the volatility of the fund and may involve a small investment of cash relative to the magnitude of the risk or exposure assumed. Even a small investment in derivatives may magnify or otherwise increase
investment losses to the fund. As noted above, there can be no assurance that any derivatives strategy will succeed.
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Financial Instruments are subject to the risk that the market value of the derivative itself or the market value of underlying instruments will change
in a way adverse to a funds interest. Many Financial Instruments are complex, and successful use of them depends in part upon a subadvisers ability to forecast correctly future market trends and other financial or economic factors or the
value of the underlying security, index, interest rate or currency. Even if a subadvisers forecasts are correct, other factors may cause distortions or dislocations in the markets that result in unsuccessful transactions. Financial Instruments
may behave in unexpected ways, especially in abnormal or volatile market conditions.
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The fund may be required to maintain assets as cover, maintain segregated accounts, post collateral or make margin payments when it takes
positions in Financial Instruments. Assets that are segregated or used as cover, margin or collateral may be required to be in the form of cash or liquid securities, and typically may not be sold while the position in the Financial Instrument is
open unless they are replaced with other appropriate assets. If markets move against the funds position, the fund may be required to maintain or post additional assets and may have to dispose of existing investments to obtain assets acceptable
as collateral or margin. This may prevent it from pursuing its investment objective. Assets that are segregated or used as cover, margin or collateral typically are invested, and these investments are subject to risk and may result in losses to the
fund. These losses may be substantial, and may be in addition to losses incurred by using the Financial Instrument in question. If the fund is unable to close out its positions, it may be required to continue to maintain such assets or accounts or
make such payments until the positions expire or mature, and the fund will continue to be subject to investment risk on the assets. Segregation, cover, margin and collateral requirements may impair the funds ability to sell a portfolio
security or make an investment at a time when it would otherwise be favorable to do so, or require the fund to sell a portfolio security or close out a derivatives position at a disadvantageous time or price.
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The funds ability to close out or unwind a position in a Financial Instrument prior to expiration or maturity depends on the existence of a
liquid market or, in the absence of such a market, the ability and willingness of the other party to the transaction (the counterparty) to enter into a transaction closing out the position. If there is no market or the fund is not
successful in its negotiations, the fund may not be able to sell or unwind the derivative position at a particular time or at an anticipated price. This may also be the case if the counterparty to the Financial Instrument becomes insolvent. The fund
may be
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required to make delivery of portfolio securities or other assets underlying a Financial Instrument in order to close out a position or to sell portfolio securities or assets at a disadvantageous
time or price in order to obtain cash to close out the position. While the position remains open, the fund continues to be subject to investment risk on the Financial Instrument. The fund may or may not be able to take other actions or enter into
other transactions, including hedging transactions, to limit or reduce its exposure to the Financial Instrument.
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Certain Financial Instruments transactions may have a leveraging effect on the fund, and adverse changes in the value of the underlying security,
index, interest rate, currency or other instrument or measure can result in losses substantially greater than the amount invested in the Financial Instrument itself. When the fund engages in transactions that have a leveraging effect, the value of
the fund is likely to be more volatile and all other risks also are likely to be compounded. This is because leverage generally magnifies the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of an asset and creates investment risk with respect to a
larger pool of assets than the fund would otherwise have. Certain Financial Instruments have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment.
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Many Financial Instruments may be difficult to value or may be valued subjectively. Inaccurate valuations can result in increased payment requirements
to counterparties or a loss of value to the fund.
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Liquidity risk exists when a particular Financial Instrument is difficult to purchase or sell. If a derivative transaction is particularly large or if
the relevant market is illiquid, the fund may be unable to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous time or price. Certain Financial Instruments, including certain over-the-counter (or OTC) options and swaps, may
be considered illiquid and therefore subject to the funds limitation on investments in illiquid securities.
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In a hedging transaction there may be imperfect correlation, or even no correlation, between the identity, price or price movements of a Financial
Instrument and the identity, price or price movements of the investments being hedged. This lack of correlation may cause the hedge to be unsuccessful and may result in the fund incurring substantial losses and/or not achieving anticipated gains.
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Hedging strategies can reduce opportunity for gain by offsetting the positive effect of favorable price movements. Even if the strategy works as
intended, the fund might be in a better position had it not attempted to hedge at all.
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Financial Instruments transactions used for non-hedging purposes may result in losses which would not be offset by increases in the value of portfolio
securities or declines in the cost of securities to be acquired. In the event that the fund enters into a derivatives transaction as an alternative to purchasing or selling other investments or in order to obtain desired exposure to an index or
market, the fund will be exposed to the same risks as are incurred in purchasing or selling the other investments directly, as well as the risks of the derivatives transaction itself.
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Certain Financial Instruments transactions involve the risk of loss resulting from the insolvency or bankruptcy of the counterparty or the failure by
the counterparty to make required payments or otherwise comply with the terms of the contract. In the event of default by a counterparty, the fund may have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction, which may be
limited by applicable law in the case of the counterpartys bankruptcy.
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Certain Financial Instruments transactions, including certain options, swaps, forward contracts, and certain options on foreign currencies, are not
entered into or traded on exchanges or in markets regulated by the CFTC or the SEC. Instead, such OTC derivatives are entered into directly by the counterparties and may be traded only through financial institutions acting as market makers. Many of
the protections afforded to exchange participants will not be available to participants in OTC derivatives transactions. For example, OTC derivatives transactions are not subject to the guarantee of an exchange or clearinghouse and as a result a
fund bears greater risk of default by the counterparties to such transactions. Information available on counterparty creditworthiness may be incomplete or outdated, thus reducing the ability to anticipate counterparty defaults.
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Swap contracts involve special risks. Swaps may in some cases be illiquid. In the absence of a central exchange or market for swap transactions, they
may be difficult to trade or value, especially in the event of market disruptions. The swap market is a relatively new market and is largely unregulated. It is possible that developments in the swap market, including potential government regulation,
could adversely affect the funds ability to terminate existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such agreements. Credit default swaps involve additional risks. For example, credit default swaps increase credit risk
since the fund has exposure to both the issuer of the referenced obligation (typically a debt obligation) and the counterparty to the credit default swap.
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Financial Instruments involve operational risk. There may be incomplete or erroneous documentation or inadequate collateral or margin, or transactions
may fail to settle. The risk of operational failures may be higher for OTC derivatives transactions. For derivatives not guaranteed by an exchange, the fund may have only contractual remedies in the event of a counterparty default, and there may be
delays, costs, disagreements as to the meaning of contractual terms and litigation, in enforcing those remedies.
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Financial Instruments transactions conducted outside the United States may not be conducted in the same manner as those entered into on U.S. exchanges,
and may be subject to different margin, exercise, settlement or expiration procedures. Many of the risks of OTC derivatives transactions are also applicable to derivatives transactions conducted outside the United States. Derivatives transactions
conducted outside the United States also are subject to the risks affecting foreign securities, currencies and other instruments.
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Financial Instruments involving currency are subject to additional risks. Currency related transactions may be negatively affected by government
exchange controls, blockages, and manipulations. Exchange rates may be influenced by factors extrinsic to a countrys economy. Also, there is no systematic reporting of last sale information with respect to foreign currencies. As a result, the
information on which trading in currency derivatives is based may not be as complete as, and may be delayed beyond, comparable data for other transactions.
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Use of Financial Instruments involves transaction costs, which may be significant. Use of Financial Instruments also may increase the amount of taxable
income to shareholders.
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Hedging
.
As stated above, the term hedging often is used
to describe a transaction or strategy that is intended to mitigate risk of loss in some fashion. Hedging strategies can be broadly categorized as short hedges and long hedges. A short hedge is a purchase or sale of a
Financial Instrument intended partially or fully to offset potential declines in the value of one or more investments held in a funds portfolio. In a short hedge a fund takes a position in a Financial Instrument whose price is expected to move
in the opposite direction of the price of the investment being hedged.
Conversely, a long hedge is a purchase or sale of a
Financial Instrument intended partially or fully to offset potential increases in the acquisition cost of one or more investments that the fund intends to acquire. Thus, in a long hedge, the fund takes a position in a Financial Instrument whose
price is expected to move in the same direction as the price of the prospective investment being hedged. A long hedge is sometimes referred to as an anticipatory hedge. In an anticipatory hedge transaction, the fund does not own a corresponding
security and, therefore, the transaction does not relate to the portfolio security that the fund owns. Rather, it relates to a security that the fund intends to acquire. If the fund does not complete the hedge by purchasing the security it
anticipated purchasing, the effect on the funds portfolio is the same as if the transaction were entered into for speculative purposes.
In hedging transactions, Financial Instruments on securities (such as options and/or futures) generally are used to attempt to hedge against price movements in one or more particular securities positions
that the fund owns or intends to acquire. Financial Instruments on indices, in contrast, generally are used to attempt to hedge against price movements in market sectors in which the fund has invested or expects to invest. Financial Instruments on
debt securities generally are used to hedge either individual securities or broad debt market sectors.
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OptionsGenerally
.
A call option gives the purchaser the right to buy,
and obligates the writer to sell, the underlying investment at the agreed-upon price during the option period. A put option gives the purchaser the right to sell, and obligates the writer to buy, the underlying investment at the agreed-upon price
during the option period. Purchasers of options pay an amount, known as a premium, to the option writer in exchange for the right under the option contract.
The fund may purchase or write both exchange-traded and OTC options. Exchange-traded options in the United States are issued by a clearing organization affiliated with the exchange on which the option is
listed that, in effect, guarantees completion of every exchange-traded option transaction. In contrast, OTC options are contracts between the fund and its counterparty (usually a securities dealer or a bank) with no clearing organization guarantee.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the
option contract. When the fund purchases an OTC option, it relies on the counterparty from whom it purchased the option to make or take delivery of the underlying investment upon exercise of the option. Failure by the counterparty to do so would
result in the loss of any premium paid by the fund as well as the loss of any expected benefit of the transaction.
Writing
put or call options can enable the fund to enhance income or yield by reason of the premiums paid by the purchasers of such options. However, the fund may also suffer a loss. For example, if the market price of the security underlying a put option
written by the fund declines to less than the exercise price of the option, minus the premium received, it can be expected that the option will be exercised and the fund would be required to purchase the security at more than its market value. If a
security appreciates to a price higher than the exercise price of a call option written by the fund, it can be expected that the option will be exercised and the fund will be obligated to sell the security at less than its market value.
The value of an option position will reflect, among other things, the current market value of the underlying investment, the time
remaining until expiration, the relationship of the exercise price to the market price of the underlying investment, the historical price volatility of the underlying investment and general market conditions. Options purchased by the fund that
expire unexercised have no value, and the fund will realize a loss in the amount of the premium paid and any transaction costs. If an option written by the fund expires unexercised, the fund realizes a gain equal to the premium received at the time
the option was written. Transaction costs must be included in these calculations.
The fund may effectively terminate its
right or obligation under an option by entering into a closing transaction. For example, the fund may terminate its obligation under a call or put option that it had written by purchasing an identical call or put option; this is known as a closing
purchase transaction. Conversely, the fund may terminate a position in a put or call option it had purchased by writing an identical put or call option; this is known as a closing sale transaction. Closing transactions permit the fund to realize
profits or limit losses on an option position prior to its exercise or expiration. There can be no assurance that it will be possible for the fund to enter into any closing transaction.
A type of put that the fund may purchase is an optional delivery standby commitment, which is entered into by parties selling
debt securities to the fund. An optional delivery standby commitment gives the fund the right to sell the security back to the seller on specified terms. This right is provided as an inducement to purchase the security.
Options on Indices
.
Puts and calls on indices are similar to puts and calls on securities (described above) or futures
contracts (described below) except that all settlements are in cash and gain or loss depends on changes in the index in question rather than on price movements in individual securities or futures contracts. When the fund writes a call on an index,
it receives a premium and agrees that, prior to the expiration date, the purchaser of the call, upon exercise of the call, will receive from the fund an amount of cash if the closing level of the index upon which the call is based is greater than
the exercise price of the call. The amount of cash is equal to the difference
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between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the call times a specified multiple (multiplier), which determines the total dollar value for each point of such
difference. When the fund buys a call on an index, it pays a premium and has the same rights as to such call as are indicated above. When the fund buys a put on an index, it pays a premium and has the right, prior to the expiration date, to require
the seller of the put, upon the funds exercise of the put, to deliver to the fund an amount of cash if the closing level of the index upon which the put is based is less than the exercise price of the put, which amount of cash is determined by
the multiplier, as described above for calls. When the fund writes a put on an index, it receives a premium and the purchaser of the put has the right, prior to the expiration date, to require the fund to deliver to it an amount of cash equal to the
difference between the closing level of the index and exercise price times the multiplier if the closing level is less than the exercise price.
Options on indices may, depending on circumstances, involve greater risk than options on securities. Because index options are settled in cash, when the fund writes a call on an index it may not be able
to provide in advance for its potential settlement obligations by acquiring and holding the underlying securities.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts
.
A financial futures contract sale creates an obligation by the seller
to deliver the type of Financial Instrument, or, in the case of index and similar futures, cash, called for in the contract in a specified delivery month for a stated price. A financial futures contract purchase creates an obligation by the
purchaser to take delivery of the asset called for in the contract in a specified delivery month at a stated price. Options on futures give the purchaser the right to assume a position in a futures contract at the specified option exercise price at
any time during the period of the option.
Futures strategies can be used to change the duration of the funds portfolio.
If a subadviser wishes to shorten the duration of the funds portfolio, the fund may sell a debt futures contract or a call option thereon, or purchase a put option on that futures contract. If a subadviser wishes to lengthen the duration of
the funds portfolio, the fund may buy a debt futures contract or a call option thereon, or sell a put option thereon.
Futures contracts may also be used for other purposes, such as to simulate full investment in underlying securities while retaining a
cash balance for portfolio management purposes, as a substitute for direct investment in a security, to facilitate trading, to reduce transaction costs, or to seek higher investment returns when a futures contract or option is priced more
attractively than the underlying security or index.
No price is paid upon entering into a futures contract. Instead, at the
inception of a futures contract the fund is required to deposit initial margin. Margin must also be deposited when writing a call or put option on a futures contract, in accordance with applicable exchange rules. Under certain
circumstances, such as periods of high volatility, the fund may be required by an exchange to increase the level of its initial margin payment, and initial margin requirements might be increased generally in the future by regulatory action.
Subsequent variation margin payments are made to and from the futures broker daily as the value of the futures
position varies, a process known as marking-to-market. Daily variation margin calls could be substantial in the event of adverse price movements. If the fund has insufficient cash to meet daily variation margin requirements, it might
need to sell securities at a disadvantageous time or price.
Although some futures and options on futures call for making or
taking delivery of the underlying securities, currencies, or cash, generally those contracts are closed out prior to delivery by offsetting purchases or sales of matching futures or options (involving the same index, currency or underlying security
and delivery month). If an offsetting purchase price is less than the original sale price, the fund realizes a gain, or if it is more, the fund realizes a loss. If an offsetting sale price is more than the original purchase price, the fund realizes
a gain, or if it is less, the fund realizes a loss. The fund will also bear transaction costs for each contract, which will be included in these calculations. Positions in futures and options on futures may be closed only on an exchange or board of
trade that provides a secondary market. However, there can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for a particular contract at a particular time. In such event, it may not be possible to close a futures contract or options
position.
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Under certain circumstances, futures exchanges may establish daily limits on the amount that
the price of a futures contract or an option on a futures contract can vary from the previous days settlement price; once that limit is reached, no trades may be made that day at a price beyond the limit. Daily price limits do not limit
potential losses because prices could move to the daily limit for several consecutive days with little or no trading, thereby preventing liquidation of unfavorable positions.
If the fund were unable to liquidate a futures contract or an option on a futures position due to the absence of a liquid secondary market, the imposition of price limits or otherwise, it could incur
substantial losses. The fund would continue to be subject to market risk with respect to the position. In addition, except in the case of purchased options, the fund would continue to be required to make daily variation margin payments and might be
required to maintain the position being hedged by the future or option or to maintain cash or securities in a segregated account.
If an index future is used for hedging purposes the risk of imperfect correlation between movements in the price of index futures and movements in the price of the securities that are the subject of the
hedge increases as the composition of the funds portfolio diverges from the securities included in the applicable index. The price of the index futures may move more than or less than the price of the securities being hedged. To compensate for
the imperfect correlation of movements in the price of the securities being hedged and movements in the price of the index futures, the fund may buy or sell index futures in a greater dollar amount than the dollar amount of the securities being
hedged if the historical volatility of the prices of such securities being hedged is more than the historical volatility of the prices of the securities included in the index. It is also possible that, where the fund has sold index futures contracts
to hedge against a decline in the market, the market may advance and the value of the securities held in the fund may decline. If this occurred, the fund would lose money on the futures contract and also experience a decline in value of its
portfolio securities.
Where index futures are purchased to hedge against a possible increase in the price of securities
before the fund is able to invest in them in an orderly fashion, it is possible that the market may decline instead. If a subadviser then concludes not to invest in them at that time because of concern as to possible further market decline or for
other reasons, the fund will realize a loss on the futures contract that is not offset by a reduction in the price of the securities it had anticipated purchasing.
Futures and options on futures are regulated by the CFTC.
Non-U.S.
Currency Strategies
.
The fund may invest in securities that are denominated in non-U.S. currencies and may engage in a variety of non-U.S. currency exchange transactions to protect against uncertainty in the level of future exchange rates or
to earn additional income. The fund may use options and futures contracts, swaps and indexed notes relating to non-U.S. currencies and forward currency contracts to attempt to hedge against movements in the values of the non-U.S. currencies in which
the funds securities are denominated or to attempt to enhance income or yield. Currency hedges can protect against price movements in a security that the fund owns or intends to acquire that are attributable to changes in the value of the
currency in which it is denominated. Such hedges do not, however, protect against price movements in the securities that are attributable to other causes.
The value of Financial Instruments on non-U.S. currencies depends on the value of the underlying currency relative to the U.S. dollar. Because non-U.S. currency transactions occurring in the interbank
market might involve substantially larger amounts than those involved in the use of such Financial Instruments, the fund could be disadvantaged by having to deal in the odd lot market (generally consisting of transactions of less than $1 million)
for the underlying non-U.S. currencies at prices that are less favorable than for round lots.
There is no systematic
reporting of last sale information for non-U.S. currencies or any regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis. Quotation information generally is representative of
very large transactions in the interbank market and
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thus might not reflect odd-lot transactions where rates might be less favorable. The interbank market in non-U.S. currencies is a global, round-the-clock market. To the extent the U.S. options or
futures markets are closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, significant price and rate movements might take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the markets for the Financial Instruments until they
reopen.
Settlement of transactions involving non-U.S. currencies might be required to take place within the country issuing
the underlying currency. Thus, the fund might be required to accept or make delivery of the underlying non-U.S. currency in accordance with any U.S. or non-U.S. regulations regarding the maintenance of non-U.S. banking arrangements by U.S. residents
and might be required to pay any fees, taxes and charges associated with such delivery assessed in the issuing country.
Generally, OTC non-U.S. currency options used by the fund are European-style options. This means that the option is only exercisable
immediately prior to its expiration. This is in contrast to American-style options, which are exercisable at any time prior to the expiration date of the option.
Forward Currency Contracts
.
The fund may enter into forward currency contracts to purchase or sell non-U.S. currencies for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars or another non-U.S. currency. A
forward currency contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days (term) from the date of the forward currency contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the
time of the forward currency contract. These forward currency contracts are traded directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers.
The cost to the fund of engaging in forward currency contracts varies with factors such as the currency involved, the length of the contract period and the market conditions then prevailing. Because
forward currency contracts are usually entered into on a principal basis, no fees or commissions are involved. When the fund enters into a forward currency contract, it relies on the counterparty to make or take delivery of the underlying currency
at the maturity of the contract. Failure by the counterparty to do so would result in the loss of any expected benefit of the transaction.
As is the case with futures contracts, parties to forward currency contracts can enter into offsetting closing transactions, similar to closing transactions on futures contracts, by selling or purchasing,
respectively, an instrument identical to the instrument purchased or sold. Secondary markets generally do not exist for forward currency contracts, with the result that closing transactions generally can be made for forward currency contracts only
by negotiating directly with the counterparty.
If the fund engages in a forward currency contract with respect to particular
securities, the precise matching of forward currency contract amounts and the value of the securities involved generally will not be possible because the value of such securities, measured in the non-U.S. currency, will change after the forward
currency contract has been established. Thus, the fund might need to purchase or sell non-U.S. currencies in the spot (cash) market to the extent such non-U.S. currencies are not covered by forward currency contracts.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars
.
The fund may enter into swaps, caps, floors and collars to preserve a return or a spread
on a particular investment or portion of its portfolio, to protect against any increase in the price of securities the fund anticipates purchasing at a later date or to attempt to enhance yield or total return. A swap typically involves the exchange
by the fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive cash flows, e.g., an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed-rate payments. The purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index
exceeds a predetermined value, to receive payments on a notional principal amount from the party selling the cap. The purchase of a floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined value, to receive
payments on a notional principal amount from the party selling the floor. A collar combines elements of a cap and a floor.
Swap agreements, including caps, floors and collars, can be individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of
different types of investments (such as individual securities, baskets of securities and
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securities indices) or market factors (such as those listed below). Depending on their structure, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of the funds investments
and its share price and yield because, and to the extent, these agreements affect the funds exposure to long- or short-term interest rates, non-U.S. currency values, mortgage-backed or other security values, corporate borrowing rates or other
factors such as security prices or inflation rates.
Swap agreements will tend to shift the funds investment exposure
from one type of investment to another. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options.
If a
counterpartys creditworthiness declines, the value of the agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
The fund may enter into credit default swap contracts for investment purposes. As the seller in a credit default swap contract, the fund would be required to pay the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a
referenced debt obligation to the counterparty in the event of a default by a third party, such as a U.S. or a non-U.S. corporate issuer, on the debt obligation. In return, the fund would receive from the counterparty a periodic stream of payments
over the term of the contract provided that no event of default has occurred. If no default occurs, the fund would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligations. As the seller, the fund would be subject to investment exposure on
the notional amount of the swap which may be significantly larger than the funds cost to enter into the credit default swap. The fund may also invest in credit default indices, which are indices that reflect the performance of a basket of
credit default swaps, and swaptions on credit default swap indices. (See Options on Swaps below.)
The fund may
purchase credit default swap contracts in order to hedge against the risk of default of debt securities held in its portfolio, in which case the fund would function as the counterparty referenced in the preceding paragraph. This would involve the
risk that the investment may expire worthless and would only generate income in the event of an actual default by the issuer of the underlying obligation (or, as applicable, a credit downgrade or other indication of financial instability). It would
also involve credit riskthat the seller may fail to satisfy its payment obligations to the fund in the event of a default.
The fund may enter into an interest rate swap in an effort to protect against declines in the value of fixed income securities held by the fund. In such an instance, the fund may agree to pay a fixed rate
(multiplied by a notional amount) while a counterparty agrees to pay a floating rate (multiplied by the same notional amount). If interest rates rise, resulting in a diminution in the value of the funds portfolio, the fund would receive
payments under the swap that would offset, in whole or in part, such diminution in value.
The net amount of the excess, if
any, of the funds obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap will be accrued on a daily basis, depending on whether a threshold amount (if any) is exceeded, and an amount of cash or liquid assets having an aggregate net asset
value approximately equal to the accrued excess will be set aside as cover, as described below. The fund will also maintain collateral with respect to its total obligations under any swaps that are not entered into on a net basis, and will maintain
cover as required by SEC guidelines from time to time with respect to caps and floors written by the fund.
Options on
Swaps.
An option on a swap agreement, or a swaption, is a contract that gives a counterparty the right (but not the obligation) to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap
agreement, at some designated future time on specified terms. In return, the purchaser pays a premium to the seller of the contract. The seller of the contract receives the premium and bears the risk of unfavorable changes on the
underlying swap. The fund may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions. The fund may also enter into swaptions on either an asset-based or liability-based basis, depending on whether the fund is hedging its assets or its liabilities. The
fund may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions to the same extent it may make use of standard options on securities or other instruments. The fund may enter into these transactions primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular
investment or portion of its holdings, as
34
a duration management technique, to protect against an increase in the price of securities the fund anticipates purchasing at a later date, or for any other purposes, such as for speculation to
increase returns. Swaptions are generally subject to the same risks involved in the funds use of options.
Depending on
the terms of the particular option agreement, the fund will generally incur a greater degree of risk when it writes a swaption than it will incur when it purchases a swaption. When the fund purchases a swaption, it risks losing only the amount of
the premium it has paid should it decide to let the option expire unexercised. However, when the fund writes a swaption, upon exercise of the option the fund will become obligated according to the terms of the underlying agreement.
Combined Positions
.
The fund may purchase and write options in combination with each other, or in combination with other
Financial Instruments, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of its overall position. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
Cover
.
Transactions using Financial Instruments may involve obligations which if not covered could be construed
as senior securities. The fund will comply with SEC guidelines regarding cover for these instruments and will, if the guidelines so require, segregate or set aside on its books cash or liquid assets in the prescribed amount as determined
daily. The fund may cover such transactions using other methods permitted under the 1940 Act, orders or releases issued by the SEC thereunder, or no-action letters or other guidance of the SEC staff. Although SEC guidelines on cover are designed to
limit the transactions involving Financial Instruments that the fund may be engaged in at any time, the segregation of assets does not reduce the risks to the fund of entering into transactions in Financial Instruments.
Turnover
.
The funds derivatives activities may affect its turnover rate and brokerage commission payments. The
exercise of calls or puts written by the fund, and the sale or purchase of futures contracts, may cause it to sell or purchase related investments, thus increasing its turnover rate. Once the fund has received an exercise notice on an option it has
written, it cannot effect a closing transaction in order to terminate its obligation under the option and must deliver or receive the underlying securities at the exercise price. The exercise of puts purchased by the fund may also cause the sale of
related investments, also increasing turnover; although such exercise is within the funds control, holding a protective put might cause it to sell the related investments for reasons that would not exist in the absence of the put. The fund
will pay a brokerage commission each time it buys or sells a put or call or purchases or sells a futures contract. Such commissions may be higher than those that would apply to direct purchases or sales.
Illiquid Assets
Illiquid assets are assets that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business within seven days at approximately the
value at which they are being carried on the funds books. These assets include, among others, certain securities that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale, certain derivative products and any repurchase transactions that
do not mature within seven days. The fund may not be able to sell illiquid securities and other assets in its portfolio at a time when the sale would be desirable or at a price the fund deems representative of their value. Disposing of illiquid
investments may involve time-consuming negotiation and expenses.
Certain restricted securities can be traded freely among
qualified purchasers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 (the 1933 Act). The SEC has stated that an investment companys board of directors, or its investment adviser acting under authority delegated by the
board, may determine that a security eligible for trading under this rule is liquid. The Board of Trustees (the Board) has delegated to the subadviser authority to determine whether particular securities eligible for trading
under Rule 144A are and continue to be liquid. Investing in these restricted securities could have the effect of increasing the funds illiquidity, however, if qualified purchasers become uninterested in buying these securities.
35
Investment Company Securities
Subject to applicable statutory and regulatory limitations, the fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, including shares
of other mutual funds, closed-end funds, and unregistered investment companies. Investments in other investment companies are subject to the risk of the securities in which those investment companies invest. In addition, to the extent the fund
invests in securities of other investment companies, fund shareholders would indirectly pay a portion of the operating costs of such companies in addition to the expenses of the funds own operation. These costs include management, brokerage,
shareholder servicing and other operational expenses.
The fund may invest in shares of mutual funds or unit investment trusts
that are traded on a stock exchange, called exchange-traded funds or ETFs. Typically an ETF seeks to track the performance of an index, such as the S&P 500, the NASDAQ 100, or more narrow sector or foreign indices, by holding in its portfolio
either the same securities that comprise the index, or a representative sample of the index. Investing in an ETF will give the fund exposure to the securities comprising the index on which the ETF is based.
Unlike shares of typical mutual funds or unit investment trusts, shares of ETFs are designed to be traded throughout a trading day,
bought and sold based on market values and not at net asset value. For this reason, shares could trade at either a premium or discount to net asset value. However, the portfolios held by index-based ETFs are publicly disclosed on each trading day,
and an approximation of actual net asset value is disseminated throughout the trading day. Because of this transparency, the trading prices of index based ETFs tend to closely track the actual net asset value of the underlying portfolios and the
fund will generally gain or lose value depending on the performance of the index. However, gains or losses on the funds investment in ETFs will ultimately depend on the purchase and sale price of the ETF. The fund may invest in ETFs that are
actively managed. Actively managed ETFs do not have the transparency of index-based ETFs, and also therefore, are more likely to trade at a discount or premium to actual net asset values.
The fund may invest in closed-end investment companies which hold securities of U.S. and/or non-U.S. issuers. Because shares of
closed-end funds trade on an exchange, investments in closed-end investment funds may entail the additional risk that the market value of such investments may be substantially less than their net asset value.
Forward Roll Transactions
In forward roll transactions, also known as mortgage dollar rolls, the fund sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in
the current month and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date. The fund may enter into a mortgage dollar roll commitment with the intention of entering into
an offsetting transaction whereby, rather than accepting delivery of the security on the specified future date, the fund sells the security and then agrees to repurchase a similar security at a later time. In this case, the fund forgoes interest on
the security during the roll period and is compensated by the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the initial sale of the security and by the difference between the sale price and the lower repurchase price at the future date. At the time the
fund enters into a mortgage dollar roll commitment, the fund will set aside cash or other appropriate liquid securities with a value at least equal to the funds obligation under the commitment. The funds liquidity and ability to manage
its assets might be affected when it sets aside cash or portfolio securities to cover such commitments.
Mortgage dollar rolls
involve the risk that the market value of the securities the fund is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. In the event the buyer of securities under a mortgage dollar roll files for bankruptcy or
becomes insolvent, the funds use of proceeds of the dollar roll may be restricted pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether to enforce the funds obligation to repurchase the securities.
36
Forward roll transactions may have a leveraging effect on the fund, making the value of an
investment in the fund more volatile and increasing the funds overall investment exposure.
See
Forward
Commitments and When-Issued Securities
below.
Forward Commitments and When-Issued Securities
The fund may purchase securities on a when-issued or to be announced or forward delivery basis. The
payment obligation and the interest rate that will be received on the when-issued securities are fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment although settlement, i.e., delivery of and payment for the securities, takes place at
a later date. In a to be announced transaction, a fund commits to purchase securities for which all specific information is not known at the time of the trade.
Securities purchased on a when-issued or forward delivery basis are subject to changes in value based upon the markets perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and
changes, real or anticipated, in the level of interest rates. The value of these securities experiences appreciation when interest rates decline and depreciation when interest rates rise. Purchasing securities on a when-issued or
forward delivery basis can involve a risk that the yields available in the market on the settlement date may actually be higher or lower than those obtained in the transaction itself. At the time the fund enters into a when
issued or forward delivery commitment, the fund will set aside cash or other appropriate liquid securities with a value at least equal to the funds obligation under the commitment. The funds liquidity and ability to
manage its assets might be affected when it sets aside cash or portfolio securities to cover such commitments.
An increase in
the percentage of the funds assets committed to the purchase of securities on a when-issued basis may increase the volatility of its net asset value.
Stand-By Commitments
The fund may acquire stand-by commitments
with respect to municipal obligations held in its portfolio. Under a stand-by commitment a dealer agrees to purchase, at the funds option, specified municipal obligations held by the fund at a specified price and, in this respect, stand-by
commitments are comparable to put options. A stand-by commitment entitles the holder to achieve same day settlement and to receive an exercise price equal to the amortized cost of the underlying security plus accrued interest, if any, at the time of
exercise. The fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to an institution providing a stand-by commitment and a decline in the credit quality of the institution could cause losses to the fund.
The fund will generally acquire stand-by commitments to facilitate fund liquidity. The cost of entering into stand-by commitments will
increase the cost of the underlying municipal obligation and similarly will decrease such securitys yield to investors. Gains, if any, realized in connection with stand-by commitments will be taxable.
Repurchase Agreements
Under the terms of a typical repurchase agreement, the fund would acquire an underlying debt obligation for a relatively short period
(usually not more than one week) subject to an obligation of the seller to repurchase, and the fund to resell, the obligation at an agreed-upon price and time, thereby determining the yield during the funds holding period. This arrangement
results in a fixed rate of return that is not subject to market fluctuations during the funds holding period. The value of the underlying securities will be at least equal at all times to the total amount of the repurchase obligation,
including interest. All repurchase agreements entered into by the fund shall be fully collateralized at all times during the period of the agreement in that the value of the underlying security shall be at least equal to an amount of the loan,
including interest thereon, and the fund or its custodian shall have control of the collateral, which the subadviser believes will give the fund a valid, perfected security
37
interest in the collateral. Repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the other party, including possible delays or restrictions upon the
funds ability to dispose of the underlying securities, the risk of a possible decline in the value of the underlying securities during the period in which the fund seeks to assert its right to them, the risk of incurring expenses associated
with asserting those rights and the risk of losing all or part of the income from the agreement.
Pursuant to an exemptive
order issued by the SEC, the fund, along with other affiliated entities managed by the manager, may transfer uninvested cash balances into one or more joint repurchase accounts. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements,
secured by U.S. government securities. Securities that are collateral for repurchase agreements are financial assets subject to the funds entitlement orders through its securities account at its custodian bank until the agreements mature. Each
joint repurchase agreement requires that the market value of the collateral be sufficient to cover payments of interest and principal; however, in the event of default by the other party to the agreement, retention or sale of the collateral may be
subject to legal proceedings.
Borrowings
The fund may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies,
to raise additional cash to be invested by the funds subadviser in other securities or instruments in an effort to increase the funds investment returns. Reverse repurchase agreements may be considered to be a type of borrowing.
When the fund invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the fund will be at risk for any fluctuations in the market
value of the securities in which the proceeds are invested. Like other leveraging risks, this makes the value of an investment in the fund more volatile and increases the funds overall investment exposure. In addition, if the funds
return on its investment of the borrowing proceeds does not equal or exceed the interest that the fund is obligated to pay under the terms of a borrowing, engaging in these transactions will lower the funds return.
The fund may be required to liquidate portfolio securities at a time when it would be disadvantageous to do so in order to make payments
with respect to its borrowing obligations. This could adversely affect the subadvisers strategy and result in lower fund returns. Interest on any borrowings will be a fund expense and will reduce the value of the funds shares.
The fund may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the fund enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion
of the funds assets will be used as collateral. During the term of the borrowing, the fund will remain at risk for any fluctuations in the market value of these assets in addition to any securities purchased with the proceeds of the loan. In
addition, the fund may be unable to sell the collateral at a time when it would be advantageous to do so, which could adversely affect the subadvisers strategy and result in lower fund returns. The fund would also be subject to the risk that
the lender may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to return the collateral to the fund. In the event of a default by the lender, there may be delays, costs and risks of loss involved in the funds
exercising its rights with respect to the collateral or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements or obligations or by applicable law.
The 1940 Act requires the fund to maintain an asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings, provided that in the event that the funds asset coverage falls below 300%,
the fund is required to reduce the amount of its borrowings so that it meets the 300% asset coverage threshold within three days (not including Sundays and holidays). Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the funds total assets,
minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this guideline would have the effect of limiting the amount that the fund may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of
entering into borrowing transactions.
38
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
A reverse repurchase agreement has the characteristics of a secured borrowing by the fund and creates leverage in the funds
portfolio. In a reverse repurchase transaction, the fund sells a portfolio instrument to another person, such as a financial institution or broker/dealer, in return for cash. At the same time, the fund agrees to repurchase the instrument at an
agreed-upon time and at a price that is greater than the amount of cash that the fund received when it sold the instrument, representing the equivalent of an interest payment by the fund for the use of the cash. During the term of the transaction,
the fund will continue to receive any principal and interest payments (or the equivalent thereof) on the underlying instruments.
The fund may engage in reverse repurchase agreements as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests or for other temporary or emergency purposes. Unless otherwise limited in the Prospectus or
this SAI, the fund may also engage in reverse repurchase agreements to the extent permitted by its fundamental investment policies in order to raise additional cash to be invested by the funds subadviser in other securities or instruments in
an effort to increase the funds investment returns.
During the term of the transaction, the fund will remain at risk
for any fluctuations in the market value of the instruments subject to the reverse repurchase agreement as if it had not entered into the transaction. When the fund reinvests the proceeds of a reverse repurchase agreement in other securities, the
fund will also be at risk for any fluctuations in the market value of the securities in which the proceeds are invested. Like other leveraging risks, this makes the value of an investment in the fund more volatile and increases the funds
overall investment exposure. In addition, if the funds return on its investment of the proceeds of the reverse repurchase agreement does not equal or exceed the implied interest that it is obligated to pay under the reverse repurchase
agreement, engaging in the transaction will lower the funds return.
When the fund enters into a reverse repurchase
agreement, it is subject to the risk that the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the fund. In the event of a default by the counterparty, there may be delays, costs and
risks of loss involved in the funds exercising its rights under the agreement, or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements or obligations or by applicable law.
In addition, the fund may be unable to sell the instruments subject to the reverse repurchase agreement at a time when it would be
advantageous to do so, or may be required to liquidate portfolio securities at a time when it would be disadvantageous to do so in order to make payments with respect to its obligations under a reverse repurchase agreement. This could adversely
affect the subadvisers strategy and result in lower fund returns. At the time the fund enters into a reverse repurchase agreement, the fund is required to set aside cash or other appropriate liquid securities in the amount of the funds
obligation under the reverse repurchase agreement or take certain other actions in accordance with SEC guidelines, which may affect the funds liquidity and ability to manage its assets. Although complying with SEC guidelines would have the
effect of limiting the amount of fund assets that may be committed to reverse repurchase agreements and other similar transactions at any time, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into reverse repurchase agreements.
Subordinated Securities
The fund may invest in securities which are subordinated or junior to more senior securities of the issuer, or which represent
interests in pools of such subordinated or junior securities. Such securities may include so-called high yield or junk bonds (i.e., bonds that are rated below investment grade by a rating agency or that are determined by the
subadviser to be of equivalent quality) and preferred stock. Under the terms of subordinated securities, payments that would otherwise be made to their holders may be required to be made to the holders of more senior securities, and/or the
subordinated or junior securities may have junior liens, if they have any rights at all, in any collateral (meaning proceeds of the collateral are required to be paid first to the holders of more senior securities). As a result, subordinated or
junior securities will be disproportionately adversely affected by a default or even a perceived decline in creditworthiness of the issuer.
39
Real Estate Investment Trusts
The fund may invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs). REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in
income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real
property and derive income primarily from the collection of rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and
derive income from the collection of interest payments. REITs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with the applicable requirements of the Code. Debt securities issued by REITs, for the most part, are general and
unsecured obligations and are subject to risks associated with REITs.
Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in
addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. An equity REIT may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying properties owned by the REIT. A mortgage REIT may be affected by changes in interest
rates and the ability of the issuers of its portfolio mortgages to repay their obligations. REITs are dependent upon the skills of their managers and are not diversified. REITs are generally dependent upon maintaining cash flows to repay borrowings
and to make distributions to shareholders and are subject to the risk of default by lessees or borrowers. REITs whose underlying assets are concentrated in properties used by a particular industry, such as health care, are also subject to industry
related risks.
REITs (and, in particular, mortgage REITs) are also subject to interest rate risks. When interest rates
decline, the value of a REITs investment in fixed rate obligations can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a REITs investment in fixed rate obligations can be expected to decline. If the REIT invests
in adjustable rate mortgage loans the interest rates on which are reset periodically, yields on a REITs investments in such loans will gradually align themselves to reflect changes in market interest rates. This causes the value of such
investments to fluctuate less dramatically in response to interest rate fluctuations than would investments in fixed rate obligations. REITs may have limited financial resources, may trade less frequently and in a limited volume and may be subject
to more abrupt or erratic price movements than larger company securities. Historically, REITs have been more volatile in price than the larger capitalization stocks included in S&P 500 Index.
Preferred Stock
The
fund may invest in preferred stock. Preferred stock pays dividends at a specified rate and has preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of an issuers assets but is junior to the debt securities of the issuer
in those same respects. The market prices of preferred stocks are subject to changes in interest rates and are more sensitive to changes in an issuers creditworthiness than are the prices of debt securities. Shareholders of preferred stock may
suffer a loss of value if dividends are not paid. Under ordinary circumstances, preferred stock does not carry voting rights. In addition, the fund may receive stocks or warrants as a result of an exchange or tender of fixed income securities.
Equity Securities
The fund may invest up to 10% of its assets in common stock, convertible securities, warrants or other equity securities.
Although the fund invests principally in fixed income securities and related investments, the fund may from time to time invest in or receive equity securities and equity-like securities. Equity
securities include warrants, rights, exchange traded and over-the-counter common stocks, baskets of equity securities such as exchange traded funds, depositary receipts, trust certificates, limited partnership interests and shares of other
investment companies and real estate investment trusts.
40
Equity securities represent an ownership interest in the issuing company. Holders of equity
securities are not creditors of the company, and in the event of the liquidation of the company, would be entitled to their pro rata share of the companys assets, if any, after creditors, including the holders of fixed income securities, and
holders of any senior equity securities are paid. Equity securities generally have greater price volatility than fixed income securities.
Warrants and rights permit, but do not obligate, their holders to subscribe for other securities. Warrants and rights are subject to the same market risks as stocks, but may be more volatile in price. An
investment in warrants or rights may be considered speculative. In addition, the value of a warrant or right does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities and a warrant or right ceases to have value if it is not exercised
prior to its expiration date.
Short-Term Trading
Fund transactions will be undertaken principally to accomplish the funds investment objective in relation to anticipated movements in the general level of interest rates, but the fund may also
engage in short-term trading consistent with its investment objective.
Alternative Investment Strategies and Temporary Investments
At times the subadviser may judge that conditions in the securities markets make pursuing the funds typical
investment strategy inconsistent with the best interest of its shareholders. At such times, the subadviser may temporarily use alternative strategies, primarily designed to reduce fluctuations in the value of the funds assets. In implementing
these defensive strategies, the fund may invest without limit in securities that a subadviser believes present less risk to the fund, including equity securities, debt and fixed income securities, preferred stocks, U.S. government and agency
obligations, cash or money market instruments, certificates of deposit, demand and time deposits, bankers acceptance or other securities the subadviser considers consistent with such defensive strategies, such as, but not limited to, options,
futures, warrants or swaps. During periods in which such strategies are used, the duration of the fund may diverge from the duration range for that fund disclosed in its Prospectus (if applicable). It is impossible to predict when, or for how long,
the fund will use these alternative strategies. As a result of using these alternative strategies, the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
New Investment Products
New types of derivative instruments, hedging
instruments and other securities or instruments are developed and marketed from time to time. Consistent with its investment limitations, the fund expects to invest in those new types of securities and instruments that its subadviser believes may
assist the fund in achieving its investment objective.
Ratings as Investment Criteria
In general, the ratings of NRSROs represent the opinions of these agencies as to the quality of securities that they rate. Such ratings,
however, are relative and subjective, are not absolute standards of quality and do not evaluate the market value risk of the securities. These ratings will be used by the fund as initial criteria for the selection of portfolio securities, but the
fund also will rely upon the independent advice of the subadviser to evaluate potential investments. Among the factors that will be considered are the long-term ability of the issuer to pay principal and interest and general economic trends.
Appendix A to this SAI contains further information concerning the rating categories of NRSROs and their significance.
If,
after purchase, the credit rating on a security is downgraded or the credit quality deteriorates, or if the maturity is extended, the funds subadviser will decide whether the security should be held or sold. Upon the occurrence of certain
triggering events or defaults, the investors in a security held by the fund may become the
41
holders of underlying assets. In that case, the fund may become the holder of securities that it could not otherwise purchase at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or can be sold
only at a loss.
Duration
For the simplest fixed income securities, duration indicates the average time at which the securitys cash flows are to be received. For simple fixed income securities with interest
payments occurring prior to the payment of principal, duration is always less than maturity. For example, a current coupon bullet bond with a maturity of 3.5 years (
i.e.
, a bond that pays interest at regular intervals and that
will have a single principal payment of the entire principal amount in 3.5 years) might have a duration of approximately three years. In general, the lower the stated or coupon rate of interest of a fixed income security, the closer its duration
will be to its final maturity; conversely, the higher the stated or coupon rate of interest of a fixed income security, the shorter its duration will be compared to its final maturity.
Determining duration becomes more complex when fixed income security features like floating or adjustable coupon payments, optionality
(for example, the right of the issuer to prepay or call the security), and structuring (for example, the right of the holders of certain securities to receive priority as to the issuers cash flows) are considered. The calculation of
effective duration attempts to take into account optionality and other complex features. Generally, the longer the effective duration of a security, the greater will be the expected change in the percentage price of the security with
respect to a change in the securitys own yield. By way of illustration, a security with an effective duration of 3.5 years might normally be expected to go down in price by 35 basis points if its yield goes up by 10 basis points, while another
security with an effective duration of 4.0 years might normally be expected to go down in price by 40 basis points if its yield goes up by 10 basis points.
The assumptions that are made about a securitys features and options when calculating effective duration may prove to be incorrect. For example, many mortgage pass-through securities may have stated
final maturities of 30 years, but current prepayment rates, which can vary widely under different economic conditions, may have a large influence on the pass-through securitys response to changes in yield. In these situations, a subadviser may
consider other analytical techniques that seek to incorporate the securitys additional features into the determination of its response to changes in its yield.
A security may change in price for a variety of reasons. For example, floating rate securities may have final maturities of ten or more years, but their effective durations will tend to be very short. If
there is an adverse credit event, or a perceived change in the issuers creditworthiness, these securities could experience a far greater negative price movement than would be predicted by the change in the securitys yield in relation to
its effective duration.
As a result, investors should be aware that effective duration is not an exact measurement and may
not reliably predict a securitys price sensitivity to changes in yield or interest rates.
Lending of Portfolio Securities
Consistent with applicable regulatory requirements, the fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other
financial organizations meeting capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Board. Loans of securities will be secured continuously by collateral in cash, cash equivalents, or U.S. government obligations maintained on
a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral received by the fund will be invested in high quality short-term instruments, or in one or more funds maintained by the lending agent for the
purpose of investing cash collateral. During the term of the loan, the fund will continue to have investment risk with respect to the security loaned, as well as risk with respect to the investment of the cash collateral. Either party has the right
to terminate a loan at any time on customary industry settlement notice (which will not usually exceed three business days). During the existence of a loan, the fund will continue to receive the equivalent of the interest or dividends paid by the
issuer on the
42
securities loaned and, with respect to cash collateral, will receive any income generated by the funds investment of the collateral (subject to a rebate payable to the borrower and a
percentage of the income payable to the lending agent). Where the borrower provides the fund with collateral other than cash, the borrower is also obligated to pay the fund or portfolio a fee for use of the borrowed securities. The fund does not
have the right to vote any securities having voting rights during the existence of the loan, but would retain the right to call the loan in anticipation of an important vote to be taken among holders of the securities or of the giving or withholding
of their consent on a material matter affecting the investment. As with other extensions of credit, there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In addition, the fund could
suffer loss if the loan terminates and the fund is forced to liquidate investments at a loss in order to return the cash collateral to the buyer. If a subadviser determines to make loans, it is not intended that the value of the securities loaned by
the fund would exceed 33
1/3
% of the value of its net
assets.
The fund currently does not intend to engage in securities lending, although it may engage in transactions (such as
reverse repurchase agreements) which have similar characteristics.
Commodity Exchange Act Regulation
The fund is operated by persons who have claimed an exclusion, granted to operators of registered investment companies like the fund, from
registration as a commodity pool operator with respect to the fund under the Commodity Exchange Act (the CEA), and, therefore, are not subject to registration or regulation with respect to the fund under the CEA. As a result,
effective December 31, 2012, the fund is limited in its ability to use commodity futures (which include futures on broad-based securities indexes and interest rate futures) or options on commodity futures, engage in certain swaps transactions
or make certain other investments (whether directly or indirectly through investments in other investment vehicles) for purposes other than bona fide hedging, as defined in the rules of the CFTC. With respect to transactions other than
for bona fide hedging purposes, either: (1) the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish the funds positions in such investments may not exceed 5% of the liquidation value of the funds portfolio (after accounting
for unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such investments); or (2) the aggregate net notional value of such instruments, determined at the time the most recent position was established, may not exceed 100% of the liquidation value of
the funds portfolio (after accounting for unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions). In addition to meeting one of the foregoing trading limitations, the fund may not market itself as a commodity pool or otherwise as a
vehicle for trading in the futures, options or swaps markets.
INVESTMENT POLICIES
The fund has adopted the fundamental and non-fundamental investment policies below for the protection of shareholders. Fundamental
investment policies of the fund may not be changed without the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund, defined under the 1940 Act as the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the voting securities of the fund present at a
shareholder meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the voting securities of the fund are present in person or represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the voting securities of the fund. The Board may change non-fundamental investment
policies at any time.
If any percentage restriction described below is complied with at the time of an investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage resulting from a change in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction.
The funds investment objective is non-fundamental.
43
Fundamental Investment Policies
The funds fundamental investment policies are as follows:
(1) The fund may not borrow money except as permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or
(ii) exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(2) The fund may not engage in
the business of underwriting the securities of other issuers except as permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or (ii) exemptive or other
relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(3) The fund may lend money or other assets to the extent
permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or (ii) exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(4) The fund may not issue senior securities except as permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or
modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or (ii) exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(5) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate except as permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or modifications by
the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or (ii) exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(6) The fund may purchase or sell commodities or contracts related to commodities to the extent permitted by (i) the 1940 Act, or interpretations or modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other
authority with appropriate jurisdiction, or (ii) exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority.
(7) Except as permitted by exemptive or other relief or permission from the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction, the fund may not make any investment if, as a result, the
funds investments will be concentrated in one industry.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to borrowing
money set forth in (1) above, the 1940 Act permits a fund to borrow money in amounts of up to one-third of the funds total assets from banks for any purpose, and to borrow up to 5% of the funds total assets from banks or other
lenders for temporary purposes. (The funds total assets include the amounts being borrowed.) To limit the risks attendant to borrowing, the 1940 Act requires the fund to maintain an asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of
its borrowings, provided that in the event that the funds asset coverage falls below 300%, the fund is required to reduce the amount of its borrowings so that it meets the 300% asset coverage threshold within three days (not including Sundays
and holidays). Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the funds total assets (including amounts borrowed), minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Certain trading practices and
investments, such as reverse repurchase agreements, may be considered to be borrowing, and thus subject to the 1940 Act restrictions. Borrowing money to increase portfolio holdings is known as leveraging. Borrowing, especially when used
for leverage, may cause the value of a funds shares to be more volatile than if the fund did not borrow. This is because borrowing tends to magnify the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of the funds portfolio holdings.
Borrowed money thus creates an opportunity for greater gains, but also greater losses. To repay borrowings, a fund may have to sell securities at a time and at a price that is unfavorable to the fund. There also are costs associated with borrowing
money, and these costs would offset and could eliminate a funds net investment income in any given period. Currently the fund does not contemplate borrowing money for leverage, but if the fund does so, it will not likely do so to a substantial
degree. The policy in (1) above will be interpreted to permit the fund to engage in trading practices and investments that may be considered to be borrowing to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act. Short-term credits necessary for the
settlement of securities
44
transactions and arrangements with respect to securities lending will not be considered to be borrowings under the policy. Practices and investments that may involve leverage but are not
considered to be borrowings are not subject to the policy.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to underwriting
set forth in (2) above, the 1940 Act does not prohibit a fund from engaging in the underwriting business or from underwriting the securities of other issuers; in fact, the 1940 Act permits a fund to have underwriting commitments of up to 25% of
its assets under certain circumstances. Those circumstances currently are that the amount of the funds underwriting commitments, when added to the value of the funds investments in issuers where the fund owns more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of those issuers, cannot exceed the 25% cap. A fund engaging in transactions involving the acquisition or disposition of portfolio securities may be considered to be an underwriter under the 1933 Act. Under the 1933
Act, an underwriter may be liable for material omissions or misstatements in an issuers registration statement or prospectus. Securities purchased from an issuer and not registered for sale under the 1933 Act are considered restricted
securities. There may be a limited market for these securities. If these securities are registered under the 1933 Act, they may then be eligible for sale but participating in the sale may subject the seller to underwriter liability. These risks
could apply to a fund investing in restricted securities. Although it is not believed that the application of the 1933 Act provisions described above would cause the fund to be engaged in the business of underwriting, the policy in (2) above
will be interpreted not to prevent the fund from engaging in transactions involving the acquisition or disposition of portfolio securities, regardless of whether the fund may be considered to be an underwriter under the 1933 Act.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to lending set forth in (3) above, the 1940 Act does not prohibit a fund from making
loans; however, SEC staff interpretations currently prohibit funds from lending more than one-third of their total assets, except through the purchase of debt obligations or the use of repurchase agreements. (A repurchase agreement is an agreement
to purchase a security, coupled with an agreement to sell that security back to the original seller on an agreed-upon date at a price that reflects current interest rates. The SEC frequently treats repurchase agreements as loans.) While lending
securities may be a source of income to a fund, as with other extensions of credit, there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights in the underlying securities should the borrower fail financially. However, loans would be made only when
the funds manager or the subadviser believes the income justifies the attendant risks. The fund also will be permitted by this policy to make loans of money, including to other funds. The fund would have to obtain exemptive relief from the SEC
to make loans to other funds. The policy in (3) above will be interpreted not to prevent the fund from purchasing or investing in debt obligations and loans. In addition, collateral arrangements with respect to options, forward currency and
futures transactions and other derivative instruments, as well as delays in the settlement of securities transactions, will not be considered loans.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to issuing senior securities set forth in (4) above, senior securities are defined as fund obligations that have a priority over the
funds shares with respect to the payment of dividends or the distribution of fund assets. The 1940 Act prohibits a fund from issuing senior securities except that the fund may borrow money in amounts of up to one-third of the funds total
assets from banks for any purpose. A fund also may borrow up to 5% of the funds total assets from banks or other lenders for temporary purposes, and these borrowings are not considered senior securities. The issuance of senior securities by a
fund can increase the speculative character of the funds outstanding shares through leveraging. Leveraging of a funds portfolio through the issuance of senior securities magnifies the potential for gain or loss on monies, because even
though the funds net assets remain the same, the total risk to investors is increased to the extent of the funds gross assets. The policy in (4) above will be interpreted not to prevent collateral arrangements with respect to swaps,
options, forward or futures contracts or other derivatives, or the posting of initial or variation margin.
With respect to
the fundamental policy relating to real estate set forth in (5) above, the 1940 Act does not prohibit a fund from owning real estate; however, a fund is limited in the amount of illiquid assets it may purchase. Investing in real estate may
involve risks, including that real estate is generally considered illiquid and
45
may be difficult to value and sell. Owners of real estate may be subject to various liabilities, including environmental liabilities. To the extent that investments in real estate are considered
illiquid, the current SEC staff position generally limits a funds purchases of illiquid securities to 15% of net assets. The policy in (5) above will be interpreted not to prevent the fund from investing in real estate-related companies,
companies whose businesses consist in whole or in part of investing in real estate, instruments (like mortgages) that are secured by real estate or interests therein, or real estate investment trust securities.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to commodities set forth in (6) above, the 1940 Act does not prohibit a fund from
owning commodities, whether physical commodities and contracts related to physical commodities (such as oil or grains and related futures contracts), or financial commodities and contracts related to financial commodities (such as currencies and,
possibly, currency futures). However, a fund is limited in the amount of illiquid assets it may purchase. To the extent that investments in commodities are considered illiquid, the current SEC staff position generally limits a funds purchases
of illiquid securities to 15% of net assets. If a fund were to invest in a physical commodity or a physical commodity-related instrument, the fund would be subject to the additional risks of the particular physical commodity and its related market.
The value of commodities and commodity-related instruments may be extremely volatile and may be affected either directly or indirectly by a variety of factors. There also may be storage charges and risks of loss associated with physical commodities.
The policy in (6) above will be interpreted to permit investments in exchange traded funds that invest in physical and/or financial commodities.
With respect to the fundamental policy relating to concentration set forth in (7) above, the 1940 Act does not define what constitutes concentration in an industry. The SEC staff has
taken the position that investment of 25% or more of a funds total assets in one or more issuers conducting their principal activities in the same industry or group of industries constitutes concentration. It is possible that interpretations
of concentration could change in the future. A fund that invests a significant percentage of its total assets in a single industry may be particularly susceptible to adverse events affecting that industry and may be more risky than a fund that does
not concentrate in an industry. The policy in (7) above will be interpreted to refer to concentration as that term may be interpreted from time to time. In addition, the term industry will be interpreted to include a related group
of industries. The policy also will be interpreted to permit investment without limit in the following: securities of the U.S. government and its agencies or instrumentalities; securities of state, territory, possession or municipal governments and
their authorities, agencies, instrumentalities or political subdivisions; and repurchase agreements collateralized by any such obligations. Accordingly, issuers of the foregoing securities will not be considered to be members of any industry. There
also will be no limit on investment in issuers domiciled in a single jurisdiction or country. The policy also will be interpreted to give broad authority to the fund as to how to classify issuers within or among industries or groups of industries.
The fund has been advised by the staff of the SEC that the staff currently views securities issued by a foreign government to be a single industry for purposes of calculating applicable limits on concentration.
The funds fundamental policies are written and will be interpreted broadly. For example, the policies will be interpreted to refer
to the 1940 Act and the related rules as they are in effect from time to time, and to interpretations and modifications of or relating to the 1940 Act by the SEC and others as they are given from time to time. When a policy provides that an
investment practice may be conducted as permitted by the 1940 Act, the policy will be interpreted to mean either that the 1940 Act expressly permits the practice or that the 1940 Act does not prohibit the practice.
Non-Fundamental Investment Policies
The funds non-fundamental investment policies are as follows:
The fund may
not invest in other registered open-end management investment companies and registered unit investment trusts in reliance upon the provisions of subparagraphs (G) or (F) of Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act.
46
Diversification
The fund is currently classified as a non-diversified fund under the 1940 Act. A diversified fund may not purchase securities of an issuer (other than obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
government, its agencies or instrumentalities) if, with respect to 75% of its total assets, (a) more than 5% of the funds total assets would be invested in securities of that issuer, or (b) the fund would hold more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of that issuer. A non-diversified fund can invest a greater portion of its assets in a single issuer or a limited number of issuers than may a diversified fund. In this regard, the fund is subject to greater risk than a
diversified fund. Under the 1940 Act, the fund may change its classification from non-diversified to diversified without shareholder approval.
Portfolio Turnover
For
reporting purposes, the funds 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. In determining such portfolio turnover, all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one year or less are excluded. A 100% portfolio turnover rate would occur, for example, if all of the securities in the
funds investment portfolio (other than short-term money market securities) were replaced once during the fiscal year.
In the event that portfolio turnover increases, this increase necessarily results in correspondingly greater transaction costs which must
be paid by the fund. To the extent the portfolio trading results in realization of net short-term capital gains, shareholders will be taxed on such gains at ordinary tax rates (except shareholders who invest through individual retirement accounts
(IRAs) and other retirement plans which are not taxed currently on accumulations in their accounts).
Portfolio
turnover will not be a limiting factor should the subadviser deem it advisable to purchase or sell securities.
For the fiscal
years ended February 29, 2012 and February 28, 2013, the funds portfolio turnover rates were as follows:
47
MANAGEMENT
The business and affairs of the fund are conducted by management under the supervision and subject to the direction of its Board. The
business address of each Trustee (including each Trustee of the fund who is not an interested person of the fund (an Independent Trustee)) is c/o Kenneth D. Fuller, 100 International Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21202.
Information pertaining to the Trustees and officers of the fund is set forth below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Year of Birth
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of
Office*
and Length
of Time
Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5
Years
|
|
Number of
Funds in
Fund Complex
Overseen
by Trustee
|
|
Other Board
Memberships
Held by Trustee
|
Independent Trustees
#
:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Elliott J. Berv
Born 1943
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1989
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst (consulting) (since 1984); formerly, Chief Executive Officer, Rocket City Enterprises (media) (2000 to 2005)
|
|
52
|
|
World Affairs Council (since 2009); Board Member, American Identity Corp. (doing business as Morpheus Technologies) (biometric information management) (since 2001); formerly,
Director, Lapoint Industries (industrial filter company) (2002 to 2007); formerly, Director, Alzheimers Association (New England Chapter) (1998 to 2008)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A. Benton Cocanougher
Born 1938
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1991
|
|
Retired; Dean Emeritus and Professor Emeritus, Texas A&M University (since 2008); Interim Dean, George Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University
(2009 to 2010); A.P. Wiley Professor, Texas A&M University (2001 to 2008); Interim Chancellor, Texas A&M University System (2003 to 2004); Dean of the Mays Business School, Texas A&M University (1987 to 2001)
|
|
52
|
|
Formerly, Director, First American Bank, Texas (1994 to 1999); formerly, Director, Randle Foods, Inc. (1991 to 1999); formerly, Director, Petrolon, Inc. (engine lubrication
products) (1991 to 1994)
|
48
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Year of Birth
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of
Office*
and Length
of Time
Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5
Years
|
|
Number of
Funds in
Fund Complex
Overseen
by Trustee
|
|
Other Board
Memberships
Held by Trustee
|
Jane F. Dasher
Born 1949
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1999
|
|
Chief Financial Officer, Long Light Capital, LLC, formerly known as Korsant Partners, LLC (a family investment company) (since 1997)
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mark T. Finn
Born 1943
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1989
|
|
Adjunct Professor, College of William & Mary (since 2002); Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Owner, Vantage Consulting Group, Inc. (investment management) (since 1988);
Principal/Member, Balvan Partners (investment management) (2002 to 2009)
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stephen Randolph Gross
Born 1947
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1986
|
|
Chairman Emeritus (since 2011) and formerly, Chairman, HLB Gross Collins, P.C. (accounting and consulting firm) (1974 to 2011); Executive Director of Business Builders Team, LLC
(since 2005); Principal, Gross Consulting Group, LLC (since 2011); CEO, Gross Capital Advisors, LLC (since 2011); CEO, Trusted CFO Solutions, LLC (since 2011)
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Richard E. Hanson, Jr.
Born 1941
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1985
|
|
Retired; formerly, Headmaster, The New Atlanta Jewish Community High School, Atlanta, Georgia (1996 to 2000)
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Year of Birth
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of
Office*
and Length
of Time
Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5
Years
|
|
Number of
Funds in
Fund Complex
Overseen
by Trustee
|
|
Other Board
Memberships
Held by Trustee
|
Diana R. Harrington
Born 1940
|
|
Trustee;
Chair of the
Board
|
|
Since 1992
(Chair of the Board since 2013)
|
|
Babson Distinguished Professor of Finance, Babson College (since 1992)
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Susan M. Heilbron
Born 1945
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1994
|
|
Retired; formerly, President, Lacey & Heilbron (communications consulting) (1990 to 2002); formerly, General Counsel and Executive Vice President, The Trump Organization (1986
to 1990); formerly, Senior Vice President, New York State Urban Development Corporation (1984 to 1986); formerly, Associate, Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP (1980 to 1984) and (1977 to 1979)
|
|
52
|
|
Formerly, Director, Lincoln Savings Bank, FSB (1991 to 1994); formerly, Director, Trump Shuttle, Inc. (air transportation) (1989 to 1990); formerly, Director, Alexanders Inc.
(department store) (1987 to 1990)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Susan B. Kerley
Born 1951
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1992
|
|
Investment Consulting Partner, Strategic Management Advisors, LLC (investment consulting) (since 1990)
|
|
52
|
|
Director and Trustee (since 1990) and formerly, Chairman (2005 to 2012) of various series of MainStay Family of Funds (66 funds); Investment Company Institute (ICI) Board of
Governors (since 2006); ICI Executive Committee (since 2011); Chairman of the Independent Directors Council (since 2012)
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Year of Birth
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of
Office*
and Length
of Time
Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5
Years
|
|
Number of
Funds in
Fund Complex
Overseen
by Trustee
|
|
Other Board
Memberships
Held by Trustee
|
Alan G. Merten
Born 1941
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1990
|
|
President Emeritus (since 2012) and formerly, President, George Mason University (1996 to 2012)
|
|
52
|
|
Director Emeritus, Cardinal Financial Corporation (since 2006); Trustee, First Potomac Realty Trust (since 2005); Director, DeVry Inc.
(educational services) (since 2012); formerly, Director, Xybernaut Corporation (information technology)
(2004 to 2006); formerly,
Director,
Digital Net
Holdings,
Inc.
(2003 to 2004); formerly, Director, Comshare, Inc. (information technology)
(1985 to 2003)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
R. Richardson Pettit
Born 1942
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Since 1990
|
|
Retired; formerly, Duncan Professor of Finance, University of Houston
(1977 to 2006); previous academic or management positions include: University of Washington, University of Pennsylvania and Purdue University
|
|
52
|
|
None
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Year of Birth
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of
Office*
and Length
of Time
Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5
Years
|
|
Number of
Funds in
Fund Complex
Overseen
by Trustee
|
|
Other Board
Memberships
Held by Trustee
|
Interested Trustee
and Officer:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kenneth D. Fuller
Born 1958
|
|
Trustee, President and Chief Executive Officer
|
|
Since 2013
|
|
Managing Director of Legg Mason & Co., LLC (Legg Mason & Co.) (since 2013); Officer and/or Trustee/Director of 162 funds associated with Legg Mason Partners Fund
Advisor, LLC (LMPFA) or its affiliates (since 2013); President and Chief Executive Officer of LMPFA (since 2013); President and Chief Executive Officer of LM Asset Services, LLC (formerly a registered investment adviser); formerly,
Senior Vice President of LMPFA (2012 to 2013); formerly, Director of Legg Mason & Co. (2012 to 2013); formerly, Vice President of Legg Mason & Co. (2009 to 2012); formerly, Vice PresidentEquity Division of T. Rowe Price Associates
(1993 to 2009), as well as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager for certain asset allocation accounts (2004 to 2009).
|
|
151
|
|
None
|
#
|
Trustees who are not interested persons of the fund within the meaning of Section 2(a) (19) of the 1940 Act.
|
*
|
Each Trustee serves until his or her respective successor has been duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement or removal.
|
**
|
Indicates the earliest year in which the Trustee became a board member for a fund in the Legg Mason fund complex.
|
|
Mr. Fuller is an interested person of the fund, as defined in the 1940 Act, because of his position with LMPFA and/or certain of its affiliates.
|
52
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name, Year of Birth and Address
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of Office*
and Length of
Time Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years
|
Additional Officers:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ted P. Becker
Born 1951
620 Eighth Avenue
49
th
Floor
New York, NY 10018
|
|
Chief
Compliance
Officer
|
|
Since 2007
|
|
Director of Global Compliance at Legg Mason (since 2006); Chief Compliance Officer of LMPFA (since 2006); Managing Director of Compliance of Legg Mason & Co. (since 2005);
Chief Compliance Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2006)
|
|
|
|
|
Vanessa A. Williams
Born 1979
100 First Stamford Place
6
th
Floor
Stamford, CT 06902
|
|
Chief Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer and Identity Theft Prevention Officer
|
|
Since 2011
|
|
Vice President of Legg Mason & Co. (since 2012); Identity Theft Prevention Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since
2011); Chief Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2011); formerly, Senior Compliance Officer of Legg Mason & Co. (2008 to 2011); formerly, Compliance
Analyst of Legg Mason & Co. (2006 to 2008) and Legg Mason & Co. predecessors (prior to 2006)
|
|
|
|
|
Robert I. Frenkel
Born 1954
100 First Stamford Place
6
th
Floor
Stamford, CT 06902
|
|
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
|
|
Since 2007
|
|
Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Legg Mason (since 2006); Managing Director and General Counsel of Global Mutual Funds for Legg Mason & Co. (since 2006) and Legg
Mason & Co. predecessors (since 1994); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2006) and Legg Mason & Co. predecessors (prior to 2006)
|
|
|
|
|
Thomas C. Mandia
Born 1962
100 First Stamford Place
6
th
Floor
Stamford, CT 06902
|
|
Assistant Secretary
|
|
Since 2007
|
|
Managing Director and Deputy General Counsel of Legg Mason & Co. (since 2005) and Legg Mason & Co. predecessors (prior to 2005); Secretary of LMPFA (since 2006);
Assistant Secretary of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2006) and Legg Mason & Co. predecessors (prior to 2006); Secretary of LM Asset Services, LLC (since 2002)
|
|
|
|
|
Richard F. Sennett
Born 1970
100 International Drive
5
th
Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
|
|
Principal Financial Officer
|
|
Since 2011
|
|
Principal Financial Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2011); Managing Director of Legg Mason & Co. and Senior
Manager of the Treasury Policy group for Legg Mason & Co.s Global Fiduciary Platform (since 2011); formerly, Chief Accountant within the SECs Division of Investment Management (2007 to 2011); formerly, Assistant Chief Accountant
within the SECs Division of Investment Management (2002 to 2007)
|
53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name, Year of Birth and Address
|
|
Position(s)
with Trust
|
|
Term of Office*
and Length of
Time Served**
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years
|
James Crowley
Born 1966
620 Eighth Avenue
49
th
Floor
New York, NY 10018
|
|
Treasurer
|
|
Since 2011
|
|
Vice President of Legg Mason & Co. (since 2010); Treasurer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2011); formerly, Controller
of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (prior to 2011); formerly, Controller of Security Fair Valuation and Project Management for Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (prior to 2010)
|
|
|
|
|
Jeanne M. Kelly
Born 1951
620 Eighth Avenue
49
th
Floor
New York, NY 10018
|
|
Senior
Vice
President
|
|
Since 2007
|
|
Senior Vice President of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason & Co. or its affiliates (since 2007); Senior Vice President of LMPFA (since 2006); Managing Director
of Legg Mason & Co. (since 2005) and Legg Mason & Co. predecessors (prior to 2005)
|
*
|
Each officer serves until his or her respective successor has been duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement or removal.
|
**
|
Indicates the earliest year in which the officer took such office.
|
Each of the Trustees, except for Mr. Fuller, previously served as a trustee or director of certain predecessor funds in the Legg Mason-sponsored fund complex, and each Trustee, except for
Mr. Fuller, was thus initially selected by the board of the predecessor fund. In connection with a restructuring of the fund complex completed in 2007, the Board was established to oversee mutual funds in the fund complex that invest primarily
in fixed income securities, including the fund, with a view to ensuring continuity of representation by board members of predecessor funds on the Board and in order to establish a Board with experience in and focused on overseeing fixed income
mutual funds, which experience would be further developed and enhanced over time.
In connection with the restructuring, the
Independent Trustees were selected to join the Board based upon the following as to each Board Member: his or her contribution as a board member of predecessor funds; such persons character and integrity; such persons willingness to
serve and willingness and ability to commit the time necessary to perform the duties of a Trustee; the fact that such persons service would be consistent with the requirements of the retirement policies of the Trust; and his or her status as
not being an interested person as defined in the 1940 Act. Mr. Fuller was selected to join the Board based upon the following: character and integrity; willingness to serve and willingness and ability to commit the time necessary to
perform the duties of a Trustee; the fact that service as a Trustee would be consistent with requirements of the Trusts retirement policies, and his status as a representative of Legg Mason.
The Board believes that each Trustees experience, qualifications, attributes or skills on an individual basis and in combination
with those of the other Trustees lead to the conclusion that the Board possesses the requisite skills and attributes. The Board believes that the Trustees ability to review critically, evaluate, question and discuss information provided to
them, to interact effectively with the manager, subadviser, other service providers, counsel and independent auditors, and to exercise effective business judgment in the performance of their duties, support this conclusion. The Board has also
considered the contributions that each Trustee can make to the Board and the fund, as well as the perspectives gained from the Independent Trustees service on the board of the predecessor fund. In addition, the following specific experience,
qualifications, attributes and/or skills apply as to each Trustee: Mr. Berv, experience as a chief executive officer and board member of various businesses and organizations and organizational consulting experience; Dr. Cocanougher,
academic leadership experience and background in business and finance and experience as a board member of various business and
54
non-profit organizations; Ms. Dasher, experience as a chief financial officer of a private investment company; Mr. Finn, investment management experience as an executive, consultant and
portfolio manager; Mr. Gross, accounting background and experience as an officer and board member of various organizations; Mr. Hanson, experience in academic leadership; Dr. Harrington, background in investment and finance;
Ms. Heilbron, legal background and experience, business and consulting experience and experience as a board member of public companies; Ms. Kerley, investment consulting experience and background and mutual fund board experience;
Dr. Merten, academic leadership experience, background in investments and finance, and board experience; Dr. Pettit, economic and finance background and academic management experience; and Mr. Fuller, investment management and risk
oversight experience as an executive and portfolio manager and leadership roles within Legg Mason and affiliated entities and another investment advisory firm. References to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to
requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on
the Board by reason thereof.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the management and operations of the fund.
Mr. Fuller is an interested person of the fund. Independent Trustees constitute more than 75% of the Board. Dr. Harrington serves as Chair of the Board.
The Board has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Nominating and Governance Committee (referred to as the Governance Committee), and Investment and Performance Committee (referred to as the
Performance Committee). Each of the Audit, Governance and Performance Committees is chaired by an Independent Trustee and composed of all of the Independent Trustees. Where deemed appropriate, the Board constitutes
ad hoc
committees.
The Chair of the Board and the chairs of the Audit, Governance and Performance Committees work with the Chief Executive
Officer of the Trust to set the agendas for Board and committee meetings. The Chair of the Board also serves as a key point person for dealings between management and the other Independent Trustees. As noted below, through the committees the
Independent Trustees consider and address important matters involving the fund, including those presenting conflicts or potential conflicts of interest for management. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet outside the presence of management
and are advised by independent legal counsel. The Board has determined that its committees help ensure that the fund has effective and independent governance and oversight. The Board also has determined that its leadership structure, in which the
Chair of the Board is not affiliated with Legg Mason, is appropriate. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the Independent Trustees from management, including the
subadviser.
The Audit Committee oversees, among other things, the scope of the funds audit, the funds accounting
and financial reporting policies and practices and the internal controls over financial accounting and reporting. The primary purposes of the Boards Audit Committee are to assist the Board in fulfilling its responsibility for oversight of the
integrity of the accounting, auditing and financial reporting practices of the fund, and the qualifications and independence of the funds independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee approves, and recommends to the
Independent Trustees for their ratification, the selection, appointment, retention or termination of the funds independent registered public accounting firm and approves the compensation of the independent registered public accounting firm.
The Audit Committee also approves all audit and permissible non-audit services provided to the fund by the independent registered public accounting firm and all permissible non-audit services provided by the funds independent registered public
accounting firm to its manager and any affiliated service providers if the engagement relates directly to the funds operations and financial reporting.
The Governance Committee is the forum for consideration of a number of issues required to be considered separately by independent trustees of mutual funds, including, among other things, recommending
candidates to
55
fill vacancies on the Board. The Governance Committee also considers issues that the Independent Trustees believe it is advisable for them to consider separately. When addressing vacancies, the
Governance Committee may consider nominees recommended by a shareholder. Shareholders who wish to recommend a nominee should send recommendations to the Trusts Secretary that include all information relating to such person that is required to
be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for the election of Trustees. A recommendation must be accompanied by a written consent of the individual to stand for election if nominated by the Board and to serve if elected by the shareholders.
The Governance Committee also identifies potential nominees through its network of contacts and may also engage, if it deems
appropriate, a professional search firm. The committee meets to discuss and consider such candidates qualifications and then chooses a candidate by majority vote. The committee does not have specific, minimum qualifications for nominees, nor
has it established specific qualities or skills that it regards as necessary for one or more of the Trustees to possess (other than any qualities or skills that may be required by applicable law, regulation or listing standard). However, in
evaluating a person as a potential nominee to serve as a Trustee, the Governance Committee may consider the following factors, among any others it may deem relevant:
|
|
|
whether or not the person is an interested person, as defined in the 1940 Act, and whether the person is otherwise qualified under
applicable laws and regulations to serve as a Trustee;
|
|
|
|
whether or not the person has any relationships that might impair his or her independence, such as any business, financial or family relationships with
fund management, the investment adviser, service providers or their affiliates;
|
|
|
|
whether or not the person serves on boards of, or is otherwise affiliated with, competing financial service organizations or their related mutual fund
complexes;
|
|
|
|
the contribution which the person can make to the Board (or, if the person has previously served as a Trustee, the contribution which the person made
to the Board during his or her previous term of service), with consideration being given to the persons business and professional experience, education and such other factors as the committee may consider relevant;
|
|
|
|
whether or not the person is willing to serve, and willing and able to commit the time necessary for the performance of the duties of a Trustee;
|
|
|
|
the character and integrity of the person; and
|
|
|
|
whether or not the selection and nomination of the person would be consistent with the requirements of the retirement policies of the Trust, as
applicable.
|
The Performance Committee is charged with, among other things, reviewing investment
performance. The Performance Committee also assists the Board in fulfilling its responsibility for the review and negotiation of the funds investment management and subadvisory arrangements.
As an integral part of its responsibility for oversight of the fund in the interests of shareholders, the Board oversees risk management
of the funds investment programs and business affairs. The Board has emphasized to the funds manager and subadviser the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management. The manager and the subadviser also have their own independent
interest in risk management and in maintaining risk management programs. Oversight of the risk management process is part of the Boards general oversight of the fund and its service providers. The Board exercises oversight of the risk
management process primarily through the Performance Committee and the Audit Committee, and through oversight by the Board itself.
The fund faces a number of risks, such as investment risk, counterparty risk, valuation risk, reputational risk, risk of operational failure or lack of business continuity, and legal, compliance and
regulatory risk. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the fund.
56
Under the overall oversight of the Board or the applicable committee, the fund, or the manager, the funds subadviser, and the affiliates of the manager and the subadviser, or other service
providers to the fund employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances
if they do occur.
Different processes, procedures and controls are employed with respect to different types of risks. Various
personnel, including the funds and the managers CCO and the managers chief risk officer, as well as various personnel of the subadviser and other service providers such as the funds independent accountants, also make periodic
reports to the Performance Committee or Audit Committee or to the Board, pursuant to the committees or Boards request, with respect to various aspects of risk management, as well as events and circumstances that have arisen and responses
thereto.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the fund can be identified, that it may not be practical or
cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the funds goals, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain
risks may be limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Boards risk
management oversight is subject to substantial limitations.
The Board met 5 times during the funds fiscal year ended
February 28, 2013. Each of the Audit, Governance and Performance Committees met 4 times during the funds last fiscal year.
The following table shows the amount of equity securities owned by the Trustees in the fund and other investment companies in the fund complex overseen by the Trustees as of December 31, 2012, except
for Mr. Fuller, for whom the information is shown as of March 31, 2013.
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Dollar Range of
Equity Securities in
the Fund ($)
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range
of Equity Securities In
Registered Investment
Companies Overseen
by
Trustee ($)
|
Independent Trustees
|
|
|
|
|
Elliott J. Berv
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
A. Benton Cocanougher
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Jane F. Dasher
|
|
None
|
|
10,001-50,000
|
Mark T. Finn
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Stephen Randolph Gross
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
Richard E. Hanson, Jr.
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Diana R. Harrington
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Susan M. Heilbron
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Susan B. Kerley
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
Alan G. Merten
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
R. Richardson Pettit
|
|
Over 100,000
|
|
Over 100,000
|
|
|
|
Interested Trustee
|
|
|
|
|
Kenneth D. Fuller
|
|
None
|
|
Over 100,000
|
As of December 31, 2012, none of the Independent Trustees or their immediate family members owned
beneficially or of record any securities of the funds manager, subadviser or distributor, or of a person (other than a registered investment company) directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the manager,
subadviser or distributor of the fund.
57
Information regarding compensation paid by the fund to its Board is set forth below. The
Independent Trustees receive a fee for each meeting of the Board and committee meetings attended and are reimbursed for all out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings. Mr. Fuller, an interested person, as defined
in the 1940 Act, does not receive compensation from the fund for his service as Trustee, but may be reimbursed for all out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings.
The fund pays a pro rata share of the Trustees fees based upon asset size. The fund currently pays each of the Trustees who is not
a director, officer or employee of the manager or any of its affiliates its pro rata share of: an annual fee of $160,000, plus $20,000 for each regularly scheduled Board meeting attended in person and, prior to January 1, 2013, $2,500 for
certain telephonic Board and committee meetings in which that Trustees participates. Effective January 1, 2013, the fund pays each of the Trustees who is not a director, officer or employee of the manager or any of its affiliates its pro rata
share of $1,500 for certain telephonic Board and committee meetings in which that Trustee participates. Each of the Chairs of the Audit Committee and Performance Committee receives an additional $15,000 per year. Each of the other members of the
Performance Committee receives an additional $10,000 per year in connection with the annual consideration of the funds advisory, subadvisory and distribution arrangements.
Information regarding compensation paid to the Trustees is shown below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Aggregate
Compensation From
the Fund for Fiscal
Year
Ended
February 28, 2013 ($)
|
|
|
Total Pension or
Retirement
Benefits Paid as Part of
Fund
Expenses
(2)
($)
|
|
|
Total Compensation
from the Fund
Complex Paid
to Trustee
for the
Calendar Year Ended
December 31, 2012 ($)
|
|
|
Number of
Portfolios in Fund
Complex Overseen
by Trustee
as of Fiscal
Year Ended
February 28, 2013
|
|
Independent Trustees:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Elliott J. Berv
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
A. Benton Cocanougher
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Jane F. Dasher
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Mark T. Finn
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Stephen Randolph Gross
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Richard E. Hanson
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Diana R. Harrington
|
|
|
666
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
265,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Susan M. Heilbron
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Susan B. Kerley
|
|
|
631
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
Alan G. Merten
|
|
|
701
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
280,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
R. Richardson Pettit
|
|
|
666
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
265,000
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interested Trustee:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
R. Jay Gerken
(
1
)
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
162
|
|
Kenneth D. Fuller
(1)
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
(1)
|
Mr. Gerken retired
as a Trustee effective May 31, 2013, and
Mr. Fuller became a Trustee effective June 1, 2013. Mr. Gerken was not compensated for his services as services as a Trustee, and Mr. Fuller will not be compensated for such services, because of their affiliations with the
manager.
|
Officers of the fund receive no compensation from the fund, although they may be reimbursed by the
fund for reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses for attending Board meetings.
As of June 5, 2013, the Trustees and
officers of the fund, as a group, owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each class of the fund.
58
To the knowledge of the fund, as of August , 2013, the following
shareholders owned or held of record 5% or more, as indicated, of the outstanding shares of the following classes of the fund:
|
|
|
|
|
Class
|
|
Name and Address
|
|
Percent of Class (%)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
Class
|
|
Name and Address
|
|
Percent of Class (%)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
Manager
Legg Mason
Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (LMPFA or the manager) serves as investment manager to the fund and provides certain oversight services to the fund pursuant to an investment management agreement (the Management
Agreement). LMPFA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason.
The manager has agreed, under the Management Agreement,
subject to the supervision of the funds Board, to provide the fund with investment research, advice, management and supervision, furnish a continuous investment program for the funds portfolio of securities and other investments
consistent with the funds investment objectives, policies and restrictions, and place orders pursuant to its investment determinations. The manager is permitted to enter into contracts with subadvisers or subadministrators, subject to the
Boards approval. The manager has entered into subadvisory agreements, as described below.
As compensation for services
performed, facilities furnished and expenses assumed by the manager, the fund pays the manager a fee computed daily at an annual rate of the funds average daily net assets as described
60
below. The manager also performs administrative and management services as reasonably requested by the fund necessary for the operation of the fund, such as (i) supervising the overall
administration of the fund, including negotiation of contracts and fees with, and monitoring of performance and billings of, the funds transfer agent, shareholder servicing agents, custodian and other independent contractors or agents;
(ii) providing certain compliance, fund accounting, regulatory reporting and tax reporting services; (iii) preparing or participating in the preparation of Board materials, registration statements, proxy statements and reports and other
communications to shareholders; (iv) maintaining the funds existence; and (v) maintaining the registration or qualification of the funds shares under federal and state laws.
The Management Agreement will continue in effect from year to year, provided continuance is specifically approved at least annually
(a) by the Board or by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund (as defined in the 1940 Act), and (b) in either event, by a majority of the Independent Trustees, with such Independent Trustees casting votes in person at
a meeting called for such purpose.
The Management Agreement provides that the manager may render services to others. The
Management Agreement is terminable without penalty by the Board or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund on not more than 60 days nor less than 30 days written notice to the manager, or by the manager on
not less than 90 days written notice to the fund, and will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act) by the manager. The Management Agreement is not assignable by the Trust except with the consent of
the manager.
The Management Agreement provides that the manager, its affiliates performing services contemplated by the
Management Agreement, and the partners, shareholders, directors, officers and employees of the manager and such affiliates, will not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law, for any loss arising out of any investment, or for any act or
omission in the execution of securities transactions for the fund, but the manager is not protected against any liability to the fund to which the manager would be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the
performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Management Agreement.
For its services under the Management Agreement, the manager receives an investment management fee that is calculated daily and payable
monthly at the annual rate of 0.75% of the funds average daily net assets.
For the periods below, the fund paid
investment management fees to the manager as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Gross Management
Fees ($)
|
|
Management Fees
Waived/Expenses
Reimbursed ($)
|
|
Net Management
Fees (after
waivers/expense
reimbursements) ($)
|
February 28, 2013
|
|
3,426,986
|
|
23,014
|
|
3,403,972
|
February 29, 2012
|
|
684,801
|
|
48,415
|
|
636,386
|
February 28, 2011
|
|
266,871
|
|
104,555
|
|
162,316
|
Subadvisers
Western Asset Management Company (Western Asset), Western Asset Management Company Limited (Western Asset London) and Western Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd. (Western
Asset Singapore and, collectively with Western Asset and Western Asset London, the subadviser) provide the day-to-day portfolio management of the fund as subadvisers pursuant to subadvisory agreements (each, a Subadvisory
Agreement). Western Asset allocates the funds assets among the subadvisers based on the expertise of each subadviser relative to the fund strategies being pursued. Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore provide certain
subadvisory services relating to currency transactions and investments in non-U.S. dollar-denominated securities and related foreign currency instruments.
61
Each of Western Asset, Western Asset London and Western Asset Singapore is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Legg Mason.
Under each Subadvisory Agreement, subject to the supervision of the Board and the manager, the
subadviser regularly provides with respect to the portion of the funds assets allocated to it by the manager investment research, advice, management and supervision; furnishes a continuous investment program for the allocated assets consistent
with the funds investment objectives, policies and restrictions; and places orders pursuant to its investment determinations. The subadviser may delegate to companies that the subadviser controls, is controlled by, or is under common control
with, certain of the subadvisers duties under the Subadvisory Agreement, subject to the subadvisers supervision, provided the subadviser will not be relieved of its duties or obligations under the Subadvisory Agreement as a result of any
delegation.
Each Subadvisory Agreement will continue in effect from year to year provided continuance is specifically
approved at least annually with respect to the fund (a) by the Board or by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund (as defined in the 1940 Act) and, (b) in either event, by a majority of the Independent Trustees with
such Independent Trustees casting votes in person at a meeting called for such purpose.
The Board or a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the fund (as defined in the 1940 Act) may terminate each Subadvisory Agreement on not more than 60 days nor less than 30 days written notice to the subadviser without penalty. The subadviser may terminate
its respective Subadvisory Agreement on not less than 90 days written notice to the fund and the manager without penalty. The manager and the subadviser may terminate the Subadvisory Agreement upon their mutual written consent. Each
Subadvisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act) by the subadviser. The manager may not assign a Subadvisory Agreement except with the subadvisers consent.
Each Subadvisory Agreement provides that the subadviser, its affiliates performing services contemplated by the Subadvisory Agreement,
and the partners, shareholders, directors, officers and employees of the subadviser and such affiliates will not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law, or for any loss arising out of any investment, or for any act or omission in the
execution of securities transactions for the fund, but the subadviser is not protected against any liability to the fund or the manager to which the subadviser would be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the
performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Subadvisory Agreement.
As compensation for its services, the manager pays to Western Asset a fee equal to 70% of the management fee paid to the manager by the
fund, net of any waivers and expense reimbursements. Western Asset pays to each other subadviser a fee equal to 0.30% of the assets of the fund allocated to the subadviser, net of waivers and expense reimbursements.
Investment Professionals
The following table sets forth additional information with respect to the investment professionals responsible for the day-to-day
management of the fund. Unless noted otherwise, all information is provided as of February 28, 2013.
62
Other Accounts Managed by Investment Professionals
The table below identifies, for each investment professional, the number of accounts (other than the fund with respect to which
information is provided) for which the investment professional has day-to-day management responsibilities and the total assets in such accounts, within each of the following categories: registered investment companies, other pooled investment
vehicles and other accounts. For each category, the number of accounts and total assets in the accounts where fees are based on performance are also indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Professionals
|
|
Type of Account
|
|
Number of
Accounts Managed
|
|
Total Assets
Managed ($)
|
|
Number of Accounts
Managed for which
Advisory Fee
is
Performance-Based
|
|
Assets Managed for
which Advisory Fee
is Performance-
Based ($)
|
Stephen A. Walsh*
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
101
|
|
198.4 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
231
|
|
97.7 billion
|
|
6
|
|
1.0 billion
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
712
|
|
169.2 billion
|
|
62
|
|
15.5 billion
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
S. Kenneth Leech
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
10
|
|
3.1 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
23
|
|
11.6 billion
|
|
1
|
|
139.3 million
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
47
|
|
18.3 billion
|
|
6
|
|
2.9 billion
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Keith J. Gardner
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
30
|
|
26.3 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
27
|
|
14.9 billion
|
|
1
|
|
139.3 million
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
167
|
|
40.6 billion
|
|
21
|
|
7.0 billion
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Matthew C. Duda
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
6
|
|
2.1 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
11
|
|
4.7 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
28
|
|
4.5 billion
|
|
1
|
|
301.8 million
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gordon S. Brown
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
8
|
|
2.6 billion
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
23
|
|
9.3 billion
|
|
1
|
|
139.3 million
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
65
|
|
19.8 billion
|
|
7
|
|
3.2 billion
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert O. Abad
|
|
Registered
investment
companies
|
|
1
|
|
20.5 million
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled
investment vehicles
|
|
1
|
|
315 million
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accounts
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
|
None
|
*
|
It is anticipated that Mr. Walsh will step down as a member of the funds portfolio management team effective on or about March 31, 2014.
|
63
Investment Professional Compensation
With respect to the compensation of the funds investment professionals, the subadvisers compensation system assigns each
employee a total compensation range, which is derived from annual market surveys that benchmark each role with its job function and peer universe. This method is designed to reward employees with total compensation reflective of the external market
value of their skills, experience and ability to produce desired results. Standard compensation includes competitive base salaries, generous employee benefits and a retirement plan.
In addition, the subadvisers employees are eligible for bonuses. These are structured to closely align the interests of employees
with those of the subadviser, and are determined by the professionals job function and pre-tax performance as measured by a formal review process. All bonuses are completely discretionary. The principal factor considered is an investment
professionals investment performance versus appropriate peer groups and benchmarks (
e.g.,
a securities index and with respect to the fund, the benchmark set forth in the funds Prospectus to which the funds average annual
total returns are compared or, if none, the benchmark set forth in the funds annual report). Performance is reviewed on a 1, 3 and 5 year basis for compensationwith 3 and 5 years having a larger emphasis. The subadviser may also measure
an investment professionals pre-tax investment performance against other benchmarks, as it determines appropriate. Because investment professionals are generally responsible for multiple accounts (including the fund) with similar investment
strategies, they are generally compensated on the performance of the aggregate group of similar accounts, rather than a specific account. Other factors that may be considered when making bonus decisions include client service, business development,
length of service to the subadviser, management or supervisory responsibilities, contributions to developing business strategy and overall contributions to the subadvisers business.
Finally, in order to attract and retain top talent, all investment professionals are eligible for additional incentives in recognition of
outstanding performance. These are determined based upon the factors described above and include Legg Mason stock options and long-term incentives that vest over a set period of time past the award date.
Conflicts of Interest
The manager, subadviser and investment professionals have interests which conflict with the interests of the fund. There is no guarantee that the policies and procedures adopted by the manager, the
subadviser and the fund will be able to identify or mitigate these conflicts of interest.
Some examples of material conflicts
of interest include:
Allocation of Limited Time and Attention
.
An investment professional who is responsible
for managing multiple funds and/or accounts may devote unequal time and attention to the management of those funds and/or accounts. An investment professional may not be able to formulate as complete a strategy or identify equally attractive
investment opportunities for each of those funds and accounts as might be the case if he or she were to devote substantially more attention to the management of a single fund. Such an investment professional may make general determinations across
multiple funds, rather than tailoring a unique approach for the fund. The effects of this conflict may be more pronounced where funds and/or accounts overseen by a particular investment professional have different investment strategies.
Allocation of Limited Investment Opportunities; Aggregation of Orders
.
If an investment professional identifies a limited
investment opportunity that may be suitable for multiple funds and/or accounts, the opportunity may be allocated among these several funds or accounts, which may limit the funds ability to take full advantage of the investment opportunity.
Additionally, the subadviser may aggregate transaction orders for multiple accounts for the purpose of execution. Such aggregation may cause the price or brokerage costs to be less favorable to a particular client than if similar transactions were
not being executed concurrently for other accounts. In addition, the subadvisers trade allocation policies may result in the funds orders not being fully executed or being delayed in execution.
64
Pursuit of Differing Strategies
.
At times, an investment professional may
determine that an investment opportunity may be appropriate for only some of the funds and/or accounts for which he or she exercises investment responsibility, or may decide that certain of the funds and/or accounts should take differing positions
with respect to a particular security. In these cases, the investment professional may place separate transactions for one or more funds or accounts which may affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to
the detriment or benefit of one or more other funds and/or accounts. For example, an investment professional may determine that it would be in the interest of another account to sell a security that the fund holds long, potentially resulting in a
decrease in the market value of the security held by the fund.
Cross Trades
.
Investment professionals may
manage funds that engage in cross trades, where one of the managers funds or accounts sells a particular security to another fund or account managed by the same manager. Cross trades may pose conflicts of interest because of, for example, the
possibility that one account sells a security to another account at a higher price than an independent third party would pay or otherwise enters into a transaction that it would not enter into with an independent party, such as the sale of a
difficult-to-obtain security.
Selection of Broker/Dealers
. Investment professionals may select or influence the
selection of the brokers and dealers that are used to execute securities transactions for the funds and/or accounts that they supervise. In addition to executing trades, some brokers and dealers provide the subadviser with brokerage and research
services. These services may be taken into account in the selection of brokers and dealers whether a broker is being selected to effect a trade on an agency basis for a commission or (as is normally the case for the fund) whether a dealer is being
selected to effect a trade on a principal basis. This may result in the payment of higher brokerage fees and/or execution at a less favorable price than might have otherwise been available. The services obtained may ultimately be more beneficial to
certain of the managers funds or accounts than to others (but not necessarily to the funds that pay the increased commission or incur the less favorable execution). A decision as to the selection of brokers and dealers could therefore yield
disproportionate costs and benefits among the funds and/or accounts managed.
Variation in Financial and Other
Benefits
. A conflict of interest arises where the financial or other benefits available to an investment professional differ among the funds and/or accounts that he or she manages. If the amount or structure of the investment managers
management fee and/or an investment professionals compensation differs among funds and/or accounts (such as where certain funds or accounts pay higher management fees or performance-based management fees), the investment professional might be
motivated to help certain funds and/or accounts over others. Similarly, the desire to maintain assets under management or to enhance the investment professionals performance record or to derive other rewards, financial or otherwise, could
influence the investment professional in affording preferential treatment to those funds and/or accounts that could most significantly benefit the investment professional. An investment professional may, for example, have an incentive to allocate
favorable or limited opportunity investments or structure the timing of investments to favor such funds and/or accounts. Also, an investment professionals or the managers or the subadvisers desire to increase assets under
management could influence the investment professional to keep the fund open for new investors without regard to potential benefits of closing the fund to new investors. Additionally, the investment professional might be motivated to favor funds
and/or accounts in which he or she has an ownership interest or in which the investment manager and/or its affiliates have ownership interests. Conversely, if an investment professional does not personally hold an investment in the fund, the
investment professionals conflicts of interest with respect to the fund may be more acute.
Related Business
Opportunities
.
The investment manager or its affiliates may provide more services (such as distribution or recordkeeping) for some types of funds or accounts than for others. In such cases, an investment professional may benefit, either
directly or indirectly, by devoting disproportionate attention to the management of funds and/or accounts that provide greater overall returns to the investment manager and its affiliates.
65
Investment Professional Securities Ownership
The table below identifies ownership of portfolio securities by each investment professional responsible for the day-to-day management of
the fund as of February 28, 2013.
|
|
|
Investment Professional
|
|
Dollar Range of
Ownership of Securities ($)
|
Stephen A. Walsh*
|
|
None
|
S. Kenneth Leech
|
|
None
|
Keith J. Gardner
|
|
None
|
Matthew C. Duda
|
|
None
|
Gordon S. Brown
|
|
None
|
Robert O. Abad
|
|
None
|
*
|
It is anticipated that Mr. Walsh will step down as a member of the funds portfolio management team effective on or about March 31, 2014.
|
Expenses
In addition to amounts payable under the Management Agreement and the 12b-1 Plan (as discussed below), the fund is responsible for its own expenses, including, among other things, interest; taxes;
governmental fees; voluntary assessments and other expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; organizational costs of the fund; costs (including interest, brokerage, taxes, extraordinary expenses and
acquired fund fees and expenses, if any) in connection with the purchase or sale of the funds securities and other investments and any losses in connection therewith; fees and expenses of custodians, transfer agents, registrars, independent
pricing vendors or other agents; legal expenses; loan commitment fees; expenses relating to the issuing and redemption or repurchase of the funds shares and servicing shareholder accounts; expenses of registering and qualifying the funds
shares for sale under applicable federal and state law; expenses of preparing, setting in print, printing and distributing prospectuses and statements of additional information and any supplements thereto, reports, proxy statements, notices and
dividends to the funds shareholders; costs of stationery; website costs; costs of meetings of the Board or any committee thereof, meetings of shareholders and other meetings of the fund; Board fees; audit fees; travel expenses of officers,
members of the Board and employees of the fund, if any; the funds pro rata portion of premiums on any fidelity bond and other insurance covering the fund and its officers, members of the Board and employees; and litigation expenses and any
non-recurring or extraordinary expenses as may arise, including, without limitation, those relating to actions, suits or proceedings to which the fund is a party and the legal obligation which the fund may have to indemnify the funds Board
members and officers with respect thereto.
Management may agree to implement an expense limitation and/or reimburse operating
expenses for one or more classes of shares. Any such expense limitations and/or reimbursements are described in the funds Prospectus. The expense limitations and/or reimbursements do not cover (a) transaction costs (such as brokerage
commissions and dealer and underwriter spreads) and taxes; (b) extraordinary expenses, such as any expenses or charges related to litigation, derivative actions, demands related to litigation, regulatory or other government investigations and
proceedings, for cause regulatory inspections and indemnification or advancement of related expenses or costs, to the extent any such expenses are considered extraordinary expenses for the purposes of fee disclosure in Form N-1A, as the
same may be amended from time to time; and (c) other extraordinary expenses as determined for the purposes of fee disclosure in Form N-1A, as the same may be amended from time to time. Without limiting the foregoing, extraordinary expenses are
generally those that are unusual or expected to recur only infrequently, and may include such expenses, by way of illustration, as (i) expenses of the reorganization, restructuring, redomiciling or merger of the fund or class or the acquisition
of all or substantially all of the assets of another fund or class; (ii) expenses of holding, and soliciting proxies for, a meeting of shareholders of the fund or class (except to the extent relating to routine items such as the election of
board members or the approval of the independent registered public accounting firm); and (iii) expenses of converting to a new custodian, transfer
66
agent or other service provider, in each case to the extent any such expenses are considered extraordinary expenses for the purposes of fee disclosure in Form N-1A, as the same may be amended
from time to time. Some of these arrangements do not cover interest expenses.
These arrangements may be reduced or terminated
under certain circumstances.
In order to implement an expense limitation, the manager will, as necessary, waive management
fees or reimburse operating expenses. However, the manager is permitted to recapture amounts waived or reimbursed to a class during the same fiscal year if the class total annual operating expenses have fallen to a level below the class
expense limitation. In no case will the manager recapture any amount that would result, on any particular business day of the fund, in the class total annual operating expenses exceeding such expense limitation or any lower limit then in
effect.
Distributor
LMIS, a wholly-owned broker/dealer subsidiary of Legg Mason, located at 100 International Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, serves as the sole and exclusive distributor of the fund pursuant to a written
agreement (as amended, the Distribution Agreement).
Under the Distribution Agreement, the distributor is
appointed as principal underwriter and distributor in connection with the offering and sale of shares of the fund. The distributor offers the shares on an agency or best efforts basis under which the fund issues only the number of shares
actually sold. Shares of the fund are continuously offered by the distributor.
The Distribution Agreement is renewable from
year to year with respect to the fund if approved (a) by the Board or by a vote of a majority of the funds outstanding voting securities, and (b) by the affirmative vote of a majority of Trustees who are not parties to such agreement
or interested persons of any party by votes cast in person at a meeting called for such purpose.
The Distribution Agreement
is terminable with respect to the fund without penalty by the Board or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund, or by the distributor, on not less than 60 days written notice to the other party (unless the notice
period is waived by mutual consent). The Distribution Agreement will automatically and immediately terminate in the event of its assignment.
LMIS may be deemed to be an underwriter for purposes of the 1933 Act. Dealer reallowances are described in the funds Prospectus.
LMPFA, LMIS, their affiliates and their personnel have interests in promoting sales of the Legg Mason Funds, including remuneration, fees
and profitability relating to services to and sales of the funds. Employees of LMPFA, LMIS or their affiliates (including wholesalers registered with LMIS) may receive additional compensation related to the sale of individual Legg Mason Funds or
categories of Legg Mason Funds. LMPFA, the subadvisers, and their advisory or other personnel may also benefit from increased amounts of assets under management.
Financial intermediaries, including broker/dealers, investment advisers, financial consultants or advisers, mutual fund supermarkets, insurance companies, financial institutions and other financial
intermediaries through which investors may purchase shares of the fund, also may benefit from the sales of shares of the Legg Mason Funds. For example, in connection with such sales, financial intermediaries may receive compensation from the fund
(with respect to the fund as a whole or a particular class of shares) and/or from LMPFA, LMIS, and/or their affiliates, as further described below. The structure of these compensation arrangements, as well as the amounts paid under such
arrangements, vary and may change from time to time. In addition, new compensation arrangements may be negotiated at any time. The compensation arrangements described in this section are not mutually exclusive, and a single financial intermediary
may receive multiple types of compensation.
67
LMIS has agreements in place with financial intermediaries defining how much each firm will
be paid for the sale of a particular mutual fund from sales charges, if any, paid by fund shareholders and from Rule 12b-1 Plan fees paid to LMIS by the fund. These financial intermediaries then pay their employees or associated persons who sell
fund shares from the sales charges and/or fees they receive. The financial intermediary, and/or its employees or associated persons may receive a payment when a sale is made and will, in most cases, continue to receive ongoing payments while you are
invested in the fund. In other cases, LMIS may retain all or a portion of such fees and sales charges.
In addition, LMIS,
LMPFA and/or certain of their affiliates may make additional payments (which are often referred to as revenue sharing payments) to the financial intermediaries from their past profits and other available sources, including profits from
their relationships with the fund. Revenue sharing payments are a form of compensation paid to a financial intermediary in addition to the sales charges paid by fund shareholders or Rule 12b-1 Plan fees paid by the Fund. LMPFA, LMIS and/or certain
of its affiliates may revise the terms of any existing revenue sharing arrangement, and may enter into additional revenue sharing arrangements with other financial services firms.
Revenue sharing arrangements are intended, among other things, to foster the sale of fund shares and/or to compensate financial services
firms for assisting in marketing or promotional activities in connection with the sale of fund shares. In exchange for revenue sharing payments, LMPFA and LMIS generally expect to receive the opportunity for the fund to be sold through the financial
intermediaries sales forces or to have access to third-party platforms or other marketing programs, including but not limited to mutual fund supermarket platforms or other sales programs. To the extent that financial intermediaries
receiving revenue sharing payments sell more shares of the fund, LMPFA and LMIS and/or their affiliates benefit from the increase in fund assets as a result of the fees they receive from the fund.
Revenue sharing payments are usually calculated based on a percentage of fund sales and/or fund assets attributable to a particular
financial intermediary. Payments may also be based on other criteria or factors such as, for example, a fee per each transaction. Specific payment formulas are negotiated based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, reputation in the
industry, ability to attract and retain assets, target markets, customer relationships and scope and quality of services provided. In addition, LMIS, LMPFA and/or certain of their affiliates may pay flat fees on a one-time or irregular basis for the
initial set-up of the fund on a financial intermediarys systems, participation or attendance at a financial intermediarys meetings, or for other reasons. In addition, LMIS, LMPFA and/or certain of their affiliates may pay certain
education and training costs of financial intermediaries (including, in some cases, travel expenses) to train and educate the personnel of the financial intermediaries. It is likely that financial intermediaries that execute portfolio transactions
for the fund will include those firms with which LMPFA, LMIS and/or certain of their affiliates have entered into revenue sharing arrangements.
The fund generally pays the transfer agent for certain recordkeeping and administrative services. In addition, the fund may pay financial intermediaries for certain recordkeeping, administrative,
sub-accounting and networking services. These services include maintenance of shareholder accounts by the firms, such as recordkeeping and other activities that otherwise would be performed by a funds transfer agent. Administrative fees may be
paid to a firm that undertakes, for example, shareholder communications on behalf of the fund. Networking services are services undertaken to support the electronic transmission of shareholder purchase and redemption orders through the National
Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC). These payments are generally based on either (1) a percentage of the average daily net assets of fund shareholders serviced by a financial intermediary or (2) a fixed dollar amount for each account serviced by
a financial intermediary. LMIS, LMPFA and/or their affiliates may make all or a portion of these payments.
In addition, the
fund reimburses LMIS for NSCC fees that are invoiced to LMIS as the party to the agreement with NSCC for the administrative services provided by NSCC to the fund and its shareholders. These services include transaction processing and settlement
through Fund/SERV, electronic networking services to
68
support the transmission of shareholder purchase and redemption orders to and from financial intermediaries, and related recordkeeping provided by NSCC to the fund and its shareholders.
If your fund shares are purchased through a retirement plan, LMIS, LMPFA or certain of their affiliates may also make similar
payments to those described in this section to the plans recordkeeper or an affiliate.
Revenue sharing payments, as
well as the other types of compensation arrangements described in this section, may provide an incentive for financial intermediaries and their employees or associated persons to recommend or sell shares of the fund to customers and in doing so may
create conflicts of interest between the firms financial interests and the interests of their customers. Please contact your financial intermediary for details about any payments it (and its employees) may receive from the fund and/or from
LMIS, LMPFA and/or their affiliates. You should review your financial intermediarys disclosure and/or talk to your broker/dealer or financial intermediary to obtain more information on how this compensation may have influenced your
broker/dealers or financial intermediarys recommendation of the fund.
Dealer Commissions and Concessions
From time to time, the funds distributor or the manager, at its expense, may provide compensation or promotional incentives
(concessions) to dealers that sell or arrange for the sale of shares of the fund or a managed account strategy of which the fund is part. Such concessions provided by the funds distributor or the manager may include financial
assistance to dealers in connection with preapproved conferences or seminars, sales or training programs for invited registered representatives and other employees, payment for travel expenses, including lodging, incurred by registered
representatives and other employees for such seminars or training programs, seminars for the public, advertising and sales campaigns regarding one or more funds, and/or other dealer-sponsored events. From time to time, the funds distributor or
manager may make expense reimbursements for special training of a dealers registered representatives and other employees in group meetings or to help pay the expenses of sales contests. Other concessions may be offered to the extent not
prohibited by state laws or any self-regulatory agency, such as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Services
and Distribution Plan
The Trust, on behalf of the fund, has adopted a shareholder services and distribution plan (the
12b-1 Plan) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the 12b-1 Plan, the fund may pay monthly fees to LMIS at an annual rate not to exceed 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund attributable to Class A
shares, not to exceed 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund attributable to Class A2 shares, not to exceed 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the fund attributable to Class C (formerly Class R1) shares, not to exceed 0.70% of the
average daily net assets of the fund attributable to Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares, not to exceed 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund attributable to Class FI shares and not to exceed 0.50% of the average daily net assets of the
fund attributable to Class R shares. The fund will provide the Board with periodic reports of amounts expended under the 12b-1 Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
Fees under the 12b-1 Plan may be used to make payments to the distributor, Service Agents and other parties in respect of the sale of
shares of the fund, for advertising, marketing or other promotional activity, and payments for preparation, printing and distribution of prospectuses, statements of additional information and reports for recipients other than existing shareholders.
The fund also may make payments to the distributor, Service Agents, and others for providing personal service or the maintenance of shareholder accounts. The amounts paid to each recipient may vary based upon certain factors, including, among other
things, the levels of sales of shares and/or shareholder services; provided, however, that the fees paid to a recipient with respect to a particular class that may be used to cover expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of that
class, or that may be used to cover expenses primarily intended for personal service and/or maintenance of shareholder accounts, may not exceed the maximum amounts, if any, as may from time to time be permitted for such services under FINRA Conduct
Rule 2830 or any successor rule, in each case as amended or interpreted by FINRA.
69
Since fees paid under the 12b-1 Plan are not tied directly to expenses, the amount of the
fees paid by a class of the fund during any year may be more or less than actual expenses incurred pursuant to the 12b-1 Plan. This type of distribution fee arrangement is characterized by the staff of the SEC as being of the compensation
variety (in contrast to reimbursement arrangements by which a distributors payments are directly linked to its expenses). Thus, even if the expenses exceed the fees provided for by the 12b-1 Plan, the fund will not be
obligated to pay more than those fees and, if expenses incurred are less than the fees paid to the distributor and others, they will realize a profit.
The 12b-1 Plan recognizes that various service providers to the fund, such as its manager, may make payments for distribution, marketing or sales-related expenses out of their own resources of any kind,
including profits or payments received from the fund for other purposes, such as management fees. The 12b-1 Plan provides that, to the extent that such payments might be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in
the sale of shares of the fund, the payments are deemed to be authorized by the 12b-1 Plan.
Under its terms, the 12b-1 Plan
continues in effect for successive annual periods, provided continuance is specifically approved at least annually by vote of the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the
operation of the 12b-1 Plan or in any agreements related to it (Qualified Trustees). The 12b-1 Plan may not be amended to increase the amount of the service and distribution fees without shareholder approval, and all amendments of the
12b-1 Plan also must be approved by the Trustees, including the Qualified Trustees, in the manner described above. The 12b-1 Plan may be terminated with respect to a class of the fund at any time, without penalty, by vote of a majority of the
Qualified Trustees or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the class (as defined in the 1940 Act).
The following service and distribution fees were incurred by the fund pursuant to the distribution plan in effect during the fiscal year
ended February 28, 2013:
|
|
|
|
|
Class
|
|
Service and Distribution Fee
Incurred ($)
|
|
Class A
|
|
|
52,115
|
|
Class C (Class R1 prior to August 1, 2012)*
|
|
|
2,836
|
|
Class C1 (Class C prior to August 1, 2012)
|
|
|
12,637
|
|
Class FI
|
|
|
11,826
|
|
*
|
For the period from August 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013.
|
No information is given for Class A2 or Class R shares of the fund because no Class A2 or Class R shares of the fund were outstanding during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013.
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013, LMIS incurred distribution expenses for advertising, printing and mailing prospectuses,
support services and overhead expenses and compensation to Service Agents and third parties as expressed in the following table. The distributor may have made revenue sharing payments in addition to the expenses shown here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Party Fees ($)
|
|
Financial
Consultant
Compensation
(Amortized) ($)
|
|
Marketing ($)
|
|
Printing ($)
|
|
Total Current
Expenses ($)
|
Class A
|
|
51,637
|
|
0
|
|
18,858
|
|
0
|
|
70,495
|
Class C (Class R1 prior to August 1, 2012)*
|
|
0
|
|
1,225
|
|
671
|
|
0
|
|
1,896
|
Class C1 (Class C prior to August 1, 2012)
|
|
10,863
|
|
1,333
|
|
620
|
|
0
|
|
12,816
|
Class FI
|
|
10,113
|
|
0
|
|
4,427
|
|
0
|
|
14,540
|
*
|
For the period from August 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013.
|
70
No information is given for Class A2 or Class R shares of the fund because no Class A2
or Class R shares of the fund were outstanding during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013.
Sales Charges
The following expenses were incurred during the periods indicated:
Initial Sales
Charges
Class A Shares
The aggregate dollar amounts of initial sales charge on Class A shares received by LMIS were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
For the fiscal year ended
|
|
Total Commissions
Received ($)
|
|
February 28, 2011
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
February 29, 2012
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
February 28, 2013
|
|
|
2,048
|
|
Class A2 Shares
The aggregate dollar amounts of initial sales charge on Class A2 shares are not available because, as of the date of this SAI, no Class A2 shares are outstanding.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charges
The aggregate dollar amounts of contingent deferred sales charges on Class C1 (Class C prior to August 1, 2012) shares received by LMIS were as follows:
Class C1 Shares (Class C shares prior to August 1, 2012)
|
|
|
|
|
For the fiscal year or period ended:
|
|
LMIS ($)
|
|
February 28, 2011*
|
|
|
0
|
|
February 29, 2012
|
|
|
0
|
|
February 28, 2013
|
|
|
461
|
|
*
|
For the period from September 2, 2010 to February 28, 2011.
|
For the fiscal years ended February 28, 2011, February 29, 2012 and February 28, 2013, LMIS did not receive any contingent deferred sales charges on Class A shares. For the period
from August 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013, LMIS did not receive any contingent deferred sales charges on Class C Shares (Class R1 Shares prior to August 1, 2012). The aggregate dollar amounts of contingent deferred sales charges on
Class A2 shares are not available because, as of the date of this SAI, no Class A2 shares are outstanding.
Custodian and Transfer
Agent
State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111,
serves as the custodian of the fund. State Street, among other things, maintains a custody account or accounts in the name of the fund, receives and delivers all assets for the fund upon purchase and upon sale or maturity, collects and receives all
income and other payments and distributions on account of the assets of the fund and makes disbursements on behalf of the fund. State Street neither determines the funds investment policies nor decides which securities the fund will buy or
sell. For its services, State Street receives a monthly fee based upon the daily average market value of securities held in custody and also receives securities transaction charges,
71
including out-of-pocket expenses. The fund may also periodically enter into arrangements with other qualified custodians with respect to certain types of securities or other transactions such as
repurchase agreements or derivatives transactions. State Street may also act as the funds securities lending agent and in that case would receive a share of the income generated by such activities.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS or the transfer agent), located at 2000 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy,
Massachusetts 02169, serves as the funds transfer agent. Under the transfer agency agreement with BFDS, BFDS maintains the shareholder account records for the fund, handles certain communications between shareholders and the fund and
distributes dividends and distributions payable by the fund. For these services, BFDS receives a monthly fee computed on the basis of the number of shareholder accounts it maintains for the fund during the month and is reimbursed for out-of-pocket
expenses.
BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (BNY), located at 4400 Computer Drive, Westborough,
Massachusetts 01581, serves as co-transfer agent with BFDS with respect to shares purchased by clients of certain service providers. Under the co-transfer agency agreement with BNY, BNY maintains the shareholder account records for the fund, handles
certain communications between shareholders and the fund and distributes dividends and distributions payable by the fund. For these services, BNY receives a monthly fee computed on the basis of the number of shareholder accounts it maintains for the
fund during the month and is reimbursed for out of-pocket expenses.
Counsel
Bingham McCutchen LLP, located at One Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, serves as counsel to the fund.
Sullivan & Worcester LLP, located at 1666 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006, serves as counsel to the Independent Trustees.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
, an independent registered public accounting firm, located at
, has been selected to audit and report upon the funds financial statements
and financial highlights for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2014.
Code of Ethics
Pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act, the fund, the manager, the subadviser and the distributor each has adopted a code of ethics
that permits its personnel to invest in securities for their own accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund. All personnel must place the interests of clients first, must not act upon non-public information, must not
take inappropriate advantage of their positions, and are required to fulfill their fiduciary obligations. All personal securities transactions by employees must adhere to the requirements of the codes of ethics and must be conducted in such a manner
as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest, the appearance of such a conflict, or the abuse of an employees position of trust and responsibility.
Copies of the Codes of Ethics of the fund, the manager, the subadviser and the distributor are on file with the SEC.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
Although individual Trustees may not
agree with particular policies or votes by the manager or the subadviser, the Board has delegated proxy voting discretion to the manager and/or the subadviser, believing that the manager and/or the subadviser should be responsible for voting because
it is a matter relating to the investment decision making process.
72
The manager delegates the responsibility for voting proxies for the fund to the subadviser
through its contract with the subadviser. The subadviser will use its own proxy voting policies and procedures to vote proxies. Accordingly, the manager does not expect to have proxy-voting responsibility for the fund. Should the manager become
responsible for voting proxies for any reason, such as the inability of the subadviser to provide investment advisory services, the manager will utilize the proxy voting guidelines established by the most recent subadviser to vote proxies until a
new subadviser is retained. In the case of a material conflict between the interests of the manager (or its affiliates if such conflict is known to persons responsible for voting at the manager) and the fund, the board of directors of the manager
will consider how to address the conflict and/or how to vote the proxies. The manager will maintain records of all proxy votes in accordance with applicable securities laws and regulations, to the extent that the manager votes proxies. The manager
will be responsible for gathering relevant documents and records related to proxy voting from the subadviser and providing them to the fund as required for the fund to comply with applicable rules under the 1940 Act.
The subadvisers Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures govern in determining how proxies relating to the funds portfolio
securities are voted and are attached as Appendix B to this SAI. Information regarding how the fund voted proxies (if any) relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge:
(1) by calling 1- 877-721-1926, (2) on the funds website at http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors and (3) on the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov.
PURCHASE OF SHARES
See the funds Prospectus for a discussion of which classes of shares of the fund are available for purchase and who is eligible to purchase shares of each class.
Investors may purchase shares from a Service Agent. In addition, certain investors may purchase shares directly from the fund. When
purchasing shares of the fund, investors must specify the class of shares being purchased. Service Agents may charge their customers an annual account maintenance fee in connection with a brokerage account through which an investor purchases or
holds shares. Accounts held directly with the transfer agent are not subject to a maintenance fee.
Class A and
Class A2 Shares.
Class A and Class A2 shares are sold to investors at the public offering price, which is the net asset value plus an initial sales charge, as described in the funds Prospectus.
The distributor and Service Agents may receive a portion of the sales charge as described in the funds Prospectus and may be deemed
to be underwriters of the fund as defined in the 1933 Act. Sales charges are calculated based on the aggregate of purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares of the fund, as applicable, made at one time by any person, which
includes an individual and his or her spouse and children under the age of 21, or a trustee or other fiduciary of a single trust estate or single fiduciary account. For additional information regarding sales charge reductions, see Sales Charge
Waivers and Reductions below.
Purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares of $1,000,000 or more will be made at net
asset value without any initial sales charge, but will be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% on redemptions made within 18 months of purchase. The contingent deferred sales charge is waived in the same circumstances in which the
contingent deferred sales charge applicable to Class C shares is waived. See Contingent Deferred Sales Charge Provisions and Waivers of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge below.
There are no minimum investment requirements for purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares by: (i) current and retired board
members of Legg Mason; (ii) current and retired board members of any fund advised by LMPFA (such board members, together with board members of Legg Mason, are referred to herein as Board Members); (iii) current employees of
Legg Mason and its subsidiaries; (iv) the immediate families of such
73
persons (immediate families are such persons spouse, including the surviving spouse of a deceased Board Member, and children under the age of 21); and (v) a pension,
profit-sharing or other benefit plan for the benefit of such persons. The fund reserves the right to waive or change minimums, to decline any order to purchase its shares and to suspend the offering of shares from time to time.
Class C Shares
(Class R1 Shares
prior to August 1, 2012).
Class C shares are sold without an initial sales
charge but are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge payable upon certain redemptions. See Contingent Deferred Sales Charge Provisions.
Class C1 Shares (Class C Shares prior to August 1, 2012).
Class C1 shares are not available for purchase by new or existing investors (except for certain retirement plan programs authorized by
LMIS prior to August 1, 2012). Class C1 shares will continue to be available for dividend reinvestment and incoming exchanges. Class C1 shares are not subject to an initial sales charge but are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge
payable upon certain redemptions. See Contingent Deferred Sales Charge Provisions.
Class FI, Class I and Class
IS shares.
Class FI, Class I and Class IS shares are sold at net asset value with no initial sales charge on purchases and no contingent deferred sales charge upon redemption.
Class I Shares.
The following persons are eligible to purchase Class I shares of a fund: (i) current employees of the
funds manager and its affiliates; (ii) current and former board members of investment companies managed by affiliates of Legg Mason; (iii) current and former board members of Legg Mason; and (iv) the immediate families of such
persons. Immediate families are such persons spouse, including the surviving spouse of a deceased board member, and children under the age of 21. For such investors, the minimum initial investment is $1,000 and the minimum for each purchase of
additional shares is $50. Current employees may purchase additional Class I shares through a systematic investment plan.
Under certain circumstances, an investor who purchases fund shares pursuant to a fee-based advisory account program of an eligible
financial intermediary as authorized by LMIS may be afforded an opportunity to make a conversion between one or more share classes owned by the investor in the same fund to Class I shares of that fund. Such a conversion in these particular
circumstances does not cause the investor to realize taxable gain or loss.
Class IS shares.
Class IS shares may be
purchased only by retirement plans with omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund, certain rollover IRAs and institutional investors, and other investors authorized by LMIS. In order to purchase Class IS shares, an investor must hold its shares
in one account with the fund, which account is not subject to payment of recordkeeping or similar fees by the fund to any intermediary.
For additional information regarding applicable investment minimums and eligibility requirements for purchases of fund shares, please see the funds Prospectus.
Systematic Investment Plan
Shareholders may purchase additional Class A, Class A2 and Class C (formerly Class R1) shares of the fund through a service known as the Systematic Investment Plan. For information about the
Systematic Investment Plan, please see the funds Prospectus. A shareholder who has insufficient funds to complete a pre-authorized transfer may be charged a fee of up to $25 by a Service Agent or the transfer agent. Additional information is
available from the fund or a Service Agent.
74
Sales Charge Waivers and Reductions
Initial Sales Charge Waivers.
Purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares may be made at NAV without an initial sales charge
in the following circumstances:
|
(a)
|
sales to (i) current and retired Board Members, (ii) current employees of Legg Mason and its subsidiaries, (iii) the immediate families of
such persons (immediate families are such persons spouse, including the surviving spouse of a deceased Board Member, and children under the age of 21) and (iv) a pension, profit-sharing or other benefit plan for the benefit of
such persons;
|
|
(b)
|
sales to any employees of Service Agents having dealer, service or other selling agreements with the funds distributor or otherwise having an arrangement with any
such Service Agent with respect to sales of fund shares, and by the immediate families of such persons or by a pension, profit-sharing or other benefit plan for the benefit of such persons (providing the purchase is made for investment purposes and
such securities will not be resold except through redemption or repurchase);
|
|
(c)
|
offers of Class A or Class A2 shares to any other investment company to effect the combination of such company with the fund by merger, acquisition of assets
or otherwise;
|
|
(d)
|
purchases by shareholders who have redeemed Class A or Class A2 shares in the fund (or Class A or Class A2 shares of another fund sold by the
distributor that is offered with a sales charge) and who wish to reinvest their redemption proceeds in the fund, provided the reinvestment is made within 60 calendar days of the redemption;
|
|
(e)
|
purchases by certain separate accounts used to fund unregistered variable annuity contracts;
|
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(f)
|
purchases by investors participating in wrap fee or asset allocation programs or other fee-based arrangements sponsored by broker/dealers and other
financial institutions that have entered into agreements with LMIS; and
|
|
(g)
|
purchases by direct retail investment platforms through mutual fund supermarkets, where the sponsor links its clients account (including IRA accounts
on such platforms) to a master account in the sponsors name.
|
In order to obtain such discounts, the
purchaser must provide sufficient information at the time of purchase to permit verification that the purchase qualifies for the elimination of the initial sales charge.
All existing retirement plan shareholders who purchased Class A shares at NAV prior to November 20, 2006, are permitted to purchase additional Class A shares at NAV. Certain existing
programs for current and prospective retirement plan investors sponsored by financial intermediaries approved by LMIS prior to November 20, 2006 will also remain eligible to purchase Class A shares at NAV.
There are several ways you can combine multiple purchases of Class A or Class A2 shares of funds sold by the distributor to
take advantage of the breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. In order to take advantage of reductions in sales charges that may be available to you when you purchase fund shares, you must inform your Service Agent or the fund if you are eligible
for a letter of intent or a right of accumulation and if you own shares of other funds that are eligible to be aggregated with your purchases. Certain records, such as account statements, may be necessary in order to verify your eligibility for a
reduced sales charge.
Accumulation Privilege
allows you to combine the current value of shares of the fund
with other shares of funds sold by the distributor that are owned by:
|
|
|
your spouse and children under the age of 21
|
with the dollar amount of your next purchase of Class A or Class A2 shares for purposes of calculating the initial sales charges.
75
If you hold fund shares in accounts at two or more Service Agents, please contact your
Service Agents to determine which shares may be combined.
Shares of money market funds sold by the distributor acquired by
exchange from other funds offered with a sales charge may be combined. Shares of money market funds sold by the distributor that were not acquired by exchange from other funds offered with a sales charge may not be combined. Please contact your
Service Agent or the fund for additional information.
Certain trustees and other fiduciaries may be entitled to combine
accounts in determining their sales charge.
Letter of Intent helps you take advantage of breakpoints in Class A or
Class A2 sales charges. You may purchase Class A or Class A2 shares of funds sold by the distributor over a 13-month period and pay the same sales charge, if any, as if all shares had been purchased at once. You have a choice of five
Asset Level Goal amounts, as follows:
(1) $100,000
(2) $250,000
(3) $500,000
(4) $750,000
(5) $1,000,000
Each time you make a Class A or Class A2 purchase under a Letter of Intent, you will be entitled to the sales charge that is applicable to the amount of your Asset Level Goal. For example, if
your Asset Level Goal is $100,000, any Class A or Class A2 investments you make under a Letter of Intent would be subject to the sales charge of the specific fund you are investing in for purchases of $100,000. Sales charges and
breakpoints vary among the funds sold by the distributor.
When you enter into a Letter of Intent, you agree to purchase in
Eligible Accounts over a thirteen (13) month period Eligible Fund Purchases in an amount equal to the Asset Level Goal you have selected, less any Eligible Prior Purchases. For this purpose, shares are valued at the public offering price
(including any sales charge paid) calculated as of the date of purchase, plus any appreciation in the value of the shares as of the date of calculation, except for Eligible Prior Purchases, which are valued at current value as of the date of
calculation. Your commitment will be met if at any time during the 13-month period the value, as so determined, of eligible holdings is at least equal to your Asset Level Goal. All reinvested dividends and distributions on shares acquired under the
Letter of Intent will be credited towards your Asset Level Goal. You may include any Eligible Fund Purchases towards the Letter of Intent, including shares of classes other than Class A or Class A2 shares. However, a Letter of Intent will
not entitle you to a reduction in the sales charge payable on any shares other than Class A or Class A2 shares, and if the shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge, you will still be subject to that contingent deferred
sales charge with respect to those shares. You must make reference to the Letter of Intent each time you make a purchase under the Letter of Intent.
Eligible Fund Purchases.
Generally, any shares of a fund sold by the distributor may be credited towards your Asset Level Goal. Shares of certain money market funds acquired by exchange from other
funds offered with a sales charge and sold by the distributor may be credited toward your Asset Level Goal.
Eligible
Accounts.
Purchases may be made through any account in your name, or in the name of your spouse or your children under the age of 21. You may need to provide certain records, such as account statements, in order to verify your eligibility for
reduced sales charges. Contact your Service Agent to see which accounts may be credited toward your Asset Level Goal.
Eligible Prior Purchases
. You may also credit towards your Asset Level Goal any Eligible Fund Purchases made in Eligible Accounts
at any time prior to entering into the Letter of Intent that have not been sold or redeemed, based on the current price of those shares as of the date of calculation.
76
Increasing the Amount of the Letter of Intent.
You may at any time increase your
Asset Level Goal. You must, however, contact your Service Agent, or if you purchase your shares directly through the transfer agent, contact the transfer agent, prior to making any purchases in an amount in excess of your current Asset Level Goal.
Upon such an increase, you will be credited by way of additional shares at the then-current offering price for the difference between: (a) the aggregate sales charges actually paid for shares already purchased under the Letter of Intent and
(b) the aggregate applicable sales charges for the increased Asset Level Goal. The 13-month period during which the Asset Level Goal must be achieved will remain unchanged.
Sales and Exchanges.
Shares acquired pursuant to a Letter of Intent, other than Escrowed Shares as defined below, may be redeemed
or exchanged at any time, although any shares that are redeemed prior to meeting your Asset Level Goal will no longer count towards meeting your Asset Level Goal. However, complete liquidation of purchases made under a Letter of Intent prior to
meeting the Asset Level Goal will result in the cancellation of the Letter. See Failure to Meet Asset Level Goal below. Exchanges in accordance with the funds Prospectus are permitted, and shares so exchanged will continue to count
towards your Asset Level Goal, as long as the exchange results in an Eligible Fund Purchase.
Cancellation of the Letter of
Intent.
You may cancel a Letter of Intent by notifying your financial professional in writing, or if you purchase your shares directly through the transfer agent, by notifying the transfer agent in writing. The Letter of Intent will be
automatically cancelled if all shares are sold or redeemed as set forth above. See Failure to Meet Asset Level Goal below.
Escrowed Shares
. Shares equal in value to five percent (5%) of your Asset Level Goal as of the date your Letter of Intent (or the date of any increase in the amount of the Letter of Intent) is
accepted, will be held in escrow during the term of your Letter of Intent. The Escrowed Shares will be included in the total shares owned as reflected in your account statement and any dividends and capital gains distributions applicable to the
Escrowed Shares will be credited to your account and counted towards your Asset Level Goal or paid in cash upon request. The Escrowed Shares will be released from escrow if all the terms of your Letter are met.
Failure to Meet Asset Level Goal.
If the total assets under your Letter of Intent within its 13-month term are less than your
Asset Level Goal whether because you made insufficient Eligible Fund Purchases, redeemed all of your holdings or cancelled the Letter of Intent before reaching your Asset Level Goal, you will be liable for the difference between: (a) the sales
charge actually paid and (b) the sales charge that would have applied if you had not entered into the Letter of Intent. You may, however, be entitled to any breakpoints that would have been available to you under the accumulation privilege. An
appropriate number of shares in your account will be redeemed to realize the amount due. For these purposes, by entering into a Letter of Intent, you irrevocably appoint your Service Agent, or if you purchase your shares directly through the
transfer agent, the transfer agent, as your attorney-in-fact for the purposes of holding the Escrowed Shares and surrendering shares in your account for redemption. If there are insufficient assets in your account, you will be liable for the
difference. Any Escrowed Shares remaining after such redemption will be released to your account.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
Provisions
Contingent deferred sales charge shares are: (a) Class C (formerly Class R1) shares; Class
C1 (formerly Class C) shares and (b) Class A or Class A2 shares that were purchased without an initial sales charge but are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on certain
redemptions of these shares. Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares are not available for purchase by new or existing investors (except for certain retirement plan programs authorized by LMIS prior to August 1, 2012). Class C1 (formerly Class C)
shares will continue to be available for dividend reinvestment and incoming exchanges.
Any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge will be assessed on the net asset value at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is less.
77
Class C (formerly Class R1) shares and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares that are
contingent deferred sales charge shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. Class A or Class A2 shares that are contingent deferred sales charge shares are subject to a 1.00%
contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 18 months of purchase.
In determining the applicability of any
contingent deferred sales charge, it will be assumed that a redemption is made first of shares representing capital appreciation, next of shares representing the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions, next of shares that are not
subject to the contingent deferred sales charge and finally of other shares held by the shareholder for the longest period of time. The length of time that contingent deferred sales charge shares acquired through an exchange have been held will be
calculated from the date the shares exchanged were initially acquired in one of the other funds sold by the distributor. For federal income tax purposes, the amount of the contingent deferred sales charge will reduce the gain or increase the loss,
as the case may be, on the amount realized on redemption. The distributor receives contingent deferred sales charges in partial consideration for its expenses in selling shares.
Waivers of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
The
contingent deferred sales charge will be waived on: (a) exchanges (see Exchange Privilege); (b) automatic cash withdrawals in amounts equal to or less than 2.00% per month of the shareholders account balance at the
time the withdrawals commence, up to a maximum of 12.00% in one year (see Automatic Cash Withdrawal Plan); (c) redemptions of shares within 12 months following the death or disability (as defined by the Code) of the shareholder;
(d) mandatory post-retirement distributions from retirement plans or IRAs commencing on or after attainment of age 70
1
/2 (except that shareholders who had opened accounts prior to May 23, 2005, will be grandfathered and will be eligible to obtain the waiver at age 59
1
/2 by demonstrating such eligibility at the time of redemption);
(e) involuntary redemptions; (f) redemptions of shares to effect a combination of the fund with any investment company by merger, acquisition of assets or otherwise; (g) tax-free returns of an excess contribution to any retirement
plan; and (h) certain redemptions of shares of the fund in connection with lump-sum or other distributions made by eligible retirement plans or redemption of shares by participants in certain wrap fee or asset allocation programs
sponsored by broker/dealers and other financial institutions that have entered into agreements with the distributor or the manager.
The contingent deferred sales charge is waived on Class C (formerly Class R1) shares and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares purchased by retirement plan omnibus accounts held on the books of the fund.
A shareholder who has redeemed shares from other funds sold by the distributor may, under certain circumstances, reinvest all
or part of the redemption proceeds within 60 days and receive pro rata credit for any contingent deferred sales charge imposed on the prior redemption.
Contingent deferred sales charge waivers will be granted subject to confirmation by the distributor or the transfer agent of the shareholders status or holdings, as the case may be.
Grandfathered Retirement Program with Exchange Features
Certain retirement plan programs with exchange features in effect prior to November 20, 2006 (collectively, the Grandfathered Retirement Program), that are authorized by the distributor
to offer eligible retirement plan investors the opportunity to exchange all of their Class C (formerly Class R1) or Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares for Class A shares of an applicable fund sold by the distributor, are permitted to offer such
share class exchange features for current and prospective retirement plan investors. Under the Grandfathered Retirement Program, Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares of the fund may be purchased by plans investing less
than $3 million. Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares are
78
eligible for exchange into Class A shares not later than eight years after the plan joins the program. They are eligible for exchange in the following circumstances:
If a participating plans total Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares in all non-money market funds
sold by the distributor equal at least $3 million at the end of the fifth year after the date the participating plan enrolled in the Grandfathered Retirement Program, the participating plan will be offered the opportunity to exchange all of its
Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares for Class A shares of the fund. Such participating plans will be notified of the pending exchange in writing within 30 days after the fifth anniversary of the enrollment date
and, unless the exchange offer has been rejected in writing, the exchange will occur on or about the 90th day after the fifth anniversary date. If the participating plan does not qualify for the five-year exchange to Class A shares, a review of
the participating plans holdings will be performed each quarter until either the participating plan qualifies or the end of the eighth year.
Any participating plan that has not previously qualified for an exchange into Class A shares will be offered the opportunity to exchange all of its Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly
Class C) shares for Class A shares of the same fund regardless of asset size at the end of the eighth year after the date the participating plan enrolled in the Grandfathered Retirement Program. Such plans will be notified of the pending
exchange in writing approximately 60 days before the eighth anniversary of the enrollment date and, unless the exchange has been rejected in writing, the exchange will occur on or about the eighth anniversary date. Once an exchange has occurred, a
participating plan will not be eligible to acquire additional Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares, but instead may acquire Class A shares of the same fund. Any Class C (formerly Class R1) and Class C1 (formerly
Class C) shares not converted will continue to be subject to the distribution fee.
For further information regarding this
Program, contact your Service Agent or the transfer agent. Participating plans that enrolled in the Grandfathered Retirement Program prior to June 2, 2003 should contact the transfer agent for information regarding Class C (formerly Class R1)
and Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares exchange privileges applicable to their plan.
For additional information regarding
applicable investment minimums and eligibility requirements for purchases of fund shares, please see the funds Prospectus.
Determination of Public Offering Price
The fund offers its shares on a continuous basis. The public offering price for each class of shares of the fund is equal to the NAV per share at the time of purchase, plus for Class A or
Class A2 shares an initial sales charge based on the aggregate amount of the investment.
Set forth below is an example
of the method of computing the offering price of the Class A and Class A2 shares of the fund based on the NAV of a share of the fund as of February 28, 2013.
|
|
|
|
|
Class A (based on a NAV of $5.87 and a maximum initial sales charge of 4.25%)
|
|
$
|
6.13
|
|
Class A2 (based on a NAV of $5.87 and a maximum initial sales charge of 4.25%)
|
|
$
|
6.13
|
|
REDEMPTION OF SHARES
The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed (a) for any period during which the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) is closed (other than for customary weekend and holiday closings), (b) when trading in the markets the fund normally utilizes is restricted, or an emergency exists, as determined by the SEC, so that disposal of the
funds investments or determination of net asset value is not
79
reasonably practicable or (c) for any other periods as the SEC by order may permit for protection of the funds shareholders.
If a shareholder holds shares in more than one class, any request for redemption must specify the class being redeemed. In the event of a
failure to specify which class, or if the investor owns fewer shares of the class than specified, the redemption request will be delayed until the transfer agent receives further instructions.
The Service Agent may charge you a fee for executing your order. The amount and applicability of such a fee is determined and should be
disclosed to its customers by each Service Agent.
Additional Information Regarding Telephone Redemption and Exchange
Program
. The fund reserves the right to suspend, modify or discontinue the telephone redemption and exchange program or to impose a charge for this service at any time following at least seven days prior notice to shareholders.
Automatic Cash Withdrawal Plan
An automatic cash withdrawal plan (the Withdrawal Plan) is available to shareholders as described in the funds Prospectus. To the extent withdrawals under the Withdrawal Plan exceed
dividends, distributions and appreciation of a shareholders investment in the fund, there will be a reduction in the value of the shareholders investment, and continued withdrawal payments may reduce the shareholders investment and
ultimately exhaust it. Withdrawal payments should not be considered as income from investment in the fund. The Withdrawal Plan will be carried over on exchanges between funds or, if permitted, between classes of the fund. All dividends and
distributions on shares in the Withdrawal Plan are reinvested automatically at net asset value in additional shares of the fund.
For additional information shareholders should contact their Service Agents. A shareholder who purchases shares directly through the transfer agent may continue to do so and applications for participation
in the Withdrawal Plan should be sent to the transfer agent. Withdrawals may be scheduled on any day of the month; however, if the shareholder does not specify a day, the transfer agent will schedule the withdrawal on the 25th day (or the next
business day if the 25th day is a weekend or holiday) of the month.
Legg Mason Institutional Funds Systematic Withdrawal Plan
Certain shareholders of Class FI, Class I or Class IS shares with an initial NAV of $1,000,000 or more may be eligible to
participate in the Legg Mason Institutional Funds Systematic Withdrawal Plan. Receipt of payment of proceeds of redemptions made through the Systematic Withdrawal Plan will be wired through ACH to your checking or savings accountredemptions of
fund shares may occur on any business day of the month and the checking or savings account will be credited with the proceeds in approximately two business days. Requests must be made in writing to the fund or a Service Agent to participate in,
change or discontinue the Systematic Withdrawal Plan. You may change the monthly amount to be paid to you or terminate the Systematic Withdrawal Plan at any time, without charge or penalty, by notifying the fund or a Service Agent. The fund, its
transfer agent and the distributor also reserve the right to modify or terminate the Systematic Withdrawal Plan at any time.
Distributions
in Kind
If the Board determines that it would be detrimental to the best interests of the remaining shareholders of the
fund to make a redemption payment wholly in cash, the fund may pay, in accordance with SEC rules, any portion of a redemption by a distribution in kind of fund securities in lieu of cash. If a redemption is paid in portfolio securities, such
securities will be valued in accordance with the procedures described under Share price in the funds Prospectus. Securities issued as a distribution in kind may incur transaction costs when shareholders subsequently sell those
securities, and the market price of those securities will be subject to fluctuation until they are sold.
80
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE
The exchange privilege enables shareholders to acquire shares of the same class in another fund with different investment objectives when
they believe that a shift between funds is an appropriate investment decision. Prior to any exchange, the shareholder should obtain and review a copy of the current prospectus of each fund into which an exchange is being considered. The funds
Prospectus describes the requirements for exchanging shares of the fund.
Upon receipt of proper instructions and all
necessary supporting documents, shares submitted for exchange are redeemed at the then-current net asset value, and the proceeds, net of any applicable sales charge, are immediately invested in shares of the fund being acquired at that funds
then-current net asset value. The fund reserves the right to reject any exchange request. The exchange privilege may be modified or terminated at any time after written notice to shareholders.
Investors that hold Class C1 (formerly Class C) shares may exchange those shares for Class C1 shares of other funds sold by the
distributor, or if a fund does not offer Class C1, for Class C shares. However, once an investor exchanges Class C1 shares for Class C shares, the investor would not be permitted to exchange from Class C shares back to Class C1 shares.
Investors that hold Class A2 shares may exchange those shares for Class A2 shares of other funds sold by a financial intermediary
with a direct transfer agent relationship with such funds, or if such fund does not offer Class A2, for Class A shares.
Additional
Information Regarding the Exchange Privilege
The fund is not designed to provide investors with a means of speculation on
short-term market movements. A pattern of frequent exchanges by investors can be disruptive to efficient portfolio management and, consequently, can be detrimental to the fund and its shareholders. See Frequent trading of fund shares in
the funds Prospectus.
During times of drastic economic or market conditions, the fund may suspend the exchange
privilege temporarily without notice and treat exchange requests based on their separate componentsredemption orders with a simultaneous request to purchase the other funds shares. In such a case, the redemption request would be
processed at the funds next determined net asset value but the purchase order would be effective only at the net asset value next determined after the fund being purchased formally accepts the order, which may result in the purchase being
delayed.
The exchange privilege may be modified or terminated at any time, and is available only in those jurisdictions where
such exchanges legally may be made. Before making any exchange, shareholders should contact the transfer agent or, if they hold fund shares through a Service Agent, their Service Agent, to obtain more information and prospectuses of the funds to be
acquired through the exchange. An exchange is treated as a sale of the shares exchanged and could result in taxable gain or loss to the shareholder making the exchange.
VALUATION OF SHARES
The net asset value per
share of each class is calculated on each day, Monday through Friday, except days on which the NYSE is closed. As of the date of this SAI, the NYSE is normally open for trading every weekday, except in the event of an emergency or for the following
holidays (or the days on which they are observed): New Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Because of the differences in
distribution fees and class-specific expenses, the per share net asset value of each class may differ. Please see the funds Prospectus for a description of the procedures used by the fund in valuing its assets.
81
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Subject to such policies as may be established by the Board from time to time, each subadviser is primarily responsible for the
funds portfolio decisions and the placing of the funds portfolio transactions with respect to assets allocated to the subadviser.
Pursuant to each Subadvisory Agreement, each subadviser is authorized to place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the fund either directly with the issuer or with any broker or dealer,
foreign currency dealer, futures commission merchant or others selected by it. The general policy of each subadviser in selecting brokers and dealers is to obtain the best results achievable in the context of a number of factors which are considered
both in relation to individual trades and broader trading patterns, including the reliability of the broker/dealer, the competitiveness of the price and the commission, the research services received and whether the broker/dealer commits its own
capital.
In connection with the selection of brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, subject to applicable law,
brokers or dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) to the fund and/or the other accounts over which a subadviser
or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. Each subadviser is authorized to pay a broker or dealer who provides such brokerage and research services a commission for executing a portfolio transaction for the fund which is in excess of the
amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction if the subadviser determines in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services
provided by such broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities that the subadviser and its affiliates have with respect to accounts over which they exercise
investment discretion. Each subadviser may also have arrangements with brokers pursuant to which such brokers provide research services to the subadviser in exchange for a certain volume of brokerage transactions to be executed by such brokers.
While the payment of higher commissions increases the funds costs, the subadvisers do not believe that the receipt of such brokerage and research services significantly reduces their expenses as the funds subadvisers. Arrangements for
the receipt of research services from brokers may create conflicts of interest.
Research services furnished to a subadviser
by brokers who effect securities transactions for the fund may be used by the subadviser in servicing other investment companies and accounts which it manages. Similarly, research services furnished to a subadviser by brokers who effect securities
transactions for other investment companies and accounts which the subadviser manages may be used by the subadviser in servicing the fund. Not all of these research services are used by a subadviser in managing any particular account, including the
fund.
Debt securities purchased and sold by the fund generally are traded on a net basis (
i.e.,
without a commission)
through dealers acting for their own account and not as brokers, or otherwise involve transactions directly with the issuer of the instrument. This means that a dealer makes a market for securities by offering to buy at one price and sell at a
slightly higher price. The difference between the prices is known as a spread. Other portfolio transactions may be executed through brokers acting as agent. The fund will pay a spread or commission in connection with such transactions.
In certain instances there may be securities that are suitable as an investment for the fund as well as for one or more of
the subadvisers other clients. Investment decisions for the fund and for the subadvisers other clients are made with a view to achieving their respective investment objectives. It may develop that a particular security is bought or sold
for only one client even though it might be held by, or bought or sold for, other clients. Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one or more clients are selling the same security.
Under each subadvisers procedures, investment professionals and their trading desks may seek to aggregate (or bunch)
orders that are placed or received concurrently for more than one fund or account managed by the subadviser. In some cases, this policy may adversely affect the price paid or received by the fund or an account,
82
or the size of the position obtained or liquidated. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund or account to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions for the fund
or account. Certain brokers or dealers may be selected because of their ability to handle special executions such as those involving large block trades or broad distributions. Generally, when trades are aggregated, the fund or account within the
block will receive the same price and commission. However, random allocations of aggregate transactions may be made to minimize custodial transaction costs. In addition, at the close of the trading day, when reasonable and practicable, the
securities of partially filled orders will generally be allocated to each participating fund and account in the proportion that each order bears to the total of all orders (subject to rounding to round lot amounts).
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013, the fund did not direct any amounts to brokerage transactions related to research
services and did not pay any brokerage commissions related to research services.
Aggregate Brokerage Commissions Paid
For the fiscal years ended February 28, 2011, February 29, 2012 and February 28, 2013, the fund paid the following
aggregate brokerage commissions for portfolio transactions (including commissions on derivatives transactions):
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended:
|
|
Aggregate
Commissions Paid ($)
|
|
February 28, 2013
|
|
|
1,021
|
|
February 29, 2012
|
|
|
208
|
|
February 28, 2011
|
|
|
211
|
|
LMIS is an underwriter of the fund under the 1940 Act. For the fiscal years ended February 28, 2011,
February 29, 2012 and February 28, 2013, the fund did not pay any brokerage commissions to LMIS or its affiliates.
At February 28, 2013, the fund held the following securities issued by its regular broker/dealers:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Regular Broker or Dealer
|
|
Type of Security
Owned
D=Debt
Equity=Equity
|
|
|
Market Value as of
February 28, 2013
($000s)
|
|
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.
|
|
|
D
|
|
|
|
6,965
|
|
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The funds Board has adopted policies and procedures (the policy) developed by the manager with respect to the
disclosure of a funds portfolio securities and any ongoing arrangements to make available information about the funds portfolio securities. The manager believes the policy is in the best interests of each fund and its shareholders and
that it strikes an appropriate balance between the desire of investors for information about fund portfolio holdings and the need to protect funds from potentially harmful disclosures.
General rules/Website disclosure
The policy provides that information
regarding a funds portfolio holdings may be shared at any time with employees of the manager, a funds subadviser and other affiliated parties involved in the management, administration or operations of the fund (referred to as
fund-affiliated personnel). With respect to non-money market funds, a funds complete list of holdings (including the size of each position) may be made available to investors, potential investors, third parties and Legg Mason personnel that
are not fund-affiliated personnel (i) upon the filing of Form N-Q or Form N-CSR in accordance with SEC rules, provided that such filings are not made until 15 calendar days following the end of the period covered by the Form N-Q or Form N-CSR
or (ii) no
83
sooner than 15 days after month end, provided that such information has been made available through public disclosure at least one day previously. Typically, public disclosure is achieved by
required filings with the SEC and/or posting the information to Legg Masons or the funds Internet site that is accessible by the public, or through public release by a third party vendor.
The fund currently discloses its complete portfolio holdings 14 calendar days after quarter-end on Legg Masons website:
http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors/prospectuses (click on the name of the fund).
Ongoing arrangements
Under the policy, a fund may release portfolio holdings information on a regular basis to a custodian, sub-custodian, fund accounting
agent, proxy voting provider, rating agency or other vendor or service provider for a legitimate business purpose, where the party receiving the information is under a duty of confidentiality, including a duty to prohibit the sharing of non-public
information with unauthorized sources and trading upon non-public information. A fund may enter into other ongoing arrangements for the release of portfolio holdings information, but only if such arrangements serve a legitimate business purpose and
are with a party who is subject to a confidentiality agreement and restrictions on trading upon non-public information. None of the funds, Legg Mason or any other affiliated party may receive compensation or any other consideration in connection
with such arrangements. Ongoing arrangements to make available information about a funds portfolio securities will be reviewed at least annually by the funds board.
Set forth below is a list, as of March 31, 2013, of those parties with whom the manager, on behalf of each fund, has authorized
ongoing arrangements that include the release of portfolio holdings information in accordance with the policy, as well as the frequency of the release under such arrangements, and the length of the lag, if any, between the date of the information
and the date on which the information is disclosed. The parties identified below as recipients are service providers, fund rating agencies, consultants and analysts.
|
|
|
|
|
Recipient
|
|
Frequency
|
|
Delay Before Dissemination
|
State Street Bank and Trust Company (Fund Custodian and Accounting Agent)
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
A.S.A.P. Advisor Services, Inc.
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Bloomberg L.P.
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 6 Business Days after Quarter-End
|
Lipper Analytical Services Corp.
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 6 Business Days after Quarter-End
|
Morningstar
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Institutional Shareholder Services (Proxy Voting Services)
|
|
As necessary
|
|
None
|
Thomson/Vestek
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
FactSet
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
The Bank of New York Mellon
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Thomson
|
|
Semi-annually
|
|
None
|
SunGard/Protegent (formerly Dataware)
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
ITG
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
The Northern Trust Company
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Middle Office Solutions, LLC
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
NaviSite, Inc.
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Portfolio holdings information for a fund may also be released from time to time pursuant to ongoing
arrangements with the following parties:
|
|
|
|
|
Recipient
|
|
Frequency
|
|
Delay Before Dissemination
|
Baseline
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Frank Russell
|
|
Monthly
|
|
1 Day
|
84
|
|
|
|
|
Recipient
|
|
Frequency
|
|
Delay Before Dissemination
|
Callan Associates
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Mercer LLC
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
eVestment Alliance
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Rogerscasey
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Cambridge Associates LLC
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Wilshire Associates Inc.
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Informa Investment Solutions
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Prima Capital
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Investor Tools
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Advent
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
BARRA
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Plexus
|
|
Quarterly (Calendar)
|
|
Sent 1-3 Business Days after Quarter-End
|
Elkins/McSherry
|
|
Quarterly (Calendar)
|
|
Sent 1-3 Business Days after Quarter-End
|
Quantitative Services Group
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Deutsche Bank
|
|
Monthly
|
|
6-8 Business Days
|
Fitch
|
|
Monthly
|
|
6-8 Business Days
|
Liberty Hampshire
|
|
Weekly and Month End
|
|
None
|
SunTrust
|
|
Weekly and Month End
|
|
None
|
S&P (Rating Agency)
|
|
Weekly Tuesday Night
|
|
1 Business Day
|
Electra Information Systems
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Cabot Research
|
|
Weekly
|
|
None
|
Goldman Sachs
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Chicago Mercantile Exchange
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Canterbury Consulting
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
Sent 8-10 Days after Quarter-End
|
Broadridge
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
DST Global Solutions Limited
|
|
Monthly
|
|
Sent 6 Business Days after Month-End
|
Interactive Data Corp
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Glass Lewis & Co.
|
|
Daily
|
|
None
|
Fidelity
|
|
Quarterly
|
|
5 Business Days
|
Excluded from the lists of ongoing arrangements set forth above are ongoing arrangements where either
(i) the disclosure of portfolio holdings information occurs concurrently with or after the time at which the portfolio holdings information is included in a public filing with the SEC that is required to include the information, or (ii) a
funds portfolio holdings information is made available no earlier than the day next following the day on which the fund makes the information available on its website, as disclosed in the funds prospectus. The approval of the funds
Chief Compliance Officer, or designee, must be obtained before entering into any new ongoing arrangement or altering any existing ongoing arrangement to make available portfolio holdings information, or with respect to any exceptions from the
policy.
Release of limited portfolio holdings information
In addition to the ongoing arrangements described above, a funds complete or partial list of holdings (including size of positions) may be released to another party on a one-time basis, provided the
party receiving the information has executed a non-disclosure and confidentiality agreement and provided that the specific release of information has been approved by the funds Chief Compliance Officer or designee as consistent with the
policy. By way of illustration and not of limitation, release of non-public information about a funds portfolio holdings may be made (i) to a proposed or potential adviser or subadviser or other investment manager asked to provide
investment management services to the fund, or (ii) to a third party in connection with a program or similar trade.
85
In addition, the policy permits the release to investors, potential investors, third parties
and Legg Mason personnel that are not fund-affiliated personnel of limited portfolio holdings information in other circumstances, including:
|
1.
|
A funds top ten securities, current as of month-end, and the individual size of each such security position may be released at any time following month-end with
simultaneous public disclosure.
|
|
2.
|
A funds top ten securities positions (including the aggregate but not individual size of such positions) may be released at any time with simultaneous public
disclosure.
|
|
3.
|
A list of securities (that may include fund holdings together with other securities) followed by an investment professional (without position sizes or identification of
particular funds) may be disclosed to sell-side brokers at any time for the purpose of obtaining research and/or market information from such brokers.
|
|
4.
|
A trade in process may be discussed only with counterparties, potential counterparties and others involved in the transaction (
i.e
., brokers and custodians).
|
|
5.
|
A funds sector weightings, yield and duration (for fixed income and money market funds), performance attribution (
e.g
., analysis of the funds
out-performance or underperformance of its benchmark based on its portfolio holdings) and other summary and statistical information that does not include identification of specific portfolio holdings may be released, even if non-public, if such
release is otherwise in accordance with the policys general principles.
|
|
6.
|
A small number of a funds portfolio holdings (including information that the fund no longer holds a particular holding) may be released, but only if the release
of the information could not reasonably be seen to interfere with current or future purchase or sales activities of the fund and is not contrary to law.
|
|
7.
|
A funds portfolio holdings may be released on an as-needed basis to its legal counsel, counsel to its independent trustees and its independent public accounting
firm, in required regulatory filings or otherwise to governmental agencies and authorities.
|
Exceptions to the policy
A funds Chief Compliance Officer, or designee, may, as is deemed appropriate, approve exceptions from the policy.
Exceptions are granted only after a thorough examination and consultation with the managers legal department, as necessary. Exceptions from the policy are reported annually to each funds board.
Limitations of policy
The funds portfolio holdings policy is designed to prevent sharing of portfolio information with third parties that have no
legitimate business purpose for accessing the information. The policy may not be effective to limit access to portfolio holdings information in all circumstances, however. For example, the manager or a subadviser may manage accounts other than a
fund that have investment objectives and strategies similar to those of the fund. Because these accounts, including a fund, may be similarly managed, portfolio holdings may be similar across the accounts. In that case, an investor in another account
managed by the manager or a subadviser may be able to infer the portfolio holdings of the fund from the portfolio holdings in that investors account.
TAXES
The following is a summary of certain
material U.S. federal (and, where noted, state and local) income tax considerations affecting the fund and its shareholders. This discussion is very general and, except where noted, does not address investors subject to special rules, such as
investors who hold shares in the fund through an IRA,
86
401(k) or other tax-advantaged account. Current and prospective shareholders are therefore urged to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the specific federal, state, local and foreign
tax consequences of investing in the fund. The summary is based on the laws in effect on the date of this SAI and existing judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect.
The Fund and Its Investments
The fund will be treated as a separate taxpayer for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The fund has elected to be treated, and intends to qualify each year, as a regulated investment company or
RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. To so qualify, the fund must, among other things: (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income in each taxable year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, and
gains from the sale or other disposition of stock or securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock,
securities or currencies, and net income derived from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (i.e., partnerships that are traded on an established securities market or tradable on a secondary market, other than partnerships
that derive 90% of their income from interest, dividends, capital gains, and other traditionally permitted mutual fund income); and (b) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of the funds taxable year, (i) at
least 50% of the market value of the funds assets is represented by cash, securities of other regulated investment companies, U.S. government securities and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to
an amount not greater than 5% of the funds assets and not greater than 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 (other than U.S. government
securities or securities of other regulated investment companies) of any one issuer, in the securities (other than the securities of other regulated investment companies) of any two or more issuers that the fund controls and that are determined to
be engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses or related trades or businesses, or in the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
The funds investments in partnerships, if any, including in qualified publicly traded partnerships, may result in the fund being subject to state, local or foreign income, franchise or withholding
tax liabilities.
As a regulated investment company, the fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the portion of
its taxable investment income and capital gains that it distributes to its shareholders, provided that it satisfies a minimum distribution requirement. To satisfy the minimum distribution requirement, the fund must distribute to its shareholders at
least the sum of (i) 90% of its investment company taxable income (
i.e.
, generally, the taxable income of a RIC other than its net capital gain, plus or minus certain other adjustments), and (ii) 90% of its net
tax-exempt income for the taxable year. The fund will be subject to income tax at regular corporate tax rates on any taxable income or gains that it does not distribute to its shareholders.
If, for any taxable year, the fund were to fail to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Code or were to fail to meet the
distribution requirement, it would be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and distributions to its shareholders would not be deductible by the fund in computing its taxable income. In addition, in the event of a failure to qualify,
the funds distributions, including any distributions of net long-term capital gains, would be taxable to shareholders as ordinary dividend income to the extent of the funds current and accumulated earnings and profits. However, such
dividends would be eligible, subject to any generally applicable limitations, (i) to be treated as qualified dividend income in the case of shareholders taxed as individuals and (ii) for the dividends received deduction in the case of
corporate shareholders. Moreover, if the fund were to fail to qualify as a regulated investment company in any year, it would be required to pay out its earnings and profits accumulated in that year in order to qualify again as a regulated
investment company. Under certain circumstances, the fund may cure a failure to qualify as a regulated investment company, but in order to do so the fund may incur significant fund-level taxes and may be forced to dispose of certain assets. If the
fund failed to qualify as a regulated investment company for a period greater than two taxable years, the fund would generally be required to recognize any net built-in gains with respect to certain of its assets upon a disposition of such assets
within ten years of qualifying as a regulated investment company in a subsequent year.
87
The Code imposes a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the fund to the extent it does not
distribute by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income for that year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain net income (both long-term and short-term) for the one-year period ending, as a general rule, on
October 31 of that year. For this purpose, however, any ordinary income or capital gain net income that is retained by the fund and subject to corporate income tax will be considered to have been distributed by year-end. In addition, the
minimum amounts that must be distributed in any year to avoid the excise tax will be increased or decreased to reflect any underdistribution or overdistribution, as the case may be, from the previous year. The fund anticipates that it will pay such
dividends and will make such distributions as are necessary to avoid the application of this excise tax.
The funds
transactions in zero coupon securities, foreign currencies, forward contracts, options and futures contracts (including options and futures contracts on foreign currencies), if any, will be subject to special provisions of the Code (including
provisions relating to hedging transactions and straddles) that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the fund (i.e., may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital),
accelerate recognition of income to the fund, and defer fund losses. These rules could therefore affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders. These provisions also (a) will require the fund to
mark-to-market certain types of the positions in its portfolio (i.e., treat them as if they were closed out at the end of each year) and (b) may cause the fund to recognize income prior to the receipt of cash with which to pay
dividends or make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the distribution requirements for avoiding income and excise taxes. In order to distribute this income and avoid a tax at the fund level, the fund might be required to liquidate
portfolio securities that it might otherwise have continued to hold, potentially resulting in additional taxable gain or loss. The fund will monitor its transactions, will make the appropriate tax elections and will make the appropriate entries in
its books and records when it acquires any zero coupon securities, foreign currency, forward contract, option, futures contract or hedged investment in order to mitigate the effect of these rules and prevent disqualification of the fund as a
regulated investment company.
The funds investments in so-called section 1256 contracts, such as regulated
futures contracts, most foreign currency forward contracts traded in the interbank market and options on most stock indices, are subject to special tax rules. All section 1256 contracts held by the fund at the end of its taxable year are required to
be marked to their market value, and any unrealized gain or loss on those positions will be included in the funds income as if each position had been sold for its fair market value at the end of the taxable year. The resulting gain or loss
will be combined with any gain or loss realized by the fund from positions in section 1256 contracts closed during the taxable year. Provided such positions were held as capital assets and were not part of a hedging transaction or part
of a straddle, 60% of the resulting net gain or loss will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss, and 40% of such net gain or loss will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss, regardless of the period of time the positions
were actually held by the fund.
In general, gain or loss on a short sale is recognized when the fund closes the sale by
delivering the borrowed property to the lender, not when the borrowed property is sold. Gain or loss from a short sale is generally considered as capital gain or loss to the extent that the property used to close the short sale constitutes a capital
asset in the funds hands. Except with respect to certain situations where the property used by the fund to close a short sale has a long-term holding period on the date of the short sale, special rules would generally treat the gains on short
sales as short-term capital gains. These rules may also terminate the running of the holding period of substantially identical property held by the fund. Moreover, a loss on a short sale will be treated as a long-term capital loss if, on
the date of the short sale, substantially identical property has been held by the fund for more than one year. In general, the fund will not be permitted to deduct payments made to reimburse the lender of securities for dividends paid on
borrowed stock if the short sale is closed on or before the 45th day after the short sale is entered into.
As a result of
entering into swap contracts, the fund may make or receive periodic net payments. The fund may also make or receive a payment when a swap is terminated prior to maturity through an assignment of the swap or other closing transaction. Periodic net
payments will generally constitute ordinary income or deductions, while termination of a swap will generally result in capital gain or loss (which will be a long-term capital gain or loss if the fund has been a party to the swap for more than one
year).
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The fund may be required to treat amounts as taxable income or gain, subject to the
distribution requirements referred to above, even though no corresponding amounts of cash are received concurrently, as a result of (1) mark-to-market rules, constructive sale rules or rules applicable to partnerships or trusts in which the
fund invests or to certain options, futures or forward contracts, or appreciated financial positions or (2) the inability to obtain cash distributions or other amounts due to currency controls or restrictions on repatriation imposed
by a foreign country with respect to the funds investments (including through depositary receipts) in issuers in such country or (3) tax rules applicable to debt obligations acquired with original issue discount, including
zero-coupon or deferred payment bonds and pay-in-kind debt obligations, or to market discount if an election is made with respect to such market discount. In order to distribute this income and avoid a tax on the fund, the fund might be required to
liquidate portfolio securities that it might otherwise have continued to hold, potentially resulting in additional taxable gain or loss. The fund might also meet the distribution requirements by borrowing the necessary cash, thereby incurring
interest expenses.
Foreign Investments
. Interest or other income (including, in some cases, capital gains) received by
the fund from investments in foreign securities may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes in some cases. If more
than 50% of the value of the funds assets at the close of any taxable year consists of stock or securities of foreign corporations, which for this purpose may include obligations of foreign governmental issuers, the fund may elect, for U.S.
federal income tax purposes, to treat any foreign income or withholding taxes paid by the fund as paid by its shareholders. For any year that the fund is eligible for and makes such an election, each shareholder of the fund will be required to
include in income an amount equal to his or her allocable share of qualified foreign income taxes paid by the fund, and shareholders will be entitled, subject to certain holding period requirements and other limitations, to credit their portions of
these amounts against their United States federal income tax due, if any, or to deduct their portions from their United States taxable income, if any. No deductions for foreign taxes paid by the fund may be claimed, however, by non-corporate
shareholders who do not itemize deductions. Foreign taxes paid by the fund may reduce the return from the funds investments.
Under Section 988 of the Code, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates between the time the fund accrues income or receivables or expenses or other liabilities denominated in a
foreign currency and the time the fund actually collects such income or pays such liabilities are generally treated as ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, gains or losses on foreign currency, foreign currency forward contracts, certain
foreign currency options or futures contracts and the disposition of debt securities denominated in foreign currency, to the extent attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates between the acquisition and disposition dates, are also treated as
ordinary income or loss.
Capital Loss Carryforwards.
On February 28, 2013, the unused capital loss carryforwards
by the fund were approximately $2,575,950. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, unused capital loss carryforwards that arose in tax years that began on or before December 22, 2010 (Pre-2011 Losses) are available to be applied
against future capital gains, if any, realized by the fund prior to the expiration of the carryforwards. Net short- and long-term capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 (Post-2010 Losses) may be
carried forward without limit, and such carryforwards must be fully utilized before the fund will be permitted to utilize any carryforwards of Pre-2011 Losses.
|
|
|
|
|
Year of Expiration
|
|
($)
|
|
2018
|
|
|
2,575,950
|
|
Under certain circumstances, the fund may elect to treat certain losses as though they were incurred on
the first day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which they were actually incurred.
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Taxation of U.S. Shareholders
Dividends and Distributions.
Dividends and other distributions by the fund are generally treated under the Code as received by the
shareholders at the time the dividend or distribution is made. However, if any dividend or distribution is declared by the fund in October, November or December of any calendar year and payable to shareholders of record on a specified date in such a
month but is actually paid during the following January, such dividend or distribution will be deemed to have been received by each shareholder on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared.
The fund intends to distribute annually to its shareholders substantially all of its investment company taxable income, and any net
realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers). However, if the fund retains for investment an amount equal to all or a portion of its net long-term capital gains in
excess of its net short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers), it will be subject to a corporate tax on the amount retained. In that event, the fund will designate such retained amounts as undistributed capital gains in a
notice to its shareholders who (a) will be required to include in income for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gains, their proportionate shares of the undistributed amount, (b) will be entitled to credit their
proportionate shares of the income tax paid by the fund on the undistributed amount against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds to the extent their credits exceed their liabilities, if any, and (c) will be
entitled to increase their tax basis, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in their shares by an amount equal to the excess of the amount of undistributed net capital gain included in their respective income over their respective income tax
credits. Organizations or persons not subject to U.S. federal income tax on such capital gains will be entitled to a refund of their pro rata share of such taxes paid by the fund upon timely filing appropriate returns or claims for refund with the
Internal Revenue Service (the IRS).
Distributions of net investment income and of net realized short-term capital
gains are taxable to a U.S. shareholder as ordinary income, whether paid in cash or in shares. Distributions of net realized long-term capital gains, if any, that the fund reports as capital gain dividends are taxable as long-term capital gains,
whether paid in cash or in shares, and regardless of how long a shareholder has held shares of the fund.
Dividends and
distributions from the fund will generally be taken into account in determining a shareholders net investment income for purposes of the Medicare contribution tax applicable to certain individuals, estates and trusts.
The fund does not anticipate that any of its dividends paid will qualify for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders.
The fund also does not expect any distributions to be treated as qualified dividend income, which is taxable to non-corporate shareholders at reduced rates.
Distributions in excess of the funds current and accumulated earnings and profits will, as to each shareholder, be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the shareholders
basis in his or her shares of the fund, and as a capital gain thereafter (if the shareholder holds his or her shares of the fund as capital assets). Each shareholder who receives distributions in the form of additional shares will be treated for
U.S. federal income tax purposes as if receiving a distribution in an amount equal to the amount of money that the shareholder would have received if he or she had instead elected to receive cash distributions. The shareholders tax basis in
the shares so received will be equal to such amount.
Investors considering buying shares just prior to a dividend or capital
gain distribution should be aware that, although the price of shares purchased at that time may reflect the amount of the forthcoming distribution, such dividend or distribution may nevertheless be taxable to them.
Because the fund will distribute exempt-interest dividends, interest on indebtedness incurred by shareholders, directly or indirectly, to
purchase or carry shares is not deductible for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Investors receiving social security or railroad retirement benefits should be aware that exempt-interest
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dividends received from the fund may, under certain circumstances, cause a portion of such benefits to be subject to federal income tax. Furthermore, a portion of any exempt-interest dividend
paid by the fund that represents income derived from certain revenue or private activity bonds held by the fund may not retain its tax-exempt status in the hands of a shareholder who is a substantial user of a facility financed by such
bonds, or a related person thereof. Moreover, some or all of the exempt-interest dividends distributed by the fund may be a specific preference item, or a component of an adjustment item, for purposes of the federal individual and
corporate alternative minimum taxes.
Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors as to whether they are
(i) substantial users with respect to a facility or related to such users within the meaning of the Code or (ii) subject to a federal alternative minimum tax, the federal branch profits tax, or the
federal excess net passive income tax.
Sales of Shares
. Upon the sale or exchange of his or her shares, a
shareholder will generally recognize a taxable gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized and his or her basis in the shares. A redemption of shares by the fund will be treated as a sale for this purpose. Such gain or loss will
be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets in the shareholders hands, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the shares are held for more than one year and short-term capital gain or loss if the shares are held
for one year or less. Any loss realized on a sale or exchange will be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced, including replacement through the reinvesting of dividends and capital gains distributions in the fund, within a
61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be increased to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss realized by a shareholder on the sale of fund
shares held by the shareholder for six months or fewer will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any distributions or deemed distributions of long-term capital gains received by the shareholder
(including amounts credited to the shareholder as undistributed capital gains) with respect to such shares.
If a shareholder
incurs a sales charge in acquiring shares of the fund, disposes of those shares within 90 days and then acquires, before February 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year of the disposition, shares in a mutual fund for which the
otherwise applicable sales charge is reduced by reason of a reinvestment right (e.g., an exchange privilege), the original sales charge will not be taken into account in computing gain or loss on the original shares to the extent the subsequent
sales charge is reduced. Instead, the disregarded portion of the original sales charge will be added to the tax basis in the newly acquired shares. Furthermore, the same rule also applies to a disposition of the newly acquired shares made within 90
days of the second acquisition. This provision prevents a shareholder from immediately deducting the sales charge by shifting his or her investment within a family of mutual funds.
If a shareholder recognizes a loss with respect to the funds shares of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10
million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current
guidance, shareholders of a regulated investment company are not excepted. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayers treatment of the loss is proper.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
If a shareholders shares are redeemed to pay a fee because the shareholders account balance is less than a certain threshold, the redemption will be treated as a taxable sale or exchange of
shares, as described above. The deductibility of that fee by a shareholder that is an individual may be subject to generally applicable limitations on miscellaneous itemized deductions.
Basis Reporting
. The fund, or, if you hold your shares through a Service Agent, your Service Agent will report to the IRS the
amount of proceeds that a shareholder receives from a redemption or exchange of fund shares. For redemptions or exchanges of shares acquired on or after January 1, 2012, the fund will also report the shareholders
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basis in those shares and the character of any gain or loss that the shareholder realizes on the redemption or exchange (i.e., short-term or long-term), and certain related tax information. If a
shareholder has a different basis for different shares of the fund in the same account (e.g., if a shareholder purchased fund shares held in the same account when the shares were at different prices), the fund will by default report the basis of the
shares redeemed or exchanged using the average basis method, under which the basis per share is the average of the bases of all the shareholders fund shares in the account. (For these purposes, shares acquired prior to January 1, 2012 and
shares acquired on or after January 1, 2012 will be treated as held in separate accounts.)
A shareholder may instruct
the fund to use a method other than average basis for an account. If redemptions, including in connection with payment of an account fee, or exchanges have occurred in an account to which the average basis method applied, the basis of the fund
shares remaining in the account will continue to reflect the average basis notwithstanding the shareholders subsequent election of a different method. For further assistance, shareholders who hold their shares directly with the fund may call
the fund at 1-877-721-1926 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (Eastern time). Shareholders who hold shares through a Service Agent should contact the Service Agent for further assistance or for information regarding the Service
Agents default method for calculating basis and procedures for electing to use an alternative method. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers concerning the tax consequences of applying the average basis method or electing another
method of basis calculation, and should consider electing such other method prior to making redemptions or exchanges in their accounts.
Backup Withholding.
The fund may be required in certain circumstances to apply backup withholding on dividends, distributions and redemption proceeds payable to non-corporate shareholders who fail
to provide the fund with their correct taxpayer identification numbers or to make required certifications, or who have been notified by the IRS that they are subject to backup withholding. The backup withholding rate is currently 28%. Backup
withholding is not an additional tax and any amount withheld may be credited against a shareholders U.S. federal income tax liabilities. Backup withholding will not be applied to payments that have already been subject to the 30% withholding
tax described below under Non-U.S. Shareholders.
Notices.
Shareholders will receive, if appropriate,
various written notices after the close of the funds taxable year regarding the U.S. federal income tax status of certain dividends, distributions and redemption proceeds that were paid (or that are treated as having been paid) by the fund to
its shareholders during the preceding taxable year.
Other Taxes.
Dividends, distributions and redemption proceeds may
also be subject to additional state, local and foreign taxes depending on each shareholders particular situation.
Generally, shareholders will have to pay state or local taxes on fund dividends and other distributions, although distributions derived
from interest on U.S. government obligations (but not distributions of gain from the sale of such obligations) may be exempt from certain state and local taxes.
Non-U.S. Shareholders
Ordinary dividends and certain other payments made
by the fund to non-U.S. shareholders are generally subject to withholding tax at a 30% rate (or such lower rate as may be determined in accordance with any applicable treaty). In order to obtain a reduced rate of withholding, a non-U.S. shareholder
will be required to provide an IRS Form W-8BEN certifying its entitlement to benefits under a treaty. The withholding tax does not apply to regular dividends paid to a non-U.S. shareholder who provides an IRS Form W-8ECI, certifying that the
dividends are effectively connected with the non-U.S. shareholders conduct of a trade or business within the United States. Instead, the effectively connected dividends will be subject to regular U.S. income tax as if the non-U.S. shareholder
were a U.S. shareholder. A non-U.S. corporation receiving effectively connected dividends may also be subject to additional branch profits tax imposed at a rate of 30% (or a lower treaty rate). A non-U.S. shareholder who fails to provide
an IRS Form W-8BEN or other applicable form may be subject to backup withholding at the appropriate rate.
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The 30% withholding tax generally will not apply to distributions of the excess of net
long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses or to redemption proceeds. For fund taxable years beginning before January 1, 2014, the 30% withholding tax also will not apply to dividends that the fund reports as
(a) interest-related dividends, to the extent such dividends are derived from the funds qualified net interest income, or (b) short-term capital gain dividends, to the extent such dividends are derived from the
funds qualified short-term gain. Qualified net interest income is the funds net income derived from U.S.-source interest and original issue discount, subject to certain exceptions and limitations. Qualified
short-term gain generally means the excess of the net short-term capital gain of the fund for the taxable year over its net long-term capital loss, if any. However, depending on its circumstances, the fund may report all, some or none of its
potentially eligible dividends as such qualified net interest income or as qualified short-term capital gains, and/or the fund may treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as ineligible for this exemption from withholding. In the case of shares
held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if the fund reports a payment as an interest-related dividend or a short-term capital gain dividend. Non-U.S. shareholders should contact their intermediaries with respect to the
application of these rules to their accounts.
Under legislation known as FATCA (the Foreign Account Tax
Compliance Act), the fund will be required to withhold 30% of certain ordinary dividends it pays after December 31, 2013, and 30% of the gross proceeds of share redemptions and certain capital gain dividends it pays after December 31,
2016, to shareholders that fail to meet prescribed information reporting or certification requirements. In general, no such withholding will be required with respect to a U.S. person or non-U.S. individual that timely provides the certifications
required by the fund or its agent on a valid IRS Form W-9 or W-8, respectively. Shareholders potentially subject to withholding include foreign financial institutions (FFIs), such as non-U.S. investment funds, and non-financial foreign
entities (NFFEs). To avoid withholding under FATCA, an FFI generally must enter into an information sharing agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in which it agrees to report certain identifying information
(including name, address, and taxpayer identification number) with respect to its U.S. account holders (which, in the case of an entity shareholder, may include its direct and indirect U.S. owners), and an NFFE generally must identify and provide
other required information to the fund or other withholding agent regarding its U.S. owners, if any. Such non-U.S. shareholders also may fall into certain exempt, excepted or deemed compliant categories as established by regulations and other
guidance. A non-U.S. shareholder resident or doing business in a country that has entered into an intergovernmental agreement with the U.S. to implement FATCA will be exempt from FATCA withholding provided that the shareholder and the applicable
foreign government comply with the terms of such agreement.
The IRS has indicated that an FFI that is subject to the
information sharing requirement will need to ensure that it will be identified as FATCA-compliant in sufficient time to allow the fund to refrain from withholding beginning on January 1, 2014. A non-U.S. entity that invests in the fund will
need to provide the fund with documentation properly certifying the entitys status under FATCA in order to avoid FATCA withholding.
Non-U.S. investors should consult their own tax advisers regarding the impact of these requirements on their investment in the fund.
The foregoing is only a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences (and, where noted, state and local tax
consequences) affecting the fund and its shareholders. Current and prospective shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the fund.
THE TRUST
The certificate of trust to establish Legg Mason Partners Income Trust (referred to in this section as the Trust) was filed with the State of Maryland on October 4, 2006. Prior thereto,
the fund was a series of Legg Mason Partners Income Funds, a Massachusetts business trust.
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The Trust is a Maryland statutory trust. A Maryland statutory trust is an unincorporated
business association that is established under, and governed by, Maryland law. Maryland law provides a statutory framework for the powers, duties, rights and obligations of the trustees and shareholders of a statutory trust, while the more specific
powers, duties, rights and obligations of the trustees and the shareholders are determined by the trustees as set forth in a trusts declaration of trust. Some of the more significant provisions of the Trusts declaration of trust (the
Declaration) are described below.
Shareholder Voting
The Declaration provides for shareholder voting as required by the 1940 Act or other applicable laws but otherwise permits, consistent
with Maryland law, actions by the Trustees without seeking the consent of shareholders. The Trustees may, without shareholder approval, amend the Declaration or authorize the merger or consolidation of the Trust into another trust or entity,
reorganize the Trust or any series or class into another trust or entity or a series or class of another entity, sell all or substantially all of the assets of the Trust or any series or class to another entity, or a series or class of another
entity, or terminate the Trust or any series or class.
The fund is not required to hold an annual meeting of shareholders,
but the fund will call special meetings of shareholders whenever required by the 1940 Act or by the terms of the Declaration. The Declaration provides for dollar-weighted voting which means that a shareholders voting power is
determined, not by the number of shares he or she owns, but by the dollar value of those shares determined on the record date. All shareholders of record of all series and classes of the Trust vote together, except where required by the 1940 Act to
vote separately by series or by class, or when the Trustees have determined that a matter affects only the interests of one or more series or classes of shares.
Election and Removal of Trustees
The Declaration provides that the
Trustees may establish the number of Trustees and that vacancies on the Board may be filled by the remaining Trustees, except when election of Trustees by the shareholders is required under the 1940 Act. Trustees are then elected by a plurality of
votes cast by shareholders at a meeting at which a quorum is present. The Declaration also provides that a mandatory retirement age may be set by action of two thirds of the Trustees and that Trustees may be removed, with or without cause, by a vote
of shareholders holding two-thirds of the voting power of the Trust, or by a vote of two-thirds of the remaining Trustees. The provisions of the Declaration relating to the election and removal of Trustees may not be amended without the approval of
two-thirds of the Trustees.
Amendments to the Declaration
The Trustees are authorized to amend the Declaration without the vote of shareholders, but no amendment may be made that impairs the
exemption from personal liability granted in the Declaration to persons who are or have been shareholders, Trustees, officers or, employees of the Trust or that limits the rights to indemnification or insurance provided in the Declaration with
respect to actions or omissions of persons entitled to indemnification under the Declaration prior to the amendment.
Issuance and Redemption of Shares
The fund may issue an unlimited number of shares for such consideration and on such terms as the Trustees may determine. Shareholders are not entitled to any appraisal, preemptive, conversion, exchange or
similar rights, except as the Trustees may determine. The fund may involuntarily redeem a shareholders shares upon certain conditions as may be determined by the Trustees, including, for example, if the shareholder fails to provide the fund
with identification required by law, or if the fund is unable to verify the information received from the shareholder. Additionally, as discussed below, shares may be redeemed in connection with the closing of small accounts.
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Disclosure of Shareholder Holdings
The Declaration specifically requires shareholders, upon demand, to disclose to the fund information with respect to the direct and
indirect ownership of shares in order to comply with various laws or regulations, and the fund may disclose such ownership if required by law or regulation, or as the Trustees otherwise decide.
Small Accounts
The Declaration provides that the fund may close out a shareholders account by redeeming all of the shares in the account if the account falls below a minimum account size (which may vary by class)
that may be set by the Trustees from time to time. Alternately, the Declaration permits the fund to assess a fee for small accounts (which may vary by class) and redeem shares in the account to cover such fees, or convert the shares into another
share class that is geared to smaller accounts.
Series and Classes
The Declaration provides that the Trustees may establish series and classes in addition to those currently established and to determine
the rights and preferences, limitations and restrictions, including qualifications for ownership, conversion and exchange features, minimum purchase and account size, expenses and charges, and other features of the series and classes. The Trustees
may change any of those features, terminate any series or class, combine series with other series in the Trust, combine one or more classes of a series with another class in that series or convert the shares of one class into shares of another
class.
Each share of the fund, as a series of the Trust, represents an interest in the fund only and not in the assets of any
other series of the Trust.
Shareholder, Trustee and Officer Liability
The Declaration provides that shareholders are not personally liable for the obligations of the fund and requires the fund to indemnify a
shareholder against any loss or expense arising from any such liability. The fund will assume the defense of any claim against a shareholder for personal liability at the request of the shareholder. The Declaration further provides that a Trustee
acting in his or her capacity of Trustee is not personally liable to any person, other than the Trust or its shareholders, in connection with the affairs of the Trust. Each Trustee is required to perform his or her duties in good faith and in a
manner he or she believes to be in the best interests of the Trust. All actions and omissions of Trustees are presumed to be in accordance with the foregoing standard of performance, and any person alleging the contrary has the burden of proving
that allegation.
The Declaration limits a Trustees liability to the Trust or any shareholder to the full extent
permitted under current Maryland law by providing that a Trustee is liable to the Trust or its shareholders for monetary damages only (a) to the extent that it is proved that he or she actually received an improper benefit or profit in money,
property, or services or (b) to the extent that a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to the Trustee is entered in a proceeding based on a finding in the proceeding that the Trustees action, or failure to act, was the result of
active and deliberate dishonesty and was material to the cause of action adjudicated in the proceeding. The Declaration requires the Trust to indemnify any persons who are or who have been Trustees, officers or employees of the Trust to the fullest
extent permitted by law against liability and expenses in connection with any claim or proceeding in which he or she is involved by virtue of having been a Trustee, officer or employee. In making any determination as to whether any person is
entitled to the advancement of expenses in connection with a claim for which indemnification is sought, such person is entitled to a rebuttable presumption that he or she did not engage in conduct for which indemnification is not available.
The Declaration provides that any Trustee who serves as chair of the Board or of a committee of the Board, lead independent
Trustee, audit committee financial expert or in any other similar capacity will not be subject to any greater standard of care or liability because of such position.
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Derivative Actions
The Declaration provides a detailed process for the bringing of derivative actions by shareholders in order to permit legitimate inquiries
and claims while avoiding the time, expense, distraction, and other harm that can be caused to the fund or its shareholders as a result of spurious shareholder demands and derivative actions. Prior to bringing a derivative action, a demand by three
unrelated shareholders must be made on the Trustees. The Declaration details information, certifications, undertakings and acknowledgements that must be included in the demand. The Trustees are not required to consider a demand that is not submitted
in accordance with the requirements contained in the Declaration. The Declaration also requires that, in order to bring a derivative action, the complaining shareholders must be joined in the action by shareholders owning, at the time of the alleged
wrongdoing, at the time of demand, and at the time the action is commenced, shares representing at least 5% of the voting power of the affected funds. The Trustees have a period of 90 days, which may be extended by an additional 60 days, to consider
the demand. If a majority of the Trustees who are considered independent for the purposes of considering the demand determine that a suit should be maintained, then the Trust will commence the suit and the suit will proceed directly and not
derivatively. If a majority of the independent Trustees determines that maintaining the suit would not be in the best interests of the fund, the Trustees are required to reject the demand and the complaining shareholders may not proceed with the
derivative action unless the shareholders are able to sustain the burden of proof to a court that the decision of the Trustees not to pursue the requested action was not consistent with the standard of performance required of the Trustees in
performing their duties. If a demand is rejected, the complaining shareholders will be responsible for the costs and expenses (including attorneys fees) incurred by the Trust in connection with the consideration of the demand, if, in the
judgment of the independent Trustees, the demand was made without reasonable cause or for an improper purpose. If a derivative action is brought in violation of the Declaration, the shareholders bringing the action may be responsible for the
funds costs, including attorneys fees.
The Declaration further provides that the fund shall be responsible for
payment of attorneys fees and legal expenses incurred by a complaining shareholder only if required by law, and any attorneys fees that the fund is obligated to pay shall be calculated using reasonable hourly rates. The Declaration also
requires that actions by shareholders against the fund be brought only in federal court in Baltimore, Maryland, or if not permitted to be brought in federal court, then in state court in Baltimore, Maryland, and that the right to jury trial be
waived to the full extent permitted by law.
LEGAL MATTERS
On or about May 30, 2006, John Halebian, a purported shareholder of Western Asset New York Tax Free Money
Market Fund (formerly known as Citi
SM
New York Tax Free
Reserves), a series of Legg Mason Partners Money Market Trust, formerly a series of CitiFunds Trust III (the Subject Trust), filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against the persons
who were then the independent trustees of the Subject Trust. The Subject Trust was also named in the complaint as a nominal defendant.
The complaint raised derivative claims on behalf of the Subject Trust and putative class claims against the then independent trustees in connection with the 2005 sale of Citigroups asset management
business to Legg Mason and the related approval of new investment advisory agreements by the trustees and shareholders. In the derivative claim, the plaintiff alleged that the independent trustees had breached their fiduciary duty to the
Subject Trust and its shareholders by failing to negotiate lower fees or to seek competing bids from other qualified investment advisers in connection with Citigroups sale to Legg Mason. In the claims brought on behalf of a putative class of
shareholders, the plaintiff alleged that the echo voting provisions applicable to the proxy solicitation process violated the 1940 Act and constituted a breach of fiduciary duty. The relief sought included rescission of the advisory agreement and an
award of costs and attorney fees.
In advance of filing the complaint, Plaintiffs lawyers had made written demand for
relief on the Board of the Subject Trust, and the Boards independent trustees formed a demand review committee to investigate those
96
matters raised in the demand, and the expanded set of matters subsequently raised in the complaint. The demand review committee recommended that the action demanded by Plaintiff would not be in
the best interests of the Subject Trust. The independent trustees of the Subject Trust considered the committees report, adopted the recommendation of the committee, and directed counsel to move to dismiss the complaint.
The Federal district court dismissed the complaint in its entirety in July 2007. In May 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the
Second Circuit affirmed the district courts dismissal as to the class claims, and remanded the remaining claim relating to the demand review committee that had examined the derivative claim to the district court with instructions to convert
the motion to dismiss into a motion for summary judgment. In July 2012, the district court granted summary judgment in favor of the defendants. In August 2012, Plaintiff filed an appeal, and the matter is now before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the
Second Circuit.
* * *
The foregoing speaks only as of the date of this SAI. Additional lawsuits presenting allegations and requests for relief arising out of or in connection with the foregoing matter may be filed against
these and related parties in the future.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The audited financial statements of the fund (Statement of Assets and Liabilities, including the Schedule of Investments as of
February 28, 2013, Statement of Operations for the year ended February 28, 2013, Statements of Changes in Net Assets for each of the years in the two-year period ended February 28, 2013, Financial Highlights for each of the years or
periods in the five-year period ended February 28, 2013, and Notes to Financial Statements along with the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, each of which is included in the Annual Report to Shareholders of the fund), are
[ ] (filed on April 25, 2013; Accession Number 0001193125-13-170843).
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APPENDIX A
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The ratings of Moodys Investors Service, Inc., Standard & Poors Ratings Group and Fitch Ratings represent their opinions as to the quality of various debt obligations. It should be
emphasized, however, that ratings are not absolute standards of quality. Consequently, debt obligations with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different yields while debt obligations of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings
may have the same yield. As described by the rating agencies, ratings are generally given to securities at the time of issuances. While the rating agencies may from time to time revise such ratings, they undertake no obligation to do so.
Description of Moodys Investors Service, Inc.s Long-Term Obligation Ratings:
Moodys long-term ratings are opinions of the relative credit risk of financial obligations with an original maturity of one year or
more. They address the possibility that a financial obligation will not be honored as promised. Such ratings use Moodys Global Scale and reflect both the likelihood of default and any financial loss suffered in the event of default.
Aaa
Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, with minimal credit risk.
Aa
Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
A
Obligations rated A are considered upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
Baa
Obligations rated Baa are subject to moderate credit risk. They are considered medium grade and as such may possess
certain speculative characteristics.
Ba
Obligations rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements and are
subject to substantial credit risk.
B
Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high
credit risk.
Caa
Obligations rated Caa are judged to be of poor standing and are subject to very high credit
risk.
Ca
Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect
of recovery of principal and interest.
C
Obligations rated C are the lowest rated class and are typically in
default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Note:
Moodys appends
numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic
rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category.
Description of Moodys Investors Service, Inc.s Short-Term Obligation Ratings:
Moodys short-term ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to honor short-term financial obligations. Ratings may be assigned to issuers, short-term programs or to individual short-term debt
instruments. Such obligations generally have an original maturity not exceeding thirteen months, unless explicitly noted.
A-1
Moodys employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability
of rated issuers:
P-1
Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay
short-term debt obligations.
P-2
Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to
repay short-term debt obligations.
P-3
Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable
ability to repay short-term obligations.
NP
Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall
within any of the Prime rating categories.
Note:
Canadian issuers rated P-1 or P-2 have their
short-term ratings enhanced by the senior-most long-term rating of the issuer, its guarantor or support-provider.
Description of
Moodys Investors Service, Inc.s US Municipal Ratings:
US Municipal Short-Term Obligation Ratings:
There are three rating categories for short-term municipal obligations that are considered investment grade. These ratings are designated
as Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) and are divided into three levelsMIG 1 through MIG 3. In addition, those short-term obligations that are of speculative quality are designated SG, or speculative grade. MIG ratings
expire at the maturity of the obligation.
MIG 1
This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent
protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
MIG 2
This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3
This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access
for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.
SG
This designation denotes speculative-grade credit
quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.
US Municipal Demand Obligation Ratings:
In the case of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), a two-component rating is assigned; a long or
short-term debt rating and a demand obligation rating. The first element represents Moodys evaluation of the degree of risk associated with scheduled principal and interest payments. The second element represents Moodys evaluation of the
degree of risk associated with the ability to receive purchase price upon demand (demand feature), using a variation of the MIG rating scale, the Variable Municipal Investment Grade or VMIG rating.
When either the long- or short-term aspect of a VRDO is not rated, that piece is designated NR,
e.g.
, Aaa/NR or NR/VMIG 1. VMIG
rating expirations are a function of each issues specific structural or credit features.
VMIG 1
This
designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
A-2
VMIG 2
This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is
afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
VMIG 3
This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal
protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
SG
This designation denotes
speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the
timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
Description of Standard & Poors Ratings Groups Long-Term Issue Credit
Ratings:
Long-term issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on Standard & Poors analysis of the
following considerations: (1) likelihood of payment-capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation; (2) nature of and provisions of the obligation;
and (3) protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors rights.
Issue ratings are an assessment of default risk, but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the
event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy, as noted above. (Such differentiation may apply when an entity has both senior and subordinated obligations, secured
and unsecured obligations, or operating company and holding company obligations.)
AAA
An obligation rated
AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poors. The obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.
AA
An obligation rated AA differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligors
capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.
A
An obligation rated A
is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still
strong.
BBB
An obligation rated BBB exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
BB, B, CCC, CC, and C
Obligations rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics.
BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse
conditions.
BB
An obligation rated BB is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues.
However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, which could lead to the obligors inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B
An obligation rated B is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated BB, but the obligor
currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligors capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
A-3
CCC
An obligation rated CCC is currently vulnerable to nonpayment,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have
the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CC
An obligation rated CC is
currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment.
C
A C rating is assigned to obligations that are currently
highly vulnerable to nonpayment, obligations that have payment arrearages allowed by the terms of the documents, or obligations of an issuer that is the subject of a bankruptcy petition or similar action which have not experienced a payment default.
Among others, the C rating may be assigned to subordinated debt, preferred stock or other obligations on which cash payments have been suspended in accordance with the instruments terms or when preferred stock is the subject of a
distressed exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
D
An obligation rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used when payments on an
obligation, including a regulatory capital instrument, are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poors believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The
D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized. An obligations rating is lowered to D upon completion of a distressed
exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
Plus (+) or Minus (): The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus () sign to show relative standing within the
major rating categories.
NR: This indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on
which to base a rating, or that Standard & Poors does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.
Description
of Standard & Poors Ratings Groups Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings:
Short-term ratings are generally
assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. In the U.S., for example, that means obligations with an original maturity date of no more than 365 daysincluding commercial paper. Short-term ratings are also used to
indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. The result is a dual rating, in which the short-term rating addresses the put feature, in addition to the usual long-term rating.
A-1
A short-term obligation rated A-1 is rated in the highest category by Standard & Poors. The
obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on
these obligations is extremely strong.
A-2
A short-term obligation rated A-2 is somewhat more
susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
A-3
A short-term obligation rated A-3 exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic
conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B
A short-term obligation rated B is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. Ratings of B-1, B-2 and B-3 may be assigned to
indicate finer distinctions within the B category. The obligor
A-4
currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligors inadequate capacity to meet its
financial commitment on the obligation.
B-1
A short-term obligation rated B-1 is regarded as having
significant speculative characteristics, but the obligor has a relatively stronger capacity to meet its financial commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.
B-2
A short-term obligation rated B-2 is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics, and the
obligor has an average speculative-grade capacity to meet its financial commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.
B-3
A short-term obligation rated B-3 is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics, and the obligor has a relatively weaker capacity to meet its financial
commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.
C
A short-term obligation rated
C is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
D
A short-term obligation rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used when payments
on an obligation, including a regulatory capital instrument, are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poors believes that such payments will be made during such grace period.
The D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
Description of Standard & Poors Ratings Groups Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings Definitions:
A Standard & Poors U.S. municipal note rating reflects Standard & Poors opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three
years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, Standard & Poors has
indicated that its analysis will review the following considerations: (1) amortization schedulethe larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and (2) source of
paymentthe more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
Note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1
Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.
SP-2
Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes
over the term of the notes.
SP-3
Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.
Description of Standard & Poors Ratings Groups Dual Ratings:
Standard & Poors assigns dual ratings to all debt issues that have a put option or demand feature as part of
their structure. The first rating addresses the likelihood of repayment of principal and interest as due, and the second rating addresses only the demand feature. The long-term rating symbols are used for bonds to denote the long-term maturity and
the short term rating symbols for the put option (for example, AAA/A-1+). With U.S. municipal short-term demand debt, note rating symbols are used with the short-term issue credit rating symbols (for example, SP-1+/A-1+).
A-5
Description of Standard & Poors Ratings Groups Active Qualifiers (Currently applied
and/or outstanding)
i: This subscript is used for issues in which the credit factors, terms, or both, that determine the
likelihood of receipt of payment of interest are different from the credit factors, terms or both that determine the likelihood of receipt of principal on the obligation. The i subscript indicates that the rating addresses the interest
portion of the obligation only. The i subscript will always be used in conjunction with the p subscript, which addresses likelihood of receipt of principal. For example, a rated obligation could be assigned ratings of
AAAp NRi indicating that the principal portion is rated AAA and the interest portion of the obligation is not rated.
L: Ratings qualified with L apply only to amounts invested up to federal deposit insurance limits.
p: This subscript is used for issues in which the credit factors, the terms, or both, that determine the likelihood of receipt of payment of principal are different from the credit factors, terms or both
that determine the likelihood of receipt of interest on the obligation. The p subscript indicates that the rating addresses the principal portion of the obligation only. The p subscript will always be used in conjunction with
the i subscript, which addresses likelihood of receipt of interest. For example, a rated obligation could be assigned ratings of AAAp NRi indicating that the principal portion is rated AAA and the interest portion
of the obligation is not rated.
pi: Ratings with a pi subscript are based on an analysis of an issuers
published financial information, as well as additional information in the public domain. They do not, however, reflect in-depth meetings with an issuers management and therefore may be based on less comprehensive information than ratings
without a pi subscript. Ratings with a pi subscript are reviewed annually based on a new years financial statements, but may be reviewed on an interim basis if a major event occurs that may affect the issuers
credit quality.
preliminary: Preliminary ratings, with the prelim qualifier, may be assigned to obligors or
obligations, including financial programs, in the circumstances described below. Assignment of a final rating is conditional on the receipt by Standard & Poors of appropriate documentation. Standard & Poors reserves the
right not to issue a final rating. Moreover, if a final rating is issued, it may differ from the preliminary rating. (1) Preliminary ratings may be assigned to obligations, most commonly structured and project finance issues, pending receipt of
final documentation and legal opinions. (2) Preliminary ratings are assigned to Rule 415 Shelf Registrations. As specific issues, with defined terms, are offered from the master registration, a final rating may be assigned to them in accordance
with Standard & Poors policies. (3) Preliminary ratings may be assigned to obligations that will likely be issued upon the obligors emergence from bankruptcy or similar reorganization, based on late-stage reorganization
plans, documentation and discussions with the obligor. Preliminary ratings may also be assigned to the obligors. These ratings consider the anticipated general credit quality of the reorganized or post-bankruptcy issuer as well as attributes of the
anticipated obligation(s). (4) Preliminary ratings may be assigned to entities that are being formed or that are in the process of being independently established when, in Standard & Poors opinion, documentation is close to
final. Preliminary ratings may also be assigned to these entities obligations. (5) Preliminary ratings may be assigned when a previously unrated entity is undergoing a well-formulated restructuring, recapitalization, significant financing
or other transformative event, generally at the point that investor or lender commitments are invited. The preliminary rating may be assigned to the entity and to its proposed obligation(s). These preliminary ratings consider the anticipated general
credit quality of the obligor, as well as attributes of the anticipated obligation(s), assuming successful completion of the transformative event. Should the transformative event not occur, Standard & Poors would likely withdraw these
preliminary ratings. (6) A preliminary recovery rating may be assigned to an obligation that has a preliminary issue credit rating.
t: This symbol indicates termination structures that are designed to honor their contracts to full maturity or, should certain events occur, to terminate and cash settle all their contracts before their
final maturity date.
unsolicited: Unsolicited ratings are those credit ratings assigned at the initiative of
Standard & Poors and not at the request of the issuer or its agents.
A-6
Description of Fitch Ratings Corporate Finance Long-Term Obligation Ratings:
Ratings of individual securities or financial obligations of a corporate issuer address relative vulnerability to default on an ordinal
scale. In addition, for financial obligations in corporate finance, a measure of recovery given default on that liability is also included in the rating assessment. This notably applies to covered bonds ratings, which incorporate both an indication
of the probability of default and of the recovery given a default of this debt instrument.
The relationship between issuer
scale and obligation scale assumes an historical average recovery of between 30% and 50% on the senior, unsecured obligations of an issuer. As a result, individual obligations of entities, such as corporations, are assigned ratings higher, lower, or
the same as that entitys issuer rating or Issuer Default Rating. At the lower end of the ratings scale, Fitch Ratings now additionally publishes explicit Recovery Ratings in many cases to complement issuer and obligation ratings.
AAA
Highest credit quality. AAA ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in
cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA
Very high credit quality. AA ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not
significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A
High credit quality. A ratings denote expectations
of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB
Good credit quality. BBB ratings indicate that expectations of credit risk are currently low. The capacity
for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB
Speculative. BB ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to credit risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however,
business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met.
B
Highly
speculative. B ratings indicate that material credit risk is present.
CCC
Substantial credit risk.
CCC ratings indicate that substantial credit risk is present.
CC
Very high levels of credit risk.
CC ratings indicate very high levels of credit risk.
C
Exceptionally high levels of credit risk.
C indicates exceptionally high levels of credit risk.
Defaulted obligations typically are not assigned
D ratings, but are instead rated in the B to C rating categories, depending upon their recovery prospects and other relevant characteristics. This approach better aligns obligations that have comparable overall
expected loss but varying vulnerability to default and loss.
Note:
The modifiers + or
- may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the AAA obligation rating category, or to corporate finance obligation ratings in the categories below
B.
A-7
Description of Fitch Ratings Structured, Project & Public Finance Long-Term Obligation
Ratings:
Ratings of structured finance, project finance and public finance obligations on the long-term scale, including
the financial obligations of sovereigns, consider the obligations relative vulnerability to default. These ratings are typically assigned to an individual security or tranche in a transaction and not to an issuer.
AAA
Highest credit quality. AAA ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in
cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA
Very high credit quality. AA ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not
significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A
High credit quality. A ratings denote expectations
of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB
Good credit quality. BBB ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity
for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB
Speculative. BB ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time.
B
Highly speculative. B ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin
of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment.
CCC
Substantial credit risk. CCC ratings indicate that default is a real possibility.
CC
Very high levels of credit risk. CC ratings indicate that default of some kind appears probable.
C
Exceptionally high levels of credit risk. C ratings indicate that default appears imminent or inevitable.
D
Default. D ratings indicate a default. Default generally is defined as one of the following:
(1) failure to make payment of principal and/or interest under the contractual terms of the rated obligation; (2) the bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other winding-up or cessation of the business of an
issuer/obligor; or (3) the coercive exchange of an obligation, where creditors were offered securities with diminished structural or economic terms compared with the existing obligation.
Structured Finance Defaults
Imminent default, categorized under C, typically refers to the occasion
where a payment default has been intimated by the issuer, and is all but inevitable. Imminent default alternatively refers to the case where an issuer has formally announced a coercive debt exchange, but the date of the exchange still
lies several days or weeks in the immediate future.
Additionally, in structured finance transactions, where analysis
indicates that an instrument is irrevocably impaired such that it is not expected to pay interest and/or principal in full in accordance with the terms of the obligations documentation during the life of the transaction, but where no payment
default in accordance with the terms of the documentation is imminent, the obligation will typically be rated in the C category.
Structured Finance Write-downs
Where an instrument has experienced an involuntary and, in Fitch Ratings opinion, irreversible write-down of principal (
i.e.
, other than
through amortization, and resulting in a
A-8
loss to the investor), a credit rating of D will be assigned to the instrument. Where Fitch Ratings believes the write-down may prove to be temporary (and the loss may be
written up again in future if and when performance improves), then a credit rating of C will typically be assigned. Should the write-down then later be reversed, the credit rating will be raised to an appropriate
level for that instrument. Should the write-down later be deemed irreversible, the credit rating will be lowered to D.
Notes:
In the case of structured and project finance, while the ratings do not address the loss severity given default of the rated liability, loss severity assumptions on the
underlying assets are nonetheless typically included as part of the analysis. Loss severity assumptions are used to derive pool cash flows available to service the rated liability.
In the case of public finance, the ratings also do not address the loss given default of the rated liability, focusing instead on the
vulnerability to default of the rated liability.
The modifiers + or - may be appended to a
rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the AAA Long-Term Rating category, or categories below B.
Description of Fitch Ratings Corporate, Public and Structured Finance Short-Term Obligation Ratings:
A short-term issuer or obligation rating is based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity or security stream and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations
in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as short term based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for
corporate, sovereign, and structured obligations, and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.
F1
Highest short-term credit quality. Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments;
may have an added + to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
F2
Good short-term credit
quality. Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
F3
Fair short-term credit quality.
The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
B
Speculative short-term credit
quality. Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
C
High short-term default risk. Default is a real possibility.
RD
Restricted default. Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it
continues to meet other financial obligations. Or, the default of a specific short-term obligation.
D
Default.
Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of all short-term obligations.
Notes to Fitch Ratings Long-Term
and Short-Term Obligation Ratings:
Rating Watch: Rating Watches indicate that there is a heightened probability of a
rating change and the likely direction of such a change. These are designated as Positive, indicating a potential upgrade, Negative, for a potential downgrade, or Evolving, if ratings may be raised, lowered or
affirmed. However, ratings that are not on Rating Watch can be raised or lowered without being placed on Rating Watch first, if circumstances warrant such an action.
A-9
A Rating Watch is typically event-driven and, as such, it is generally resolved over a
relatively short period. The event driving the Watch may be either anticipated or have already occurred, but in both cases, the exact rating implications remain undetermined. The Watch period is typically used to gather further information and/or
subject the information to further analysis. Additionally, a Watch may be used where the rating implications are already clear, but where a triggering event (
e.g.
, shareholder or regulatory approval) exists. The Watch will typically extend to
cover the period until the triggering event is resolved or its outcome is predictable with a high enough degree of certainty to permit resolution of the Watch.
Rating Watches can be employed by all analytical groups and are applied to the ratings of individual entities and/or individual instruments. At the lowest categories of speculative grade (CCC,
CC and C) the high volatility of credit profiles may imply that almost all ratings should carry a Watch. Watches are nonetheless only applied selectively in these categories, where a committee decides that particular events
or threats are best communicated by the addition of the Watch designation.
Rating Outlook: Rating Outlooks indicate the
direction a rating is likely to move over a one- to two-year period. They reflect financial or other trends that have not yet reached the level that would trigger a rating action, but which may do so if such trends continue. The majority of Outlooks
are generally Stable, which is consistent with the historical migration experience of ratings over a one- to two-year period. Positive or Negative rating Outlooks do not imply that a rating change is inevitable and, similarly, ratings with Stable
Outlooks can be raised or lowered without a prior revision to the Outlook, if circumstances warrant such an action. Occasionally, where the fundamental trend has strong, conflicting elements of both positive and negative, the Rating Outlook may be
described as Evolving.
Outlooks are currently applied on the long-term scale to issuer ratings in corporate finance
(including sovereigns, industrials, utilities, financial institutions and insurance companies) and public finance outside the U.S.; to issue ratings in public finance in the U.S.; to certain issues in project finance; to Insurer Financial Strength
Ratings; to issuer and/or issue ratings in a number of National Rating scales; and to the ratings of structured finance transactions. Outlooks are not applied to ratings assigned on the short-term scale and are applied selectively to ratings in the
CCC, CC and C categories. Defaulted ratings typically do not carry an Outlook.
Expected
Ratings: Where a rating is referred to as expected, alternatively referred to as expects to rate or suffixed as (EXP), this indicates that a full rating has been assigned based upon Fitch Ratings expectations regarding
final documentation, typically based upon a review of the final draft documentation provided by the issuer. No other conditionality pertains to an expected rating. While expected ratings typically convert to final ratings within a short time, as
determined by the issuers decisions regarding timing of transaction closure, in the period between assignment of an expected rating and a final rating, expected ratings may be raised, lowered or placed on Rating Watch, as with final ratings.
Program Ratings: Program ratings assigned to corporate and public finance note issuance programs (
e.g.
, medium-term
note programs) relate only to standard issues made under the program concerned; it should not be assumed that these ratings apply to every issue made under the program.
Interest-Only Ratings: Interest-only ratings are assigned to interest strips. These ratings do not address the possibility that a security holder might fail to recover some or all of its
initial investment due to voluntary or involuntary principal repayments.
Principal-Only Ratings: Principal-only
ratings address the likelihood that a security holder will receive its initial principal investment either before or by the scheduled maturity date.
Rate of Return Ratings: Ratings also may be assigned to gauge the likelihood of an investor receiving a certain predetermined internal rate of return without regard to the precise timing of
any cash flows.
A-10
Paid-In-Full: This tranche has reached maturity, regardless of whether it was amortized or
called early. As the issue no longer exists, it is therefore no longer rated. Indicated in rating databases with the symbol PIF.
NR: A designation of Not Rated or NR is used to denote securities not rated by Fitch where Fitch has rated some, but not all, securities comprising an issuance capital structure.
Withdrawn: The rating has been withdrawn and the issue or issuer is no longer rated by Fitch Ratings. Indicated in rating
databases with the symbol WD.
A-11
APPENDIX B
Western Asset Management Company
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
Policy
As a fixed income only manager, the occasion to vote proxies is very rare. However, the Firm has adopted and implemented policies and
procedures that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and SEC Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Advisers Act).
In addition to SEC requirements governing advisers, our proxy voting policies reflect the long-standing fiduciary standards and responsibilities for ERISA accounts. Unless a manager of ERISA assets has been expressly precluded from voting proxies,
the Department of Labor has determined that the responsibility for these votes lies with the Investment Manager.
While the
guidelines included in the procedures are intended to provide a benchmark for voting standards, each vote is ultimately cast on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the Firms contractual obligations to our clients and all other
relevant facts and circumstances at the time of the vote (such that these guidelines may be overridden to the extent the Firm deems appropriate).
In exercising its voting authority, Western Asset will not consult or enter into agreements with officers, directors or employees of Legg Mason Inc. or any of its affiliates (other than Western Asset
Management Company Limited) regarding the voting of any securities owned by its clients.
Procedure
Responsibility and Oversight
The Western Asset Legal and Compliance Department (Compliance Department) is responsible for administering and overseeing the proxy voting process. The gathering of proxies is coordinated
through the Corporate Actions area of Investment Support (Corporate Actions). Research analysts and portfolio managers are responsible for determining appropriate voting positions on each proxy utilizing any applicable guidelines
contained in these procedures.
Client Authority
The Investment Management Agreement for each client is reviewed at account start-up for proxy voting instructions. If an agreement is
silent on proxy voting, but contains an overall delegation of discretionary authority or if the account represents assets of an ERISA plan, Western Asset will assume responsibility for proxy voting. The Legal and Compliance Department maintains a
matrix of proxy voting authority.
Proxy Gathering
Registered owners of record, client custodians, client banks and trustees (Proxy Recipients) that receive proxy materials on
behalf of clients should forward them to Corporate Actions. Proxy Recipients for new clients (or, if Western Asset becomes aware that the applicable Proxy Recipient for an existing client has changed, the Proxy Recipient for the existing client) are
notified at start-up of appropriate routing to Corporate Actions of proxy materials received and reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. If Western Asset personnel other than Corporate Actions receive proxy
materials, they should promptly forward the materials to Corporate Actions.
Proxy Voting
Once proxy materials are received by Corporate Actions, they are forwarded to the Legal and Compliance Department for coordination and the
following actions:
a. Proxies are reviewed to determine accounts impacted.
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b. Impacted accounts are checked to confirm Western Asset voting authority.
c. Legal and Compliance Department staff reviews proxy issues to determine any material conflicts of interest.
(See conflicts of interest section of these procedures for further information on determining material conflicts of interest.)
d. If a material conflict of interest exists, (i) to the extent reasonably practicable and permitted by applicable law, the client is promptly notified, the conflict is disclosed and Western Asset
obtains the clients proxy voting instructions, and (ii) to the extent that it is not reasonably practicable or permitted by applicable law to notify the client and obtain such instructions (e.g., the client is a mutual fund or other
commingled vehicle or is an ERISA plan client), Western Asset seeks voting instructions from an independent third party.
e. Legal and Compliance Department staff provides proxy material to the appropriate research analyst or portfolio manager to obtain their recommended vote. Research analysts and portfolio managers
determine votes on a case-by-case basis taking into account the voting guidelines contained in these procedures. For avoidance of doubt, depending on the best interest of each individual client, Western Asset may vote the same proxy differently for
different clients. The analysts or portfolio managers basis for their decision is documented and maintained by the Legal and Compliance Department.
f. Legal and Compliance Department staff votes the proxy pursuant to the instructions received in (d) or (e) and returns the voted proxy as indicated in the proxy materials.
Timing
Western Asset personnel act in such a manner to ensure that, absent special circumstances, the proxy gathering and proxy voting steps noted above can be completed before the applicable deadline for
returning proxy votes.
Recordkeeping
Western Asset maintains records of proxies voted pursuant to Section 204-2 of the Advisers Act and ERISA DOL Bulletin 94-2. These records include:
a. A copy of Western Assets policies and procedures.
b. Copies of proxy statements received regarding client securities.
c. A copy of any document created by Western Asset that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies.
d. Each written client request for proxy voting records and Western Assets written response to both verbal and
written client requests.
e. A proxy log including:
1. Issuer name;
2. Exchange ticker symbol of the issuers shares to be voted;
3. Committee on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (CUSIP) number for the shares to be voted;
4. A brief identification of the matter voted on;
5. Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer;
6. Whether a vote was cast on the matter;
7. A record of how the vote was cast; and
8. Whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuers management team.
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Records are maintained in an easily accessible place for five years, the first two in
Western Assets offices.
Disclosure
Western Assets proxy policies are described in the firms Part II of Form ADV. Clients will be provided a copy of these
policies and procedures upon request. In addition, upon request, clients may receive reports on how their proxies have been voted.
Conflicts of Interest
All proxies are reviewed by the Legal and
Compliance Department for material conflicts of interest. Issues to be reviewed include, but are not limited to:
1. Whether Western (or, to the extent required to be considered by applicable law, its affiliates) manages assets for the
company or an employee group of the company or otherwise has an interest in the company;
2. Whether Western or
an officer or director of Western or the applicable portfolio manager or analyst responsible for recommending the proxy vote (together, Voting Persons) is a close relative of or has a personal or business relationship with an executive,
director or person who is a candidate for director of the company or is a participant in a proxy contest; and
3. Whether there is any other business or personal relationship where a Voting Person has a personal interest in the
outcome of the matter before shareholders.
Voting Guidelines
Western Assets substantive voting decisions turn on the particular facts and circumstances of each proxy vote and are evaluated by
the designated research analyst or portfolio manager. The examples outlined below are meant as guidelines to aid in the decision making process.
Guidelines are grouped according to the types of proposals generally presented to shareholders. Part I deals with proposals which have been approved and are recommended by a companys board of
directors; Part II deals with proposals submitted by shareholders for inclusion in proxy statements; Part III addresses issues relating to voting shares of investment companies; and Part IV addresses unique considerations pertaining to foreign
issuers.
I. Board Approved Proposals
The vast majority of matters presented to shareholders for a vote involve proposals made by a company itself that have been approved and recommended by its board of directors. In view of the enhanced
corporate governance practices currently being implemented in public companies, Western Asset generally votes in support of decisions reached by independent boards of directors. More specific guidelines related to certain board-approved proposals
are as follows:
1. Matters relating to the Board of Directors
Western Asset votes proxies for the election of the companys nominees for directors and for board-approved proposals on other
matters relating to the board of directors with the following exceptions:
a. Votes are withheld for the entire
board of directors if the board does not have a majority of independent directors or the board does not have nominating, audit and compensation committees composed solely of independent directors.
b. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who is considered an independent director by the company and who has
received compensation from the company other than for service as a director.
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c. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who attends less than 75%
of board and committee meetings without valid reasons for absences.
d. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis
in contested elections of directors.
2. Matters relating to Executive Compensation
Western Asset generally favors compensation programs that relate executive compensation to a companys long-term performance. Votes
are cast on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals relating to executive compensation, except as follows:
a. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors, Western Asset votes for stock option plans that will result in a minimal annual dilution.
b. Western Asset votes against stock option plans or proposals that permit replacing or repricing of underwater options.
c. Western Asset votes against stock option plans that permit issuance of options with an exercise price below
the stocks current market price.
d. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire
board of directors, Western Asset votes for employee stock purchase plans that limit the discount for shares purchased under the plan to no more than 15% of their market value, have an offering period of 27 months or less and result in dilution of
10% or less.
3. Matters relating to Capitalization
The management of a companys capital structure involves a number of important issues, including cash flows, financing needs and
market conditions that are unique to the circumstances of each company. As a result, Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals involving changes to a companys capitalization except where Western Asset is otherwise
withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
a. Western Asset votes for proposals relating to the
authorization of additional common stock.
b. Western Asset votes for proposals to effect stock splits
(excluding reverse stock splits).
c. Western Asset votes for proposals authorizing share repurchase programs.
4. Matters relating to Acquisitions, Mergers, Reorganizations and Other Transactions
Western Asset votes these issues on a case-by-case basis on board-approved transactions.
5. Matters relating to Anti-Takeover Measures
Western Asset votes against board-approved proposals to adopt anti-takeover measures except as follows:
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to ratify or approve shareholder rights plans.
b. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to adopt fair price provisions.
6. Other Business Matters
Western Asset votes for board-approved
proposals approving such routine business matters such as changing the companys name, ratifying the appointment of auditors and procedural matters relating to the shareholder meeting.
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to amend a companys charter or bylaws.
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b. Western Asset votes against authorization to transact other unidentified,
substantive business at the meeting.
II. Shareholder Proposals
SEC regulations permit shareholders to submit proposals for inclusion in a companys proxy statement. These proposals generally seek
to change some aspect of a companys corporate governance structure or to change some aspect of its business operations. Western Asset votes in accordance with the recommendation of the companys board of directors on all shareholder
proposals, except as follows:
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals to require shareholder approval
of shareholder rights plans.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that are consistent with Western
Assets proxy voting guidelines for board-approved proposals.
3. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case
basis on other shareholder proposals where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
III.
Voting Shares of Investment Companies
Western Asset may utilize shares of open or closed-end investment companies to
implement its investment strategies. Shareholder votes for investment companies that fall within the categories listed in Parts I and II above are voted in accordance with those guidelines.
1. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to changes in the investment objectives of an
investment company taking into account the original intent of the fund and the role the fund plays in the clients portfolios.
2. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis all proposals that would result in increases in expenses (e.g., proposals to adopt 12b-1 plans, alter investment advisory arrangements or approve fund
mergers) taking into account comparable expenses for similar funds and the services to be provided.
IV. Voting Shares of
Foreign Issuers
In the event Western Asset is required to vote on securities held in non-U.S. issuersi.e. issuers
that are incorporated under the laws of a foreign jurisdiction and that are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange or the NASDAQ stock market, the following guidelines are used, which are premised on the existence of a sound corporate governance
and disclosure framework. These guidelines, however, may not be appropriate under some circumstances for foreign issuers and therefore apply only where applicable.
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals calling for a majority of the directors to be independent of management.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals seeking to increase the independence of board nominating,
audit and compensation committees.
3. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that implement corporate
governance standards similar to those established under U.S. federal law and the listing requirements of U.S. stock exchanges, and that do not otherwise violate the laws of the jurisdiction under which the company is incorporated.
4. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to (1) the issuance of common stock in excess of
20% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders do not have preemptive rights, or (2) the issuance of common stock in excess of 100% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders have preemptive rights.
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Retirement Accounts
For accounts subject to ERISA, as well as other Retirement Accounts, Western Asset is presumed to have the responsibility to vote proxies for the client. The Department of Labor (DOL) has
issued a bulletin that states that investment managers have the responsibility to vote proxies on behalf of Retirement Accounts unless the authority to vote proxies has been specifically reserved to another named fiduciary. Furthermore, unless
Western Asset is expressly precluded from voting the proxies, the DOL has determined that the responsibility remains with the investment manager.
In order to comply with the DOLs position, Western Asset will be presumed to have the obligation to vote proxies for its Retirement Accounts unless Western Asset has obtained a specific written
instruction indicating that: (a) the right to vote proxies has been reserved to a named fiduciary of the client, and (b) Western Asset is precluded from voting proxies on behalf of the client. If Western Asset does not receive such an
instruction, Western Asset will be responsible for voting proxies in the best interests of the Retirement Account client and in accordance with any proxy voting guidelines provided by the client.
Western Asset Management Company Limited
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
PROXY VOTING
Policy
As a fixed income only manager, the occasion to vote proxies is very rare. However, Western Asset Management Company Limited (Western Asset) has adopted and implemented policies and procedures
that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and SEC Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act. In addition to SEC requirements governing advisers, our
proxy voting policies reflect the long-standing fiduciary standards and responsibilities for ERISA accounts. Unless a manager of ERISA assets has been expressly precluded from voting proxies, the Department of Labor has determined that the
responsibility for these votes lies with the Investment Manager.
While the guidelines included in the procedures are intended
to provide a benchmark for voting standards, each vote is ultimately cast on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration Western Assets contractual obligations to our clients and all other relevant facts and circumstances at the time of
the vote (such that these guidelines may be overridden to the extent Western Asset deems appropriate).
In exercising its
voting authority, Western Asset will not consult or enter into agreements with officers, directors or employees of Legg Mason Inc. or any of its affiliates (other than Western Asset Management Company, its U.S. affiliate) regarding the voting of any
securities owned by its clients.
Procedures
Responsibility and Oversight
The Western Asset Investment Services
Department is responsible for administering and overseeing the proxy voting process. The gathering of proxies is coordinated through the Corporate Actions area of Investment Support (Corporate Actions). Research analysts and portfolio
managers are responsible for determining appropriate voting positions on each proxy utilizing any applicable guidelines contained in these procedures.
Client Authority
At account start-up, or upon amendment of an IMA,
the applicable client IMA are similarly reviewed. If an agreement is silent on proxy voting, but contains an overall delegation of discretionary authority or if the account
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represents assets of an ERISA plan, Western Asset will assume responsibility for proxy voting. The Client Account Transition Team maintains a matrix of proxy voting authority.
Proxy Gathering
Registered owners of record, client custodians, client banks and trustees (Proxy Recipients) that receive proxy materials on behalf of clients should forward them to Corporate Actions. Proxy
Recipients of existing clients were reminded of the appropriate routing to Corporate Actions for proxy materials received and reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. Proxy Recipients for new clients (or, if
Western Asset becomes aware that the applicable Proxy Recipient for an existing client has changed, the Proxy Recipient for the existing client) are notified at start-up of appropriate routing to Corporate Actions of proxy materials received and
reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. If Western Asset personnel other than Corporate Actions receive proxy materials, they should promptly forward the materials to Corporate Actions.
Proxy Voting
Once proxy materials are received by Corporate Actions, they are forwarded to the Investment Services Department for coordination and the following actions:
a. Proxies are reviewed to determine accounts impacted.
b. Impacted accounts are checked to confirm Western Asset voting authority.
c. As part of the Annual Monitoring Program, the Legal and Compliance Department staff will review proxy issues to
determine any material conflicts of interest. (See conflicts of interest section of these procedures for further information on determining material conflicts of interest.)
d. If a material conflict of interest exists, (i) to the extent reasonably practicable and permitted by applicable
law, the client is promptly notified, the conflict is disclosed and Western Asset obtains the clients proxy voting instructions, and (ii) to the extent that it is not reasonably practicable or permitted by applicable law to notify the
client and obtain such instructions (e.g., the client is a mutual fund or other commingled vehicle or is an ERISA plan client), Western Asset seeks voting instructions from an independent third party.
e. Investment Services Department staff provides proxy material to the appropriate research analyst or portfolio manager
to obtain their recommended vote. Research analysts and portfolio managers determine votes on a case-by-case basis taking into account the voting guidelines contained in these procedures. For avoidance of doubt, depending on the best interest of
each individual client, Western Asset may vote the same proxy differently for different clients. The analysts or portfolio managers basis for their decision is documented and maintained by the Legal and Compliance Department.
f. Legal and Compliance Department staff votes the proxy pursuant to the instructions received in (d) or (e) and
returns the voted proxy as indicated in the proxy materials.
Timing
Western Asset personnel act in such a manner to ensure that, absent special circumstances, the proxy gathering and proxy voting steps
noted above can be completed before the applicable deadline for returning proxy votes.
Recordkeeping
Western Asset maintains records of proxies voted pursuant to Section 204-2 of the Advisers Act and ERISA DOL
Bulletin 94-2. These records include:
a. A copy of Western Assets policies and procedures.
B-7
b. Copies of proxy statements received regarding client securities.
c. A copy of any document created by Western Asset that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies.
d. Each written client request for proxy voting records and Western Assets written response to both
verbal and written client requests.
e. A proxy log including:
1. Issuer name;
2. Exchange ticker symbol of the issuers shares to be voted;
3. Council on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (CUSIP) number for the shares to be voted;
4. A brief identification of the matter voted on;
5. Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer;
6. Whether a vote was cast on the matter;
7. A record of how the vote was cast; and
8. Whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuers management team.
Records are maintained in an easily accessible place for five years, the first two in Western Assets offices.
Disclosure
Western Assets proxy policies are described in the Firms Part II of Form ADV. Clients will be provided a copy of these policies and procedures upon request. In addition, upon request, clients
may receive reports on how their proxies have been voted.
Conflicts of Interest
All proxies are reviewed by the Legal & Compliance Department for material conflicts of interest. Issues to be reviewed include,
but are not limited to:
1. Whether Western (or, to the extent required to be considered by applicable law, its affiliates)
manages assets for the company or an employee group of the company or otherwise has an interest in the company;
2. Whether
Western or an officer or director of Western or the applicable portfolio manager or analyst responsible for recommending the proxy vote (together, Voting Persons) is a close relative of or has a personal or business relationship with an
executive, director or person who is a candidate for director of the company or is a participant in a proxy contest; and
3.
Whether there is any other business or personal relationship where a Voting Person has a personal interest in the outcome of the matter before shareholders.
Voting Guidelines
Western Assets substantive voting decisions
turn on the particular facts and circumstances of each proxy vote and are evaluated by the designated research analyst or portfolio manager. The examples outlined below are meant as guidelines to aid in the decision making process.
B-8
Guidelines are grouped according to the types of proposals generally presented to
shareholders. Part I deals with proposals which have been approved and are recommended by a companys board of directors; Part II deals with proposals submitted by shareholders for inclusion in proxy statements; Part III addresses issues
relating to voting shares of investment companies; and Part IV addresses unique considerations pertaining to foreign issuers.
I. Board
Approved Proposals
The vast majority of matters presented to shareholders for a vote involve proposals made by a company
itself that have been approved and recommended by its board of directors. In view of the enhanced corporate governance practices currently being implemented in public companies, Western Asset generally votes in support of decisions reached by
independent boards of directors. More specific guidelines related to certain board-approved proposals are as follows:
1.
Matters relating to the Board of Directors
Western Asset votes proxies for the election of the companys nominees for
directors and for board-approved proposals on other matters relating to the board of directors with the following exceptions:
a. Votes are withheld for the entire board of directors if the board does not have a majority of independent directors or the board does not have nominating, audit and compensation committees composed
solely of independent directors.
b. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who is considered an
independent director by the company and who has received compensation from the company other than for service as a director.
c. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who attends less than 75% of board and committee meetings without valid reasons for absences.
d. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis in contested elections of directors.
2. Matters relating to Executive Compensation
Western Asset generally favours compensation programs that relate executive compensation to a companys long-term performance. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals
relating to executive compensation, except as follows:
a. Except where the Firm is otherwise withholding votes
for the entire board of directors, Western Asset votes for stock option plans that will result in a minimal annual dilution.
b. Western Asset votes against stock option plans or proposals that permits replacing or repricing of underwater options.
c. Western Asset votes against stock option plans that permit issuance of options with an exercise price below the
stocks current market price.
d. Except where the Firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire
board of directors, Western Asset votes for employee stock purchase plans that limit the discount for shares purchased under the plan to no more than 15% of their market value, have an offering period of 27 months or less and result in dilution of
10% or less.
3. Matters relating to Capitalization
The management of a companys capital structure involves a number of important issues, including cash flows, financing needs and market conditions that are unique to the circumstances of each
company. As a result, Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals involving changes to a companys capitalization except where Western Asset is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
a. Western Asset votes for proposals relating to the authorisation of additional common stock.
B-9
b. Western Asset votes for proposals to effect stock splits (excluding
reverse stock splits).
c. Western Asset votes for proposals authorizing share repurchase programs.
4. Matters relating to Acquisitions, Mergers, Reorganisations and Other Transactions
Western Asset votes these issues on a case-by-case basis on board-approved transactions.
5. Matters relating to Anti-Takeover Measures
Western Asset votes against board-approved proposals to adopt anti-takeover measures except as follows:
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to ratify or approve shareholder rights plans.
b. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to adopt fair price provisions.
6. Other Business Matters
Western Asset votes for board-approved proposals
approving such routine business matters such as changing the companys name, ratifying the appointment of auditors and procedural matters relating to the shareholder meeting.
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to amend a companys charter or bylaws.
b. Western Asset votes against authorisation to transact other unidentified, substantive business at the meeting.
II. Shareholder Proposals
SEC regulations permit shareholders to submit proposals for inclusion in a companys proxy statement. These proposals generally seek to change some aspect of a companys corporate governance
structure or to change some aspect of its business operations. Western Asset votes in accordance with the recommendation of the companys board of directors on all shareholder proposals, except as follows:
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals to require shareholder approval of shareholder rights plans.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that are consistent with Western Assets proxy voting guidelines for board-approved
proposals.
3. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on other shareholder proposals where the Firm is otherwise
withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
III. Voting Shares of Investment Companies
Western Asset may utilize shares of open or closed-end investment companies to implement its investment strategies. Shareholder votes for
investment companies that fall within the categories listed in Parts I and II above are voted in accordance with those guidelines.
1. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to changes in the investment objectives of an investment company taking into account the original intent of the fund and the role the
fund plays in the clients portfolios.
2. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis all proposals that would result in
increases in expenses (e.g., proposals to adopt 12b-1 plans, alter investment advisory arrangements or approve fund mergers) taking into account comparable expenses for similar funds and the services to be provided.
B-10
IV. Voting Shares of Foreign Issuers
In the event Western Asset is required to vote on securities held in non-U.S. issuersi.e. issuers that are incorporated under the
laws of a foreign jurisdiction and that are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange or the NASDAQ stock market, the following guidelines are used, which are premised on the existence of a sound corporate governance and disclosure framework. These
guidelines, however, may not be appropriate under some circumstances for foreign issuers and therefore apply only where applicable.
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals calling for a majority of the directors to be independent of management.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals seeking to increase the independence of board nominating, audit and compensation committees.
3. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that implement corporate governance standards similar to those established under U.S.
federal law and the listing requirements of U.S. stock exchanges and that do not otherwise violate the laws of the jurisdiction under which the company is incorporated.
4. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to (1) the issuance of common stock in excess of 20% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders do not have
pre-emptive rights, or (2) the issuance of common stock in excess of 100% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders have pre-emptive rights.
Retirement Accounts
For accounts subject to ERISA, as well as other
Retirement Accounts, Western Asset is presumed to have the responsibility to vote proxies for the client. The US Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a bulletin that states that investment managers have the responsibility to vote proxies
on behalf of Retirement Accounts unless the authority to vote proxies has been specifically reserved to another named fiduciary. Furthermore, unless Western Asset is expressly precluded from voting the proxies, the DOL has determined that the
responsibility remains with the investment manager.
In order to comply with the DOLs position, Western Asset will be
presumed to have the obligation to vote proxies for its Retirement Accounts unless Western Asset has obtained a specific written instruction indicating that: (a) the right to vote proxies has been reserved to a named fiduciary of the client,
and (b) Western Asset is precluded from voting proxies on behalf of the client. If Western Asset does not receive such an instruction, Western Asset will be responsible for voting proxies in the best interests of the Retirement Account client
and in accordance with any proxy voting guidelines provided by the client.
Western Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd.
(WAMC)
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
PROXY VOTING
Policy
WAMC has adopted and implemented policies and procedures that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the
best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and the applicable laws and regulations. In addition to SEC requirements governing advisers, our proxy voting policies reflect the long-standing fiduciary standards and
responsibilities for ERISA accounts.
In exercising its voting authority, WAMC will not consult or enter into agreements with
officers, directors or employees of Legg Mason Inc. or any of its affiliates (other than Western Asset) regarding the voting of any securities owned by its clients.
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Procedure
Responsibility and Oversight
The Western Asset Legal and Compliance Department is responsible for administering and overseeing the proxy voting process. The gathering of proxies is coordinated through the Corporate Actions area of
Investment Support (Corporate Actions). Research analysts and portfolio managers are responsible for determining appropriate voting positions on each proxy utilizing any applicable guidelines contained in these procedures.
Client Authority
At account start-up, or upon amendment of an IMA, the applicable client IMA are similarly reviewed. If an agreement is silent on proxy voting, but contains an overall delegation of discretionary authority
or if the account represents assets of an ERISA plan, Western Asset will assume responsibility for proxy voting. The Client Account Transition Team maintains a matrix of proxy voting authority.
Proxy Gathering
Registered owners of record, client custodians, client banks and trustees (Proxy Recipients) that receive proxy materials on behalf of clients should forward them to Corporate Actions. Proxy
Recipients for new clients (or, if Western Asset becomes aware that the applicable Proxy Recipient for an existing client has changed, the Proxy Recipient for the existing client) are notified at start-up of appropriate routing to Corporate Actions
of proxy materials received and reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. If Western Asset personnel other than Corporate Actions receive proxy materials, they should promptly forward the materials to
Corporate Actions.
Proxy Voting
Once proxy materials are received by Corporate Actions, they are forwarded to the Legal and Compliance Department for coordination and the following actions:
a. Proxies are reviewed to determine accounts impacted.
b. Impacted accounts are checked to confirm Western Asset voting authority.
c. Legal and Compliance Department staff reviews proxy issues to determine any material conflicts of interest. (See
conflicts of interest section of these procedures for further information on determining material conflicts of interest.)
d. If a material conflict of interest exists, (i) to the extent reasonably practicable and permitted by applicable law, the client is promptly notified, the conflict is disclosed and Western Asset
obtains the clients proxy voting instructions, and (ii) to the extent that it is not reasonably practicable or permitted by applicable law to notify the client and obtain such instructions (e.g., the client is a mutual fund or other
commingled vehicle or is an ERISA plan client), Western Asset seeks voting instructions from an independent third party.
e. Legal and Compliance Department staff provides proxy material to the appropriate research analyst or portfolio manager to obtain their recommended vote. Research analysts and portfolio managers
determine votes on a case-by-case basis taking into account the voting guidelines contained in these procedures. For avoidance of doubt, depending on the best interest of each individual client, Western Asset may vote the same proxy differently for
different clients. The analysts or portfolio managers basis for their decision is documented and maintained by the Legal and Compliance Department.
f. Legal and Compliance Department staff votes the proxy pursuant to the instructions received in (d) or (e) and returns the voted proxy as indicated in the proxy materials.
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Timing
Western Asset personnel act in such a manner to ensure that, absent special circumstances, the proxy gathering and proxy voting steps noted above can be completed before the applicable deadline for
returning proxy votes.
Recordkeeping
Western Asset maintains records of proxies voted pursuant to Section 204-2 of the Advisers Act and ERISA DOL Bulletin 94-2. These records include:
a. A copy of Western Assets policies and procedures.
b. Copies of proxy statements received regarding client securities.
c. A copy of any document created by Western Asset that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies.
d. Each written client request for proxy voting records and Western Assets written response to both verbal and
written client requests.
e. A proxy log including:
1. Issuer name;
2. Exchange ticker symbol of the issuers shares to be voted;
3. Council on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (CUSIP) number for the shares to be voted;
4. A brief identification of the matter voted on;
5. Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer;
6. Whether a vote was cast on the matter;
7. A record of how the vote was cast; and
8. Whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuers management team.
Records are maintained in an easily accessible place for five years, the first two in Western Assets offices.
Disclosure
Western Assets proxy policies are described in the firms Part II of Form ADV. Clients will be provided a copy of these policies and procedures upon request. In addition, upon request, clients
may receive reports on how their proxies have been voted.
Conflicts of Interest
All proxies are reviewed by the Legal and Compliance Department for material conflicts of interest. Issues to be reviewed include, but are
not limited to:
1. Whether Western (or, to the extent required to be considered by applicable law, its affiliates) manages
assets for the company or an employee group of the company or otherwise has an interest in the company;
2. Whether Western or
an officer or director of Western or the applicable portfolio manager or analyst responsible for recommending the proxy vote (together, Voting Persons) is a close relative of or has a personal or business relationship with an executive,
director or person who is a candidate for director of the company or is a participant in a proxy contest; and
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3. Whether there is any other business or personal relationship where a Voting Person has a
personal interest in the outcome of the matter before shareholders.
Voting Guidelines
Western Assets substantive voting decisions turn on the particular facts and circumstances of each proxy vote and are evaluated by
the designated research analyst or portfolio manager. The examples outlined below are meant as guidelines to aid in the decision making process.
Guidelines are grouped according to the types of proposals generally presented to shareholders. Part I deals with proposals which have been approved and are recommended by a companys board of
directors; Part II deals with proposals submitted by shareholders for inclusion in proxy statements; Part III addresses issues relating to voting shares of investment companies; and Part IV addresses unique considerations pertaining to foreign
issuers.
I. Board Approved Proposals
The vast majority of matters presented to shareholders for a vote involve proposals made by a company itself that have been approved and recommended by its board of directors. In view of the enhanced
corporate governance practices currently being implemented in public companies, Western Asset generally votes in support of decisions reached by independent boards of directors. More specific guidelines related to certain board-approved proposals
are as follows:
1. Matters relating to the Board of Directors
Western Asset votes proxies for the election of the companys nominees for directors and for board-approved proposals on other
matters relating to the board of directors with the following exceptions:
a. Votes are withheld for the entire
board of directors if the board does not have a majority of independent directors or the board does not have nominating, audit and compensation committees composed solely of independent directors.
b. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who is considered an independent director by the company and who has
received compensation from the company other than for service as a director.
c. Votes are withheld for any
nominee for director who attends less than 75% of board and committee meetings without valid reasons for absences.
d. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis in contested elections of directors.
2. Matters relating to Executive Compensation
Western Asset generally favors compensation programs that relate executive compensation to a companys long-term performance. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals
relating to executive compensation, except as follows:
a. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes
for the entire board of directors, Western Asset votes for stock option plans that will result in a minimal annual dilution.
b. Western Asset votes against stock option plans or proposals that permit replacing or repricing of underwater options.
c. Western Asset votes against stock option plans that permit issuance of options with an exercise price below the
stocks current market price.
d. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire
board of directors, Western Asset votes for employee stock purchase plans that limit the discount for shares purchased under the plan to no more than 15% of their market value, have an offering period of 27 months or less and result in dilution of
10% or less.
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3. Matters relating to Capitalization
The management of a companys capital structure involves a number of important issues, including cash flows, financing needs and
market conditions that are unique to the circumstances of each company. As a result, Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals involving changes to a companys capitalization except where Western Asset is otherwise
withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
a. Western Asset votes for proposals relating to the
authorization of additional common stock.
b. Western Asset votes for proposals to effect stock splits
(excluding reverse stock splits).
c. Western Asset votes for proposals authorizing share repurchase programs.
4. Matters relating to Acquisitions, Mergers, Reorganisations and Other Transactions
Western Asset votes these issues on a case-by-case basis on board-approved transactions.
5. Matters relating to Anti-Takeover Measures
Western Asset votes against board-approved proposals to adopt anti-takeover measures except as follows:
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to ratify or approve shareholder rights plans.
b. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to adopt fair price provisions.
6. Other Business Matters
Western Asset votes for board-approved proposals
approving such routine business matters such as changing the companys name, ratifying the appointment of auditors and procedural matters relating to the shareholder meeting.
a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to amend a companys charter or bylaws.
b. Western Asset votes against authorization to transact other unidentified, substantive business at the meeting.
II. Shareholder Proposals
SEC regulations permit shareholders to submit proposals for inclusion in a companys proxy statement. These proposals generally seek to change some aspect of a companys corporate governance
structure or to change some aspect of its business operations. Western Asset votes in accordance with the recommendation of the companys board of directors on all shareholder proposals, except as follows:
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals to require shareholder approval of shareholder rights plans.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that are consistent with Western Assets proxy voting guidelines for board-approved
proposals.
3. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on other shareholder proposals where the firm is otherwise
withholding votes for the entire board of directors.
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III. Voting Shares of Investment Companies
Western Asset may utilize shares of open or closed-end investment companies to implement its investment strategies. Shareholder votes for
investment companies that fall within the categories listed in Parts I and II above are voted in accordance with those guidelines.
1. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to changes in the investment objectives of an investment company taking into account the original intent of the fund and the role the
fund plays in the clients portfolios.
2. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis all proposals that would result in
increases in expenses (e.g., proposals to adopt 12b-1 plans, alter investment advisory arrangements or approve fund mergers) taking into account comparable expenses for similar funds and the services to be provided.
IV. Voting Shares of Foreign Issuers
In the event Western Asset is required to vote on securities held in non-U.S. issuersi.e. issuers that are incorporated under the laws of a foreign jurisdiction and that are not listed on a U.S.
securities exchange or the NASDAQ stock market, the following guidelines are used, which are premised on the existence of a sound corporate governance and disclosure framework. These guidelines, however, may not be appropriate under some
circumstances for foreign issuers and therefore apply only where applicable.
1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals
calling for a majority of the directors to be independent of management.
2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals
seeking to increase the independence of board nominating, audit and compensation committees.
3. Western Asset votes for
shareholder proposals that implement corporate governance standards similar to those established under U.S. federal law and the listing requirements of U.S. stock exchanges, and that do not otherwise violate the laws of the jurisdiction under which
the company is incorporated.
4. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to (1) the issuance of
common stock in excess of 20% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders do not have preemptive rights, or (2) the issuance of common stock in excess of 100% of a companys outstanding common stock where shareholders
have preemptive rights.
Retirement Accounts
For accounts subject to ERISA, as well as other Retirement Accounts, Western Asset is presumed to have the responsibility to vote proxies for the client. The Department of Labor (DOL) has
issued a bulletin that states that investment managers have the responsibility to vote proxies on behalf of Retirement Accounts unless the authority to vote proxies has been specifically reserved to another named fiduciary. Furthermore, unless
Western Asset is expressly precluded from voting the proxies, the DOL has determined that the responsibility remains with the investment manager.
In order to comply with the DOLs position, Western Asset will be presumed to have the obligation to vote proxies for its Retirement Accounts unless Western Asset has obtained a specific written
instruction indicating that: (a) the right to vote proxies has been reserved to a named fiduciary of the client, and (b) Western Asset is precluded from voting proxies on behalf of the client. If Western Asset does not receive such an
instruction, Western Asset will be responsible for voting proxies in the best interests of the Retirement Account client and in accordance with any proxy voting guidelines provided by the client.
B-16
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
(a) (1) The Registrants
Declaration of Trust dated as of October 2, 2006 as amended and restated as of August 18, 2011 (the Declaration of Trust) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175 to the Registrants
Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on August 22, 2011 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 175).
(2) Amended and Restated Designation of Series of Shares of Beneficial Interests in the Registrant and Amended and Restated Designation of Classes, in each case effective as of May 15, 2013 and
incorporated into the Declaration of Trust, are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 220 to the Registrants Registration Statement on
Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on June 20, 2013
(Post-Effective Amendment No. 220).
(b) The Registrants By-Laws as amended and restated as of August 18, 2011 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175.
(d) (1) Management
Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund), and Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (LMPFA) dated April 13, 2007, as
amended effective August 1, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on July 26, 2012 (Post-Effective
Amendment No. 196).
(2) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset California
Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset California Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form
N-1A as filed with the SEC on June 27, 2007 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 85).
(3) Management Agreement
between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment
No. 85.
(4) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund
(formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007, as amended effective August 1, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196.
(5) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007, as amended effective August 1, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196.
(6) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Short Duration High Income Fund (formerly, Western Asset High
Income Fund and before that, Legg Mason Western Asset High Income Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(7) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund (formerly,
Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(8) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg
Mason Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(9) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset
Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(10) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset
Corporate Bond Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007, as amended effective August 1, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196.
(11) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset
Managed Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 133 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on June 26, 2009.
(12) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg
Mason Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(13) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007
is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(14) Management Agreement between the Registrant,
on behalf of Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(15) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset New York Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset
New York Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(16) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(17) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on
behalf of Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(18) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason
Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(19) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(20) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on
behalf of Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio), and LMPFA dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(21) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund, and LMPFA dated June 1, 2011, is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 169 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC June 14, 2011 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 169).
(22) Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund, and LMPFA to be filed by
amendment.
(23) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and Western Asset Management Company (WAM), with respect to
Legg Mason Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Partners Adjustable Rate Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(24) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset California Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset California Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(25) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Global
Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(26) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and Western Asset Management Company Limited (WAML), with respect to Western Asset
Global Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(27) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(28) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and WAML, with respect to Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(29) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM,
with respect to Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(30) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Short Duration High Income Fund (formerly, Western Asset
High Income Fund and before that, Legg Mason Western Asset High Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(31) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and WAML, with respect to Western Asset Short Duration High Income Fund (formerly, Western Asset
High Income Fund and before that, Legg Mason Western Asset High Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(32) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund
(formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(33) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund (formerly,
Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(34) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund) dated
April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(35) Subadvisory Agreement
between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(36) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset Managed Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(37) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007
is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(38) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM,
with respect to Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(39) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund (formerly, to Legg Mason
Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(40) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset New York Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset New York Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(41) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Oregon
Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(42) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(43) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund) dated
April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(44) Subadvisory Agreement
between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(45) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio) dated April 13, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(46) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and WAML, with respect to Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio) dated April 13, 2007 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(47) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and Western
Asset Management Company Ltd., a corporation organized under the laws of Japan (Western Japan), with respect to Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund) dated November 3,
2008, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 118 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on November 19, 2008 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 118).
(48) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and Western Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd. (Western Singapore), with
respect to Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund) dated November 3, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 118.
(49) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and Western Singapore, with respect to Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund (formerly, Legg
Mason Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund) dated November 3, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 118.
(50) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and Western Singapore, with respect to Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio) dated November 3,
2008, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 118.
(51) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA
and WAM, with respect to Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund dated June 1, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 169.
(52) Letter Amendment to Management Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund), and LMPFA is incorporated
herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 137 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on July 29, 2009 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 137).
(53) Subadvisory Agreement between WAM and WAML with respect to Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund, dated November 6, 2012 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 207.
(54) Subadvisory Agreement between LMPFA and WAM,
with respect to Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(e) (1) Distribution Agreement between the
Registrant and Legg Mason Investor Services, LLC (LMIS), on behalf of Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund, Western Asset California Municipals Fund, Legg Mason Western Asset Core Bond Fund, Legg Mason Western Asset Core Plus Bond
Fund, Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund, Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund, Legg Mason Western Asset Global Inflation Management Fund, Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund, Western Asset Short Duration High Income Fund (formerly
Western Asset High Income Fund), Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund, Western
Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund, Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund, Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund, Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund, Western
Asset Municipal High Income Fund, Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund, Western Asset New York Municipals Fund, Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund, Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund, Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund,
Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund, Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund and Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund dated June 1, 2011, as amended November 5, 2012 is incorporated herein by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 212 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on February 22, 2013 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 212).
(2) Letter Agreement to the Distribution Agreement between the Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund, and
LMIS to be filed by amendment.
(f) (1) Amended and Restated Trustee Retirement Plan relating to certain funds dated as of January 1,
2005 (the General Retirement Plan), is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on January 8, 2007
(Post-Effective Amendment No. 78).
(2) Legg Mason Investment Series (formerly, Smith Barney Investment
Series) Amended and Restated Trustees Retirement Plan dated as of January 1, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78.
(3) Amendment to the General Retirement Plan and the Legg Mason Partners Investment Series Amended and Restated Trustees Retirement Plan dated as of July 10, 2006 is incorporated herein by reference
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78.
(4) Amended and Restated Emeritus Retirement Plan relating to certain funds
established effective as of January 1, 2007, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78.
(5) Emeritus Retirement Plan relating to certain funds established effective as of January 1, 2007 is incorporated herein by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78.
(g) (1) Custodian Services Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company
(State Street) dated October 5, 2012 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 207.
(2) Fund Accounting Services Agreement with State Street dated as of October 5, 2012 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 207.
(3) Letter Agreement with State Street amending the Custodian Services Agreement and Fund Accounting Services with respect to Western
Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund to be filed by amendment.
(h) (1) Form of License Agreement between the Registrant and Legg Mason
Properties, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on November 30, 2006.
(2) Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) dated as of April 4, 2009 is
incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 129 to the Registrants Registration Statement on
Form N-1A as filed April 6, 2009.
(3) Letter Agreement amending the Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with BFDS, with respect to Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment
No. 170 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on June 22, 2011.
(4)
Letter Agreement amending the Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with BFDS, with respect to Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund to be filed by amendment.
(5) Co-Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (formerly, PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.) dated as of April 1, 2009 is incorporated herein
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 137.
(6) Letter Agreement amending the Co-Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with BNY Mellon,
with respect to Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund to be filed by amendment.
(7) Board Resolutions regarding Expense
Limitation Arrangements are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 207.
(8) Board Resolutions
regarding Expense Limitation Arrangements, with respect to Western Asset Ultra Short Obligations Fund, are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 220.
(i) (1) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of the securities being registered is incorporated herein by reference to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-14 as
filed with the SEC on June 1, 2007.
(2) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP regarding the legality of Class R shares of
Legg Mason Western Asset Global Inflation Management Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Partners Global Inflation Management Fund) and Class FI shares of Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Short Duration
Municipal Income Fund), is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on February 14, 2008 (Post-Effective Amendment
No. 97).
(3) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP regarding the legality of Class FI shares of each of Western Asset
Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund), Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate
Maturity New York Municipals Fund) and Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund), is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the
Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on March 14, 2008.
(4) Opinion and Consent of
Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI shares of Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund) and Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset
Corporate Bond Fund); and Class R Shares of Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund), Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Mortgage Backed
Securities Fund), Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund) and Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund), is incorporated herein by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on April 24, 2008.
(5) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI shares of Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund), Western Asset California
Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset California Municipals Fund) and Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment
No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on June 11, 2008 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 108).
(6) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI shares of Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund),
Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund), Western Asset New York Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset New York Municipals Fund) and Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals
Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111.
(7) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI shares of Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund) is incorporated herein by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 114 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on August 6, 2008 (Post-Effective Amendment No. 114).
(8) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI and Class R shares of Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund
(formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 116.
(9) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI and Class R shares of Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Strategic Income Fund), Class FI
shares
of Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund) and Class R shares of Western Asset High Income Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western
Asset High Income Fund) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 119 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on November 25, 2008 (Post-Effective Amendment
No. 119).
(10) Opinion and Consent of Bingham McCutchen LLP regarding the reorganization of High Yield Bond Fund
into Legg Mason Partners High Income Fund is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 119.
(11) Opinion
and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class A, Class C and Class IS shares of Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund (formerly, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment
No. 123.
(12) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class P shares of Western Asset Corporate Bond
Fund (formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 131 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on April 30, 2009.
(13) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class R1 shares of Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund
(formerly, Legg Mason Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on July 24, 2009.
(14) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class R1 shares of Legg Mason Western Asset Core Bond Fund, Legg
Mason Western Asset Core Plus Bond Fund, Western Asset High Income Fund and Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 141 as filed with the SEC on November 23, 2009.
(15) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class R1 shares of Legg Mason Western Asset Global Inflation
Management Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 148 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on February 22, 2010 (Post-Effective Amendment
No. 148).
(16) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class R1 shares of Western Asset Corporate
Bond Fund, Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund, Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund and Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 153 to the Registrants
Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on April 27, 2010.
(17) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as
to the legality of Class FI, Class I and Class IS shares of Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 169.
(18) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI shares of Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund and Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund, Class IS shares of Western Asset
Adjustable Rate Income Fund, Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund, Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund, Western Asset Mortgage Backed Securities Fund, Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund and Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund, and Class R
and Class R1 shares of Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on July 30, 2012.
(19) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class FI, Class I and Class IS shares of Western Asset Ultra
Short Obligations Fund to be filed by amendment.
(20) Opinion and Consent of Venable LLP as to the legality of Class A2 shares
of Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund to be filed by amendment.
(j) (1) Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm to
be filed by amendment.
(2) Power of Attorney dated February 11, 2013 is incorporated herein by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 212.
(3) Power of Attorney dated May 15, 2013 is incorporated herein by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 220.
(4) Power of Attorney dated June 1, 2013 is incorporated herein by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 220.
(k) Not Applicable.
(l) Not Applicable.
(m) Shareholder Services and Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the
Registrant, on behalf of Western Asset Adjustable Rate Income Fund, Western Asset California Municipals Fund, Western Asset Corporate Bond Fund, Western Asset Global High Yield Bond Fund, Western Asset Mortgaged Backed Securities Fund, Western Asset
Short Duration High Income Fund, Western Asset Intermediate Maturity California Municipals Fund, Western Asset Intermediate Maturity New York Municipals Fund, Western Asset Intermediate-Term Municipals Fund, Western Asset Managed Municipals Fund,
Western Asset Massachusetts Municipals Fund, Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund, Western Asset New Jersey Municipals Fund, Western Asset New York Municipals Fund, Western Asset Oregon Municipals Fund, Western Asset Pennsylvania Municipals
Fund, Western Asset Short Duration Municipal Income Fund, Western Asset Short-Term Bond Fund, Western Asset Global Strategic Income Fund, Western Asset Emerging Markets Debt Fund, Western Asset Short Term Yield Fund and Western Asset Ultra Short
Obligations Fund, dated February 8, 2007, as amended as of May 15, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 220.
(n) Rule 18f-3(d) Multiple Class Plan of the Registrant dated February 6, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85.
(o) Not Applicable.
(p) (1) Code of Ethics
of Legg Mason & Co., LLC dated as of March 10, 2011 (adopted by LMPFA and LMIS) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175.
(2) Code of Ethics of WAM, WAML, Western Singapore and certain supervised affiliates dated January 2010 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 150 to the
Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A as filed with the SEC on March 24, 2010.
(3) Code of Ethics of
Western Japan is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 116.
Item 29.
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Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant
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Not Applicable.
Provisions relating to
indemnification of the Registrants Trustees and employees are included in Article IX of the Registrants Declaration of Trust, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Reference is hereby made to paragraph 10 of the Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and LMIS.
The Trustees and officers of the Registrant and the personnel of the Registrants manager are insured under an errors and omissions liability insurance policy. The Registrant and its officers are
also insured under the fidelity bond required by Rule 17g-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
Item 31.
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Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser
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Investment AdviserLegg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (LMPFA)
LMPFA was
formed in 2006 under the laws of the State of Delaware as a limited liability company. LMPFA is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc. (Legg Mason).
LMPFA is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the
Advisers Act). The list required by this Item 31 of officers and directors of LMPFA together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by such officers and
directors during the past two years, is incorporated by reference to Schedules A and D of Form ADV filed by LMPFA pursuant to the Advisers Act (SEC File No. 801-66785).
Western Asset Management CompanySubadviserWestern Asset Management Company (WAM) is an investment adviser registered with the SEC under the Advisers Act. The following is a list of
the officers and directors of WAM.
Directors
Ronald R. Dewhurst
James W. Hirschmann III
Jeffrey A. Nattans
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Officers
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Bruce D. Alberts
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Chief Financial Officer
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Brett B. Canon
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Director of Risk Management and Operations
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Daniel E. Giddings
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Assistant Secretary
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James W. Hirschmann III
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Chief Executive Officer and President
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James J. Flick
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Director of Global Client Service and Marketing
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Dennis J. McNamara
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Director of Portfolio Operations
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Charles A. Ruys de Perez
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Secretary, General Counsel and Head of Legal and Compliance
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Western Asset Management Company LimitedSubadviserWestern Asset Management Company Limited (WAML)
was incorporated under the laws of England as a corporation. WAML is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason. WAML is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act. The following is a list of the officers and directors of WAML.
Directors
Ronald R.
Dewhurst
James W. Hirschmann III
Charles A. Ruys de Perez
Michael B. Zelouf
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Officers
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James W. Hirschmann III
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Managing Director
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Suzanne Taylor-King
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Finance Officer
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Michael B. Zelouf
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Head of London Operations
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Western Asset Management Company Pte. LtdSubadviserWestern Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd. (Western
Singapore) was incorporated under the laws of Singapore as a corporation. Western Singapore is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason. The following is a list of the officers and directors of Western Singapore.
Directors
Ronald R. Dewhurst
Takashi Komatsu
Jeffrey A. Nattans
Naoya Orime
Michael B. Zelouf
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Officers
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Brett B. Canon
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Chief Executive Officer
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Hui Kwoon Thor
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Finance Manager
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Naoya Orime
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Head of Tokyo Operations
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Western Asset Management Company LtdSubadviserWestern Asset Management Company Ltd (Western Japan)
was incorporated under the laws of Japan as a corporation. Western Japan is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason. Western Japan is authorized and regulated in Japan by the Japanese Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission. The following is
a list of the officers and directors of Western Japan.
Directors
Takashi Komatsu
Jeffrey A. Nattans
Naoya Orime
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Officers
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Yasuaki Sudo
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Finance Officer
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Naoya Orime
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Head of Tokyo Operations
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Following is a list of other substantial business activities in which directors, officers or partners of WAM, WAML,
Western Singapore and Western Japan have been engaged as director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
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Officer/Director
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Other Offices Held
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Jeffrey A. Nattans
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Director, WAM
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Vice President, Legg Mason, Inc.
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Manager and Vice President, LMIH
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Director, WAML
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Director, Western Japan
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Director, WAM Australia
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Director, WAMCO Hldgs Ltd.
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Director, Western Singapore
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Officer/Director
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Other Offices Held
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James W. Hirschmann III
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Director, WAM
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Director, WAML
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Following is a list of addresses for Item 31 with respect to WAM, WAML, Western Japan and Western Singapore:
Bartlett & Co. (Bartlett)
36 East Fourth Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Batterymarch Financial Management, Inc. (Batterymarch)
John Hancock Tower
200 Clarendon Street, 49
th
Floor
Boston, MA 02116
Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (Brandywine)
2929 Arch Street, 8
th
Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Brandywine Global Investment Management (Asia) Pte. Ltd. (Brandywine Singapore)
36 Robinson House, #18
City House
Singapore
Clearbridge Investments, LLC
(Clear Investments)
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
Clearbridge Asset Management, Inc. (Clear Asset)
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
Global Currents Investment Management, LLC (GCIM)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Capital Management, Inc. (LMCM)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Canada Holdings Ltd. (LM Canada Hldg)
44 Chipman Hill, 10
th
Floor
St. John, New Brunswick E2L 4S6
Canada
Legg Mason Fund Adviser, Inc. (LMFA)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Funding Corp. (LM Funding)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Global Asset Allocation, LLC (LMGAA)
100 First Stamford Place
Stamford, CT 06902
and
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
Legg Mason, Inc.
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason International Holdings, LLC (LMIH)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Investment Counsel, LLC (LMIC)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (LMPFA)
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
Legg Mason Real Estate Investors, Inc. (LMREI)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Real Estate Securities Advisors, Inc. (LMRESA)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Realty Capital, Inc. (LMRC)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Realty Group, Inc. (LMRG)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Realty Partners, Inc. (LMRP)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Legg Mason Tower, Inc. (LM Tower)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
LMRC II, Inc. (LMRC II)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
LMRC Properties, Inc. (LMRC Properties)
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
PCM Holdings I, Inc. (PCM I)
8889
Pelican Bay Boulevard, Suite 500
Naples, FL 34108-7512
PCM Holdings II, LLC (PCM II)
8889 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Suite 500
Naples, FL 34108-7512
Permal Asset Management,
Inc. (Permal)
900 Third Ave. 28
th
Floor
New
York, NY 10022
Royce & Associates, LLC (Royce)
1414 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10019
Western Asset Management Company (WAM)
385 East Colorado Boulevard
Pasadena, CA 91101
and
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
Western Asset Management
Company Limited (WAML)
10 Exchange Square
Primrose Street
London EC2A2EN England
Western Asset Management Company Ltd (Western Japan)
36F Shin-Marunouchi Building
5-1 Marunouchi
1-Chome Chiyoda-Ku
Tokyo 100-6536 Japan
Western Asset Management Company Pty Ltd (WAM Australia)
Level 48
120 Collins Street
GPO Box 507
Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia
Western Asset
Management (UK) Holdings Limited (WAMCO Hldgs Ltd)
10 Exchange Square
Primrose Street
London EC2A2EN England
Western Asset Management Company Pte. Ltd. (Western Singapore)
1 George Street,
#23-01
Singapore 049145
Item 32.
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Principal Underwriters
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Legg Mason
Investor Services, LLC (LMIS), the distributor of the Registrant, is a distributor of funds that are series of the following registrants: Legg Mason Partners Income Trust, Legg Mason Partners Variable Income Trust, Legg Mason Partners
Equity Trust, Legg Mason Partners Variable Equity Trust, Legg Mason Partners Money Market Trust, Legg Mason Partners Premium Money Market Trust and Legg Mason Partners Institutional Trust.
LMIS is the placement agent for funds that are series of Master Portfolio Trust.
The information
required by this Item 32 with respect to each director and officer of LMIS is listed below:
Thomas J. Hirschmann - Co-Managing Director
Joseph A. Sullivan - Co-Managing Director
William M. Golden - Vice President
Matthew Schiffman - Vice President
Jeremy OShea - Vice President
Jason
Bennett - Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Financial Reporting Officer
Kenneth Cieprisz - Chief Compliance Officer
Elisabeth F. Craig - Secretary
Vicki Schmelzer
- Assistant Secretary
Susan Kerr - Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer
All Addresses are 100 International Drive, Baltimore, MD 21202.
(c) Not applicable.
Item 33.
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Location of Accounts and Records
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With
respect to the Registrant:
(1) Legg Mason Partners Income Trust
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
With respect to the Registrants Investment Manager:
(2) c/o Legg Mason Partners Fund
Advisor, LLC
620 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
With respect to the Registrants Subadvisers:
(3) c/o Western Asset Management Company,
Western Asset Management Company Limited, Western Singapore and Western Japan
620 Eighth
Avenue
New York, NY 10018
With respect to the Registrants Custodian:
(4) State Street Bank & Trust Company
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
With respect to the
Registrants Transfer Agent:
(5) BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc.
P.O. Box 9699
Providence, RI 02940-9699
(6) Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
2000
Crown Colony Drive
Quincy, MA 02169
With respect to the Registrants Distributor:
(7) Legg Mason Investor Services, LLC
100 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202
Item 34.
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Management Services
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Not applicable.
Not applicable.