UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-CSR
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number | 811-09729 |
iShares Trust |
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter) |
c/o BlackRock Fund Advisors |
400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA | 94105 | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip code) |
The Corporation Trust Company 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 | ||
(Name and address of agent for service) |
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: | (415) 670-2000 |
Date of fiscal year end: | August 31, 2023 | |
Date of reporting period: | August 31, 2023 |
Item 1. | Reports to Stockholders. |
(a) The Report to Shareholders is attached herewith.
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
| 2023 Annual Report
|
iShares Trust
· iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF | EWZS | NASDAQ
· iShares MSCI China ETF | MCHI | NASDAQ
· iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF | ECNS | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF | EIDO | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF | EPU | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Philippines ETF | EPHE | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Poland ETF | EPOL | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Qatar ETF | QAT | NASDAQ
· iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF | KSA | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI UAE ETF | UAE | NASDAQ
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023 | ||||
6-Month | 12-Month | |||
U.S. large cap equities (S&P 500® Index) | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities (Russell 2000® Index) | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index) | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills (ICE BofA 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index) | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities (ICE BofA 10-Year U.S. Treasury Index) | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds (Bloomberg U.S. Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index) | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization Brazilian equities, as represented by the MSCI Brazil Small Cap Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 5.95 | % | 6.35 | % | (0.40 | )% | 5.95 | % | 36.06 | % | (3.94 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 7.31 | 6.21 | (0.27 | ) | 7.31 | 35.16 | (2.67 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Index | 6.30 | 7.11 | 0.19 | 6.30 | 41.01 | 1.91 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,222.10 | $ 3.30 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Small-capitalization Brazilian stocks advanced during the reporting period. After contracting in the fourth quarter of 2022, Brazil’s economy grew faster than anticipated in the first quarter of 2023, driven by a surge in agricultural output. The Brazilian real strengthened notably against the U.S. dollar, and low unemployment combined with an easing in the inflation rate paved the way for Brazil’s central bank to lower interest rates for the first time in three years.
The industrials sector contributed the most to the Index’s performance, led by the capital goods industry. Higher-than-expected totals for deliveries and new orders of airplanes supported aerospace and defense companies. Robust revenues in executive and commercial aviation also benefited the industry. In addition, indications of easing in supply-chain issues led manufacturers of airplanes to issue more optimistic forward guidance. Also within the capital goods industry, machinery companies contributed, as strong sales of buses, trailer trucks, and auto parts drove higher revenues for construction machinery and heavy transportation equipment companies.
The real estate sector also contributed to the Index’s performance, as companies involved in building and managing shopping malls drove gains in the real estate management and development industry. Following years of coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns that kept consumers at home or buying online, Brazilian shoppers began returning to brick-and-mortar stores, boosting profits for mall operators.
On the downside, the information technology sector detracted from the Index’s return. Margins for companies in the IT services industry that process credit card payments came under pressure due to increased competition and lower cost efficiency. An analyst downgrade reflecting concerns over a slowdown in the volume of payments processed further weighed on the industry.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Industrials | 22.0% | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 20.8 | |||
Consumer Staples | 11.7 | |||
Utilities | 10.2 | |||
Materials | 9.6 | |||
Real Estate | 8.5 | |||
Health Care | 5.6 | |||
Financials | 5.1 | |||
Energy | 4.8 | |||
Information Technology | 1.7 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Embraer SA | 4.9% | |||
Aliansce Sonae Shopping Centers SA | 3.5 | |||
Metalurgica Gerdau SA (Preferred) | 2.8 | |||
3R Petroleum Oleo E Gas SA | 2.8 | |||
BRF SA | 2.7 | |||
Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA | 2.5 | |||
Transmissora Alianca de Energia Eletrica SA | 2.4 | |||
Cyrela Brazil Realty SA Empreendimentos e Participacoes | 2.2 | |||
GPS Participacoes e Empreendimentos SA | 2.2 | |||
Sao Martinho SA | 2.0 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI China ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of Chinese equities that are available to international investors, as represented by the MSCI China Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (7.39 | )% | (4.40 | )% | 1.96 | % | (7.39 | )% | (20.13 | )% | 21.37 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (7.41 | ) | (4.42 | ) | 1.97 | (7.41 | ) | (20.23 | ) | 21.56 | ||||||||||||||||
Index | (7.53 | ) | (3.89 | ) | 2.48 | (7.53 | ) | (18.01 | ) | 27.72 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 949.30 | $ 2.90 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI China ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Chinese equities declined during the reporting period, negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent economic performance disappointed.
The consumer discretionary sector detracted the most from the Index’s return, driven by the internet and direct marketing retail industry. The reopening of China’s economy dented the profit margins of food delivery service providers, as the end of pandemic-related lockdowns led to reduced demand. In addition, increased competition in the food delivery space, including from one of China’s largest technology firms, weighed on the industry. Some Chinese e-commerce platforms reduced prices during the reporting period with the goal of gaining market share. Investors grew concerned about the impact of lowered prices on profitability, which further pressured the stocks of internet and direct marketing retail companies.
China’s healthcare sector detracted notably from the Index’s return. Life sciences tools and services companies were pressured by a U.S. executive order introducing a national biotechnology and biomanufacturing initiative. Given the program’s stated goal of reducing American reliance on China, stocks of Chinese companies engaged in contract drug research declined.
The consumer staples sector also detracted, driven by the packaged foods and meats industry. A major supplier of flavorings drew scrutiny for its use of additives in products sold domestically. In addition, the profits of pork producers were dampened by the confluence of decreasing pork prices, an oversupply of the meat, and lower consumer demand.
On the upside, interactive media and services companies, in the communication services sector, contributed to the Index’s return. The Chinese government’s easing stance on the regulation of internet firms toward the end of 2022 buoyed investor sentiment, supporting the industry.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Consumer Discretionary | 31.2% | |||
Communication Services | 20.4 | |||
Financials | 14.9 | |||
Information Technology | 5.9 | |||
Consumer Staples | 5.5 | |||
Health Care | 5.4 | |||
Industrials | 5.3 | |||
Materials | 3.3 | |||
Real Estate | 3.0 | |||
Energy | 2.9 | |||
Utilities | 2.2 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Tencent Holdings Ltd. | 13.8% | |||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. | 9.4 | |||
Meituan, Class B | 4.2 | |||
Pinduoduo Inc. | 2.9 | |||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H | 2.6 | |||
Baidu Inc. | 2.0 | |||
NetEase Inc. | 2.0 | |||
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class H | 2.0 | |||
JD.com Inc., Class A | 1.9 | |||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class H | 1.6 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization Chinese equities that are available to international investors, as represented by the MSCI China Small Cap Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (16.74 | )% | (6.16 | )% | (0.39 | )% | (16.74 | )% | (27.24 | )% | (3.85 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (15.81 | ) | (6.14 | ) | (0.28 | ) | (15.81 | ) | (27.15 | ) | (2.76 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Index | (18.45 | ) | (8.16 | ) | (2.02 | ) | (18.45 | ) | (34.68 | ) | (18.42 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 787.90 | $ 2.66 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 9 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Small-capitalization Chinese equities declined sharply during the reporting period, negatively impacted by slowing economic growth and increased tensions between China and the U.S. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent economic performance disappointed. Significant outflows of foreign investment from Chinese equities and the advancement of an economic decoupling from other countries as the Chinese government aims for greater supply chain independence also weighed on Chinese markets.
The real estate sector detracted the most from the Index’s return, as lower demand from home buyers continued to depress China’s housing market. Despite support from the Chinese government through guarantees of repayment for onshore bonds, the real estate management and development industry declined as high debt levels and difficulties in accessing capital pressured several companies. Investors reacted negatively to reports that property developers facing a cash-flow shortfall suspended payment of offshore debt obligations.
The consumer discretionary sector detracted significantly from the Index’s performance amid consumer pessimism, declining spending, and a slowdown in retail sales growth. In the specialty retail industry, competition from online sellers and continuing COVID-19 outbreaks pressured brick-and-mortar retailers. The challenging economic environment also pressured companies in the consumer durables industry, including sellers of home electronics and power tools.
The information technology sector also detracted, as investor concerns about oversupply of solar panels and related technology pressured the semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industry. Also within the sector, technology hardware and equipment companies focused on producing LCD screens for cars declined amid a reduction in demand for Chinese automobiles. The industrials sector also detracted meaningfully from the Index’s performance, notably among providers of industrial waste treatment in the commercial services and supplies industry.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Health Care | 21.6% | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 12.6 | |||
Real Estate | 12.5 | |||
Industrials | 11.3 | |||
Information Technology | 10.7 | |||
Communication Services | 9.2 | |||
Materials | 7.8 | |||
Financials | 5.3 | |||
Utilities | 3.9 | |||
Consumer Staples | 3.9 | |||
Energy | 1.2 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
HUTCHMED China Ltd. | 1.8% | |||
JinkoSolar Holding Co. Ltd. | 1.7 | |||
Lifetech Scientific Corp. | 1.5 | |||
Hello Group Inc. | 1.4 | |||
Chindata Group Holdings Ltd. | 1.4 | |||
Weimob Inc. | 1.4 | |||
Keymed Biosciences Inc. | 1.4 | |||
Fu Shou Yuan International Group Ltd. | 1.2 | |||
MMG Ltd. | 1.2 | |||
China Education Group Holdings Ltd. | 1.2 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Indonesia ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Indonesian equities, as represented by the MSCI Indonesia IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (0.66 | )% | 1.50 | % | 1.00 | % | (0.66 | )% | 7.74 | % | 10.48 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (0.11 | ) | 1.63 | 1.73 | (0.11 | ) | 8.43 | 18.74 | ||||||||||||||||||
Index | (0.68 | ) | 2.03 | 1.53 | (0.68 | ) | 10.59 | 16.35 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Index performance through May 28, 2019 reflects the performance of MSCI Indonesia Investable Market Index. Index performance beginning on May 29, 2019 reflects the performance of the MSCI Indonesia IMI 25/50 Index.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,027.70 | $ 3.02 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 11 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Indonesia ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Indonesia declined slightly during the reporting period as the country’s central bank raised its benchmark interest rate five times to address persistent inflation. Inflation moderated to within the central bank’s 2-4% annual target. Despite the increases, the country’s economy grew at a steady rate, driven by moderate growth in consumer spending and an expansion in manufacturing. In particular, orders for new goods rose at their fastest rate in more than two years, and unemployment fell amid the strong demand. However, exports, which account for about a quarter of Indonesia’s economic output, declined from all-time highs in mid-2022 despite the government’s effort to strengthen trade partnerships.
The communication sector detracted the most from the Index’s return. The stock price of a large operator of cellular towers declined, reflecting recognition of substantial investment losses in an online provider of e-commerce and financial services. The consumer discretionary sector also detracted, led by the same online e-commerce provider. The materials sector also detracted from the Index’s return, as declining copper prices weighed on the metals and mining industry, while a construction materials stock went to zero after a trading suspension on the Indonesian exchange.
The financials sector contributed the most to the Index’s return. Diversified banks, including those specializing in the growing microfinancing market focused on rural and small-business loans, benefited from rising interest rates. Net interest income margins expanded as higher loan yields outpaced more modest growth in deposit costs, and loan growth helped further boost overall bank industry earnings. Credit agencies also upgraded their ratings on key banks based on their government support.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Financials | 51.2% | |||
Materials | 9.6 | |||
Consumer Staples | 9.5 | |||
Communication Services | 6.7 | |||
Industrials | 5.7 | |||
Energy | 5.7 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 5.5 | |||
Health Care | 2.6 | |||
Real Estate | 2.5 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.0 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Bank Central Asia Tbk PT | 20.9% | |||
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 15.4 | |||
Bank Mandiri Persero Tbk PT | 8.6 | |||
Telkom Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 4.4 | |||
Astra International Tbk PT | 4.1 | |||
Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 3.1 | |||
GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk PT | 3.0 | |||
Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk PT | 2.1 | |||
Adaro Energy Indonesia Tbk PT | 1.9 | |||
Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Tbk PT | 1.9 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF (the “Fund”) (formerly iShares MSCI Peru ETF) seeks to track the investment results of an equity index with exposure to Peru, as defined by the index provider, as represented by the MSCI All Peru Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
On March 29, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to change the Fund’s name and investment objective. These changes became effective on April 10, 2023.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 32.09 | % | 0.34 | % | 2.08 | % | 32.09 | % | 1.70 | % | 22.91 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 31.17 | 0.38 | 1.95 | 31.17 | 1.91 | 21.28 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 32.63 | 0.67 | 2.58 | 32.63 | 3.39 | 28.97 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,128.80 | $ 3.17 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 13 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in companies with exposure to Peru increased substantially for the reporting period. Early in the reporting period, increased exports and domestic demand drove solid economic growth and boosted the country’s equity market. As the world’s second-largest copper producer, Peru further benefited from a rebound in global copper prices. After a yearlong series of interest rate increases halted in January 2023, persistent inflation moderated but remained higher than Peru’s central bank’s target. As the reporting period progressed, poor weather dramatically reduced production in the nation’s fishing and agriculture industries, limiting economic output. The country’s government, beset with political turmoil and social unrest as it removed its president in an impeachment trial, lowered its calendar-year growth forecasts through 2024. Yet Peru’s equity market remained relatively resilient, retaining most of its earlier gains.
Stocks in Peru, which represented approximately 74% of the Index on average for the reporting period, contributed the most to the Index’s return, led by the materials sector. Mining accounts for 10% of Peru’s economic output and 60% of its exports. In the metals and mining industry, large copper producers benefited from rising prices, primarily early in the reporting period, though these prices remained lower than the previous year. Nonetheless, higher sales volumes, increased production, and reduced operating costs helped earnings exceed expectations and boosted returns on equity, even after prices moderated. Substantial investment in mines for future production persisted, some for projects not slated to commence until the early 2030s.
Materials stocks in Canada and the U.K. also contributed to the Index’s performance. Metals and mining companies in both countries operate precious metals mines in Peru, and their stocks increased alongside rising silver and gold prices.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Materials | 48.4% | |||
Financials | 26.3 | |||
Consumer Staples | 8.6 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 5.2 | |||
Industrials | 3.8 | |||
Energy | 3.1 | |||
Real Estate | 2.4 | |||
Utilities | 2.2 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Southern Copper Corp. | 22.7% | |||
Credicorp Ltd. | 22.2 | |||
Cia. de Minas Buenaventura SAA | 4.7 | |||
Alicorp SAA | 4.6 | |||
Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde SAA | 3.5 | |||
Ferreycorp SAA | 3.1 | |||
PetroTal Corp. | 3.1 | |||
Hochschild Mining PLC | 3.0 | |||
InRetail Peru Corp. | 2.8 | |||
Laureate Education Inc., Class A | 2.8 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Philippines ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Philippines ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Philippine equities, as represented by the MSCI Philippines IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (6.16 | )% | (4.79 | )% | (1.74 | )% | (6.16 | )% | (21.75 | )% | (16.08 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (5.54 | ) | (4.79 | ) | (1.55 | ) | (5.54 | ) | (21.76 | ) | (14.49 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Index | (5.70 | ) | (4.07 | ) | (1.03 | ) | (5.70 | ) | (18.75 | ) | (9.86 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Index performance through November 30, 2020 reflects the performance of the MSCI Philippines Investible Market Index (IMI). Index performance beginning on December 1, 2020 reflects the performance of the MSCI Philippines IMI 25/50 Index.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 931.20 | $ 2.87 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 15 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Philippines ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in the Philippines declined for the reporting period. The Philippine central bank raised interest rates repeatedly to curb the inflation that accompanied the country’s most rapid economic growth in more than four decades. Five increases pushed the bank’s policy rate to its highest level since 2008. The tighter monetary policy helped curb surging food prices, which drove inflation to a 14-year high in January 2023. Inflation eventually moderated but remained higher than the central bank’s 2-4% annual target. Meanwhile, manufacturing output waned as interest rates increased, contracting for the first time in two years. The reduced activity contributed to slower-than-expected economic growth, and the country’s stock market declined sharply toward the end of the reporting period.
The real estate sector detracted the most from the Index’s return. Real estate management and development companies, including a large mall operator and residential builder, reported considerably higher net income. Rental fees on retail leases increased along with rising demand at cinema and other entertainment venues, reflecting higher consumer spending. Nevertheless, the industry’s stocks fell along with the broader market as the reporting period ended. The communication services sector also detracted from performance. Stock in the country’s largest wireless telecommunication services company dropped sharply amid an investigation into equipment cost overruns. In the integrated telecommunication services industry, higher interest rates increased financing costs for providing broadband services.
On the upside, the financials sector, led by banks, contributed to the Index’s return. The country’s robust economic growth supported improved business in the Philippine banking industry, strengthening banks’ capital position. Net interest margins—the difference between the interest banks pay on customer deposits and interest they charge for loans — rose amid higher interest rates, and growth in loan volume for large lenders significantly increased profitability.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Industrials | 28.5% | |||
Financials | 25.9 | |||
Real Estate | 18.3 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 8.0 | |||
Consumer Staples | 6.2 | |||
Utilities | 6.1 | |||
Communication Services | 4.6 | |||
Energy | 1.5 | |||
Materials | 0.9 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
BDO Unibank Inc. | 10.9% | |||
SM Prime Holdings Inc. | 9.7 | |||
Bank of the Philippine Islands | 6.9 | |||
SM Investments Corp. | 6.4 | |||
Ayala Land Inc. | 5.7 | |||
Ayala Corp. | 5.2 | |||
International Container Terminal Services Inc. | 4.4 | |||
Jollibee Foods Corp. | 4.3 | |||
Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. | 4.0 | |||
Manila Electric Co. | 4.0 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Poland ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Poland ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Polish equities, as represented by the MSCI Poland IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 55.04 | % | (2.81 | )% | (1.30 | )% | 55.04 | % | (13.28 | )% | (12.30 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 55.27 | (2.73 | ) | (1.32 | ) | 55.27 | (12.92 | ) | (12.40 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Index | 55.34 | (2.67 | ) | (1.12 | ) | 55.34 | (12.67 | ) | (10.62 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Certain sectors and markets performed exceptionally well based on market conditions during the one-year period. Achieving such exceptional returns involves the risk of volatility and investors should not expect that such exceptional returns will be repeated.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,214.90 | $ 3.29 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 17 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Poland ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Poland rose for the reporting period as declining inflation rates, climbing wages, and increased consumer confidence led to stronger consumer spending. Although interest rates remained at elevated levels, the Polish central bank announced a possible interest rate cut in September. Amid a tight housing market, the Polish government offered first-time homebuyers subsidies to offset high mortgage rates, among the most expensive in Europe. The housing subsidies and revived mortgage-lending activity, which had been on track for the weakest levels since 2005. The value of Polish stocks in U.S. dollar terms also increased, as the Polish zloty strengthened relative to the U.S. dollar, boosted by a record trade surplus, declining oil prices, and a recovery in the euro.
The financials sector contributed the most to the Index’s performance, led by the banking industry. Banks posted record profits, mainly from increased interest income as higher interest rates increased the gap between the rates the banks charge for loans and the rates they pay for deposits. The improved economic outlook kept loan defaults at low levels, decreasing costs for credit risk. However, banks also made provisions for legal costs arising from foreign currency mortgage loans after the top EU court ruled against them. Many Poles took out mortgage loans in Swiss francs, attracted by Switzerland’s lower interest rates, but sued the banks after weakening in the Polish zloty raised payment levels.
The consumer discretionary sector also contributed to the Index’s strong performance, led by the textiles and apparel industry. Fashion retailers with value-oriented brands benefited from budget-conscious consumers shopping for more affordable clothing and growing demand in markets in southern Europe.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Financials | 39.6% | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 13.6 | |||
Energy | 12.5 | |||
Materials | 8.9 | |||
Communication Services | 7.3 | |||
Consumer Staples | 6.8 | |||
Utilities | 6.1 | |||
Information Technology | 2.9 | |||
Industrials | 2.3 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Polski Koncern Naftowy ORLEN SA | 12.5% | |||
Powszechna Kasa Oszczednosci Bank Polski SA | 10.9 | |||
Powszechny Zaklad Ubezpieczen SA | 8.3 | |||
Bank Polska Kasa Opieki SA | 6.4 | |||
Dino Polska SA | 6.0 | |||
LPP SA | 4.9 | |||
KGHM Polska Miedz SA | 4.7 | |||
Santander Bank Polska SA | 4.4 | |||
Allegro.eu SA | 4.4 | |||
CD Projekt SA | 3.8 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Qatar ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Qatar ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of Qatar equities, as represented by the MSCI All Qatar Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (18.16 | )% | 3.41 | % | 0.17% | (18.16 | )% | 18.25 | % | 1.62 | % | |||||||||||||
Fund Market | (16.95 | ) | 3.54 | 0.34 | (16.95 | ) | 19.01 | 3.25 | ||||||||||||||||
Index | (18.43 | ) | 4.01 | 0.78 | (18.43 | ) | 21.74 | 7.53 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was April 29, 2014. The first day of secondary market trading was May 1, 2014.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,003.40 | $ 2.98 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 19 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Qatar ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Qatar declined considerably for the reporting period, as exports, which accounted for more than a third of the nation’s economic output in 2022, fell substantially and the economy weakened. Prices for liquefied natural gas (“LNG”), Qatar’s largest export product, dropped by more than two thirds, as global markets adjusted to supply disruptions caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. LNG shipments to Europe decreased markedly in 2023. The value of the country’s crude oil exports also declined. Combined, the lower values for oil and LNG reduced Qatar’s trade surplus. The country’s economy stalled after it hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament, which had prompted a dramatic increase in construction. Meanwhile, the central bank raised its benchmark interest rate significantly to reduce inflation, and price gains moderated. As it did so, however, economic activity unrelated to oil and gas production contracted.
The financials sector detracted the most from the Index’s return. Bank stocks declined, reflecting banks’ significant loan exposure to oil and gas businesses faced with lower prices. Although rising interest rates often benefit banks, Qatari banks’ net interest income—the difference between the interest banks pay on customer deposits and what they charge for loans—declined as overall deposits dropped and non-performing loans increased. Government deposits at the nation’s banks decreased considerably in response to the government’s debt reduction plan. In addition, hyperinflation in Turkey reduced earnings for Qatari lenders with operations there.
In the industrials sector, industrial conglomerates also detracted from performance, as their earnings fell following the World Cup amid waning construction demand. The materials sector also detracted amid sharp profit declines in the chemicals industry related to falling commodities prices.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Financials | 55.0% | |||
Industrials | 11.5 | |||
Energy | 9.2 | |||
Materials | 7.1 | |||
Communication Services | 5.6 | |||
Real Estate | 5.3 | |||
Utilities | 3.6 | |||
Consumer Staples | 1.9 | |||
Health Care | 0.8 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Qatar National Bank QPSC | 22.5% | |||
Qatar Islamic Bank SAQ | 11.0 | |||
Industries Qatar QSC | 5.9 | |||
Commercial Bank PSQC (The) | 5.5 | |||
Masraf Al Rayan QSC | 4.5 | |||
Qatar Gas Transport Co. Ltd. | 4.1 | |||
Ooredoo QPSC | 3.9 | |||
Qatar International Islamic Bank QSC | 3.7 | |||
Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Co. | 3.6 | |||
Qatar Fuel QSC | 3.6 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Saudi Arabian equities, as represented by the MSCI Saudi Arabia IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (6.20 | )% | 8.76 | % | 8.67 | % | (6.20 | )% | 52.19 | % | 93.90 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (5.66 | ) | 8.95 | 8.69 | (5.66 | ) | 53.51 | 94.10 | ||||||||||||||||||
Index | (5.62 | ) | 9.54 | 9.51 | (5.62 | ) | 57.68 | 106.06 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was September 16, 2015. The first day of secondary market trading was September 17, 2015.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,134.80 | $ 3.98 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,021.50 | $ 3.77 | 0.74 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 21 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Saudi Arabia declined during the reporting period, as lower crude oil prices and rising interest rates constricted economic growth. The world’s largest oil exporter, Saudi Arabia derives the majority of its government and export revenue from that commodity. As global prices declined, the Saudi government reduced production in an attempt to stabilize the market. The cuts, however, substantially reduced economic output even as non-oil activities exhibited strength. Saudi Arabia pegs its currency to the U.S. dollar, so as the Fed raised interest rates to contain inflation, the Saudi Central Bank followed suit, raising borrowing costs to their highest level since 2001. That further constrained growth for an economy that grew fastest of all the Group of 20 large economies in 2022.
The financials sector detracted the most from the Index’s return, led by banks. Bank stocks declined amid fallout from the global banking crisis. The nation’s largest lender incurred a substantial loss from its investment in a large Swiss bank forced into a takeover by a key rival. In addition, lower oil prices and their impact on the broader economy weighed on bank stocks. As the economy slowed and interest rates rose, investors grew concerned about tighter liquidity, declining deposits, and an increase in the percentage of non-performing loans.
The materials sector also detracted from performance. Profits in the chemicals industry declined sharply, mirroring falling prices and weaker demand for petrochemicals, polymers, and other products.
Conversely, sectors that bolstered the Index’s return included healthcare, consumer staples, and information technology. Revenue and profit increased among healthcare facilities operators, packaged foods and meats producers, and in the IT consulting and other services industry.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION | ||||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Financials | 39.8% | |||
Materials | 20.4 | |||
Communication Services | 9.1 | |||
Energy | 8.8 | |||
Health Care | 4.8 | |||
Consumer Staples | 4.7 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 3.3 | |||
Utilities | 3.1 | |||
Industrials | 2.3 | |||
Real Estate | 2.3 | |||
Information Technology | 1.4 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Al Rajhi Bank | 11.8% | |||
Saudi National Bank (The) | 8.7 | |||
Saudi Arabian Oil Co. | 7.7 | |||
Saudi Basic Industries Corp. | 6.6 | |||
Saudi Telecom Co. | 6.1 | |||
Saudi Arabian Mining Co. | 3.9 | |||
Riyad Bank | 3.7 | |||
Alinma Bank | 3.1 | |||
Saudi Awwal Bank | 2.9 | |||
SABIC Agri-Nutrients Co. | 2.2 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI UAE ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI UAE ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of UAE equities, as represented by the MSCI All UAE Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (4.17 | )% | 3.23 | % | (1.43 | )% | (4.17 | )% | 17.24 | % | (12.61 | )% | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (5.19 | ) | 3.36 | (1.44 | ) | (5.19 | ) | 18.00 | (12.63 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Index | (3.46 | ) | 4.18 | (0.68 | ) | (3.46 | ) | 22.73 | (6.14 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was April 29, 2014. The first day of secondary market trading was May 1, 2014.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,055.40 | $ 3.06 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 23 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI UAE ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in the United Arab Emirates (“U.A.E.”) declined for the reporting period. Prices and production of crude oil and natural gas, which account for about 30% of the nation’s economic output, declined. At the same time, interest rates increased along with corresponding concerns about the health of global banks, pressuring equity prices. The Central Bank of the U.A.E. anchors its base policy rate to the Fed’s interest rate policy decisions and followed its interest rate increases during the reporting period. As interest rates rose, inflation fell by more than half. Nonetheless, the nation’s economy grew at a robust pace. Manufacturing expanded at the highest rate in four years, and strong domestic demand, aided by falling prices, boosted business activity. Overall, U.A.E. economic output grew at one of the highest rates globally, almost doubling in 2022.
The communication services sector detracted the most from the Index’s return, driven by the diversified telecommunication services industry. Sales in the industry remained relatively flat amid declining subscriber growth and significant exchange rate volatility in several Middle Eastern markets. Meanwhile, a state-owned mobile network operator’s stake in a foreign mobile services company weighed on the industry amid continued operating challenges and the falling equity values of that investment. The financials sector also detracted, as profits in the banking industry declined amid impaired loans and provisions set aside to cover potential loan losses.
On the upside, the real estate sector contributed the most to the Index’s return. The real estate management and development industry advanced as real estate owners benefited from rising property values and new construction projects, fed by Dubai’s post-coronavirus pandemic recovery.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Financials | 38.4% | |||
Real Estate | 19.3 | |||
Communication Services | 18.4 | |||
Industrials | 11.8 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 7.1 | |||
Utilities | 2.5 | |||
Energy | 1.6 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 0.9 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Emirates Telecommunications Group Co. PJSC | 17.3% | |||
First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC | 15.1 | |||
Emaar Properties PJSC | 11.5 | |||
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC | 4.5 | |||
Aldar Properties PJSC | 4.4 | |||
Dubai Islamic Bank PJSC | 4.3 | |||
Emirates NBD Bank PJSC | 4.3 | |||
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC | 4.1 | |||
Multiply Group | 3.9 | |||
Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. for Distribution PJSC | 3.5 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 25 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 4.8% | ||||||||
Embraer SA(a) | 2,543,873 | $ | 10,012,032 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Automobile Components — 1.0% | ||||||||
Fras-Le SA | 244,117 | 677,329 | ||||||
Mahle-Metal Leve SA | 139,202 | 1,347,311 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,024,640 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 0.2% | ||||||||
Blau Farmaceutica SA(a) | 131,209 | 468,182 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 3.1% | ||||||||
Ambipar Participacoes e Empreendimentos SA | 163,365 | 689,808 | ||||||
GPS Participacoes e Empreendimentos SA(b) | 1,215,393 | 4,533,135 | ||||||
Orizon Valorizacao de Residuos SA(a) | 179,986 | 1,272,101 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,495,044 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.8% | ||||||||
Intelbras SA Industria de Telecomunicacao Eletronica Brasileira | 355,424 | 1,571,113 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.3% | ||||||||
Grupo Mateus SA(a) | 1,997,428 | 2,714,571 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 3.8% | ||||||||
Cogna Educacao(a) | 6,786,416 | 4,001,643 | ||||||
YDUQS Participacoes SA | 950,101 | 3,908,191 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,909,834 | ||||||||
Electric Utilities — 3.9% | ||||||||
Alupar Investimento SA | 551,053 | 3,148,048 | ||||||
Transmissora Alianca de Energia Eletrica SA | 706,777 | 4,881,165 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,029,213 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 1.6% | ||||||||
Cielo SA | 4,421,198 | 3,321,222 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 10.3% | ||||||||
BrasilAgro - Co. Brasileira de Propriedades Agricolas | 185,114 | 889,301 | ||||||
BRF SA(a) | 3,042,184 | 5,553,527 | ||||||
Camil Alimentos SA | 379,714 | 651,764 | ||||||
Jalles Machado SA | 374,597 | 636,173 | ||||||
M. Dias Branco SA | 245,187 | 1,841,855 | ||||||
Marfrig Global Foods SA | 1,075,787 | 1,609,754 | ||||||
Minerva SA | 988,260 | 1,676,353 | ||||||
Sao Martinho SA | 576,099 | 4,203,200 | ||||||
SLC Agricola SA | 368,862 | 2,995,856 | ||||||
Tres Tentos Agroindustrial SA | 450,501 | 1,209,936 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,267,719 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 3.5% | ||||||||
Movida Participacoes SA | 458,571 | 1,149,194 | ||||||
SIMPAR SA | 1,212,782 | 2,387,824 | ||||||
Vamos Locacao de Caminhoes Maquinas e Equipamentos SA | 1,597,438 | 3,777,425 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,314,443 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 5.4% | ||||||||
Alliar Medicos A Frente SA(a) | 14,730 | 23,826 | ||||||
CM Hospitalar SA | 583,712 | 2,249,013 | ||||||
Diagnosticos da America SA | 544,474 | 1,211,641 | ||||||
Fleury SA | 890,460 | 2,654,091 | ||||||
Hospital Mater Dei SA | 414,789 | 808,294 | ||||||
Odontoprev SA | 999,002 | 2,085,940 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Health Care Providers & Services (continued) | ||||||||
Oncoclinicas do Brasil Servicos Medicos SA(a) | 858,395 | $ | 2,097,430 | |||||
|
| |||||||
11,130,235 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.9% | ||||||||
Smartfit Escola de Ginastica e Danca SA(a) | 954,019 | 3,968,617 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Household Durables — 6.2% | ||||||||
Cury Construtora e Incorporadora SA | 474,982 | 1,564,394 | ||||||
Cyrela Brazil Realty SA Empreendimentos e Participacoes | 1,011,920 | 4,585,471 | ||||||
Direcional Engenharia SA | 407,831 | 1,667,709 | ||||||
Ez Tec Empreendimentos e Participacoes SA | 399,584 | 1,778,421 | ||||||
MRV Engenharia e Participacoes SA | 1,422,587 | 3,263,414 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,859,409 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 2.9% | ||||||||
AES Brasil Energia SA | 761,867 | 1,698,491 | ||||||
Auren Energia SA | 1,084,897 | 2,981,684 | ||||||
Omega Energia SA(a) | 675,599 | 1,365,646 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,045,821 | ||||||||
Insurance — 0.9% | ||||||||
IRB Brasil Resseguros S/A(a) | 223,118 | 1,935,592 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 0.9% | ||||||||
Locaweb Servicos de Internet SA(b) | 1,292,686 | 1,845,557 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 1.3% | ||||||||
Iochpe Maxion SA | 500,310 | 1,403,319 | ||||||
Tupy SA | 260,696 | 1,366,113 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,769,432 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.8% | ||||||||
Hidrovias do Brasil SA(a) | 2,199,832 | 1,750,253 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Metals & Mining — 0.6% | ||||||||
Bradespar SA | 124,754 | 535,590 | ||||||
Cia. Brasileira de Aluminio | 754,154 | 651,807 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,187,397 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 4.8% | ||||||||
3R Petroleum Oleo E Gas SA(a) | 867,863 | 5,769,338 | ||||||
Enauta Participacoes SA | 528,684 | 1,675,075 | ||||||
Petroreconcavo SA | 530,157 | 2,479,465 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,923,878 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 1.2% | ||||||||
Dexco SA | 1,483,717 | 2,384,949 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 8.4% | ||||||||
Aliansce Sonae Shopping Centers SA | 1,556,656 | 7,157,653 | ||||||
Iguatemi SA | 789,607 | 3,284,681 | ||||||
JHSF Participacoes SA | 1,228,336 | 1,190,621 | ||||||
LOG Commercial Properties e Participacoes SA | 166,248 | 631,145 | ||||||
Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA | 1,021,948 | 5,105,561 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
17,369,661 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 1.5% | ||||||||
Grupo SBF SA | 352,369 | 508,767 | ||||||
Pet Center Comercio e Participacoes SA | 1,254,334 | 1,388,061 | ||||||
Via S/A(a) | 4,624,356 | 1,185,960 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,082,788 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 5.6% | ||||||||
Arezzo Industria e Comercio SA | 240,824 | 3,436,765 | ||||||
Grendene SA | 1,141,876 | 1,570,294 | ||||||
Grupo De Moda Soma SA | 1,844,636 | 2,790,021 | ||||||
Vivara Participacoes SA | 427,084 | 2,344,109 |
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule��of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods (continued) | ||||||||
Vulcabras Azaleia SA | 355,725 | $ | 1,419,437 | |||||
|
| |||||||
11,560,626 | ||||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 1.0% | ||||||||
Armac Locacao Logistica E Servicos SA | 375,392 | 961,970 | ||||||
Mills Estruturas e Servicos de Engenharia SA | 400,830 | 1,023,919 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,985,889 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 3.0% | ||||||||
EcoRodovias Infraestrutura e Logistica SA | 881,360 | 1,343,740 | ||||||
Santos Brasil Participacoes SA | 1,718,816 | 2,995,403 | ||||||
Wilson Sons Holdings Brasil SA, NVS | 716,014 | 1,814,597 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,153,740 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 2.3% | ||||||||
Cia. de Saneamento de Minas Gerais-COPASA | 687,559 | 2,488,072 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento do Parana | 516,232 | 2,361,175 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,849,247 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 83.0% | 171,931,104 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 0.3% | ||||||||
Taurus Armas SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 231,992 | 696,156 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 2.5% | ||||||||
Banco ABC Brasil SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 319,843 | 1,198,888 | ||||||
Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul SA, Class B, Preference Shares, NVS | 732,438 | 1,810,370 | ||||||
Banco Pan SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,224,492 | 2,163,610 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,172,868 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.3% | ||||||||
Unipar Carbocloro SA, Class B, Preference Shares, NVS | 177,168 | 2,765,539 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 0.2% | ||||||||
Cia. Energetica do Ceara, Class A, Preference Shares, NVS | 51,149 | 457,981 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 1.9% | ||||||||
Marcopolo SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,860,516 | 2,276,780 | ||||||
Randon SA Implementos e Participacoes, Preference Shares, NVS | 654,167 | 1,581,240 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,858,020 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 6.5% | ||||||||
Bradespar SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 922,567 | $ | 4,191,750 | |||||
Cia. Ferro Ligas da Bahia - FERBASA, Preference Shares, NVS | 117,111 | 1,094,476 | ||||||
Metalurgica Gerdau SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 2,418,343 | 5,772,319 | ||||||
Usinas Siderurgicas de Minas Gerais SA Usiminas, Class A, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,683,722 | 2,339,235 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,397,780 | ||||||||
Passenger Airlines — 1.9% | ||||||||
Azul SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,031,665 | 3,018,715 | ||||||
Gol Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 730,860 | 1,037,539 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,056,254 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.7% | ||||||||
Alpargatas SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 807,556 | 1,371,462 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Water Utilities — 0.7% | ||||||||
Cia. de Saneamento do Parana, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,578,412 | 1,453,450 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 16.0% | 33,229,510 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.0% | ||||||||
Jalles Machado SA (Expires 09/26/23, Strike Price BRL 6.47)(a) | 11,710 | 6,148 | ||||||
Marfrig Global Foods SA (Expires 09/25/23, Strike Price BRL 7.21)(a) | 503,983 | 12,213 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,361 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | 18,361 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.0% | 205,178,975 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 1.0% | 2,113,831 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 207,292,806 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ 40,000 | $ | — | $(40,000 | )(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 5,273 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 27 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Bclear MSCI Brazil Index | 20 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,085 | $ | 7,475 | ||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 7,475 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 7,475 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 239,699 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 239,699 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (19,580 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (19,580 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 907,441 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 170,232,613 | $ | 1,698,491 | $ | — | $ | 171,931,104 | ||||||||
Preferred Stocks | 33,229,510 | — | — | 33,229,510 | ||||||||||||
Rights | 18,361 | — | — | 18,361 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 203,480,484 | $ | 1,698,491 | $ | — | $ | 205,178,975 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | 7,475 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 7,475 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 29 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 0.1% | ||||||||
AECC Aero-Engine Control Co. Ltd., Class A | 242,000 | $ | 744,086 | |||||
AECC Aviation Power Co. Ltd., Class A | 668,876 | 3,604,395 | ||||||
AviChina Industry & Technology Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,841,000 | 4,410,136 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,758,617 | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.8% | ||||||||
JD Logistics Inc.(a)(b)(c) | 7,189,600 | 9,583,532 | ||||||
SF Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,086,883 | 6,491,047 | ||||||
YTO Express Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,000 | 1,735,853 | ||||||
Yunda Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 669,357 | 905,247 | ||||||
ZTO Express Cayman Inc., ADR | 1,569,925 | 39,467,914 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
58,183,593 | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 0.5% | ||||||||
Changzhou Xingyu Automotive Lighting Systems Co. Ltd., Class A | 83,695 | 1,699,809 | ||||||
Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,098 | 2,184,342 | ||||||
Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 2,340,800 | 10,591,776 | ||||||
Huayu Automotive Systems Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,072 | 2,158,586 | ||||||
Huizhou Desay Sv Automotive Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,700 | 3,352,120 | ||||||
Minth Group Ltd. | 3,344,000 | 9,926,832 | ||||||
Ningbo Tuopu Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 250,800 | 2,688,152 | ||||||
Sailun Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 826,361 | 1,403,461 | ||||||
Shandong Linglong Tyre Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,028 | 1,250,157 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
35,255,235 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 5.1% | ||||||||
AIMA Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 252,400 | 983,706 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class A | 432,969 | 14,849,995 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class H | 3,841,500 | 120,664,049 | ||||||
Chongqing Changan Automobile Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,935,420 | 3,339,559 | ||||||
Dongfeng Motor Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 10,726,000 | 3,934,512 | ||||||
Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. | 22,604,000 | 28,060,063 | ||||||
Great Wall Motor Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,200 | 2,102,195 | ||||||
Great Wall Motor Co. Ltd., Class H | 8,801,500 | 10,428,021 | ||||||
Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,086,800 | 1,506,394 | ||||||
Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 11,344,400 | 5,973,804 | ||||||
Li Auto Inc.(b) | 4,169,080 | 86,799,560 | ||||||
NIO Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 5,142,541 | 52,813,896 | ||||||
SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd., Class A | 1,755,604 | 3,468,034 | ||||||
Seres Group Co. Ltd., NVS | 337,600 | 1,674,778 | ||||||
XPeng Inc.(b) | 3,871,672 | 34,796,502 | ||||||
Yadea Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 5,016,000 | 9,644,006 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
381,039,074 | ||||||||
Banks — 8.9% | ||||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 19,228,000 | 9,139,026 | ||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 107,501,000 | 36,846,455 | ||||||
Bank of Beijing Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,023,799 | 3,084,991 | ||||||
Bank of Chengdu Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,093 | 1,574,119 | ||||||
Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 8,360,000 | 4,306,503 | ||||||
Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 294,290,000 | 99,739,894 | ||||||
Bank of Communications Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,325,522 | 7,115,109 | ||||||
Bank of Communications Co. Ltd., Class H | 32,638,200 | 18,680,486 | ||||||
Bank of Hangzhou Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,504,828 | 2,318,257 | ||||||
Bank of Jiangsu Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,175,615 | 4,093,787 | ||||||
Bank of Nanjing Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,642,404 | 2,875,933 | ||||||
Bank of Ningbo Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,475,302 | 5,303,560 | ||||||
Bank of Shanghai Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,929,210 | 3,212,324 | ||||||
China CITIC Bank Corp. Ltd., Class H | 33,441,800 | 14,883,892 | ||||||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class A | 2,136,314 | 1,762,084 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Banks (continued) | ||||||||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H | 356,190,000 | $ | 190,579,761 | |||||
China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,038,400 | 4,979,167 | ||||||
China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,279,000 | 2,672,549 | ||||||
China Merchants Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,681,625 | 20,335,760 | ||||||
China Merchants Bank Co. Ltd., Class H(c) | 14,227,150 | 56,336,929 | ||||||
China Minsheng Banking Corp. Ltd., Class A | 9,112,470 | 4,730,849 | ||||||
China Minsheng Banking Corp. Ltd., Class H | 22,234,160 | 7,141,258 | ||||||
China Zheshang Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,287,390 | 2,222,244 | ||||||
Chongqing Rural Commercial Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,388,600 | 1,234,609 | ||||||
CNPC Capital Co. Ltd., NVS | 1,504,800 | 1,391,562 | ||||||
Huaxia Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,594,861 | 2,736,569 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 14,546,400 | 9,233,712 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 239,255,000 | 109,692,973 | ||||||
Industrial Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,548,210 | 9,886,025 | ||||||
Ping An Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,353,655 | 6,658,178 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,604,400 | 4,412,045 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 29,282,000 | 14,442,767 | ||||||
Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,855,224 | 6,579,985 | ||||||
Shanghai Rural Commercial Bank Co. Ltd. | 2,556,900 | 2,045,495 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
672,248,857 | ||||||||
Beverages — 3.1% | ||||||||
Anhui Gujing Distillery Co. Ltd., Class A | 94,396 | 3,733,545 | ||||||
Anhui Gujing Distillery Co. Ltd., Class B | 334,780 | 5,569,172 | ||||||
Anhui Kouzi Distillery Co. Ltd., Class A | 142,000 | 1,112,304 | ||||||
Anhui Yingjia Distillery Co. Ltd., Class A | 146,800 | 1,546,534 | ||||||
Beijing Yanjing Brewery Co. Ltd., Class A | 492,500 | 701,814 | ||||||
China Resources Beer Holdings Co. Ltd. | 6,132,000 | 36,003,086 | ||||||
Chongqing Brewery Co. Ltd., Class A | 83,600 | 1,049,787 | ||||||
Eastroc Beverage Group Co. Ltd. | 83,600 | 2,254,942 | ||||||
Hebei Hengshui Laobaigan Liquor Co. Ltd. | 86,000 | 278,464 | ||||||
Jiangsu King’s Luck Brewery JSC Ltd., Class A | 334,403 | 2,751,788 | ||||||
Jiangsu Yanghe Brewery Joint-Stock Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,476 | 6,162,156 | ||||||
JiuGui Liquor Co. Ltd., Class A | 84,200 | 1,036,187 | ||||||
Kweichow Moutai Co. Ltd., Class A | 284,055 | 72,207,957 | ||||||
Luzhou Laojiao Co. Ltd., Class A | 354,900 | 11,334,003 | ||||||
Nongfu Spring Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 6,505,400 | 36,536,962 | ||||||
Shanghai Bairun Investment Holding Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 285,397 | 1,257,436 | ||||||
Shanxi Xinghuacun Fen Wine Factory Co. Ltd., Class A | 285,686 | 9,506,837 | ||||||
Shede Spirits Co. Ltd. | 84,400 | 1,564,735 | ||||||
Sichuan Swellfun Co. Ltd., Class A | 105,352 | 959,231 | ||||||
Tsingtao Brewery Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,263 | 2,091,512 | ||||||
Tsingtao Brewery Co. Ltd., Class H | 2,332,000 | 19,392,066 | ||||||
Wuliangye Yibin Co. Ltd., Class A | 839,277 | 17,980,367 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
235,030,885 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 1.5% | ||||||||
3SBio Inc.(a) | 7,040,500 | 5,887,763 | ||||||
Akeso Inc.(a)(b)(c) | 1,801,000 | 7,910,306 | ||||||
BeiGene Ltd.(b) | 2,601,934 | 41,739,948 | ||||||
Beijing Wantai Biological Pharmacy Enterprise Co. Ltd., Class A | 188,745 | 1,297,850 | ||||||
BGI Genomics Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,299 | 1,233,777 | ||||||
Bloomage Biotechnology Corp. Ltd. | 119,900 | 1,527,572 |
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Biotechnology (continued) | ||||||||
Chongqing Zhifei Biological Products Co. Ltd., Class A | 544,360 | $ | 3,301,505 | |||||
Hualan Biological Engineering Inc., Class A | 543,472 | 1,585,502 | ||||||
Imeik Technology Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 49,944 | 3,010,749 | ||||||
Innovent Biologics Inc.(a)(b) | 4,325,500 | 19,344,246 | ||||||
Legend Biotech Corp., ADR(b)(c) | 219,942 | 15,255,177 | ||||||
Shanghai Junshi Biosciences Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 186,088 | 974,566 | ||||||
Shenzhen Kangtai Biological Products Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 347,188 | 1,328,008 | ||||||
Walvax Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,097 | 1,356,928 | ||||||
Zai Lab Ltd.(b)(c) | 3,478,560 | 9,058,530 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
114,812,427 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 14.6% | ||||||||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 60,900,468 | 706,819,078 | ||||||
JD.com Inc., Class A | 8,707,596 | 144,616,646 | ||||||
MINISO Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 358,079 | 9,274,246 | ||||||
Pinduoduo Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 2,218,385 | 219,553,564 | ||||||
Vipshop Holdings Ltd., ADR(b) | 1,268,528 | 20,030,057 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,100,293,591 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.0% | ||||||||
Beijing New Building Materials PLC, Class A | 501,670 | 2,061,658 | ||||||
Zhejiang Weixing New Building Materials Co. Ltd., Class A | 456,100 | 1,266,307 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,327,965 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 1.7% | ||||||||
BOC International China Co. Ltd., Class A | 668,800 | 1,091,746 | ||||||
Caitong Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,155,600 | 1,272,084 | ||||||
Changjiang Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,424,436 | 1,991,911 | ||||||
China Cinda Asset Management Co. Ltd., Class H | 36,595,000 | 3,588,670 | ||||||
China Galaxy Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,274,600 | 2,022,272 | ||||||
China Galaxy Securities Co. Ltd., Class H | 11,729,000 | 6,309,780 | ||||||
China International Capital Corp. Ltd., Class A | 335,202 | 1,797,066 | ||||||
China International Capital Corp. Ltd., Class H(a) | 5,826,000 | 11,189,600 | ||||||
China Merchants Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,922,868 | 3,758,388 | ||||||
CITIC Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,843,831 | 8,690,355 | ||||||
CITIC Securities Co. Ltd., Class H(c) | 6,328,800 | 12,357,759 | ||||||
CSC Financial Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,003,299 | 3,557,063 | ||||||
Dongxing Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 919,611 | 1,047,929 | ||||||
East Money Information Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,393,451 | 7,408,635 | ||||||
Everbright Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,086,899 | 2,563,547 | ||||||
First Capital Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,337,689 | 1,105,639 | ||||||
Founder Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,697,600 | 2,680,419 | ||||||
GF Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,202,199 | 2,487,180 | ||||||
GF Securities Co. Ltd., Class H | 3,854,200 | 5,499,434 | ||||||
Guosen Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,006,433 | 2,559,367 | ||||||
Guotai Junan Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,975,359 | 3,955,523 | ||||||
Guoyuan Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,066,670 | 1,018,153 | ||||||
Haitong Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,424,459 | 3,277,258 | ||||||
Haitong Securities Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,363,200 | 5,809,684 | ||||||
Hithink RoyalFlush Information Network Co. Ltd., Class A | 115,387 | 2,655,390 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,755,693 | 3,837,425 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 4,425,000 | 5,822,382 | ||||||
Huaxi Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,254,073 | 1,468,505 | ||||||
Industrial Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,356,592 | 2,077,811 | ||||||
Orient Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,809,721 | 2,481,402 | ||||||
SDIC Capital Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,751,400 | 1,764,155 | ||||||
Shanxi Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 972,141 | 808,979 | ||||||
Shenwan Hongyuan Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,230,979 | 3,733,217 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Capital Markets (continued) | ||||||||
SooChow Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,375,035 | $ | 1,546,652 | |||||
Southwest Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,400 | 921,046 | ||||||
Western Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,430 | 1,473,373 | ||||||
Zhongtai Securities Co. Ltd. | 1,922,800 | 1,931,948 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
127,561,747 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.1% | ||||||||
Asia - Potash International Investment Guangzhou Co. Ltd.(b) | 250,800 | 963,893 | ||||||
CNGR Advanced Material Co. Ltd. | 167,976 | 1,266,085 | ||||||
Do-Fluoride New Materials Co. Ltd., Class A | 351,760 | 790,952 | ||||||
Dongyue Group Ltd. | 6,345,000 | 5,444,616 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd., Class H(a)(c) | 1,448,600 | 6,919,402 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 463,341 | 3,020,025 | ||||||
Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 502,400 | 2,264,744 | ||||||
Hengli Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,755,610 | 3,465,167 | ||||||
Hengyi Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,003,276 | 1,057,603 | ||||||
Hoshine Silicon Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,200 | 1,419,988 | ||||||
Huafon Chemical Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,965,200 | 1,888,723 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia Junzheng Energy & Chemical Industry Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,480,170 | 1,999,101 | ||||||
Jiangsu Eastern Shenghong Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,506,500 | 2,378,492 | ||||||
Jiangsu Yangnong Chemical Co. Ltd., Class A | 179,260 | 1,573,629 | ||||||
LB Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,200 | 1,457,543 | ||||||
Ningbo Shanshan Co. Ltd. | 724,191 | 1,354,276 | ||||||
Ningxia Baofeng Energy Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,797,500 | 3,388,289 | ||||||
Qinghai Salt Lake Industry Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,254,000 | 3,082,170 | ||||||
Rongsheng Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,424,892 | 4,015,840 | ||||||
Satellite Chemical Co. Ltd., Class A | 989,643 | 2,079,086 | ||||||
Shandong Hualu Hengsheng Chemical Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,200 | 2,660,121 | ||||||
Shanghai Putailai New Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 487,440 | 2,192,072 | ||||||
Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 216,320 | 1,426,982 | ||||||
Shenzhen Dynanonic Co. Ltd. | 67,360 | 869,214 | ||||||
Shenzhen Senior Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 390,997 | 754,819 | ||||||
Sichuan Yahua Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 239,000 | 514,545 | ||||||
Sinoma Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,600 | 1,511,067 | ||||||
Skshu Paint Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 142,120 | 1,473,805 | ||||||
SuZhou TA&A Ultra Clean Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 219,280 | 813,367 | ||||||
Tianqi Lithium Corp., Class A | 334,400 | 2,642,852 | ||||||
Tongkun Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 668,864 | 1,362,535 | ||||||
Wanhua Chemical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 752,473 | 9,696,989 | ||||||
Weihai Guangwei Composites Co. Ltd., Class A | 268,160 | 1,030,815 | ||||||
Yunnan Energy New Material Co. Ltd., Class A | 218,004 | 1,990,137 | ||||||
Yunnan Yuntianhua Co. Ltd. | 501,600 | 1,188,624 | ||||||
Zangge Mining Co. Ltd. | 418,000 | 1,290,343 | ||||||
Zhejiang Juhua Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,972 | 1,318,658 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
82,566,569 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.1% | ||||||||
China Everbright Environment Group Ltd. | 14,212,148 | 5,176,951 | ||||||
Shanghai M&G Stationery Inc., Class A | 250,800 | 1,297,760 | ||||||
Zhejiang Weiming Environment Protection Co. Ltd., Class A | 576,400 | 1,417,660 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,892,371 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.5% | ||||||||
BYD Electronic International Co. Ltd. | 2,932,500 | 13,581,882 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 31 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Communications Equipment (continued) | ||||||||
Guangzhou Haige Communications Group Inc. Co., Class A | 919,684 | $ | 1,337,615 | |||||
Hengtong Optic-Electric Co. Ltd., Class A | 660,000 | 1,281,952 | ||||||
Suzhou TFC Optical Communication Co. Ltd. | 83,600 | 970,211 | ||||||
Yealink Network Technology Corp. Ltd., Class A | 274,731 | 1,397,245 | ||||||
Zhongji Innolight Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,277 | 2,634,533 | ||||||
ZTE Corp., Class A | 865,264 | 4,211,666 | ||||||
ZTE Corp., Class H | 2,842,440 | 9,148,138 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
34,563,242 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.7% | ||||||||
China Communications Services Corp. Ltd., Class H | 9,856,800 | 4,437,636 | ||||||
China Conch Venture Holdings Ltd. | 5,446,500 | 5,351,386 | ||||||
China Energy Engineering Corp. Ltd. | 7,737,400 | 2,434,658 | ||||||
China National Chemical Engineering Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,495 | 1,698,946 | ||||||
China Railway Group Ltd., Class A | 4,683,698 | 4,317,846 | ||||||
China Railway Group Ltd., Class H | 16,497,000 | 8,727,416 | ||||||
China State Construction Engineering Corp. Ltd., Class A | 9,112,438 | 7,047,709 | ||||||
China State Construction International Holdings Ltd. | 8,360,000 | 9,298,358 | ||||||
Metallurgical Corp. of China Ltd., Class A | 4,765,200 | 2,383,090 | ||||||
Power Construction Corp. of China Ltd., Class A | 4,096,497 | 2,899,122 | ||||||
Sichuan Road & Bridge Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,873,360 | 2,290,701 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
50,886,868 | ||||||||
Construction Materials — 0.4% | ||||||||
Anhui Conch Cement Co. Ltd., Class A | 951,391 | 3,360,443 | ||||||
Anhui Conch Cement Co. Ltd., Class H | 4,598,000 | 12,802,922 | ||||||
China Jushi Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,170,405 | 2,245,589 | ||||||
China National Building Material Co. Ltd., Class H | 15,048,000 | 7,648,383 | ||||||
China Resources Cement Holdings Ltd. | 10,032,000 | 3,322,945 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
29,380,282 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 0.1% | ||||||||
Lufax Holding Ltd., ADR | 2,667,766 | 3,227,997 | ||||||
Qifu Technology Inc. | 419,494 | 7,131,398 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,359,395 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.6% | ||||||||
Alibaba Health Information Technology | 19,640,000 | 11,595,320 | ||||||
DaShenLin Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,786 | 1,225,841 | ||||||
JD Health International Inc.(a)(b) | 4,038,350 | 21,773,413 | ||||||
Ping An Healthcare and Technology | 2,068,400 | 5,162,929 | ||||||
Yifeng Pharmacy Chain Co. Ltd., Class A | 333,572 | 1,630,792 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
41,388,295 | ||||||||
Containers & Packaging — 0.0% | ||||||||
Shenzhen YUTO Packaging Technology Co. Ltd. | 250,740 | 831,361 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Distributors — 0.0% | ||||||||
Wuchan Zhongda Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,755,603 | 1,121,993 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 1,562,000 | 7,912,749 | ||||||
New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc.(b) | 5,601,290 | 30,388,433 | ||||||
Offcn Education Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,772,500 | 1,039,200 | ||||||
TAL Education Group, ADR(b) | 1,690,695 | 11,919,400 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
51,259,782 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.2% | ||||||||
China Tower Corp. Ltd., Class H(a) | 162,220,000 | 15,695,108 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.0% | ||||||||
Beijing Easpring Material Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 204,400 | $ | 1,244,765 | |||||
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 962,819 | 31,275,297 | ||||||
Dongfang Electric Corp. Ltd., Class A | 752,400 | 1,733,912 | ||||||
Eve Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 510,036 | 3,461,228 | ||||||
Fangda Carbon New Material Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,337,647 | 1,071,568 | ||||||
Ginlong Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 115,200 | 1,187,853 | ||||||
Goldwind Science & Technology Co Ltd., Class A | 1,088,920 | 1,420,658 | ||||||
Gotion High-tech Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 455,892 | 1,516,511 | ||||||
Hongfa Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 250,891 | 1,211,361 | ||||||
Jiangsu GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 43,974 | 837,113 | ||||||
Jiangsu Zhongtian Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,000 | 1,673,787 | ||||||
Jiangxi Special Electric Motor Co. Ltd., NVS(b) | 492,800 | 614,240 | ||||||
Ming Yang Smart Energy Group Ltd., Class A | 501,752 | 1,028,861 | ||||||
NARI Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,839,854 | 6,015,649 | ||||||
Ningbo Orient Wires & Cables Co. Ltd. | 230,331 | 1,170,547 | ||||||
Ningbo Ronbay New Energy Technology Co. Ltd. | 110,180 | 771,520 | ||||||
Pylon Technologies Co. Ltd., NVS | 44,710 | 849,513 | ||||||
Shanghai Electric Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 3,845,600 | 2,359,851 | ||||||
Shanghai Moons’ Electric Co. Ltd. | 83,600 | 755,285 | ||||||
Sieyuan Electric Co. Ltd. | 252,400 | 1,774,173 | ||||||
Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 357,800 | 4,904,813 | ||||||
Sunwoda Electronic Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,608 | 1,091,450 | ||||||
Suzhou Maxwell Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 56,947 | 1,193,373 | ||||||
TBEA Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,305,134 | 2,636,819 | ||||||
Zhejiang Chint Electrics Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,221 | 1,991,914 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
73,792,061 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.2% | ||||||||
AAC Technologies Holdings Inc.(c) | 2,926,000 | 5,667,811 | ||||||
Avary Holding Shenzhen Co. Ltd., Class A | 460,600 | 1,351,456 | ||||||
BOE Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,279,600 | 5,110,409 | ||||||
Chaozhou Three-Circle Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 555,777 | 2,450,198 | ||||||
China Zhenhua Group Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 139,500 | 1,756,833 | ||||||
Foxconn Industrial Internet Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,257,286 | 6,785,637 | ||||||
GoerTek Inc., Class A | 836,000 | 1,757,289 | ||||||
Guangzhou Shiyuan Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,219 | 1,223,859 | ||||||
Hengdian Group DMEGC Magnetics Co. Ltd. | 464,500 | 1,046,548 | ||||||
Huagong Tech Co. Ltd., Class A | 253,200 | 1,090,575 | ||||||
Kingboard Holdings Ltd. | 2,517,000 | 5,711,694 | ||||||
Kingboard Laminates Holdings Ltd. | 3,725,000 | 3,095,776 | ||||||
Lens Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,337,642 | 2,259,079 | ||||||
Lingyi iTech Guangdong Co., Class A | 2,341,013 | 1,931,600 | ||||||
Luxshare Precision Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,641 | 7,197,236 | ||||||
Maxscend Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 130,652 | 2,225,506 | ||||||
Raytron Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 70,314 | 494,862 | ||||||
Shengyi Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,600 | 1,021,057 | ||||||
Shennan Circuits Co. Ltd., Class A | 101,224 | 920,281 | ||||||
Shenzhen SED Industry Co. Ltd., NVS | 253,200 | 953,798 | ||||||
Sunny Optical Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 2,592,700 | 21,169,873 | ||||||
Suzhou Dongshan Precision Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,000 | 1,078,787 | ||||||
TCL Technology Group Corp., Class A(b) | 4,909,560 | 2,763,682 | ||||||
Tianma Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,003,236 | 1,185,223 | ||||||
Unisplendour Corp. Ltd., Class A(b) | 705,927 | 2,611,499 | ||||||
Westone Information Industry Inc., Class A | 223,100 | 765,868 | ||||||
Wingtech Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 334,400 | 2,119,391 |
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components (continued) | ||||||||
Wuhan Guide Infrared Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,557,964 | $ | 1,649,087 | |||||
WUS Printed Circuit Kunshan Co. Ltd., Class A | 419,618 | 1,216,310 | ||||||
Xiamen Faratronic Co. Ltd. | 74,800 | 1,167,305 | ||||||
Zhejiang Dahua Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 755,600 | 2,241,709 | ||||||
Zhejiang Supcon Technology Co. Ltd. | 198,469 | 1,374,240 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
93,394,478 | ||||||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
China Oilfield Services Ltd., Class H | 6,904,000 | 7,819,010 | ||||||
Offshore Oil Engineering Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,288,198 | 1,032,170 | ||||||
Yantai Jereh Oilfield Services Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,492 | 1,313,582 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,164,762 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 2.9% | ||||||||
37 Interactive Entertainment Network Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,600 | 1,700,184 | ||||||
Beijing Enlight Media Co. Ltd., Class A | 786,500 | 1,009,479 | ||||||
Bilibili Inc.(b)(c) | 708,485 | 10,705,385 | ||||||
China Film Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 585,200 | 1,193,293 | ||||||
China Ruyi Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 22,456,000 | 5,954,795 | ||||||
Giant Network Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 590,000 | 1,183,624 | ||||||
iQIYI Inc., ADR(b) | 1,671,092 | 8,422,304 | ||||||
Kingsoft Corp. Ltd. | 3,513,400 | 14,004,195 | ||||||
Kunlun Tech Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 336,800 | 1,670,203 | ||||||
Mango Excellent Media Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,680 | 2,037,581 | ||||||
NetEase Inc. | 7,198,660 | 149,137,927 | ||||||
Perfect World Co. Ltd., Class A | 522,000 | 990,631 | ||||||
Tencent Music Entertainment Group, ADR(b)(c) | 2,679,598 | 18,274,858 | ||||||
Zhejiang Century Huatong Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,839,298 | 1,369,810 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
217,654,269 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
AVIC Industry-Finance Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,253,882 | 1,143,066 | ||||||
Far East Horizon Ltd. | 5,472,000 | 3,738,305 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,881,371 | ||||||||
Food Products — 1.5% | ||||||||
Angel Yeast Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,411 | 1,524,441 | ||||||
Anjoy Foods Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 84,200 | 1,513,077 | ||||||
China Feihe Ltd.(a) | 13,406,000 | 8,059,954 | ||||||
China Mengniu Dairy Co. Ltd. | 12,103,000 | 40,695,933 | ||||||
Chongqing Fuling Zhacai Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 435,109 | 951,431 | ||||||
Foshan Haitian Flavouring & Food Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,002,545 | 5,396,887 | ||||||
Guangdong Haid Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 452,097 | 2,995,427 | ||||||
Hebei Yangyuan Zhihui Beverage Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,400 | 1,128,046 | ||||||
Henan Shuanghui Investment & Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 760,108 | 2,805,328 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,421,223 | 5,081,640 | ||||||
Juewei Food Co. Ltd., Class A | 152,885 | 749,451 | ||||||
Muyuan Foods Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,226,268 | 6,832,964 | ||||||
New Hope Liuhe Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,337,699 | 2,144,034 | ||||||
Tingyi Cayman Islands Holding Corp. | 6,688,000 | 9,819,978 | ||||||
Uni-President China Holdings Ltd. | 4,942,000 | 3,654,976 | ||||||
Want Want China Holdings Ltd. | 17,557,000 | 11,612,029 | ||||||
Wens Foodstuffs Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,416 | 3,634,348 | ||||||
Yihai International Holding Ltd. | 1,869,000 | 3,502,575 | ||||||
Yihai Kerry Arawana Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 386,977 | 1,896,055 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
113,998,574 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.8% | ||||||||
Beijing Enterprises Holdings Ltd. | 1,672,000 | 6,264,135 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Gas Utilities (continued) | ||||||||
China Gas Holdings Ltd. | 10,046,400 | $ | 10,254,085 | |||||
China Resources Gas Group Ltd. | 3,523,600 | 9,892,047 | ||||||
ENN Energy Holdings Ltd. | 2,928,200 | 22,973,524 | ||||||
ENN Natural Gas Co. Ltd., Class A | 636,200 | 1,523,967 | ||||||
Kunlun Energy Co. Ltd. | 15,070,000 | 11,032,512 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
61,940,270 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.1% | ||||||||
Beijing-Shanghai High Speed Railway Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,258,400 | 5,092,186 | ||||||
Daqin Railway Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,645,300 | 3,570,301 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,662,487 | ||||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.4% | ||||||||
Autobio Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Class A | 138,700 | 873,825 | ||||||
Jiangsu Yuyue Medical Equipment & Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 353,500 | 1,643,725 | ||||||
Lepu Medical Technology Beijing Co. Ltd., Class A | 559,951 | 1,245,815 | ||||||
Microport Scientific Corp.(b) | 3,154,500 | 5,401,779 | ||||||
Ovctek China Inc., Class A | 285,840 | 1,035,659 | ||||||
Shandong Weigao Group Medical Polymer Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,215,600 | 9,175,825 | ||||||
Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 283,795 | 10,539,513 | ||||||
Shenzhen New Industries Biomedical Engineering Co. Ltd., Class A | 158,400 | 1,322,893 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
31,239,034 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.5% | ||||||||
Aier Eye Hospital Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,143,610 | 5,312,302 | ||||||
China Meheco Co. Ltd., Class A | 422,000 | 726,636 | ||||||
Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,695 | 2,132,221 | ||||||
Guangzhou Kingmed Diagnostics Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 117,794 | 967,946 | ||||||
Huadong Medicine Co. Ltd., Class A | 501,680 | 2,617,333 | ||||||
Hygeia Healthcare Holdings Co. Ltd.(a)(c) | 1,337,600 | 6,769,903 | ||||||
Meinian Onehealth Healthcare Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,337,625 | 1,249,842 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 639,997 | 1,571,416 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class H | 2,508,000 | 4,123,500 | ||||||
Sinopharm Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 5,020,400 | 14,568,813 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
40,039,912 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 7.2% | ||||||||
H World Group Ltd., ADR(b) | 752,418 | 30,307,397 | ||||||
Haidilao International Holding Ltd.(a) | 5,852,000 | 15,916,355 | ||||||
Jiumaojiu International Holdings Ltd.(a)(c) | 3,344,000 | 5,363,407 | ||||||
Meituan, Class B(a)(b) | 18,830,040 | 311,621,162 | ||||||
Shanghai Jinjiang International Hotels Co. Ltd., Class A | 250,800 | 1,331,226 | ||||||
Songcheng Performance Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 752,477 | 1,283,693 | ||||||
Tongcheng Travel Holdings Ltd.(b) | 4,592,400 | 10,291,826 | ||||||
TravelSky Technology Ltd., Class H | 3,344,000 | 5,987,196 | ||||||
Trip.com Group Ltd.(b) | 2,034,484 | 80,130,071 | ||||||
Yum China Holdings Inc. | 1,551,061 | 83,276,465 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
545,508,798 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 0.6% | ||||||||
Ecovacs Robotics Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,600 | 1,222,090 | ||||||
Gree Electric Appliances Inc. of Zhuhai, Class A | 722,729 | 3,554,664 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 33 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Household Durables (continued) | ||||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,421,246 | $ | 4,590,136 | |||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,028,800 | 27,964,705 | ||||||
Jason Furniture Hangzhou Co. Ltd., Class A | 233,350 | 1,335,637 | ||||||
Oppein Home Group Inc., Class A | 167,220 | 2,250,602 | ||||||
Zhejiang Supor Co. Ltd., Class A | 167,296 | 1,094,283 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
42,012,117 | ||||||||
Household Products — 0.1% | ||||||||
Vinda International Holdings Ltd. | 1,672,000 | 3,868,764 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.2% | ||||||||
CECEP Wind Power Corp, Class A | 2,128,400 | 982,275 | ||||||
CGN Power Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 40,199,000 | 10,044,909 | ||||||
China Longyuan Power Group Corp. Ltd., Class H | 11,952,000 | 9,461,140 | ||||||
China National Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,598,076 | 4,550,540 | ||||||
China Power International Development Ltd. | 17,887,000 | 6,374,901 | ||||||
China Resources Power Holdings Co. Ltd. | 6,688,000 | 13,094,011 | ||||||
China Three Gorges Renewables Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,901,626 | 4,666,855 | ||||||
China Yangtze Power Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,437,241 | 16,490,667 | ||||||
Datang International Power Generation Co. Ltd. | 2,842,400 | 1,085,772 | ||||||
GD Power Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,347,200 | 2,097,048 | ||||||
Huadian Power International Corp. Ltd., Class A | 1,970,600 | 1,377,662 | ||||||
Huaneng Power International Inc., Class A(b) | 2,003,252 | 2,243,376 | ||||||
Huaneng Power International Inc., Class H(b) | 16,296,000 | 8,139,464 | ||||||
SDIC Power Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,772,400 | 3,095,887 | ||||||
Shenzhen Energy Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,090,080 | 1,860,702 | ||||||
Sichuan Chuantou Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,290,562 | 2,652,750 | ||||||
Zhejiang Zheneng Electric Power Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,869,600 | 1,736,722 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
89,954,681 | ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||||||
CITIC Ltd. | 21,747,000 | 21,581,720 | ||||||
Fosun International Ltd. | 8,546,500 | 5,342,271 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
26,923,991 | ||||||||
Insurance — 4.0% | ||||||||
China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class A | 668,805 | 3,279,621 | ||||||
China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class H | 27,649,000 | 41,905,947 | ||||||
China Pacific Insurance Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,672,047 | 6,376,225 | ||||||
China Pacific Insurance Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 9,545,200 | 21,830,345 | ||||||
China Taiping Insurance Holdings Co. Ltd. | 5,376,124 | 5,656,329 | ||||||
New China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class A | 538,276 | 2,998,672 | ||||||
New China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class H | 2,982,600 | 7,461,591 | ||||||
People’s Insurance Co. Group of China Ltd. (The), Class A | 2,210,700 | 1,776,411 | ||||||
People’s Insurance Co. Group of China Ltd. (The), Class H | 32,615,000 | 11,101,597 | ||||||
PICC Property & Casualty Co. Ltd., Class H | 25,870,462 | 29,749,954 | ||||||
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class A | 2,508,043 | 16,839,057 | ||||||
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class H | 24,673,000 | 147,720,827 | ||||||
ZhongAn Online P&C Insurance Co. Ltd., Class H(a)(b)(c) | 2,646,300 | 7,849,084 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
304,545,660 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 17.0% | ||||||||
Autohome Inc., ADR | 256,112 | 7,401,637 | ||||||
Baidu Inc.(b) | 8,360,856 | 149,318,508 | ||||||
JOYY Inc., ADR | 159,175 | 5,462,886 | ||||||
Kanzhun Ltd., ADR(b) | 809,159 | 11,975,553 | ||||||
Kuaishou Technology(a)(b) | 8,588,200 | 70,302,323 | ||||||
Tencent Holdings Ltd. | 24,912,800 | 1,032,394,742 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Interactive Media & Services (continued) | ||||||||
Weibo Corp., ADR | 265,549 | $ | 3,425,582 | |||||
|
| |||||||
1,280,281,231 | ||||||||
IT Services — 0.2% | ||||||||
Chinasoft International Ltd.(c) | 9,608,000 | 6,368,100 | ||||||
DHC Software Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,028 | 771,553 | ||||||
GDS Holdings Ltd., Class A(b) | 3,395,620 | 5,041,550 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,181,203 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 1.5% | ||||||||
Genscript Biotech Corp.(b)(c) | 4,460,000 | 10,410,283 | ||||||
Hangzhou Tigermed Consulting Co. Ltd., Class A | 83,637 | 763,621 | ||||||
Pharmaron Beijing Co. Ltd., Class A | 377,825 | 1,544,470 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class A | 602,917 | 6,768,167 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class H(a)(c) | 1,337,681 | 14,658,637 | ||||||
Wuxi Biologics Cayman Inc.(a)(b) | 14,212,000 | 80,121,567 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
114,266,745 | ||||||||
Machinery — 1.0% | ||||||||
China CSSC Holdings Ltd., Class A | 1,086,800 | 4,239,268 | ||||||
CRRC Corp. Ltd., Class A | 6,083,210 | 4,963,646 | ||||||
CRRC Corp. Ltd., Class H | 15,835,000 | 7,796,697 | ||||||
Haitian International Holdings Ltd. | 2,508,000 | 5,385,516 | ||||||
Jiangsu Hengli Hydraulic Co. Ltd., Class A | 352,156 | 3,009,153 | ||||||
Ningbo Deye Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 83,820 | 1,061,896 | ||||||
North Industries Group Red Arrow Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,000 | 876,173 | ||||||
Sany Heavy Equipment International Holdings Co. Ltd. | 3,950,000 | 6,154,829 | ||||||
Sany Heavy Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,968,393 | 4,193,852 | ||||||
Shenzhen Inovance Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,430 | 3,140,050 | ||||||
Sinotruk Hong Kong Ltd. | 2,345,500 | 4,352,768 | ||||||
Weichai Power Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,588,468 | 2,571,299 | ||||||
Weichai Power Co. Ltd., Class H | 7,535,000 | 9,760,993 | ||||||
XCMG Construction Machinery Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,114,399 | 2,590,296 | ||||||
Zhejiang Dingli Machinery Co. Ltd., Class A | 184,509 | 1,347,578 | ||||||
Zhejiang Sanhua Intelligent Controls Co. Ltd., Class A | 505,600 | 2,062,677 | ||||||
Zhuzhou CRRC Times Electric Co. Ltd., NVS | 35,892 | 215,542 | ||||||
Zhuzhou CRRC Times Electric Co. Ltd. | 2,177,200 | 7,587,828 | ||||||
Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,090,016 | 1,856,342 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
73,166,403 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.3% | ||||||||
COSCO Shipping Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,892,470 | 3,896,287 | ||||||
COSCO Shipping Holdings Co. Ltd., Class H | 11,302,600 | 11,590,639 | ||||||
Orient Overseas International Ltd. | 529,000 | 7,094,572 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
22,581,498 | ||||||||
Media — 0.1% | ||||||||
China Literature Ltd.(a)(b) | 1,507,000 | 6,052,007 | ||||||
Focus Media Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,678,438 | 3,885,373 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,937,380 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 1.7% | ||||||||
Aluminum Corp. of China Ltd., Class A | 3,176,800 | 2,579,553 | ||||||
Aluminum Corp. of China Ltd., Class H | 15,048,000 | 7,259,689 | ||||||
Baoshan Iron & Steel Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,319,493 | 4,429,177 | ||||||
China Hongqiao Group Ltd.(c) | 8,794,000 | 8,753,767 | ||||||
China Minmetals Rare Earth Co. Ltd., Class A | 296,250 | 1,162,913 | ||||||
China Northern Rare Earth Group High-Tech Co. Ltd., Class A | 919,600 | 2,788,566 | ||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class A | 4,012,800 | 3,155,889 |
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Metals & Mining (continued) | ||||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class H | 13,758,000 | $ | 8,207,540 | |||||
Henan Shenhuo Coal & Power Co. Ltd. | 492,800 | 1,074,391 | ||||||
Hunan Valin Steel Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,048,300 | 1,665,492 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia BaoTou Steel Union Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 12,289,292 | 3,023,674 | ||||||
Jiangxi Copper Co. Ltd., Class A | 471,600 | 1,220,630 | ||||||
Jiangxi Copper Co. Ltd., Class H | 4,180,000 | 6,510,360 | ||||||
Jinduicheng Molybdenum Co. Ltd., Class A | 844,000 | 1,258,173 | ||||||
Pangang Group Vanadium Titanium & Resources Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,137,800 | 1,101,797 | ||||||
Shandong Gold Mining Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,091 | 2,992,921 | ||||||
Shandong Gold Mining Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 2,805,500 | 5,649,428 | ||||||
Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,681,600 | 2,005,725 | ||||||
Shanxi Meijin Energy Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,337,806 | 1,316,428 | ||||||
Shanxi Taigang Stainless Steel Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,090,000 | 1,131,492 | ||||||
Shenghe Resources Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 586,358 | 890,524 | ||||||
Sinomine Resource Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 185,120 | 946,332 | ||||||
Tianshan Aluminum Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,254,000 | 1,086,276 | ||||||
Tongling Nonferrous Metals Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,277,000 | 1,440,797 | ||||||
Western Superconducting Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 194,964 | 1,271,561 | ||||||
Yintai Gold Co. Ltd., Class A | 646,400 | 1,271,759 | ||||||
YongXing Special Materials Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 109,640 | 749,765 | ||||||
Yunnan Aluminium Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,086,800 | 2,148,962 | ||||||
Yunnan Chihong Zinc&Germanium Co. Ltd. | 1,755,600 | 1,266,466 | ||||||
Zhaojin Mining Industry Co. Ltd., Class H | 4,847,500 | 6,785,496 | ||||||
Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co. Ltd., Class A | 372,006 | 2,042,097 | ||||||
Zhongjin Gold Corp. Ltd., Class A | 1,350,400 | 2,048,853 | ||||||
Zijin Mining Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,244,717 | 7,162,043 | ||||||
Zijin Mining Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 20,892,000 | 32,724,283 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
129,122,819 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 2.8% | ||||||||
China Coal Energy Co. Ltd., Class H | 8,148,000 | 5,558,384 | ||||||
China Merchants Energy Shipping Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,949,800 | 1,574,081 | ||||||
China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., Class A | 7,106,288 | 5,926,047 | ||||||
China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., Class H | 91,533,000 | 53,519,893 | ||||||
China Shenhua Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,490,452 | 5,770,161 | ||||||
China Shenhua Energy Co. Ltd., Class H | 12,545,500 | 36,513,864 | ||||||
COSCO SHIPPING Energy Transportation Co. Ltd., Class A | 816,600 | 1,486,737 | ||||||
COSCO SHIPPING Energy Transportation Co. Ltd., Class H | 5,016,000 | 5,240,165 | ||||||
Guanghui Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,655,945 | 1,497,370 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia Yitai Coal Co. Ltd., Class B(b) | 3,979,800 | 5,302,180 | ||||||
PetroChina Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,727,092 | 5,038,622 | ||||||
PetroChina Co. Ltd., Class H | 78,606,000 | 56,703,679 | ||||||
Shaanxi Coal Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,090,189 | 4,778,769 | ||||||
Shan Xi Hua Yang Group New Energy Co. Ltd. | 989,100 | 1,027,347 | ||||||
Shanxi Coking Coal Energy Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,086,800 | 1,243,073 | ||||||
Shanxi Lu’an Environmental Energy Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 752,400 | 1,682,992 | ||||||
Yankuang Energy Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,204 | 1,382,800 | ||||||
Yankuang Energy Group Co. Ltd., Class H(c) | 9,303,000 | 14,604,667 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
208,850,831 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.0% | ||||||||
Nine Dragons Paper Holdings Ltd.(c) | 6,688,000 | 3,711,225 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.3% | ||||||||
Air China Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,591,614 | 3,083,969 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Passenger Airlines (continued) | ||||||||
Air China Ltd., Class H(b) | 6,710,000 | $ | 4,966,849 | |||||
China Eastern Airlines Corp. Ltd., Class A(b) | 4,932,496 | 2,944,552 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,926,034 | 2,545,244 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 6,710,000 | 3,564,465 | ||||||
Hainan Airlines Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 10,125,522 | 2,173,527 | ||||||
Spring Airlines Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 253,200 | 2,041,507 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,320,113 | ||||||||
Personal Care Products — 0.1% | ||||||||
Hengan International Group Co. Ltd. | 2,508,000 | 9,303,068 | ||||||
Yunnan Botanee Bio-Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 83,679 | 1,170,614 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,473,682 | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.4% | ||||||||
Asymchem Laboratories Tianjin Co. Ltd., Class A | 52,220 | 953,655 | ||||||
Beijing Tongrentang Co. Ltd., Class A | 325,588 | 2,515,735 | ||||||
Betta Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Class A | 117,798 | 800,132 | ||||||
Changchun High & New Technology Industry Group Inc., Class A | 93,496 | 1,769,397 | ||||||
China Medical System Holdings Ltd. | 5,027,000 | 7,240,190 | ||||||
China Resources Pharmaceutical Group Ltd.(a) | 5,264,000 | 3,513,953 | ||||||
China Resources Sanjiu Medical & Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 250,817 | 1,639,798 | ||||||
China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Co. Ltd.(c) | 11,768,000 | 4,600,143 | ||||||
Chongqing Taiji Industry Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 167,200 | 993,875 | ||||||
CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 33,462,400 | 25,150,599 | ||||||
Dong-E-E-Jiao Co. Ltd., Class A | 251,179 | 1,791,483 | ||||||
Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 3,344,000 | 4,344,872 | ||||||
Humanwell Healthcare Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,300 | 1,343,850 | ||||||
Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,421,280 | 8,171,027 | ||||||
Jiangsu Nhwa Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 250,800 | 910,133 | ||||||
Joincare Pharmaceutical Group Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 454,562 | 712,834 | ||||||
Nanjing King-Friend Biochemical Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 545,455 | 887,256 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 585,284 | 2,244,615 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 1,688,000 | 3,962,942 | ||||||
Shenzhen Salubris Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Class A | 304,831 | 1,157,598 | ||||||
Shijiazhuang Yiling Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 444,542 | 1,421,496 | ||||||
Sichuan Kelun Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,065 | 1,556,940 | ||||||
Sino Biopharmaceutical Ltd. | 38,458,000 | 14,598,210 | ||||||
Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 445,342 | 3,344,818 | ||||||
Zhangzhou Pientzehuang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 152,309 | 5,788,219 | ||||||
Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 410,699 | 948,073 | ||||||
Zhejiang Jiuzhou Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 230,400 | 861,324 | ||||||
Zhejiang NHU Co. Ltd., Class A | 919,631 | 2,057,664 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
105,280,831 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 3.0% | ||||||||
C&D International Investment Group Ltd. | 2,384,000 | 6,058,434 | ||||||
China Jinmao Holdings Group Ltd.(c) | 21,096,000 | 2,986,992 | ||||||
China Merchants Shekou Industrial Zone Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,835,333 | 3,450,273 | ||||||
China Overseas Land & Investment Ltd. | 14,217,500 | 29,971,730 | ||||||
China Overseas Property Holdings Ltd. | 4,890,000 | 5,838,550 | ||||||
China Resources Land Ltd. | 12,084,665 | 51,078,234 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 35 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Real Estate Management & Development (continued) | ||||||||
China Resources Mixc Lifestyle Services | 2,630,600 | $ | 11,367,186 | |||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,484,828 | 4,659,671 | ||||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class H | 7,904,331 | 9,220,554 | ||||||
Country Garden Holdings Co. Ltd.(b)(c) | 46,816,727 | 5,306,530 | ||||||
Country Garden Services Holdings Co. Ltd.(c) | 8,190,000 | 9,515,495 | ||||||
Gemdale Corp., Class A | 1,171,497 | 1,160,938 | ||||||
Greenland Holdings Corp. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,616,400 | 1,054,272 | ||||||
Greentown China Holdings Ltd. | 3,762,000 | 4,467,672 | ||||||
Hainan Airport Infrastructure Co. Ltd., NVS | 3,286,000 | 1,810,907 | ||||||
Hangzhou Binjiang Real Estate Group Co. Ltd. | 668,800 | 964,008 | ||||||
KE Holdings Inc., ADR(b) | 2,446,558 | 42,080,798 | ||||||
Longfor Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 6,926,500 | 14,619,072 | ||||||
Poly Developments and Holdings Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,675,275 | 5,151,567 | ||||||
Seazen Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 414,064 | 828,289 | ||||||
Shanghai Lujiazui Finance & Trade Zone Development Co. Ltd., Class B | 1,353,478 | 555,703 | ||||||
Shenzhen Overseas Chinese Town Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,340,838 | 1,401,621 | ||||||
Yuexiu Property Co. Ltd. | 6,226,600 | 7,714,598 | ||||||
Zhejiang China Commodities City Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,181,600 | 1,331,719 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
222,594,813 | ||||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.7% | ||||||||
3peak Inc. | 31,362 | 791,416 | ||||||
Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc., Class A(b) | 167,388 | 3,513,348 | ||||||
Amlogic Shanghai Co. Ltd.(b) | 105,853 | 1,274,181 | ||||||
Cambricon Technologies Corp. Ltd.(b) | 103,434 | 2,263,126 | ||||||
China Resources Microelectronics Ltd. | 319,612 | 2,570,671 | ||||||
Daqo New Energy Corp., ADR(b)(c) | 224,961 | 8,316,808 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,400 | 1,418,354 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 1,672,000 | 4,152,287 | ||||||
GalaxyCore Inc., NVS | 426,362 | 889,100 | ||||||
GCL-Poly Energy Holdings Ltd. | 77,464,000 | 13,417,209 | ||||||
GigaDevice Semiconductor Inc., Class A | 177,287 | 2,287,486 | ||||||
Hangzhou Chang Chuan Technology Co. Ltd. | 158,400 | 812,998 | ||||||
Hangzhou First Applied Material Co. Ltd., Class A | 488,336 | 2,091,633 | ||||||
Hangzhou Lion Electronics Co. Ltd. | 145,980 | 661,567 | ||||||
Hangzhou Silan Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 334,400 | 1,163,580 | ||||||
Hoyuan Green Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 154,204 | 882,414 | ||||||
Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd.(a)(b) | 1,953,000 | 5,090,958 | ||||||
Ingenic Semiconductor Co. Ltd., Class A | 84,000 | 851,527 | ||||||
JA Solar Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 738,296 | 2,822,441 | ||||||
JCET Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 418,100 | 1,871,641 | ||||||
Jiangsu Pacific Quartz Co. Ltd., NVS | 84,200 | 1,104,134 | ||||||
Jinko Solar Co. Ltd. | 1,344,010 | 1,991,756 | ||||||
LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,684,923 | 6,158,147 | ||||||
Montage Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 249,201 | 1,754,646 | ||||||
National Silicon Industry Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 675,200 | 1,887,531 | ||||||
NAURA Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 106,000 | 3,951,240 | ||||||
Risen Energy Co. Ltd. | 253,200 | 698,614 | ||||||
Rockchip Electronics Co. Ltd. | 84,400 | 759,736 | ||||||
Sanan Optoelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,181,600 | 2,548,188 | ||||||
SG Micro Corp., Class A | 167,230 | 1,777,596 | ||||||
Shanghai Aiko Solar Energy Co. Ltd. | 426,260 | 1,300,398 | ||||||
Shanghai Fudan Microelectronics Group Co. Ltd. | 134,234 | 974,119 | ||||||
Shenzhen SC New Energy Technology Corp., Class A | 83,600 | 1,017,717 | ||||||
StarPower Semiconductor Ltd., Class A | 22,000 | 598,817 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued) | ||||||||
TCL Zhonghuan Renewable Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 773,872 | $ | 2,722,987 | |||||
Tianshui Huatian Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 919,629 | 1,135,024 | ||||||
TongFu Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 373,696 | 1,046,056 | ||||||
Tongwei Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,003,299 | 4,421,612 | ||||||
Trina Solar Co. Ltd. | 490,913 | 2,296,057 | ||||||
Unigroup Guoxin Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 252,653 | 3,215,678 | ||||||
Verisilicon Microelectronics Shanghai Co. | 125,846 | 1,155,619 | ||||||
Will Semiconductor Co. Ltd. Shanghai, Class A | 265,545 | 3,360,513 | ||||||
Wuxi Autowell Technology Co. Ltd. | 44,782 | 1,036,776 | ||||||
Xinjiang Daqo New Energy Co. Ltd. | 458,250 | 2,614,437 | ||||||
Xinyi Solar Holdings Ltd. | 18,392,000 | 15,346,243 | ||||||
Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. | 158,400 | 776,649 | ||||||
Zhejiang Jingsheng Mechanical & Electrical Co. Ltd., Class A | 305,493 | 2,364,945 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
125,157,980 | ||||||||
Software — 0.6% | ||||||||
360 Security Technology Inc., Class A(b) | 1,672,000 | 2,564,269 | ||||||
Beijing E-Hualu Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 250,800 | 1,039,364 | ||||||
Beijing Kingsoft Office Software Inc., Class A | 111,751 | 6,058,441 | ||||||
Beijing Shiji Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 360,268 | 671,370 | ||||||
China National Software & Service Co. Ltd., Class A | 285,235 | 1,691,392 | ||||||
Hundsun Technologies Inc., Class A | 488,640 | 2,417,533 | ||||||
Iflytek Co. Ltd., Class A | 539,262 | 4,057,967 | ||||||
Kingdee International Software Group Co. | 10,032,000 | 15,500,579 | ||||||
NavInfo Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 752,418 | 1,065,471 | ||||||
Qi An Xin Technology Group Inc.(b) | 178,276 | 1,312,553 | ||||||
Sangfor Technologies Inc., Class A(b) | 95,000 | 1,425,476 | ||||||
Shanghai Baosight Software Co. Ltd., Class A | 453,400 | 2,989,659 | ||||||
Shanghai Baosight Software Co. Ltd., Class B | 2,201,366 | 5,000,720 | ||||||
Thunder Software Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 83,600 | 916,989 | ||||||
Yonyou Network Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 836,012 | 2,085,710 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
48,797,493 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.6% | ||||||||
China Meidong Auto Holdings Ltd.(c) | 3,718,000 | 2,800,206 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd.(a) | 322,000 | 4,324,161 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd., Class A | 471,524 | 7,069,162 | ||||||
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Ltd. | 7,210,600 | 10,933,886 | ||||||
Pop Mart International Group Ltd.(a) | 1,770,400 | 5,758,381 | ||||||
Topsports International Holdings Ltd.(a) | 7,418,000 | 6,041,023 | ||||||
Zhongsheng Group Holdings Ltd. | 2,926,000 | 8,915,017 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
45,841,836 | ||||||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 1.7% | ||||||||
China Greatwall Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 668,800 | 1,000,020 | ||||||
Inspur Electronic Information Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 361,416 | 1,943,238 | ||||||
Lenovo Group Ltd. | 26,774,000 | 30,263,345 | ||||||
Ninestar Corp., Class A | 388,426 | 1,493,215 | ||||||
Shenzhen Transsion Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 187,491 | 3,784,424 | ||||||
Xiaomi Corp., Class B(a)(b) | 56,795,400 | 89,533,264 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
128,017,506 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 1.8% | ||||||||
ANTA Sports Products Ltd. | 4,637,000 | 52,273,839 | ||||||
Bosideng International Holdings Ltd. | 14,302,000 | 5,612,296 |
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods (continued) | ||||||||
Li Ning Co. Ltd. | 8,899,500 | $ | 42,061,751 | |||||
Shenzhou International Group Holdings Ltd. | 3,097,200 | 31,735,011 | ||||||
Xtep International Holdings Ltd. | 5,680,000 | 5,618,831 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
137,301,728 | ||||||||
Tobacco — 0.1% | ||||||||
Smoore International Holdings Ltd.(a)(c) | 6,706,000 | 6,774,894 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.1% | ||||||||
Beijing United Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 284,087 | 1,409,687 | ||||||
BOC Aviation Ltd.(a) | 753,500 | 5,651,539 | ||||||
Xiamen C & D Inc., Class A | 726,988 | 1,086,248 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,147,474 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.4% | ||||||||
Beijing Capital International Airport Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 6,512,000 | 3,409,841 | ||||||
China Merchants Port Holdings Co. Ltd. | 5,038,000 | 6,026,903 | ||||||
COSCO SHIPPING Ports Ltd. | 6,302,000 | 3,880,061 | ||||||
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 590,800 | 957,997 | ||||||
Jiangsu Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 4,840,000 | 4,370,839 | ||||||
Shanghai International Airport Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 334,699 | 1,806,509 | ||||||
Shanghai International Port Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,839,277 | 1,289,846 | ||||||
Shenzhen International Holdings Ltd. | 5,434,000 | 3,862,664 | ||||||
Zhejiang Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 6,264,000 | 4,677,533 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
30,282,193 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 0.2% | ||||||||
Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd. | 16,566,000 | 3,816,626 | ||||||
Guangdong Investment Ltd. | 11,704,000 | 9,136,422 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,953,048 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
China United Network Communications Ltd., Class A | 6,885,927 | 4,937,653 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 99.5% | 7,493,019,065 | |||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.0% | ||||||||
Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (Expires 12/31/49)(b) | 82,699 | $ | — | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | — | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.5% | 7,493,019,065 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 2.4% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 171,140,247 | 171,191,589 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 7,840,000 | 7,840,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 2.4% | 179,031,589 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 101.9% | 7,672,050,654 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.9)% |
| (143,798,980 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ 7,528,251,674 | |||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 211,036,965 | $ | — | $ | (39,829,858 | )(a) | $ | 39,232 | $ | (54,750 | ) | $ | 171,191,589 | 171,140,247 | $ | 2,535,150 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 7,230,000 | 610,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 7,840,000 | 7,840,000 | 365,870 | 13 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 39,232 | $ | (54,750 | ) | $ | 179,031,589 | $ | 2,901,020 | $ | 13 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 37 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI China Index | 1,447 | 09/15/23 | $ | 33,142 | $ | 33,734 | ||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 33,734 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 33,734 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (78,173 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (78,173 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,192,348 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,192,348 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 30,955,557 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 628,197,664 | $ | 6,864,821,401 | $ | — | $ | 7,493,019,065 | ||||||||
Rights | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 179,031,589 | — | — | 179,031,589 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 807,229,253 | $ | 6,864,821,401 | $ | — | $ | 7,672,050,654 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 33,734 | $ | — | $ | 33,734 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 39 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.2% | ||||||||
Hangzhou SF Intra-City Industrial Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 114,400 | $ | 116,718 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Automobile Components — 2.0% | ||||||||
Huazhong In-Vehicle Holdings Co. Ltd.(c) | 352,000 | 105,478 | ||||||
Intron Technology Holdings Ltd. | 264,000 | 116,960 | ||||||
Nexteer Automotive Group Ltd. | 660,000 | 424,741 | ||||||
Tianneng Power International Ltd.(c) | 490,000 | 521,993 | ||||||
Wuling Motors Holdings Ltd.(c) | 990,000 | 81,913 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,251,085 | ||||||||
Beverages — 0.4% | ||||||||
China Foods Ltd. | 616,000 | 228,293 | ||||||
China Huiyuan Juice Group Ltd.(d) | 81,000 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
228,293 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 5.2% | ||||||||
Alphamab Oncology(a)(b)(c) | 308,000 | 337,825 | ||||||
Ascentage Pharma Group International(a)(b) | 158,400 | 486,153 | ||||||
Brii Biosciences Ltd.(b)(c) | 330,000 | 119,855 | ||||||
CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Ltd., NVS(a)(b) | 242,000 | 284,172 | ||||||
CStone Pharmaceuticals(a)(b)(c) | 462,000 | 131,713 | ||||||
Everest Medicines Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 132,000 | 304,350 | ||||||
I-Mab, ADR(b) | 10,400 | 19,760 | ||||||
Jacobio Pharmaceuticals Group Co. Ltd. (a)(b)(c) | 237,600 | 114,803 | ||||||
Jiangsu Recbio Technology Co. Ltd.(a) | 66,000 | 95,267 | ||||||
Keymed Biosciences Inc.(a)(b) | 123,000 | 834,998 | ||||||
Kintor Pharmaceutical Ltd. (a)(b) | 18,500 | 8,180 | ||||||
Lepu Biopharma Co. Ltd.(a) | 396,000 | 264,594 | ||||||
Shanghai Haohai Biological Technology Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 22,000 | 124,155 | ||||||
Shanghai Henlius Biotech Inc.(a)(b) | 52,800 | 80,300 | ||||||
Untrade Cteg(d) | 600,000 | 1,791 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,207,916 | ||||||||
Building Products — 1.2% | ||||||||
China Lesso Group Holdings Ltd. | 792,000 | 436,278 | ||||||
China State Construction Development Holdings Ltd. | 528,000 | 162,769 | ||||||
Luoyang Glass Co. Ltd., Class H (b)(c) | 176,000 | 117,698 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
716,745 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 2.4% | ||||||||
Bairong Inc. (a)(b) | 176,000 | 215,549 | ||||||
China Everbright Ltd. | 672,000 | 391,987 | ||||||
China Renaissance Holdings Ltd.(a)(c)(d) | 162,800 | 120,276 | ||||||
Noah Holdings Ltd., ADR(c) | 28,028 | 389,869 | ||||||
Up Fintech Holding Ltd., ADR(b)(c) | 71,236 | 349,769 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,467,450 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 3.2% | ||||||||
China BlueChemical Ltd., Class H | 1,144,000 | 284,285 | ||||||
China XLX Fertiliser Ltd. | 440,000 | 216,705 | ||||||
Fufeng Group Ltd. | 1,012,600 | 537,881 | ||||||
Global New Material International Holdings | 440,000 | 252,339 | ||||||
Guizhou Zhongyida Co. Ltd.(b) | 264,000 | 99,264 | ||||||
Huabao International Holdings Ltd.(c) | 704,000 | 253,644 | ||||||
Shanghai Chlor-Alkali Chemical Co. Ltd., Class B | 294,893 | 139,441 | ||||||
Sinofert Holdings Ltd. | 1,584,000 | 193,792 | ||||||
Untradelumena Newmat, NVS(d) | 21,700 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,977,351 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.0% | ||||||||
Binjiang Service Group Co. Ltd. | 66,000 | 147,328 | ||||||
China Conch Environment Protection Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 858,000 | 216,749 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies (continued) | ||||||||
Dynagreen Environmental Protection Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 264,000 | $ | 83,156 | |||||
Zonqing Environmental Ltd., NVS | 58,000 | 190,071 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
637,304 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Eastern Communications Co. Ltd., Class B | 220,000 | 85,549 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 1.3% | ||||||||
Greentown Management Holdings Co. Ltd.(a) | 440,000 | 342,594 | ||||||
Sinopec Engineering Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 1,056,000 | 488,709 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
831,303 | ||||||||
Construction Materials — 0.5% | ||||||||
Asia Cement China Holdings Corp. | 330,000 | 128,892 | ||||||
MH Development Ltd.(d) | 112,000 | 1,803 | ||||||
West China Cement Ltd. | 1,584,000 | 157,391 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
288,086 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 1.2% | ||||||||
FinVolution Group, ADR | 93,236 | 468,045 | ||||||
LexinFintech Holdings Ltd., ADR(b) | 58,608 | 151,795 | ||||||
Yixin Group Ltd.(a) | 1,188,000 | 121,099 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
740,939 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.6% | ||||||||
Dada Nexus Ltd., ADR(b)(c) | 44,792 | 241,877 | ||||||
DingDong Cayman Ltd.(b)(c) | 61,732 | 126,550 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
368,427 | ||||||||
Distributors — 0.3% | ||||||||
China Tobacco International HK Co. Ltd.(c) | 146,000 | 210,765 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 4.2% | ||||||||
China Chunlai Education Group Co. Ltd. | 176,000 | 144,753 | ||||||
China East Education Holdings Ltd.(a) | 396,000 | 169,763 | ||||||
China Education Group Holdings Ltd. | 836,000 | 710,404 | ||||||
China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Ltd.(b)(d) | 1,088,000 | 28,772 | ||||||
China New Higher Education Group Ltd.(a) | 616,000 | 195,326 | ||||||
Fu Shou Yuan International Group Ltd. | 1,012,000 | 752,728 | ||||||
Hope Education Group Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 2,904,000 | 188,570 | ||||||
Tianli International Holdings Ltd. | 924,000 | 299,369 | ||||||
Youdao Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 23,320 | 90,948 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,580,633 | ||||||||
Diversified REITs — 0.5% | ||||||||
Yuexiu REIT(c) | 1,760,000 | 329,926 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.2% | ||||||||
China Fiber Optic Network System Group Ltd.(d) | 181,600 | — | ||||||
China High Speed Transmission Equipment Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 352,000 | 114,339 | ||||||
Hangzhou Steam Turbine Power Group Co. Ltd., Class B | 290,412 | 308,610 | ||||||
Harbin Electric Co. Ltd., Class H | 440,000 | 134,439 | ||||||
Sun King Technology Group Ltd.(b) | 880,000 | 178,253 | ||||||
Trony Solar Holdings Co. Ltd.(d) | 216,000 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
735,641 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.3% | ||||||||
Anxin-China Holdings Ltd.(d) | 672,000 | 1 | ||||||
BOE Varitronix Ltd. | 220,000 | 213,391 | ||||||
FIH Mobile Ltd. (b) | 2,332,000 | 205,177 | ||||||
Q Technology Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 352,000 | 130,784 | ||||||
Truly International Holdings Ltd. | 1,144,000 | 126,677 |
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components (continued) | ||||||||
Wasion Holdings Ltd. | 352,000 | $ | 150,657 | |||||
|
| |||||||
826,687 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 5.2% | ||||||||
Alibaba Pictures Group Ltd.(b) | 8,800,000 | 582,990 | ||||||
Archosaur Games Inc.(a)(b) | 176,000 | 81,282 | ||||||
Cloud Music Inc.(a)(b) | 46,200 | 466,123 | ||||||
CMGE Technology Group Ltd.(b) | 968,000 | 177,568 | ||||||
DouYu International Holdings Ltd., ADR(b) | 97,724 | 99,678 | ||||||
Fire Rock Holdings Ltd.(b)(c)(d) | 1,472,000 | 59,713 | ||||||
HUYA Inc., ADR(b) | 65,032 | 174,286 | ||||||
iDreamSky Technology Holdings Ltd.(a)(b) | 686,400 | 288,110 | ||||||
Maoyan Entertainment(a)(b)(c) | 255,200 | 349,759 | ||||||
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Ltd. | 198,000 | 383,761 | ||||||
Untrade SMI Holdings(d) | 267,200 | — | ||||||
XD Inc.(b) | 211,200 | 464,961 | ||||||
Zengame Technology Holding Ltd. | 264,000 | 102,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,230,231 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 1.8% | ||||||||
CSSC Hong Kong Shipping Co. Ltd. | 880,000 | 167,128 | ||||||
Genertec Universal Medical Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 484,000 | 251,632 | ||||||
Haitong UniTrust International Leasing Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 1,056,000 | 117,149 | ||||||
International Alliance Financial Leasing Co. | 660,000 | 109,406 | ||||||
SY Holdings Group Ltd.(c) | 330,000 | 210,400 | ||||||
Yeahka Ltd.(b) | 114,400 | 227,312 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,083,027 | ||||||||
Food Products — 1.9% | ||||||||
Ausnutria Dairy Corp. Ltd.(c) | 264,000 | 109,988 | ||||||
China Modern Dairy Holdings Ltd.(c) | 2,288,000 | 215,660 | ||||||
China Youran Dairy Group Ltd.(a)(c) | 528,000 | 98,260 | ||||||
COFCO Joycome Foods Ltd.(b) | 2,024,000 | 468,983 | ||||||
Zhou Hei Ya International Holdings Co. Ltd.(a)(c) | 792,000 | 279,681 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,172,572 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.7% | ||||||||
Tian Lun Gas Holdings Ltd. | 176,000 | 90,568 | ||||||
Towngas Smart Energy Co. Ltd. | 748,000 | 315,313 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
405,881 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.8% | ||||||||
ANE Cayman Inc.(b) | 330,000 | 233,544 | ||||||
Canggang Railway Ltd., NVS | 216,000 | 279,835 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
513,379 | ||||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 4.0% | ||||||||
AK Medical Holdings Ltd.(a) | 404,000 | 324,646 | ||||||
Angelalign Technology Inc.(a) | 30,400 | 202,578 | ||||||
Beijing Chunlizhengda Medical Instruments Co. Ltd., Class H | 66,000 | 111,930 | ||||||
Kangji Medical Holdings Ltd. | 220,000 | 193,948 | ||||||
Lifetech Scientific Corp. (b)(c) | 2,904,000 | 902,908 | ||||||
Microport Cardioflow Medtech Corp.(a)(b) | 792,000 | 188,263 | ||||||
Peijia Medical Ltd.(a)(b) | 308,000 | 285,316 | ||||||
Untrade Hosa International Ltd.(d) | 220,000 | — | ||||||
Venus MedTech Hangzhou Inc., Class H(a)(b) | 176,000 | 125,572 | ||||||
Zylox-Tonbridge Medical Technology Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 132,000 | 142,819 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,477,980 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 3.9% | ||||||||
Arrail Group Ltd., NVS(a)(b) | 154,000 | 158,274 | ||||||
Chaoju Eye Care Holdings Ltd. | 264,000 | 142,436 | ||||||
China Resources Medical Holdings Co. Ltd. | 616,000 | 457,271 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Health Care Providers & Services (continued) | ||||||||
Gushengtang Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 105,600 | $ | 562,014 | |||||
Jinxin Fertility Group Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 1,386,000 | 693,149 | ||||||
New Horizon Health Ltd.(a)(b) | 166,000 | 367,409 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,380,553 | ||||||||
Health Care Technology — 0.5% | ||||||||
Medlive Technology Co. Ltd.(a) | 154,000 | 137,469 | ||||||
Yidu Tech Inc. (a)(b) | 378,400 | 192,185 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
329,654 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 2.5% | ||||||||
China Travel International Investment Hong Kong Ltd.(b) | 1,584,000 | 300,687 | ||||||
Haichang Ocean Park Holdings Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 2,376,000 | 308,870 | ||||||
Helens International Holdings Co. Ltd. (b)(c) | 330,000 | 332,067 | ||||||
Huangshan Tourism Development Co. Ltd., Class B(b) | 154,000 | 110,073 | ||||||
Nayuki Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 374,000 | 229,315 | ||||||
Xiabuxiabu Catering Management China Holdings Co. Ltd.(a) | 484,000 | 233,904 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,514,916 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 1.6% | ||||||||
Chervon Holdings Ltd. | 92,400 | 305,158 | ||||||
Konka Group Co. Ltd., Class B(b) | 506,000 | 91,566 | ||||||
Skyworth Group Ltd. | 880,000 | 321,986 | ||||||
TCL Electronics Holdings Ltd.(c) | 616,000 | 240,850 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
959,560 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 2.5% | ||||||||
Beijing Jingneng Clean Energy Co. Ltd., Class H | 1,056,000 | 224,691 | ||||||
Canvest Environmental Protection Group Co. | 352,000 | 188,515 | ||||||
CGN New Energy Holdings Co. Ltd. | 968,000 | 260,436 | ||||||
China Datang Corp. Renewable Power Co. Ltd., Class H | 1,716,000 | 426,758 | ||||||
China Everbright Greentech Ltd.(a) | 356,000 | 38,998 | ||||||
Concord New Energy Group Ltd. | 5,010,000 | 408,851 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,548,249 | ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.8% | ||||||||
CITIC Resources Holdings Ltd. | 2,024,000 | 95,452 | ||||||
Shanghai Industrial Holdings Ltd. | 308,000 | 404,145 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
499,597 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 3.4% | ||||||||
Hello Group Inc., ADR | 101,024 | 871,837 | ||||||
Meitu Inc.(a)(c) | 1,628,000 | 625,434 | ||||||
Sohu.com Ltd., ADR(b) | 15,928 | 168,200 | ||||||
Tongdao Liepin Group(b) | 193,600 | 185,316 | ||||||
Zhihu Inc., NVS | 118,800 | 245,220 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,096,007 | ||||||||
IT Services — 3.1% | ||||||||
Chindata Group Holdings Ltd., ADR(b) | 103,664 | 867,668 | ||||||
Digital China Holdings Ltd. | 440,000 | 142,434 | ||||||
INESA Intelligent Tech Inc., Class B | 215,642 | 135,444 | ||||||
Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Ltd., ADR(b)(c) | 83,248 | 473,681 | ||||||
National Agricultural Holdings Ltd., NVS(d) | 108,900 | — | ||||||
Vnet Group Inc., ADR(b) | 69,520 | 260,700 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,879,927 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.3% | ||||||||
Viva Biotech Holdings(a)(b) | 858,000 | 159,565 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 2.5% | ||||||||
CIMC Enric Holdings Ltd. | 528,000 | 502,188 | ||||||
First Tractor Co. Ltd., Class H | 264,000 | 134,548 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 41 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Machinery (continued) | ||||||||
LK Technology Holdings Ltd. | 397,500 | $ | 381,230 | |||||
Lonking Holdings Ltd. | 1,408,000 | 251,078 | ||||||
Shanghai Highly Group Co. Ltd., Class B | 193,684 | 60,522 | ||||||
Shanghai Mechanical and Electrical Industry Co. Ltd., Class B | 158,405 | 156,656 | ||||||
Shanghai New Power Automotive Technology Co. Ltd., Class B(b) | 108,865 | 25,210 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,511,432 | ||||||||
Media — 0.6% | ||||||||
Joy Spreader Group Inc.(b) | 106,000 | 6,014 | ||||||
Mobvista Inc.(a)(b) | 352,000 | 160,746 | ||||||
Xinhua Winshare Publishing and Media Co. Ltd., Class H | 264,000 | 197,290 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
364,050 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 3.6% | ||||||||
China Metal Recycling Holdings Ltd.(d) | 184,800 | — | ||||||
China Nonferrous Mining Corp Ltd. | 968,000 | 523,668 | ||||||
China Oriental Group Co. Ltd. | 792,000 | 121,019 | ||||||
China Zhongwang Holdings Ltd., NVS | 63,560 | — | ||||||
Jinchuan Group International Resources Co. Ltd. | 1,804,000 | 90,723 | ||||||
MMG Ltd.(b)(c) | 2,192,000 | 727,370 | ||||||
Shougang Fushan Resources Group Ltd. | 1,320,000 | 380,389 | ||||||
Tiangong International Co. Ltd. | 1,056,000 | 356,773 | ||||||
Untrade Real Gold Mining(d) | 126,000 | — | ||||||
Youyuan International Holdings Ltd.(d) | 120,000 | 460 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,200,402 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.2% | ||||||||
CGN Mining Co. Ltd.(b)(c) | 1,760,000 | 206,281 | ||||||
Kinetic Development Group Ltd. | 1,848,000 | 115,465 | ||||||
Productive Technologies Co. Ltd.(b) | 1,936,000 | 119,729 | ||||||
Sinopec Kantons Holdings Ltd. | 704,000 | 276,103 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
717,578 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.6% | ||||||||
China Forestry Holdings Co. Ltd.(d) | 306,000 | — | ||||||
Lee & Man Paper Manufacturing Ltd. | 924,000 | 271,838 | ||||||
Qunxing Paper Holdings Co. Ltd.(d) | 148,000 | — | ||||||
Shandong Chenming Paper Holdings Ltd., Class B(b) | 356,400 | 76,350 | ||||||
Superb Summit International Group Ltd.(d) | 2,975 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
348,188 | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 7.7% | ||||||||
Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Co. Ltd. | 176,000 | 319,000 | ||||||
China Animal Healthcare Ltd.(d) | 140,000 | — | ||||||
China Shineway Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 220,000 | 217,261 | ||||||
Consun Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 264,000 | 174,116 | ||||||
Grand Pharmaceutical Group Ltd., Class A | 770,000 | 398,718 | ||||||
Hua Han Health Industry Holdings Ltd.(d) | 505,580 | 1 | ||||||
Hua Medicine(a)(b) | 45,500 | 9,760 | ||||||
HUTCHMED China Ltd.(b) | 352,000 | 1,080,096 | ||||||
Luye Pharma Group Ltd. (a)(b) | 1,518,000 | 557,435 | ||||||
Ocumension Therapeutics(a)(b) | 220,000 | 231,117 | ||||||
SciClone Pharmaceuticals Holdings Ltd.(a) | 176,000 | 211,890 | ||||||
Shandong Xinhua Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class H(c) | 138,000 | 100,601 | ||||||
Shanghai Haixin Group Co., Class B | 321,263 | 97,932 | ||||||
Sihuan Pharmaceutical Holdings Group Ltd. | 3,432,000 | 280,302 | ||||||
SSY Group Ltd. | 968,000 | 515,272 | ||||||
Tong Ren Tang Technologies Co. Ltd., Class H | 456,000 | 365,214 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Pharmaceuticals (continued) | ||||||||
YiChang HEC ChangJiang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class H(a)(b) | 193,600 | $ | 156,652 | |||||
|
| |||||||
4,715,367 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 11.9% | ||||||||
Agile Group Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 1,350,000 | 152,968 | ||||||
A-Living Smart City Services Co. Ltd., | 462,000 | 294,836 | ||||||
C&D Property Management Group Co. Ltd. | 308,000 | 142,286 | ||||||
Central China New Life Ltd. | 220,000 | 58,367 | ||||||
China Aoyuan Group Ltd.(b)(c)(d) | 896,000 | 52,888 | ||||||
China Overseas Grand Oceans Group Ltd. | 1,320,000 | 517,158 | ||||||
China South City Holdings Ltd.(b) | 4,136,000 | 244,749 | ||||||
CIFI Ever Sunshine Services Group Ltd.(d) | 646,000 | 176,221 | ||||||
CIFI Holdings Group Co. Ltd.(b)(c)(d) | 3,432,000 | 233,284 | ||||||
Cosmopolitan International Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 968,000 | 143,182 | ||||||
Excellence Commercial Property & Facilities Management Group Ltd.(c) | 264,000 | 75,082 | ||||||
Gemdale Properties & Investment Corp. Ltd. | 4,224,000 | 183,003 | ||||||
Greentown Service Group Co. Ltd. | 1,056,000 | 492,832 | ||||||
Guangzhou R&F Properties Co. Ltd., Class H(b)(c) | 1,214,400 | 185,458 | ||||||
Hopson Development Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 756,840 | 463,786 | ||||||
Jinke Smart Services Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 118,800 | 156,031 | ||||||
KWG Group Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 1,254,000 | 145,276 | ||||||
LVGEM China Real Estate Investment Co. Ltd.(b) | 968,000 | 203,663 | ||||||
Midea Real Estate Holding Ltd.(a) | 202,400 | 189,945 | ||||||
Poly Property Group Co. Ltd.(c) | 1,540,000 | 357,599 | ||||||
Powerlong Real Estate Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 880,000 | 94,103 | ||||||
Radiance Holdings Group Co. Ltd.(b)(c) | 572,000 | 264,033 | ||||||
Redco Properties Group Ltd.(a)(b)(c)(d) | 704,000 | 85,741 | ||||||
SCE Intelligent Commercial Management Holdings Ltd. | 440,000 | 63,995 | ||||||
Seazen Group Ltd.(b)(c) | 1,778,000 | 346,787 | ||||||
Shanghai Jinqiao Export Processing Zone Development Co. Ltd., Class B | 198,040 | 174,275 | ||||||
Shenzhen Investment Ltd. | 1,884,000 | 332,000 | ||||||
Shimao Services Holdings Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 704,000 | 137,317 | ||||||
Shoucheng Holdings Ltd. | 1,585,600 | 369,997 | ||||||
Shui On Land Ltd. | 2,618,000 | 253,737 | ||||||
Sino-Ocean Group Holding Ltd.(b)(c) | 2,222,000 | 103,348 | ||||||
SOHO China Ltd.(b) | 1,518,000 | 176,139 | ||||||
Sunac Services Holdings Ltd.(a)(c) | 768,000 | 239,678 | ||||||
Yuexiu Services Group Ltd., NVS | 330,000 | 132,983 | ||||||
Zhuguang Holdings Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 1,584,000 | 100,990 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,343,737 | ||||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.7% | ||||||||
JinkoSolar Holding Co. Ltd., ADR(b)(c) | 31,372 | 1,051,903 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Software — 4.1% | ||||||||
Agora Inc., ADR(b) | 41,668 | 116,671 | ||||||
AsiaInfo Technologies Ltd.(a) | 176,000 | 214,615 | ||||||
China Youzan Ltd.(b)(c) | 11,440,000 | 195,520 | ||||||
Inspur Digital Enterprise Technology Ltd. | 440,000 | 134,620 | ||||||
Linklogis Inc.(a) | 594,000 | 133,911 | ||||||
Ming Yuan Cloud Group Holdings Ltd.(b)(c) | 549,000 | 276,350 | ||||||
Qingdao Ainnovation Technology Group Co. | 123,200 | 327,545 | ||||||
Tuya Inc.(b)(c) | 165,440 | 304,410 | ||||||
Weimob Inc.(a)(b) | 1,628,000 | 849,324 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,552,966 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.0% | ||||||||
Boshiwa International Holding Ltd.(d) | 67,000 | — | ||||||
|
|
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 0.3% | ||||||||
Canaan Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 107,624 | $ | 216,324 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 2.0% | ||||||||
361 Degrees International Ltd. | 616,000 | 324,135 | ||||||
China Lilang Ltd. | 308,000 | 151,598 | ||||||
China Longevity Group Co. Ltd.(b)(d) | 96,000 | — | ||||||
Fuguiniao Co. Ltd.(d) | 43,200 | — | ||||||
Golden Solar New Energy Technology Holdings Ltd. (b)(c) | 665,200 | 574,270 | ||||||
JNBY Design Ltd. | 154,000 | 158,622 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,208,625 | ||||||||
Tobacco — 1.0% | ||||||||
RLX Technology Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 402,424 | 615,709 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.4% | ||||||||
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Ltd. | 220,000 | 115,297 | ||||||
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Group Co. Ltd. | 145,200 | 103,685 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
218,982 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 1.9% | ||||||||
Anhui Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 302,000 | 295,899 | ||||||
COSCO SHIPPING International Hong Kong Co. Ltd. | 264,000 | 111,426 | ||||||
Hainan Meilan International Airport Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 155,000 | 148,645 | ||||||
Sichuan Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 528,000 | 156,766 | ||||||
Tianjin Port Development Holdings Ltd. | 1,320,000 | 92,418 | ||||||
Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Ltd. | 704,000 | 363,958 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,169,112 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 0.8% | ||||||||
China Water Affairs Group Ltd. | 616,000 | 472,289 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 100.1% | 61,558,580 | |||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 19.3% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(e)(f)(g) | 11,768,704 | $ | 11,772,234 | |||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(e)(f) | 80,000 | 80,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 19.3% | 11,852,234 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 119.4% | 73,410,814 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (19.4)% |
| (11,936,238 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 61,474,576 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(e) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(f) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(g) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 9,612,515 | $ | 2,158,367 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 3,855 | $ | (2,503 | ) | $ | 11,772,234 | 11,768,704 | $ | 752,925 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 60,000 | 20,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 80,000 | 80,000 | 3,502 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 3,855 | $ | (2,503 | ) | $ | 11,852,234 | $ | 756,427 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 43 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (37,238 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (37,238 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 16,870 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 16,870 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 183,289 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 11,416,644 | $ | 49,380,985 | $ | 760,951 | $ | 61,558,580 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 11,852,234 | — | — | 11,852,234 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 23,268,878 | $ | 49,380,985 | $ | 760,951 | $ | 73,410,814 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A reconciliation of Level 3 financial instruments is presented when the Fund had a significant amount of Level 3 investments and derivative financial instruments at the beginning and/or end of the year in relation to net assets. The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used in determining fair value:
| ||||||||
Assets | Common Stocks | |||||||
| ||||||||
Opening balance, as of August 31, 2022 | $ | 522,104 | ||||||
Transfers into Level 3(a) | 582,603 | |||||||
Transfers out of Level 3 | — | |||||||
Accrued discounts/premiums | — | |||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (521,588 | ) | ||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)(b)(c) | 14,287 | |||||||
Purchases | 710,631 | |||||||
Sales | (547,086 | ) | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Closing balance, as of August 31, 2023 | $ | 760,951 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments still held at August 31, 2023(c) | $ | (662,261 | ) | |||||
|
|
(a) As of August 31, 2022, the Trust used observable inputs in determining the value of certain investments. As of August 31, 2023, the Trust used significant unobservable inputs in determining the value of the same investments. As a result, investments at beginning of period value were transferred from Level 2 to Level 3 in the disclosure hierarchy.
(b) Included in the related net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the Statements of Operations.
(c) Any difference between net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments still held at August 31, 2023 is generally due to investments no longer held or categorized as Level 3 at period end.
The Fund’s financial instruments that are categorized as Level 3 were valued utilizing third-party pricing information without adjustment. Such valuations are based on unobservable inputs. A significant change in third party information could result in a significantly lower or higher value of such Level 3 financial investments.
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Small-Cap ETF |
The following table summarizes the valuation approaches used and unobservable inputs utilized by the BlackRock Global Valuation Methodologies Committee (the “Global Valuation Committee”) to determine the value of certain of the Fund’s Level 3 instruments as of period end. The table does not include Level 3 instruments with values based upon unadjusted third party pricing information in the amount of $2. A significant change in the third party information could result in a significantly lower or higher value of such Level 3 instruments.
Value | Valuation Approach | Unobservable Inputs | Range of Unobservable Inputs Utilized(a) | Weighted Average of Unobservable on Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 760,949 | Market | Discount Rate | 10% - 90% | 14% |
(a) | A significant change in unobservable input would have resulted in a correlated (inverse) significant change to value. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 45 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Indonesia ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 0.1% | ||||||||
Astra Otoparts Tbk PT | 1,209,700 | $ | 254,172 | |||||
Selamat Sempurna Tbk PT | 1,729,000 | 231,593 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
485,765 | ||||||||
Banks — 49.9% | ||||||||
Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk PT(a) | 14,442,600 | 1,133,218 | ||||||
Bank BTPN Syariah Tbk PT | 10,541,000 | 1,494,550 | ||||||
Bank Bukopin Tbk PT(a) | 159,667,322 | 1,016,923 | ||||||
Bank Central Asia Tbk PT | 172,411,790 | 103,792,812 | ||||||
Bank Mandiri Persero Tbk PT | 108,648,620 | 42,963,771 | ||||||
Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 25,902,358 | 15,598,553 | ||||||
Bank Neo Commerce Tbk PT(a) | 14,627,366 | 330,168 | ||||||
Bank Pembangunan Daerah Jawa Barat Dan Banten Tbk PT | 20,304,276 | 1,579,814 | ||||||
Bank Pembangunan Daerah Jawa Timur Tbk PT | 29,549,100 | 1,270,825 | ||||||
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 210,548,554 | 76,702,016 | ||||||
Bank Tabungan Negara Persero Tbk PT | 32,464,426 | 2,674,385 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
248,557,035 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 4.5% | ||||||||
Bukalapak.com PT Tbk(a) | 180,755,400 | 2,750,011 | ||||||
GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk PT(a) | 2,370,905,000 | 14,920,326 | ||||||
Matahari Department Store Tbk PT | 715,700 | 122,181 | ||||||
Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk PT | 38,046,500 | 4,833,879 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
22,626,397 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 0.5% | ||||||||
Pacific Strategic Financial Tbk PT(a) | 33,677,300 | 2,454,485 | ||||||
Pool Advista Indonesia Tbk PT(a)(b) | 7,126,300 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,454,485 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.8% | ||||||||
Barito Pacific Tbk PT | 114,630,652 | 8,052,638 | ||||||
Surya Esa Perkasa Tbk PT | 23,831,100 | 946,672 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,999,310 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.4% | ||||||||
PP Persero Tbk PT(a) | 20,698,222 | 788,033 | ||||||
Waskita Karya Persero Tbk PT(a)(b) | 61,414,619 | 733,104 | ||||||
Wijaya Karya Persero Tbk PT(a) | 19,708,270 | 509,853 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,030,990 | ||||||||
Construction Materials — 2.1% | ||||||||
Berkah Beton Sadaya Tbk PT(a) | 64,732,500 | 212,516 | ||||||
Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa Tbk PT | 6,053,544 | 4,252,413 | ||||||
Semen Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 13,985,341 | 6,240,635 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,705,564 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 0.4% | ||||||||
BFI Finance Indonesia Tbk PT | 22,285,400 | 1,755,353 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.1% | ||||||||
Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk PT | 54,599,900 | 10,396,567 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 5.3% | ||||||||
Inovisi Infracom Tbk PT(b) | 9,476,400 | — | ||||||
Sarana Menara Nusantara Tbk PT | 66,107,900 | 4,470,351 | ||||||
Telkom Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 90,487,690 | 22,118,691 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
26,589,042 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.1% | ||||||||
Metrodata Electronics Tbk PT | 14,291,300 | 492,642 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 5.7% | ||||||||
Astra Agro Lestari Tbk PT | 534,400 | 266,493 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Food Products (continued) | ||||||||
Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Tbk PT(a) | 27,444,925 | $ | 9,323,074 | |||||
Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk PT | 9,234,854 | 6,791,226 | ||||||
Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk PT | 16,821,130 | 7,837,386 | ||||||
Inti Agri Resources Tbk PT(a)(b) | 190,840,700 | — | ||||||
Japfa Comfeed Indonesia Tbk PT | 22,712,700 | 1,922,626 | ||||||
Perusahaan Perkebunan London Sumatra Indonesia Tbk PT | 21,712,500 | 1,453,759 | ||||||
Sawit Sumbermas Sarana Tbk PT | 9,632,700 | 777,953 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
28,372,517 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.9% | ||||||||
Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk PT | 49,419,007 | 4,458,340 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Medikaloka Hermina Tbk PT | 18,439,600 | 1,695,039 | ||||||
Metro Healthcare Indonesia TBK PT(a) | 56,388,500 | 1,906,991 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,602,030 | ||||||||
Household Products — 1.4% | ||||||||
Unilever Indonesia Tbk PT | 28,734,120 | 6,923,994 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 4.1% | ||||||||
Astra International Tbk PT | 48,775,430 | 20,637,116 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 0.4% | ||||||||
Panin Financial Tbk PT | 101,629,978 | 1,947,604 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.4% | ||||||||
Transcoal Pacific Tbk PT | 3,072,400 | 1,825,687 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Media — 0.4% | ||||||||
Media Nusantara Citra Tbk PT | 31,017,800 | 1,069,156 | ||||||
Surya Citra Media Tbk PT | 114,325,900 | 1,110,815 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,179,971 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 3.8% | ||||||||
Aneka Tambang Tbk | 37,016,554 | 4,829,276 | ||||||
Bumi Resources Minerals Tbk PT(a) | 128,976,900 | 1,651,378 | ||||||
Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk PT(a) | 39,752,806 | 8,811,302 | ||||||
Timah Tbk PT | 6,946,000 | 414,733 | ||||||
Vale Indonesia Tbk PT | 7,946,000 | 3,075,263 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,781,952 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 5.6% | ||||||||
Adaro Energy Indonesia Tbk PT | 53,922,839 | 9,446,565 | ||||||
AKR Corporindo Tbk PT | 40,362,100 | 3,708,328 | ||||||
Bukit Asam Tbk PT | 18,688,300 | 3,507,291 | ||||||
Bumi Resources Tbk PT(a) | 211,946,000 | 1,920,456 | ||||||
Energi Mega Persada Tbk PT, NVS(a) | 25,214,300 | 403,959 | ||||||
Harum Energy Tbk PT | 7,509,900 | 768,709 | ||||||
Indika Energy Tbk PT | 5,113,100 | 670,998 | ||||||
Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk PT | 2,040,100 | 3,872,548 | ||||||
Medco Energi Internasional Tbk PT | 40,379,086 | 2,837,384 | ||||||
Petrindo Jaya Kreasi Tbk PT, NVS | 479,700 | 71,498 | ||||||
Sekawan Intipratama Tbk PT(b) | 30,572,100 | — | ||||||
Sugih Energy Tbk PT(a)(b) | 39,886,700 | — | ||||||
Trada Alam Minera Tbk PT(a)(b) | 163,879,000 | — | ||||||
United Tractors Tbk PT | 527,296 | 899,735 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
28,107,471 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 1.9% | ||||||||
Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper Tbk PT | 11,093,400 | 6,625,047 | ||||||
Pabrik Kertas Tjiwi Kimia Tbk PT | 5,195,200 | 2,660,012 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,285,059 |
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Indonesia ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Personal Care Products — 0.3% | ||||||||
Industri Jamu Dan Farmasi Sido Muncul Tbk PT | 39,959,337 | $ | 1,626,710 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.8% | ||||||||
Kalbe Farma Tbk PT | 76,149,285 | 9,059,578 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 2.5% | ||||||||
Bumi Serpong Damai Tbk PT(a) | 36,868,022 | 2,747,551 | ||||||
Ciputra Development Tbk PT | 47,659,713 | 3,567,438 | ||||||
Hanson International Tbk PT(a)(b) | 372,896,535 | — | ||||||
Lippo Karawaci Tbk PT(a) | 155,774,842 | 1,002,359 | ||||||
Pakuwon Jati Tbk PT | 91,531,677 | 2,702,983 | ||||||
Rimo International Lestari Tbk PT(a)(b) | 54,096,000 | — | ||||||
Summarecon Agung Tbk PT | 54,882,186 | 2,432,402 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,452,733 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.9% | ||||||||
Ace Hardware Indonesia Tbk PT | 35,619,579 | 1,706,823 | ||||||
Erajaya Swasembada Tbk PT | 54,244,000 | 1,728,896 | ||||||
Map Aktif Adiperkasa PT | 18,795,500 | 999,629 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,435,348 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.8% | ||||||||
Astrindo Nusantara Infrastructure Tbk PT(a) | 132,413,100 | 886,811 | ||||||
Jasa Marga Persero Tbk PT | 11,263,808 | 3,178,628 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,065,439 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.0% | ||||||||
Smartfren Telecom Tbk PT(a) | 292,109,500 | 1,054,893 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services (continued) | ||||||||
XL Axiata Tbk PT | 22,480,300 | $ | 3,689,208 | |||||
|
| |||||||
4,744,101 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.8% | 497,598,800 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 450,000 | 450,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% | 450,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.9% | 498,048,800 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.1% | 381,708 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 498,430,508 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | 260,000 | $190,000 | (a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 450,000 | 450,000 | $ | 24,872 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 22 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,077 | $ | (6,470 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 47 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Indonesia ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,470 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,470 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 151,192 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 151,192 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 288 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 288 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 744,356 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 54,910,329 | $ | 441,955,367 | $ | 733,104 | $ | 497,598,800 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 450,000 | — | — | 450,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 55,360,329 | $ | 441,955,367 | $ | 733,104 | $ | 498,048,800 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (6,470 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (6,470 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
48 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Banks — 26.1% | ||||||||
Banco BBVA Peru SA | 5,350,158 | $ | 2,244,042 | |||||
Banco de Credito del Peru S.A., Class C | 336,641 | 235,939 | ||||||
Credicorp Ltd. | 163,496 | 23,123,239 | ||||||
Intercorp Financial Services Inc. | 76,956 | 1,795,384 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
27,398,604 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 2.4% | ||||||||
Falabella SA | 1,025,584 | 2,526,293 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.7% | ||||||||
Aenza SAA(a) | 4,680,745 | 696,643 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 1.9% | ||||||||
Cementos Pacasmayo SAA | 1,892,394 | 1,961,295 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.8% | ||||||||
InRetail Peru Corp.(b) | 86,451 | 2,926,366 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 2.7% | ||||||||
Laureate Education Inc., Class A | 207,224 | 2,886,630 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 2.2% | ||||||||
Interconexion Electrica SA ESP | 635,518 | 2,327,359 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 5.7% | ||||||||
Alicorp SAA | 2,786,532 | 4,788,180 | ||||||
Casa Grande SAA | 450,744 | 1,218,507 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,006,687 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 46.1% | ||||||||
Cia. de Minas Buenaventura SAA, ADR | 568,672 | 4,856,459 | ||||||
Corp. Aceros Arequipa SA, NVS | 2,579,911 | 767,945 | ||||||
Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.(a) | 820,490 | 2,550,369 | ||||||
Hochschild Mining PLC | 2,714,690 | 3,144,582 | ||||||
MMG Ltd.(a) | 7,844,000 | 2,602,868 | ||||||
Pan American Silver Corp. | 157,085 | 2,597,157 | ||||||
Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde SAA | 119,358 | 3,700,098 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Metals & Mining (continued) | ||||||||
Southern Copper Corp. | 293,694 | $ | 23,689,358 | |||||
Volcan Cia. Minera SAA, Class B, NVS(a) | 18,195,229 | 2,038,405 | ||||||
Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. | 58,564 | 2,554,590 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
48,501,831 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 3.1% | ||||||||
PetroTal Corp. | 5,527,792 | 3,207,192 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 2.4% | ||||||||
Parque Arauco SA | 1,715,141 | 2,544,854 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 3.1% | ||||||||
Ferreycorp SAA | 4,841,157 | 3,275,080 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.2% | 104,258,834 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.4% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 450,000 | 450,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.4% | 450,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.6% | 104,708,834 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.4% | 394,136 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 105,102,970 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | — | $450,000 | (a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 450,000 | 450,000 | $ | 11,571 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 49 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 14 | 09/15/23 | $ | 686 | $ | (10,487 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 10,487 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 10,487 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,245 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,245 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,311 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,311 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 953,471 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 98,511,384 | $ | 5,747,450 | $ | — | $ | 104,258,834 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 450,000 | — | — | 450,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 98,961,384 | $ | 5,747,450 | $ | — | $ | 104,708,834 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (10,487 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (10,487 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 51 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Philippines ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Banks — 23.4% | ||||||||
Bank of the Philippine Islands | 3,288,885 | $ | 6,387,651 | |||||
BDO Unibank Inc. | 4,103,468 | 10,088,688 | ||||||
Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. | 3,844,514 | 3,746,649 | ||||||
Security Bank Corp. | 1,111,350 | 1,579,677 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,802,665 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.0% | ||||||||
D&L Industries Inc. | 7,408,600 | 872,755 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.4% | ||||||||
Puregold Price Club Inc. | 2,858,160 | 1,408,459 | ||||||
Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. | 982,300 | 858,775 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,267,234 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.0% | ||||||||
Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc.(a) | 6,828,900 | 936,468 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 4.9% | ||||||||
Manila Electric Co. | 611,710 | 3,712,179 | ||||||
Synergy Grid & Development Phils Inc. | 5,959,600 | 842,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,554,179 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 2.4% | ||||||||
Metro Pacific Investments Corp. | 24,628,050 | 2,195,412 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 3.7% | ||||||||
Century Pacific Food Inc. | 3,428,400 | 1,637,906 | ||||||
Universal Robina Corp. | 914,668 | 1,805,380 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,443,286 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 6.4% | ||||||||
Bloomberry Resorts Corp.(a) | 9,797,065 | 1,913,912 | ||||||
Jollibee Foods Corp. | 959,051 | 4,012,228 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,926,140 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.1% | ||||||||
ACEN Corp. | 1,080,580 | 95,503 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 23.7% | ||||||||
Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. | 3,677,727 | 3,052,864 | ||||||
Alliance Global Group Inc. | 7,393,439 | 1,632,250 | ||||||
Ayala Corp. | 442,638 | 4,811,998 | ||||||
DMCI Holdings Inc. | 7,949,600 | 1,355,661 | ||||||
GT Capital Holdings Inc. | 235,356 | 2,378,543 | ||||||
JG Summit Holdings Inc. | 2,712,961 | 1,749,712 | ||||||
LT Group Inc. | 7,183,000 | 1,157,168 | ||||||
SM Investments Corp. | 404,016 | 5,939,050 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
22,077,246 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Office REITs — 1.3% | ||||||||
AREIT Inc. | 480,100 | $ | 281,938 | |||||
MREIT Inc. | 3,920,000 | 936,037 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,217,975 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.5% | ||||||||
Semirara Mining & Power Corp., Class A | 2,510,100 | 1,418,380 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.3% | ||||||||
Cebu Air Inc.(a) | 398,640 | 254,045 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 16.9% | ||||||||
Ayala Land Inc. | 11,040,250 | 5,290,365 | ||||||
Megaworld Corp. | 34,771,960 | 1,221,798 | ||||||
Robinsons Land Corp. | 978,006 | 252,367 | ||||||
SM Prime Holdings Inc. | 17,391,235 | 8,967,633 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,732,163 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 1.6% | ||||||||
Wilcon Depot Inc. | 3,805,200 | 1,491,972 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 4.4% | ||||||||
International Container Terminal Services Inc. | 1,124,803 | 4,111,078 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Water Utilities — 1.1% | ||||||||
Manila Water Co. Inc. | 3,279,329 | 1,023,647 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 3.6% | ||||||||
PLDT Inc. | 165,814 | 3,365,071 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.7% | 92,785,219 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(b)(c) | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% | 60,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.8% | 92,845,219 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.2% | 229,129 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ 93,074,348 | |||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
52 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Philippines ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | 170,000 | $ | — | $ | (110,000 | )(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 60,000 | 60,000 | $ | 2,872 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 5 | 09/15/23 | $ | 245 | $ | (1,543 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,543 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,543 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,857 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,857 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,617 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,617 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 218,353 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 53 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Philippines ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 14,476,676 | $ | 78,308,543 | $ | — | $ | 92,785,219 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 60,000 | — | — | 60,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 14,536,676 | $ | 78,308,543 | $ | — | $ | 92,845,219 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (1,543 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (1,543 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
54 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Poland ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Banks — 27.0% | ||||||||
Alior Bank SA(a) | 178,036 | $ | 2,420,447 | |||||
Bank Millennium SA(a) | 2,532,518 | 3,728,027 | ||||||
Bank Polska Kasa Opieki SA | 557,532 | 14,554,951 | ||||||
mBank SA(a) | 56,687 | 5,887,333 | ||||||
Powszechna Kasa Oszczednosci Bank Polski SA | 2,757,247 | 24,900,077 | ||||||
Santander Bank Polska SA(a) | 111,923 | 10,069,525 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
61,560,360 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 6.7% | ||||||||
Allegro.eu SA (a)(b) | 1,256,989 | 10,054,082 | ||||||
Pepco Group NV(a) | 669,527 | 5,245,182 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,299,264 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 1.5% | ||||||||
Warsaw Stock Exchange | 174,001 | 1,548,452 | ||||||
XTB SA(b) | 231,602 | 1,859,238 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,407,690 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.3% | ||||||||
Ciech SA | 106,446 | 1,136,883 | ||||||
Grupa Azoty SA(a) | 290,858 | 1,771,898 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,908,781 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 2.3% | ||||||||
Budimex SA | 48,886 | 5,318,580 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Finance — 2.8% | ||||||||
KRUK SA(a) | 65,339 | 6,331,686 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 6.7% | ||||||||
Dino Polska SA(a)(b) | 148,171 | 13,587,513 | ||||||
Eurocash SA | 465,448 | 1,799,247 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,386,760 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 2.0% | ||||||||
Orange Polska SA | 2,622,826 | 4,549,127 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 6.0% | ||||||||
Enea SA(a) | 1,215,483 | 2,589,429 | ||||||
PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna SA(a) | 3,329,701 | 6,834,808 | ||||||
Tauron Polska Energia SA(a) | 4,211,122 | 4,364,022 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,788,259 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 3.7% | ||||||||
CD Projekt SA | 239,632 | 8,553,389 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.1% | ||||||||
AmRest Holdings SE(a) | 364,236 | 2,421,695 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 8.2% | ||||||||
Powszechny Zaklad Ubezpieczen SA | 1,879,763 | 18,825,542 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Media — 1.5% | ||||||||
Cyfrowy Polsat SA(c) | 1,058,321 | $ | 3,477,923 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Metals & Mining — 7.6% | ||||||||
Grupa Kety SA | 27,248 | 4,240,060 | ||||||
Jastrzebska Spolka Weglowa SA, Class S(a) | 261,783 | 2,293,005 | ||||||
KGHM Polska Miedz SA | 390,617 | 10,771,412 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
17,304,477 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 12.4% | ||||||||
Polski Koncern Naftowy ORLEN SA | 1,857,642 | 28,360,371 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Software — 2.9% | ||||||||
Asseco Poland SA | 219,957 | 3,907,316 | ||||||
LiveChat Software SA | 81,968 | 2,656,017 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,563,333 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 5.8% | ||||||||
CCC SA(a) | 203,219 | 2,193,563 | ||||||
LPP SA | 3,286 | 11,054,519 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,248,082 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.5% | 227,305,319 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 1.3% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 55,805 | 55,822 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 2,780,000 | 2,780,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 1.3% | 2,835,822 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.8% | 230,141,141 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.8)% |
| (1,777,534 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 228,363,607 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 55 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Poland ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 5,617,290 | $ | — | $ | (5,561,673 | )(a) | $ | 3,818 | $ | (3,613 | ) | $ | 55,822 | 55,805 | $ | 92,444 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 1,140,000 | 1,640,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 2,780,000 | 2,780,000 | 99,846 | 3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 3,818 | $ | (3,613 | ) | $ | 2,835,822 | $ | 192,290 | $ | 3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 26 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,273 | $ | (38,476 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 38,476 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 38,476 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (13,557 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (13,557 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (38,037 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (38,037 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 691,249 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
56 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Poland ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 1,859,238 | $ | 225,446,081 | $ | — | $ | 227,305,319 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 2,835,822 | — | — | 2,835,822 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 4,695,060 | $ | 225,446,081 | $ | — | $ | 230,141,141 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (38,476 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (38,476 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 57 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Qatar ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.8% | ||||||||
Gulf Warehousing Co. | 711,660 | $ | 631,715 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 51.4% | ||||||||
Commercial Bank PSQC (The) | 2,795,968 | 4,355,137 | ||||||
Doha Bank QPSC | 2,508,487 | 1,182,906 | ||||||
Dukhan Bank | 1,937,683 | 2,220,333 | ||||||
Masraf Al Rayan QSC | 5,753,198 | 3,500,774 | ||||||
Qatar International Islamic Bank QSC | 1,084,063 | 2,939,062 | ||||||
Qatar Islamic Bank SAQ | 1,624,725 | 8,604,666 | ||||||
Qatar National Bank QPSC | 4,125,849 | 17,648,029 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
40,450,907 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 3.6% | ||||||||
Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Co. | 5,666,327 | 2,857,410 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.6% | ||||||||
Estithmar Holding QPSC(a) | 779,120 | 476,938 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 1.6% | ||||||||
Qatar National Cement Co. QSC | 695,156 | 667,411 | ||||||
Qatari Investors Group QSC | 1,159,557 | 552,826 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,220,237 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.0% | ||||||||
Al Meera Consumer Goods Co. QSC | 215,786 | 816,856 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 3.9% | ||||||||
Ooredoo QPSC | 1,026,851 | 3,042,104 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 1.4% | ||||||||
Gulf International Services QSC | 1,577,726 | 1,137,824 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Financial Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Salam International Investment Ltd. QSC(a) | 2,917,200 | 564,123 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 0.8% | ||||||||
Baladna(a) | 1,654,428 | 640,707 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.8% | ||||||||
Medicare Group | 389,351 | 640,712 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 7.5% | ||||||||
Aamal Co. | 3,775,083 | 872,781 | ||||||
Industries Qatar QSC | 1,372,716 | 4,650,915 | ||||||
Mannai Corp. QSC | 296,652 | 408,827 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,932,523 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Insurance — 2.0% | ||||||||
Qatar Insurance Co. SAQ(a) | 2,419,103 | $ | 1,556,186 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Marine Transportation — 2.6% | ||||||||
Qatar Navigation QSC | 773,433 | 2,028,500 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Metals & Mining — 1.9% | ||||||||
Qatar Aluminum Manufacturing Co. | 4,075,097 | 1,488,989 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Multi-Utilities — 3.6% | ||||||||
Qatar Electricity & Water Co. QSC | 572,910 | 2,809,041 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 7.7% | ||||||||
Qatar Fuel QSC | 644,514 | 2,828,754 | ||||||
Qatar Gas Transport Co. Ltd. | 3,175,515 | 3,227,074 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,055,828 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 5.3% | ||||||||
Barwa Real Estate Co. | 2,647,548 | 1,900,147 | ||||||
Ezdan Holding Group QSC(a) | 2,883,129 | 820,630 | ||||||
Mazaya Real Estate Development QPSC(a) | 2,440,527 | 504,707 | ||||||
United Development Co. QSC | 3,121,771 | 957,652 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,183,136 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.7% | ||||||||
Vodafone Qatar QSC | 2,703,331 | 1,371,289 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 98.9% | 77,905,025 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Banks — 0.9% | ||||||||
Lesha Bank LLC )(a) | 1,790,001 | 691,466 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.9% | 691,466 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.8% | 78,596,491 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.2% | 154,973 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 78,751,464 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | 50,000 | $ | — | $(50,000 | )(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 4,086 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
58 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Qatar ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 3 | 09/15/23 | $ | 147 | $ | (132 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | �� | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 132 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 132 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (20,344 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (20,344 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 543 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 543 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 145,295 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 8,404,664 | $ | 69,500,361 | $ | — | $ | 77,905,025 | ||||||||
Rights | — | 691,466 | — | 691,466 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 8,404,664 | $ | 70,191,827 | $ | — | $ | 78,596,491 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 59 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Qatar ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ (132 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (132 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
60 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Banks — 36.7% | ||||||||
Al Rajhi Bank | 5,888,333 | $ | 113,198,953 | |||||
Alinma Bank | 3,079,303 | 30,254,798 | ||||||
Arab National Bank | 2,076,587 | 14,271,458 | ||||||
Bank AlBilad | 1,597,511 | 18,243,378 | ||||||
Bank Al-Jazira | 1,513,381 | 7,148,111 | ||||||
Banque Saudi Fransi | 1,915,528 | 19,564,722 | ||||||
Riyad Bank | 4,415,740 | 35,809,873 | ||||||
Saudi Awwal Bank | 2,938,192 | 28,031,140 | ||||||
Saudi Investment Bank (The) | 679,361 | 3,003,984 | ||||||
Saudi National Bank (The) | 8,813,372 | 83,931,906 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
353,458,323 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.2% | ||||||||
Bawan Co. | 52,958 | 495,503 | ||||||
Saudi Ceramic Co. | 222,835 | 1,724,512 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,220,015 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 0.3% | ||||||||
Saudi Tadawul Group Holding Co. | 49,313 | 2,599,670 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 13.2% | ||||||||
Advanced Petrochemical Co. | 508,132 | 5,761,060 | ||||||
Alujain Corp. | 101,679 | 1,349,293 | ||||||
Methanol Chemicals Co.(a) | 68,821 | 419,391 | ||||||
National Industrialization Co.(a) | 1,374,747 | 4,662,081 | ||||||
SABIC Agri-Nutrients Co. | 586,095 | 21,477,389 | ||||||
Sahara International Petrochemical Co. | 1,225,042 | 11,891,808 | ||||||
Saudi Aramco Base Oil Co. | 22,309 | 870,079 | ||||||
Saudi Basic Industries Corp. | 2,689,123 | 63,331,930 | ||||||
Saudi Industrial Investment Group | 1,041,851 | 7,161,325 | ||||||
Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Co.(a) | 1,438,709 | 4,665,795 | ||||||
Yanbu National Petrochemical Co. | 533,208 | 6,008,601 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
127,598,752 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.5% | ||||||||
Saudi Airlines Catering Co. | 174,259 | 5,003,955 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 3.0% | ||||||||
Arabian Cement Co./Saudi Arabia | 255,917 | 2,352,830 | ||||||
City Cement Co. | 345,140 | 1,875,280 | ||||||
Eastern Province Cement Co. | 219,761 | 2,488,993 | ||||||
Najran Cement Co. | 497,508 | 1,656,570 | ||||||
Northern Region Cement Co. | 561,843 | 1,696,281 | ||||||
Qassim Cement Co. (The) | 198,888 | 3,542,244 | ||||||
Saudi Cement Co. | 321,892 | 4,643,024 | ||||||
Southern Province Cement Co. | 279,685 | 3,482,231 | ||||||
Yamama Cement Co. | 454,542 | 3,999,277 | ||||||
Yanbu Cement Co. | 349,984 | 3,393,583 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
29,130,313 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 0.0% | ||||||||
Nayifat Finance Co.(a) | 103,395 | 425,583 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.0% | ||||||||
Abdullah Al Othaim Markets Co. | 1,697,426 | 6,585,628 | ||||||
Al-Dawaa Medical Services Co. | 22,405 | 571,116 | ||||||
Almunajem Foods Co. | 32,026 | 614,081 | ||||||
BinDawood Holding Co. | 322,120 | 531,621 | ||||||
Nahdi Medical Co. | 35,600 | 1,439,383 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,741,829 | ||||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.2% | ||||||||
Ataa Educational Co. | 43,322 | 879,869 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Diversified Consumer Services (continued) | ||||||||
National Co. for Learning & Education Ltd. | 43,322 | $ | 1,338,578 | |||||
|
| |||||||
2,218,447 | ||||||||
Diversified REITs — 0.2% | ||||||||
Jadwa REIT Saudi Fund | 472,753 | 1,517,589 | ||||||
Riyad REIT Fund | 189,656 | 457,624 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,975,213 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 6.1% | ||||||||
Saudi Telecom Co. | 5,506,367 | 58,430,196 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 1.6% | ||||||||
Saudi Electricity Co. | 2,752,289 | 15,182,149 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Electrical Industries Co.(a) | 44,618 | 531,754 | ||||||
Riyadh Cables Group Co. | 29,036 | 600,021 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,131,775 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
Amlak International for Real Estate Finance Co. | 116,957 | 447,923 | ||||||
SHL Finance Co. | 86,129 | 436,117 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
884,040 | ||||||||
Food Products — 3.7% | ||||||||
Al Jouf Agricultural Development Co. | 46,541 | 600,507 | ||||||
Almarai Co. JSC | 828,830 | 13,997,799 | ||||||
Halwani Brothers Co.(a) | 41,585 | 603,926 | ||||||
National Agriculture Development Co. (The)(a) | 260,662 | 3,392,245 | ||||||
Saudi Fisheries Co.(a) | 60,581 | 417,608 | ||||||
Saudia Dairy & Foodstuff Co. | 64,392 | 5,493,832 | ||||||
Savola Group (The) | 931,717 | 9,401,354 | ||||||
Sinad Holding Co.(a) | 422,359 | 1,287,368 | ||||||
Tanmiah Food Co. | 14,933 | 398,941 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
35,593,580 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.4% | ||||||||
National Gas & Industrialization Co. | 199,667 | 3,401,314 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.7% | ||||||||
Saudi Public Transport Co.(a) | 375,998 | 1,801,575 | ||||||
Theeb Rent A Car Co. | 36,761 | 700,130 | ||||||
United International Transportation Co. | 190,736 | 3,736,804 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,238,509 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 4.5% | ||||||||
Al Hammadi Holding | 343,309 | 4,917,208 | ||||||
Dallah Healthcare Co. | 139,408 | 5,203,663 | ||||||
Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group Co. | 206,421 | 13,354,571 | ||||||
Middle East Healthcare Co.(a) | 199,456 | 3,113,322 | ||||||
Mouwasat Medical Services Co. | 342,209 | 10,024,033 | ||||||
National Medical Care Co. | 111,303 | 3,614,495 | ||||||
Saudi Chemical Co. Holding | 2,416,337 | 2,879,095 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
43,106,387 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.4% | ||||||||
Alamar Foods, NVS | 13,431 | 446,190 | ||||||
Dur Hospitality Co.(a) | 254,214 | 1,884,247 | ||||||
Herfy Food Services Co. | 128,574 | 1,192,109 | ||||||
Jahez International Co., NVS | 2,714 | 422,298 | ||||||
Leejam Sports Co. JSC | 112,162 | 4,581,397 | ||||||
Seera Group Holding(a) | 657,823 | 5,084,152 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,610,393 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.0% | ||||||||
ACWA Power Co. | 185,154 | 9,517,699 | ||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 61 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.2% | ||||||||
Astra Industrial Group | 63,046 | $ | 1,543,562 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 2.6% | ||||||||
Al Rajhi Co. for Co-operative Insurance(a) | 83,434 | 3,572,581 | ||||||
Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance Co. | 250,668 | 13,473,576 | ||||||
Co. for Cooperative Insurance (The) | 264,374 | 8,176,552 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
25,222,709 | ||||||||
IT Services — 1.4% | ||||||||
Al Moammar Information Systems Co. | 26,675 | 1,183,601 | ||||||
Arabian Internet & Communications Services Co. | 16,397 | 1,540,714 | ||||||
Elm Co. | 45,385 | 10,269,315 | ||||||
Perfect Presentation For Commercial Services Co., NVS | 86,493 | 558,994 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,552,624 | ||||||||
Media — 0.8% | ||||||||
Arabian Contracting Services Co. | 21,972 | 1,227,320 | ||||||
Saudi Research & Media Group(a) | 138,970 | 6,566,321 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,793,641 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 4.0% | ||||||||
Al Masane Al Kobra Mining Co. | 29,915 | 428,248 | ||||||
East Pipes Integrated Co. for Industry, NVS | 25,766 | 456,151 | ||||||
Saudi Arabian Mining Co.(a) | 3,513,834 | 37,852,375 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
38,736,774 | ||||||||
Multi-Utilities — 0.0% | ||||||||
Power & Water Utility Co. for Jubail & Yanbu | 22,846 | 433,085 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 8.8% | ||||||||
Aldrees Petroleum and Transport Services Co. | 156,498 | 5,675,687 | ||||||
Rabigh Refining & Petrochemical Co.(a) | 1,686,498 | 4,639,886 | ||||||
Saudi Arabia Refineries Co. | 20,818 | 472,046 | ||||||
Saudi Arabian Oil Co.(b) | 7,948,255 | 74,012,191 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
84,799,810 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.1% | ||||||||
Middle East Paper Co. | 52,545 | 464,502 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.3% | ||||||||
Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries & Medical Appliances Corp.(a) | 288,882 | 2,889,931 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Professional Services — 0.2% | ||||||||
Maharah Human Resources Co. | 118,122 | 1,993,073 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 2.1% | ||||||||
Alandalus Property Co. | 65,514 | $ | 433,191 | |||||
Arriyadh Development Co. | 458,605 | 2,614,127 | ||||||
Dar Al Arkan Real Estate Development Co.(a) | 1,876,439 | 9,304,165 | ||||||
Emaar Economic City(a) | 1,755,581 | 3,934,639 | ||||||
Retal Urban Development Co., NVS | 185,095 | 437,249 | ||||||
Saudi Real Estate Co.(a) | 827,616 | 2,932,225 | ||||||
Sumou Real Estate Co. | 32,352 | 481,604 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
20,137,200 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 1.6% | ||||||||
AlSaif Stores For Development & Investment Co. | 191,080 | 433,157 | ||||||
Fawaz Abdulaziz Al Hokair & Co.(a) | 206,398 | 1,164,143 | ||||||
Jarir Marketing Co. | 2,130,612 | 8,384,635 | ||||||
Saudi Automotive Services Co. | 69,491 | 1,241,226 | ||||||
Saudi Co. For Hardware CJSC(a) | 108,776 | 930,355 | ||||||
United Electronics Co. | 182,849 | 3,706,697 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,860,213 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.0% | ||||||||
Alaseel Co. | 304,332 | 421,934 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.5% | ||||||||
Saudi Ground Services Co.(a) | 407,980 | 3,616,080 | ||||||
Saudi Industrial Services Co. | 119,823 | 876,928 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,493,008 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 0.1% | ||||||||
AlKhorayef Water & Power Technologies Co. | 25,834 | 1,052,370 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 2.2% | ||||||||
Etihad Etisalat Co. | 1,250,383 | 15,052,002 | ||||||
Mobile Telecommunications Co. | 1,751,588 | 6,304,624 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,356,626 | ||||||||
Total Investments — 99.8% | 962,219,204 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.2% | 1,568,238 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 963,787,442 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | 3,600,000 | $ | — | $ | (3,600,000 | )(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 30,182 | $ | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
62 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | �� | iShares® MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 28 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,371 | $ | (32,856 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,856 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,856 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (371,258 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (371,258 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (43,455 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (43,455 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 1,417,350 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 94,535,521 | $ | 867,683,683 | $ | — | $ | 962,219,204 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (32,856 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (32,856 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 63 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI UAE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 1.0% | ||||||||
Abu Dhabi Aviation Co., NVS | 19,890 | $ | 39,531 | |||||
Aramex PJSC | 490,222 | 338,721 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
378,252 | ||||||||
Banks — 34.7% | ||||||||
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC | 708,814 | 1,665,414 | ||||||
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC | 534,430 | 1,516,134 | ||||||
Ajman Bank PJSC(a) | 636,661 | 422,938 | ||||||
Dubai Islamic Bank PJSC | 1,029,273 | 1,580,190 | ||||||
Emirates NBD Bank PJSC | 352,358 | 1,567,910 | ||||||
First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC | 1,487,991 | 5,540,612 | ||||||
Sharjah Islamic Bank | 698,503 | 477,170 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,770,368 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.8% | ||||||||
Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics | 408,590 | 281,441 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Capital Markets — 1.5% | ||||||||
Dubai Financial Market PJSC | 932,731 | 408,655 | ||||||
SHUAA Capital PSC(a) | 1,248,376 | 133,523 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
542,178 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.0% | ||||||||
Arabtec Holding PJSC(a)(b) | 2,433,366 | 7 | ||||||
Drake & Scull International PJSC(a)(b) | 2,972,998 | 8 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15 | ||||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Taaleem Holdings PJSC, NVS(a) | 231,048 | 262,312 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 18.3% | ||||||||
Al Yah Satellite Communications Co. | 576,964 | 395,755 | ||||||
Emirates Telecommunications Group Co. PJSC | 1,176,880 | 6,357,011 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,752,766 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 2.2% | ||||||||
Al Waha Capital PJSC | 719,443 | 328,940 | ||||||
Amanat Holdings PJSC | 967,714 | 284,544 | ||||||
Amlak Finance PJSC(a) | 835,562 | 198,236 | ||||||
Gulf General Investment Co.(a)(b) | 7,295,803 | 11,819 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
823,539 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.9% | ||||||||
Agthia Group PJSC | 226,552 | 313,953 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0% | ||||||||
NMC Health PLC, NVS(b) | 112,588 | 1 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 2.9% | ||||||||
Americana Restaurants International PLC | 894,821 | 1,074,370 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 7.4% | ||||||||
Dubai Investments PJSC | 971,261 | 655,793 | ||||||
Multiply Group(a) | 1,386,806 | 1,437,788 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates (continued) | ||||||||
Q Holding PJSC(a) | 634,790 | $ | 640,883 | |||||
|
| |||||||
2,734,464 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.3% | ||||||||
Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC(a) | 66,362 | 129,544 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.6% | ||||||||
Dana Gas PJSC | 2,283,647 | 574,403 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 2.2% | ||||||||
Air Arabia PJSC | 1,002,566 | 805,219 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 19.3% | ||||||||
Aldar Properties PJSC | 1,139,401 | 1,630,919 | ||||||
Deyaar Development PJSC(a) | 313,184 | 60,156 | ||||||
Emaar Development PJSC | 242,368 | 432,331 | ||||||
Emaar Properties PJSC | 2,210,196 | 4,247,465 | ||||||
Eshraq Investments PJSC(a) | 1,622,578 | 231,819 | ||||||
RAK Properties PJSC(a) | 853,760 | 269,633 | ||||||
Union Properties PJSC(a) | 2,206,980 | 243,580 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,115,903 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 3.5% | ||||||||
Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. for Distribution PJSC | 1,245,522 | 1,291,979 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Water Utilities — 2.5% | ||||||||
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corp. | 1,026,840 | 516,398 | ||||||
National Central Cooling Co. PJSC | 404,754 | 405,525 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
921,923 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.8% | 36,772,630 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 30,000 | 30,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% | 30,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.9% | 36,802,630 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.1% | 37,645 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 36,840,275 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
64 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI UAE ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | 80,000 | $ | — | $(50,000 | )(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 30,000 | 30,000 | $ | 3,294 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (4,767 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (4,767 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,635 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,635 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 12,281 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 15,775,341 | $ | 20,985,454 | $ | 11,835 | $ | 36,772,630 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 30,000 | — | — | 30,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 15,805,341 | $ | 20,985,454 | $ | 11,835 | $ | 36,802,630 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 65 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Brazil ETF | iShares MSCI China ETF | iShares MSCI China ETF | iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 205,178,975 | $ | 7,493,019,065 | $ | 61,558,580 | $ | 497,598,800 | ||||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | — | 179,031,589 | 11,852,234 | 450,000 | ||||||||||||
Cash | 277,519 | 78,388 | 7,100 | 9,566 | ||||||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 123,000 | 5,194,000 | 23,000 | 6,000 | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(d) | 1,296,873 | 72,604,666 | 86,124 | 410,460 | ||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments sold | 4,160,960 | 100,128,749 | 2,267,618 | 17,751,031 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | — | 261,449 | 46,948 | — | ||||||||||||
Capital shares sold | 4,333,466 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 343,143 | 2,920,138 | 51,106 | 15,860 | ||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 698 | 24,356 | 229 | 1,009 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total assets | 215,714,634 | 7,853,262,400 | 75,892,939 | 516,242,726 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | — | 170,991,160 | 11,776,747 | — | ||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 8,299,482 | 149,778,341 | 2,607,767 | 17,550,733 | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 97,258 | 3,856,508 | 31,790 | 255,310 | ||||||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 25,088 | 384,717 | 2,059 | 6,175 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total liabilities | 8,421,828 | 325,010,726 | 14,418,363 | 17,812,218 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 207,292,806 | $ | 7,528,251,674 | $ | 61,474,576 | $ | 498,430,508 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 277,123,090 | $ | 10,573,867,560 | $ | 117,686,596 | $ | 802,938,206 | ||||||||
Accumulated loss | (69,830,284 | ) | (3,045,615,886 | ) | (56,212,020 | ) | (304,507,698 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 207,292,806 | $ | 7,528,251,674 | $ | 61,474,576 | $ | 498,430,508 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 15,000,000 | 167,200,000 | 2,200,000 | 21,600,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 13.82 | $ | 45.03 | $ | 27.94 | $ | 23.08 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Par value | None | None | None | None | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 195,051,840 | $ | 8,880,614,146 | $ | 85,059,169 | $ | 580,117,442 | ||||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | — | $ | 150,086,311 | $ | 9,855,301 | $ | — | ||||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | — | $ | 178,943,713 | $ | 11,848,960 | $ | 450,000 | ||||||||
(d) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 1,297,152 | $ | 72,698,654 | $ | 86,424 | $ | 409,520 |
See notes to financial statements.
66 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Peru and Global ETF | iShares MSCI Philippines ETF | iShares MSCI Poland ETF | iShares MSCI Qatar ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 104,258,834 | $ | 92,785,219 | $ | 227,305,319 | $ | 78,596,491 | ||||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | 450,000 | 60,000 | 2,835,822 | — | ||||||||||||
Cash | 300 | 8,483 | 7,069 | 4,325 | ||||||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 14,000 | 6,000 | 82,000 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(d) | 30,430 | 9,796 | 2,160,561 | 25,410 | ||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments sold | 2,585,331 | 2,884,706 | 7,260,893 | 1,133,109 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | — | — | 1,334 | — | ||||||||||||
Capital shares sold | — | — | — | 3,545,477 | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 132,137 | 261,604 | 189,761 | — | ||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 1,039 | 213 | 13,041 | 202 | ||||||||||||
From custodian | 113,879 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
Tax reclaims | — | — | 468,477 | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total assets | 107,585,950 | 96,016,021 | 240,324,277 | 83,305,014 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | — | — | 55,822 | — | ||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 2,422,348 | 2,889,353 | 8,840,879 | 4,515,860 | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 54,593 | 49,293 | 123,258 | 37,562 | ||||||||||||
IRS compliance fee for foreign withholding tax claims | — | — | 2,906,275 | — | ||||||||||||
Professional fees | — | — | 4,706 | — | ||||||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 6,039 | 3,027 | 29,730 | 128 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total liabilities | 2,482,980 | 2,941,673 | 11,960,670 | 4,553,550 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 105,102,970 | $ | 93,074,348 | $ | 228,363,607 | $ | 78,751,464 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 301,675,694 | $ | 212,538,316 | $ | 444,552,108 | $ | 91,235,956 | ||||||||
Accumulated loss | (196,572,724 | ) | (119,463,968 | ) | (216,188,501 | ) | (12,484,492 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 105,102,970 | $ | 93,074,348 | $ | 228,363,607 | $ | 78,751,464 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 3,250,000 | 3,800,000 | 11,900,000 | 4,450,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 32.34 | $ | 24.49 | $ | 19.19 | $ | 17.70 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Par value | None | None | None | None | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 124,713,232 | $ | 129,820,370 | $ | 286,853,566 | $ | 67,009,020 | ||||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 52,843 | $ | — | ||||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 450,000 | $ | 60,000 | $ | 2,835,822 | $ | — | ||||||||
(d) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 32,668 | $ | 9,796 | $ | 2,159,287 | $ | 25,417 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 67 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF | iShares MSCI UAE ETF | |||||||
| ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a) | $ | 962,219,204 | $ | 36,772,630 | ||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(b) | — | 30,000 | ||||||
Cash | — | 2,292 | ||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 54,000 | — | ||||||
Foreign currency, at value(c) | 8,909,102 | 13,735 | ||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||
Investments sold | 8,813,453 | 1,912,750 | ||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 357,858 | — | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | — | 189 | ||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | — | 9 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total assets | 980,353,617 | 38,731,605 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||
Bank overdraft | 6,450,430 | — | ||||||
Payables: | ||||||||
Investments purchased | 9,488,877 | 1,872,557 | ||||||
Investment advisory fees | 604,623 | 18,773 | ||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 22,245 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total liabilities | 16,566,175 | 1,891,330 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 963,787,442 | $ | 36,840,275 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 848,548,870 | $ | 76,339,663 | ||||
Accumulated earnings (loss) | 115,238,572 | (39,499,388 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 963,787,442 | $ | 36,840,275 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||
Shares outstanding | 23,600,000 | 2,450,000 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net asset value | $ | 40.84 | $ | 15.04 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Par value | None | None | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 704,796,704 | $ | 34,686,171 | ||||
(b) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | — | $ | 30,000 | ||||
(c) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 8,908,348 | $ | 13,729 |
See notes to financial statements.
68 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI China ETF | iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 3,788,182 | $ | 194,045,836 | $ | 1,599,432 | $ | 21,764,286 | ||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 5,273 | 365,870 | 3,502 | 24,872 | ||||||||||||
Interest — unaffiliated | 9,147 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | — | 2,535,150 | 752,925 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (237,213 | ) | (13,858,566 | ) | (27,858 | ) | (3,353,153 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total investment income | 3,565,389 | 183,088,290 | 2,328,001 | 18,436,005 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 591,248 | 45,790,850 | 386,272 | 2,930,526 | ||||||||||||
Commitment costs | 1,140 | 49,961 | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses | 592,388 | 45,840,811 | 386,272 | 2,930,526 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 2,973,001 | 137,247,479 | 1,941,729 | 15,505,479 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (8,893,384 | ) | (491,029,656 | ) | (13,244,274 | ) | (50,500,460 | ) | ||||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | 39,232 | 3,855 | — | ||||||||||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | — | 13 | — | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (38,177 | ) | 84,556 | 34 | (9,459 | ) | ||||||||||
Futures contracts | 239,699 | (78,173 | ) | (37,238 | ) | 151,192 | ||||||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | — | 87,408,771 | 989,703 | 18,057,426 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(8,691,862 | ) | (403,575,257 | ) | (12,287,920 | ) | (32,301,301 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 2,423,242 | (460,711,916 | ) | (783,511 | ) | 8,642,118 | ||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | (54,750 | ) | (2,503 | ) | — | ||||||||||
Foreign currency translations | (48,251 | ) | (108,955 | ) | (180 | ) | 463 | |||||||||
Futures contracts | (19,580 | ) | 1,192,348 | 16,870 | 288 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
2,355,411 | (459,683,273 | ) | (769,324 | ) | 8,642,869 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net realized and unrealized loss | (6,336,451 | ) | (863,258,530 | ) | (13,057,244 | ) | (23,658,432 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | (3,363,450 | ) | $ | (726,011,051 | ) | $ | (11,115,515 | ) | $ | (8,152,953 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 69 |
Statements of Operations (continued)
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF | iShares MSCI Philippines ETF | iShares MSCI Poland ETF | iShares MSCI Qatar ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 5,748,275 | $ | 3,335,564 | $ | 6,719,070 | $ | 3,109,606 | ||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 11,571 | 2,872 | 99,846 | 4,086 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | — | — | 92,444 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (205,735 | ) | (818,265 | ) | (1,007,996 | ) | (6,364 | ) | ||||||||
IRS compliance fee for foreign withholding tax claims | — | — | 67,628 | — | ||||||||||||
Other foreign taxes | (135 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total investment income | 5,553,976 | 2,520,171 | 5,970,992 | 3,107,328 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 710,063 | 672,703 | 1,163,426 | 444,021 | ||||||||||||
Commitment costs | — | — | — | 932 | ||||||||||||
Professional | — | — | 5,498 | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses | 710,063 | 672,703 | 1,168,924 | 444,953 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 4,843,913 | 1,847,468 | 4,802,068 | 2,662,375 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (10,464,511 | ) | (13,847,642 | ) | (19,960,754 | ) | 1,559,631 | |||||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | — | 3,818 | — | ||||||||||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | — | — | 3 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (22,503 | ) | (11,397 | ) | 166,433 | (6,475 | ) | |||||||||
Futures contracts | 32,245 | 13,857 | (13,557 | ) | (20,344 | ) | ||||||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | 801,946 | 1,713,946 | 21,728,938 | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(9,652,823 | ) | (12,131,236 | ) | 1,924,881 | 1,532,812 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 37,677,386 | 2,851,542 | 83,003,605 | (20,734,282 | ) | |||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | — | (3,613 | ) | — | |||||||||||
Foreign currency translations | 10,343 | 1,821 | 21,638 | 232 | ||||||||||||
Futures contracts | (5,311 | ) | 2,617 | (38,037 | ) | 543 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
37,682,418 | 2,855,980 | 82,983,593 | (20,733,507 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 28,029,595 | (9,275,256 | ) | 84,908,474 | (19,200,695 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 32,873,508 | $ | (7,427,788 | ) | $ | 89,710,542 | $ | (16,538,320 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
70 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Operations (continued)
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF | iShares ETF | |||||||||
| ||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 29,768,956 | $ | 1,430,401 | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 30,182 | 3,294 | ||||||||
Other income — unaffiliated | 52 | — | ||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (1,356,587 | ) | — | |||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total investment income | 28,442,603 | 1,433,695 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||
Investment advisory | 7,011,739 | 220,380 | ||||||||
Commitment costs | 11,781 | 453 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total expenses | 7,023,520 | 220,833 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net investment income | 21,419,083 | 1,212,862 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 1,308,753 | (820,432 | ) | |||||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | 1 | — | ||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (77,254 | ) | (8,861 | ) | ||||||
Futures contracts | (371,258 | ) | (4,767 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
860,242 | (834,060 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (98,944,084 | ) | (1,823,382 | ) | ||||||
Foreign currency translations | (146 | ) | 620 | |||||||
Futures contracts | (43,455 | ) | 2,635 | |||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
(98,987,685 | ) | (1,820,127 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net realized and unrealized loss | (98,127,443 | ) | (2,654,187 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | (76,708,360 | ) | $ | (1,441,325 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 71 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI China ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 2,973,001 | $ | 3,157,710 | $ | 137,247,479 | $ | 115,877,719 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized loss | (8,691,862 | ) | (6,571,328 | ) | (403,575,257 | ) | (417,082,741 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 2,355,411 | (14,373,457 | ) | (459,683,273 | ) | (1,964,979,076 | ) | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations | (3,363,450 | ) | (17,787,075 | ) | (726,011,051 | ) | (2,266,184,098 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (3,229,157 | ) | (3,944,573 | ) | (185,102,080 | ) | (86,873,082 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 131,020,321 | (3,379,242 | ) | 598,298,463 | 4,011,654,506 | |||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 124,427,714 | (25,110,890 | ) | (312,814,668 | ) | 1,658,597,326 | ||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 82,865,092 | 107,975,982 | 7,841,066,342 | 6,182,469,016 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 207,292,806 | $ | 82,865,092 | $ | 7,528,251,674 | $ | 7,841,066,342 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
72 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,941,729 | $ | 2,280,854 | $ | 15,505,479 | $ | 10,977,273 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (12,287,920 | ) | (13,987,668 | ) | (32,301,301 | ) | 10,492,545 | |||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (769,324 | ) | (15,130,649 | ) | 8,642,869 | 24,816,440 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (11,115,515 | ) | (26,837,463 | ) | (8,152,953 | ) | 46,286,258 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (2,051,160 | ) | (3,772,602 | ) | (15,973,903 | ) | (9,891,151 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 19,303,725 | (2,873,258 | ) | 79,376,618 | 54,827,919 | |||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 6,137,050 | (33,483,323 | ) | 55,249,762 | 91,223,026 | |||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 55,337,526 | 88,820,849 | 443,180,746 | 351,957,720 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 61,474,576 | $ | 55,337,526 | $ | 498,430,508 | $ | 443,180,746 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 73 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF | iShares MSCI Philippines ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 4,843,913 | $ | 6,822,237 | $ | 1,847,468 | $ | 1,572,524 | ||||||||||||||||||
Net realized loss | (9,652,823 | ) | (6,142,433 | ) | (12,131,236 | ) | (5,729,585 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 37,682,418 | (4,967,384 | ) | 2,855,980 | (12,137,215 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 32,873,508 | (4,287,580 | ) | (7,427,788 | ) | (16,294,276 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (4,760,633 | ) | (8,147,129 | ) | (1,786,082 | ) | (1,785,174 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (50,539,908 | ) | 44,102,942 | (6,529,849 | ) | 1,854,320 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (22,427,033 | ) | 31,668,233 | (15,743,719 | ) | (16,225,130 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 127,530,003 | 95,861,770 | 108,818,067 | 125,043,197 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 105,102,970 | $ | 127,530,003 | $ | 93,074,348 | $ | 108,818,067 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
74 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Poland ETF | iShares MSCI Qatar ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 4,802,068 | $ | 6,200,674 | $ | 2,662,375 | $ | 2,793,584 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | 1,924,881 | (14,657,590 | ) | 1,532,812 | 1,428,500 | |||||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 82,983,593 | (116,037,602 | ) | (20,733,507 | ) | 12,484,743 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 89,710,542 | (124,494,518 | ) | (16,538,320 | ) | 16,706,827 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (3,006,382 | ) | (4,548,741 | ) | (3,190,299 | ) | (3,375,217 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 11,286,835 | (24,730,364 | ) | 2,327,031 | (3,412,513 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 97,990,995 | (153,773,623 | ) | (17,401,588 | ) | 9,919,097 | ||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 130,372,612 | 284,146,235 | 96,153,052 | 86,233,955 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 228,363,607 | $ | 130,372,612 | $ | 78,751,464 | $ | 96,153,052 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 75 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF | iShares MSCI UAE ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 21,419,083 | $ | 18,068,521 | $ | 1,212,862 | $ | 1,029,528 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | 860,242 | (19,228,092 | ) | (834,060 | ) | (372,738 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (98,987,685 | ) | 78,636,960 | (1,820,127 | ) | 1,412,106 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (76,708,360 | ) | 77,477,389 | (1,441,325 | ) | 2,068,896 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (20,626,572 | ) | (16,207,813 | ) | (1,124,629 | ) | (1,475,334 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (74,480,593 | ) | 175,649,734 | 1,439,745 | 13,655,392 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (171,815,525 | ) | 236,919,310 | (1,126,209 | ) | 14,248,954 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 1,135,602,967 | 898,683,657 | 37,966,484 | 23,717,530 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 963,787,442 | $ | 1,135,602,967 | $ | 36,840,275 | $ | 37,966,484 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
76 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT ���TO SHAREHOLDERS |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 13.58 | $ | 17.42 | $ | 13.62 | $ | 16.92 | $ | 11.87 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.39 | 0.46 | 0.37 | 0.23 | 0.50 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 0.34 | (3.71 | ) | 3.79 | (3.30 | ) | 5.15 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 0.73 | (3.25 | ) | 4.16 | (3.07 | ) | 5.65 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.49 | ) | (0.59 | ) | (0.36 | ) | (0.23 | ) | (0.60 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 13.82 | $ | 13.58 | $ | 17.42 | $ | 13.62 | $ | 16.92 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 5.95 | % | (18.61 | )% | 30.34 | % | (18.40 | )% | 48.35 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.97 | % | 3.18 | % | 2.26 | % | 1.51 | % | 3.26 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 207,293 | $ | 82,865 | $ | 107,976 | $ | 97,375 | $ | 106,588 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 50 | %(g) | 52 | %(g) | 40 | %(g) | 65 | %(g) | 47 | %(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
(a) Based on average shares outstanding. (b) The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. (c) Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. (d) Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. (e) Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. (f) Portfolio turnover rate includes portfolio transactions that are executed as a result of the Fund offering and redeeming Creation Units solely for cash in U.S. dollars (“cash creations”). |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(g) Portfolio turnover rate excluding cash creations was as follows: | 35 | % | 32 | % | 39 | % | 26 | % | 30 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 77 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI China ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 49.82 | $ | 70.90 | $ | 75.92 | $ | 56.43 | $ | 60.85 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.83 | 1.01 | 0.74 | 0.90 | 0.95 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (4.48 | ) | (21.30 | ) | (4.98 | ) | 19.40 | (4.49 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (3.65 | ) | (20.29 | ) | (4.24 | ) | 20.30 | (3.54 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.14 | ) | (0.79 | ) | (0.78 | ) | (0.81 | ) | (0.88 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 45.03 | $ | 49.82 | $ | 70.90 | $ | 75.92 | $ | 56.43 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (7.39 | )% | (28.80 | )% | (5.69 | )% | 36.29 | % | (5.76 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income | 1.77 | % | 1.75 | % | 0.93 | % | 1.43 | % | 1.63 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 7,528,252 | $ | 7,841,066 | $ | 6,182,469 | $ | 6,118,904 | $ | 3,588,927 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 13 | % | 8 | % | 18 | % | 16 | % | 14 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
78 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 34.59 | $ | 53.83 | $ | 45.21 | $ | 38.46 | $ | 47.23 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.97 | 1.44 | 1.50 | 1.46 | 1.39 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (6.62 | ) | (18.32 | ) | 8.86 | 6.48 | (7.78 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (5.65 | ) | (16.88 | ) | 10.36 | 7.94 | (6.39 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.00 | ) | (2.36 | ) | (1.74 | ) | (1.19 | ) | (2.38 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 27.94 | $ | 34.59 | $ | 53.83 | $ | 45.21 | $ | 38.46 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (16.74 | )% | (32.33 | )% | 23.33 | % | 21.21 | % | (13.60 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.96 | % | 3.31 | % | 2.82 | % | 3.70 | % | 3.26 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 61,475 | $ | 55,338 | $ | 88,821 | $ | 51,989 | $ | 19,230 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 37 | % | 64 | % | 51 | % | 39 | % | 38 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 79 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 23.96 | $ | 21.33 | $ | 19.69 | $ | 25.22 | $ | 23.57 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.73 | 0.59 | 0.27 | 0.36 | 0.41 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (0.90 | ) | 2.54 | 1.68 | (5.66 | ) | 1.70 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (0.17 | ) | 3.13 | 1.95 | (5.30 | ) | 2.11 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.71 | ) | (0.50 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.23 | ) | (0.46 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 23.08 | $ | 23.96 | $ | 21.33 | $ | 19.69 | $ | 25.22 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (0.66 | )% | 14.69 | % | 9.88 | % | (21.04 | )% | 9.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 3.12 | % | 2.52 | % | 1.26 | % | 1.65 | % | 1.64 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 498,431 | $ | 443,181 | $ | 351,958 | $ | 319,892 | $ | 402,185 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 19 | % | 16 | % | 10 | % | 13 | % | 12 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
80 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 25.51 | $ | 27.00 | $ | 31.65 | $ | 34.11 | $ | 37.44 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.19 | 1.34 | 0.79 | 0.69 | 0.85 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 6.87 | (1.08 | ) | (5.00 | ) | (2.34 | ) | (3.36 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 8.06 | 0.26 | (4.21 | ) | (1.65 | ) | (2.51 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.23 | ) | (1.75 | ) | (0.44 | ) | (0.81 | ) | (0.82 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 32.34 | $ | 25.51 | $ | 27.00 | $ | 31.65 | $ | 34.11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| �� |
|
|
|
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 32.09 | % | 0.24 | % | (13.49 | )% | (4.78 | )% | (6.75 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 4.03 | % | 4.36 | % | 2.42 | % | 2.15 | % | 2.33 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 105,103 | $ | 127,530 | $ | 95,862 | $ | 82,297 | $ | 163,738 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 20 | % | 24 | % | 33 | % | 26 | % | 18 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 81 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Philippines ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 26.54 | $ | 30.50 | $ | 26.63 | $ | 34.45 | $ | 33.08 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.42 | 0.39 | 0.26 | 0.17 | 0.28 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (2.04 | ) | (3.90 | ) | 3.90 | (7.80 | ) | 1.35 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (1.62 | ) | (3.51 | ) | 4.16 | (7.63 | ) | 1.63 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.43 | ) | (0.45 | ) | (0.29 | ) | (0.19 | ) | (0.26 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 24.49 | $ | 26.54 | $ | 30.50 | $ | 26.63 | $ | 34.45 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (6.16 | )% | (11.65 | )% | 15.57 | % | (22.16 | )% | 4.93 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 1.62 | % | 1.28 | % | 0.87 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.83 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 93,074 | $ | 108,818 | $ | 125,043 | $ | 118,507 | $ | 217,028 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 18 | % | 13 | % | 20 | % | 16 | % | 8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
82 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Poland ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 12.60 | $ | 23.10 | $ | 18.24 | $ | 20.68 | $ | 24.31 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.39 | 0.51 | (b) | 0.16 | (b) | 0.17 | (b) | 0.65 | (b) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | 6.47 | (10.65 | ) | 4.86 | (1.95 | ) | (3.93 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 6.86 | (10.14 | ) | 5.02 | (1.78 | ) | (3.28 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.27 | ) | (0.36 | ) | (0.16 | ) | (0.66 | ) | (0.35 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 19.19 | $ | 12.60 | $ | 23.10 | $ | 18.24 | $ | 20.68 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 55.04 | % | (44.38 | )%(b) | 27.65 | %(b) | (8.76 | )%(b) | (13.64 | )%(b) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.65 | % | 0.61 | % | 0.78 | % | 0.61 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses excluding professional fees for foreign withholding tax claims | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.43 | % | 2.72 | %(b) | 0.80 | %(b) | 0.93 | %(b) | 2.81 | %(b) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 228,364 | $ | 130,373 | $ | 284,146 | $ | 253,594 | $ | 260,578 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(g) | 20 | % | 11 | % | 22 | % | 15 | % | 5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | Reflects the positive effect of foreign withholding tax claims, net of the associated professional fees, which resulted in the following increases for the years ended August 31, 2022, August 31, 2021, August 31, 2020 and August 31, 2019, respectively: |
• Net investment income per share by $0.15, $0.07, $0.28 and $0.05, respectively.
• Total return by 0.76%, 0.38%, 1.40% and 0.21%, respectiverly.
• Ratio of net investment income to average net assets by 0.78%, 0.34%, 1.54% and 0.22%, respectively.
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(g) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 83 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Qatar ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 22.62 | $ | 19.60 | $ | 17.62 | $ | 17.44 | $ | 17.82 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.68 | 0.63 | 0.37 | 0.56 | 0.64 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (4.77 | ) | 3.20 | 2.03 | 0.11 | (0.26 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (4.09 | ) | 3.83 | 2.40 | 0.67 | 0.38 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.83 | ) | (0.81 | ) | (0.42 | ) | (0.45 | ) | (0.76 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.04 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total distributions | (0.83 | ) | (0.81 | ) | (0.42 | ) | (0.49 | ) | (0.76 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 17.70 | $ | 22.62 | $ | 19.60 | $ | 17.62 | $ | 17.44 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (18.16 | )% | 19.69 | % | 13.70 | % | 4.10 | % | 1.98 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 3.54 | % | 2.89 | % | 1.98 | % | 3.31 | % | 3.48 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 78,751 | $ | 96,153 | $ | 86,234 | $ | 87,223 | $ | 50,576 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 25 | %(g) | 38 | %(g) | 26 | %(g) | 24 | %(g) | 33 | %(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) Based on average shares outstanding. (b) The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. (c) Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. (d) Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. (e) Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. (f) Portfolio turnover rate includes portfolio transactions that are executed as a result of the Fund offering and redeeming Creation Units solely for cash in U.S. dollars (“cash creations”). |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(g) Portfolio turnover rate excluding cash creations was as follows: | 11 | % | 12 | % | 9 | % | 14 | % | 23 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
84 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 44.53 | $ | 41.22 | $ | 28.70 | $ | 30.21 | $ | 29.72 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.91 | 0.69 | 0.71 | 0.57 | 1.11 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (3.71 | ) | 3.23 | 12.27 | (1.26 | ) | 0.12 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (2.80 | ) | 3.92 | 12.98 | (0.69 | ) | 1.23 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.89 | ) | (0.61 | ) | (0.46 | ) | (0.82 | ) | (0.74 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 40.84 | $ | 44.53 | $ | 41.22 | $ | 28.70 | $ | 30.21 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (6.20 | )% | 9.60 | % | 45.37 | % | (2.21 | )% | 4.14 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.26 | % | 1.56 | % | 2.06 | % | 2.03 | % | 3.46 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 963,787 | $ | 1,135,603 | $ | 898,684 | $ | 516,629 | $ | 646,591 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 11 | %(g) | 36 | %(g) | 13 | %(g) | 64 | %(g) | 82 | %(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) Based on average shares outstanding. (b) The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. (c) Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. (d) Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. (e) Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. (f) Portfolio turnover rate includes portfolio transactions that are executed as a result of the Fund offering and redeeming Creation Units solely for cash in U.S. dollars (“cash creations”). |
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(g) Portfolio turnover rate excluding cash creations was as follows: | 5 | % | 8 | % | 6 | % | 20 | % | 14 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
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See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 85 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI UAE ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 16.16 | $ | 14.82 | $ | 10.91 | $ | 14.09 | $ | 15.61 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income(a) | 0.49 | 0.49 | 0.46 | 0.53 | 0.57 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (1.19 | ) | 1.50 | 3.96 | (3.16 | ) | (1.54 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (0.70 | ) | 1.99 | 4.42 | (2.63 | ) | (0.97 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.42 | ) | (0.65 | ) | (0.51 | ) | (0.55 | ) | (0.55 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Net asset value, end of year | $ | 15.04 | $ | 16.16 | $ | 14.82 | $ | 10.91 | $ | 14.09 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (4.17 | )% | 13.30 | % | 40.74 | % | (18.43 | )% | (5.95 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.58 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income | 3.25 | % | 2.93 | % | 3.61 | % | 4.46 | % | 3.95 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 36,840 | $ | 37,966 | $ | 23,718 | $ | 38,177 | $ | 45,807 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 38 | % | 52 | % | 112 | % | 67 | % | 55 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
86 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | Diversified | |||
MSCI China | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI China Small-Cap | Diversified | |||
MSCI Indonesia | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure(a) | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI Philippines | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI Poland | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI Qatar | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI UAE | Non-diversified |
(a) | Formerly the iShares MSCI Peru ETF |
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Interest income, including amortization and accretion of premiums and discounts on debt securities, is recognized daily on an accrual basis.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Bank Overdraft: The Funds had outstanding cash disbursements exceeding deposited cash amounts at the custodian and utilized its ability to temporarily borrow from that custodian for operational purposes. The Funds are obligated to repay the custodian for any overdraft, including any related costs or expenses, where applicable.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 87 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
88 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
4. | SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS |
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
MSCI China | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Bank PLC | $ | 71,093 | $ | (71,093 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Barclays Capital, Inc. | 6,140,510 | (6,140,510 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 14,395 | (14,395 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | 17,262,050 | (17,262,050 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. | 2,319,388 | (2,319,388 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC | 6,914 | (6,914 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 15,248,241 | (15,248,241 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
HSBC Bank PLC | 3,572,522 | (3,572,522 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 53,903,824 | (53,903,824 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Jefferies LLC | 149,562 | (149,562 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Macquarie Bank Ltd. | 2,489,830 | (2,489,830 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 28,892,748 | (28,892,748 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Nomura Securities International, Inc. | 148,093 | (148,093 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
SG Americas Securities LLC | 4,844,981 | (4,844,981 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS AG | 15,022,160 | (15,022,160 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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$ | 150,086,311 | $ | (150,086,311 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 89 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Bank PLC | $ | 226,553 | $ | (226,553 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Barclays Capital, Inc. | 527,574 | (527,574 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 1,174,628 | (1,174,628 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | 1,989,704 | (1,989,704 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. | 198,628 | (198,628 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC | 625,603 | (625,603 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 1,768,394 | (1,768,394 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 474,350 | (474,350 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 2,537,925 | (2,537,925 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
SG Americas Securities LLC | 156,207 | (156,207 | ) | �� | — | — | ||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Co. | 131,207 | (131,207 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS AG | 44,528 | (44,528 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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$ | 9,855,301 | $ | (9,855,301 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
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MSCI Poland | ||||||||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | $ | 52,843 | $ | (52,843 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
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(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
6. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap, iShares MSCI China, iShares MSCI China Small-Cap, iShares MSCI Indonesia, iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure, iShares MSCI Philippines, iShares MSCI Poland, iShares MSCI Qatar and iShares MSCI UAE ETFs, BFA is entitled to an annual
90 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on each Fund’s allocable portion of the aggregate of the average daily net assets of the Fund and certain other iShares funds, as follows:
Aggregate Average Daily Net Assets | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
First $2 billion | 0.7400 | % | ||
Over $2 billion, up to and including $4 billion | 0.6900 | |||
Over $4 billion, up to and including $8 billion | 0.6400 | |||
Over $8 billion, up to and including $16 billion | 0.5700 | |||
Over $16 billion, up to and including $24 billion | 0.5100 | |||
Over $24 billion, up to and including $32 billion | 0.4800 | |||
Over $32 billion, up to and including $40 billion | 0.4500 | |||
Over $40 billion | 0.4275 |
For its investment advisory services to the iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee of 0.74%, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Fund, based on the average daily net assets of the Fund.
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
MSCI China | $ | 613,749 | ||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 167,108 | |||
MSCI Poland | 22,211 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized | |||||||||
MSCI China | $ | 24,413,798 | $ | 47,347,463 | $ | (32,415,356) | ||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 7,642,639 | 5,636,965 | 1,860,076 | |||||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 2,665,020 | 429,378 | (148,926) | |||||||||
MSCI Poland | 10,844,881 | 2,433,550 | (2,081,547) |
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 91 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
7. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | $ | 181,100,652 | $ | 51,535,263 | ||||
MSCI China | 2,028,252,325 | 1,028,717,603 | ||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 46,047,015 | 23,946,736 | ||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 96,886,281 | 99,546,298 | ||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 23,802,575 | 27,625,551 | ||||||
MSCI Philippines | 20,391,809 | 20,312,551 | ||||||
MSCI Poland | 39,826,373 | 39,004,291 | ||||||
MSCI Qatar | 20,697,189 | 18,914,437 | ||||||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | 106,030,422 | 177,498,640 | ||||||
MSCI UAE | 15,657,615 | 14,171,170 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
MSCI China | $ | 122,700,426 | $ | 524,052,358 | ||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 3,189,154 | 5,693,672 | ||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 248,954,251 | 167,069,440 | ||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 11,233,426 | 58,179,947 | ||||||
MSCI Philippines | 40,624,318 | 47,068,116 | ||||||
MSCI Poland | 144,000,197 | 132,578,854 |
8. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to distributions paid in excess of taxable income and realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
MSCI China | $ | 40,684,941 | $ | (40,684,941 | ) | |||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 931,670 | (931,670) | ||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 15,610,609 | (15,610,609) | ||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 608,519 | (608,519) | ||||||
MSCI Philippines | 1,615,769 | (1,615,769) | ||||||
MSCI Poland | 21,527,038 | (21,527,038) | ||||||
MSCI Qatar | (216,667 | ) | 216,667 |
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
| ||||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 3,229,157 | $ | 3,944,573 | ||||
|
|
|
|
92 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
| ||||||||
MSCI China | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 185,102,080 | $ | 86,873,082 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 2,051,160 | $ | 3,772,602 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Indonesia | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 15,973,903 | $ | 9,891,151 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 4,760,633 | $ | 8,147,129 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Philippines | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,786,082 | $ | 1,785,174 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Poland | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 3,006,382 | $ | 4,548,741 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Qatar | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 3,190,299 | $ | 3,375,217 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 20,626,572 | $ | 16,207,813 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI UAE | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,124,629 | $ | 1,475,334 | ||||
|
|
|
|
As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Ordinary Income |
| | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards |
(a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | Total | ||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | $ | 489,692 | $ | (65,487,510 | ) | $ | (4,832,466 | ) | $ | (69,830,284 | ) | |||||
MSCI China | 127,236,987 | (1,481,582,455 | ) | (1,691,270,418 | ) | (3,045,615,886 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 1,721,991 | (31,135,100 | ) | (26,798,911 | ) | (56,212,020 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 2,411,555 | (221,558,856 | ) | (85,360,397 | ) | (304,507,698 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 653,010 | (173,861,385 | ) | (23,364,349 | ) | (196,572,724 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Philippines | 247,863 | (81,870,539 | ) | (37,841,292 | ) | (119,463,968 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Poland | 5,634,009 | (156,752,171 | ) | (65,070,339 | ) | (216,188,501 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Qatar | — | (19,413,333 | ) | 6,928,841 | (12,484,492 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | 7,538,760 | (86,113,701 | ) | 193,813,513 | 115,238,572 | |||||||||||
MSCI UAE | 235,765 | (37,384,402 | ) | (2,350,751 | ) | (39,499,388 | ) |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain futures contracts, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 93 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | $ | 210,003,885 | $ | 13,719,496 | $ | (18,544,406 | ) | $ | (4,824,910 | ) | ||||||
MSCI China | 9,363,224,999 | 407,530,647 | (2,098,704,992 | ) | (1,691,174,345) | |||||||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 100,209,327 | 1,703,296 | (28,501,809 | ) | (26,798,513) | |||||||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 583,409,271 | 32,276,108 | (117,636,579 | ) | (85,360,471) | |||||||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 128,072,107 | 4,451,967 | (27,815,240 | ) | (23,363,273) | |||||||||||
MSCI Philippines | 130,686,905 | 1,683,898 | (39,525,584 | ) | (37,841,686) | |||||||||||
MSCI Poland | 295,228,442 | 5,902,881 | (70,990,182 | ) | (65,087,301) | |||||||||||
MSCI Qatar | 71,667,625 | 13,013,432 | (6,084,566 | ) | 6,928,866 | |||||||||||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | 768,404,689 | 226,419,063 | (32,604,548 | ) | 193,814,515 | |||||||||||
MSCI UAE | 39,153,387 | 7,677,131 | (10,027,888 | ) | (2,350,757) |
9. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The Funds, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
10. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
The price each Fund could receive upon the sale of any particular portfolio investment may differ from each Fund’s valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair valuation technique or a price provided by an independent pricing service. Changes to significant unobservable inputs and assumptions (i.e., publicly traded company multiples, growth rate, time to exit) due to the lack of observable inputs.
94 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities. Investment percentages in specific countries are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in China or with significant exposure to Chinese issuers. Investments in Chinese securities, including certain Hong Kong-listed securities, involve risks specific to China. China may be subject to considerable degrees of economic, political and social instability and demonstrates significantly higher volatility from time to time in comparison to developed markets. Chinese markets generally continue to experience inefficiency, volatility and pricing anomalies resulting from governmental influence, a lack of publicly available information and/or political and social instability. Internal social unrest or confrontations with other neighboring countries may disrupt economic development in China and result in a greater risk of currency fluctuations, currency non-convertibility, interest rate fluctuations and higher rates of inflation. Incidents involving China’s or the region’s security may cause uncertainty in Chinese markets and may adversely affect the Chinese economy and a fund’s investments. Reduction in spending on Chinese products and services, institution of tariffs or other trade barriers, or a downturn in any of the economies of China’s key trading partners may have an adverse impact on the Chinese economy. In addition, measures may be taken to limit the flow of capital and/or sanctions may be imposed, which could prohibit or restrict the ability to own or transfer fund assets and may also include retaliatory actions, such as seizure of fund assets.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Asia or with significant exposure to Asian issuers or countries. The Asian financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns in several Asian countries regarding monetary policy, government intervention in the markets, rising government debt levels or economic downturns. These events may spread to other countries in Asia and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 95 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 10,000,000 | $ | 146,897,816 | 1,550,000 | $ | 20,799,927 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (1,100,000 | ) | (15,877,495 | ) | (1,650,000 | ) | (24,179,169 | ) | ||||||||
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8,900,000 | $ | 131,020,321 | (100,000 | ) | $ | (3,379,242 | ) | |||||||||
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MSCI China | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 30,800,000 | $ | 1,477,496,067 | 71,000,000 | $ | 4,051,227,026 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (21,000,000 | ) | (879,197,604 | ) | (800,000 | ) | (39,572,520 | ) | ||||||||
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9,800,000 | $ | 598,298,463 | 70,200,000 | $ | 4,011,654,506 | |||||||||||
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MSCI China Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 800,000 | $ | 25,436,562 | 100,000 | $ | 4,311,829 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (200,000 | ) | (6,132,837 | ) | (150,000 | ) | (7,185,087 | ) | ||||||||
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600,000 | $ | 19,303,725 | (50,000 | ) | $ | (2,873,258 | ) | |||||||||
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MSCI Indonesia | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 11,000,000 | $ | 260,973,947 | 11,350,000 | $ | 273,842,673 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (7,900,000 | ) | (181,597,329 | ) | (9,350,000 | ) | (219,014,754 | ) | ||||||||
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3,100,000 | $ | 79,376,618 | 2,000,000 | $ | 54,827,919 | |||||||||||
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MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 400,000 | $ | 12,350,840 | 8,450,000 | $ | 262,036,259 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (2,150,000 | ) | (62,890,748 | ) | (7,000,000 | ) | (217,933,317 | ) | ||||||||
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(1,750,000 | ) | $ | (50,539,908 | ) | 1,450,000 | $ | 44,102,942 | |||||||||
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MSCI Philippines | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 1,500,000 | $ | 40,747,736 | 3,750,000 | $ | 115,441,475 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (1,800,000 | ) | (47,277,585 | ) | (3,750,000 | ) | (113,587,155 | ) | ||||||||
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(300,000 | ) | $ | (6,529,849 | ) | — | $ | 1,854,320 | |||||||||
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MSCI Poland | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 9,800,000 | $ | 144,940,429 | 5,750,000 | $ | 122,087,777 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (8,250,000 | ) | (133,653,594 | ) | (7,700,000 | ) | (146,818,141 | ) | ||||||||
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1,550,000 | $ | 11,286,835 | (1,950,000 | ) | $ | (24,730,364 | ) | |||||||||
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MSCI Qatar | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 750,000 | $ | 13,636,879 | 1,200,000 | $ | 26,058,936 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (550,000 | ) | (11,309,848 | ) | (1,350,000 | ) | (29,471,449 | ) | ||||||||
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200,000 | $ | 2,327,031 | (150,000 | ) | $ | (3,412,513 | ) | |||||||||
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MSCI Saudi Arabia | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 1,300,000 | $ | 54,599,079 | 10,850,000 | $ | 493,999,432 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (3,200,000 | ) | (129,079,672 | ) | (7,150,000 | ) | (318,349,698 | ) | ||||||||
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(1,900,000 | ) | $ | (74,480,593 | ) | 3,700,000 | $ | 175,649,734 | |||||||||
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MSCI UAE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 350,000 | $ | 5,281,592 | 1,350,000 | $ | 23,345,364 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (250,000 | ) | (3,841,847 | ) | (600,000 | ) | (9,689,972 | ) | ||||||||
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100,000 | $ | 1,439,745 | 750,000 | $ | 13,655,392 | |||||||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
96 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
12. | FOREIGN WITHHOLDING TAX CLAIMS |
The iShares MSCI Poland ETF is seeking a closing agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) to address any prior years’ U.S. income tax liabilities attributable to Fund shareholders resulting from the recovery of foreign taxes. The closing agreement would result in the Fund paying a compliance fee to the IRS, on behalf of its shareholders, representing the estimated tax savings generated from foreign tax credits claimed by Fund shareholders on their tax returns in prior years. The Fund has accrued a liability for the estimated IRS compliance fee related to foreign withholding tax claims, which is disclosed in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The actual IRS compliance fee may differ from the estimate and that difference may be material.
13. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following item was noted:
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 97 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the ten funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (ten of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and each of the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF
iShares MSCI China ETF
iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF
iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF
iShares MSCI Philippines ETF
iShares MSCI Poland ETF
iShares MSCI Qatar ETF
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF
iShares MSCI UAE ETF
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
98 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Important Tax Information (unaudited) |
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
MSCI China | $ | 132,293,779 | ||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 207,043 | |||
MSCI Indonesia | 21,494,374 | |||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 1,759,755 | |||
MSCI Philippines | 3,181,284 | |||
MSCI Poland | 6,417,693 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap | $ | 3,788,182 | $ | 226,048 | ||||
MSCI China | 251,176,075 | 13,884,074 | ||||||
MSCI China Small-Cap | 1,597,520 | 27,666 | ||||||
MSCI Indonesia | 21,762,630 | 3,359,970 | ||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 4,372,084 | 188,821 | ||||||
MSCI Philippines | 3,335,211 | 813,083 | ||||||
MSCI Poland | 6,718,240 | 1,076,430 | ||||||
MSCI Qatar | 3,109,876 | 6,365 | ||||||
MSCI Saudi Arabia | 29,753,184 | 1,370,142 | ||||||
MSCI UAE | 1,430,207 | — |
The following percentage, or maximum percentage allowable by law, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023 qualified for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders:
iShares ETF | Dividends-Received Deduction | |||
MSCI China | 0.37 | % | ||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure | 26.16 | % |
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION | 99 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares MSCI Brazil Small-Cap ETF, iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF, iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF, iShares MSCI Qatar ETF, iShares MSCI UAE ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
100 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts withsubstantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 101 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
iShares MSCI China ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
102 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates manage Other Accounts withsubstantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
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large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
iShares MSCI Indonesia ETF, iShares MSCI Poland ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts withsubstantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
iShares MSCI Philippines ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates manage Other Accounts withsubstantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
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large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
108 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 109 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
110 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Brazil Small-Cap(a) | $ | 0.453274 | $ | — | $ | 0.036880 | $ | 0.490154 | 92 | % | — | % | 8 | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Indonesia(a) | 0.659058 | — | 0.054182 | 0.713240 | 92 | — | 8 | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Peru and Global Exposure(a) | 1.198253 | — | 0.031696 | 1.229949 | 97 | — | 3 | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Philippines | 0.434200 | — | — | 0.434200 | 100 | — | — | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Poland(a) | 0.249316 | — | 0.019111 | 0.268427 | 93 | — | 7 | 100 |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
Regulation under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive, and its United Kingdom (“UK”) equivalent, (“AIFMD”) impose detailed and prescriptive obligations on fund managers established in the European Union (the “EU”) and the UK. These do not currently apply to managers established outside of the EU or UK, such as BFA (the “Company”). Rather, the Company is only required to comply with certain disclosure, reporting and transparency obligations of AIFMD because it has registered the iShares MSCI China ETF and iShares MSCI Philippines ETF (the “Funds”) to be marketed to investors in the EU and/or UK.
Report on Remuneration
The Company is required under AIFMD to make quantitative disclosures of remuneration. These disclosures are made in line with BlackRock’s interpretation of currently available regulatory guidance on quantitative remuneration disclosures. As market or regulatory practice develops BlackRock may consider it appropriate to make changes to the way in which quantitative remuneration disclosures are calculated. Where such changes are made, this may result in disclosures in relation to a fund not being comparable to the disclosures made in the prior year, or in relation to other BlackRock fund disclosures in that same year.
Disclosures are provided in relation to (a) the staff of the Company; (b) staff who are senior management; and (c) staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Funds.
All individuals included in the aggregated figures disclosed are rewarded in line with BlackRock’s remuneration policy for their responsibilities across the relevant BlackRock business area. As all individuals have a number of areas of responsibilities, only the portion of remuneration for those individuals’ services attributable to the Funds is included in the aggregate figures disclosed.
BlackRock has a clear and well-defined pay-for-performance philosophy, and compensation programs which support that philosophy.
BlackRock operates a total compensation model for remuneration which includes a base salary, which is contractual, and a discretionary bonus scheme. Although all employees are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, there is no contractual obligation to make a discretionary bonus award to any employees. For senior management and staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Funds, a significant percentage of variable remuneration is deferred over time. All employees are subject to a clawback policy.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | 111 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited) (continued)
Remuneration decisions for employees are made once annually in January following the end of the performance year, based on BlackRock’s full-year financial results and other non-financial goals and objectives. Alongside financial performance, individual total compensation is also based on strategic and operating results and other considerations such as management and leadership capabilities. No set formulas are established and no fixed benchmarks are used in determining annual incentive awards.
Annual incentive awards are paid from a bonus pool which is reviewed throughout the year by BlackRock’s independent compensation committee, taking into account both actual and projected financial information together with information provided by the Enterprise Risk and Regulatory Compliance departments in relation to any activities, incidents or events that warrant consideration in making compensation decisions. Individuals are not involved in setting their own remuneration.
Each of the control functions (Enterprise Risk, Legal & Compliance, and Internal Audit) each have their own organizational structures which are independent of the business units and therefore staff members in control functions are remunerated independently of the businesses they oversee. Functional bonus pools for those control functions are determined with reference to the performance of each individual function and the remuneration of the senior members of control functions is directly overseen by BlackRock’s independent remuneration committee.
Members of staff and senior management of the Company typically provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the Company and across the broader BlackRock group. Conversely, members of staff and senior management of the broader BlackRock group may provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the broader BlackRock group and of the Company. Therefore, the figures disclosed are a sum of individuals’ portion of remuneration attributable to the Company according to an objective apportionment methodology which acknowledges the multiple-service nature of the Company and the broader BlackRock group. Accordingly, the figures are not representative of any individual’s actual remuneration or their remuneration structure.
The amount of the total remuneration awarded to the Company’s staff in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022 was USD 4.12 million. This figure is comprised of fixed remuneration of USD 685 thousand and variable remuneration of USD 3.44 million. There was a total of 8 beneficiaries of the remuneration described above.
The amount of the aggregate remuneration awarded by the Company in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022, to its senior management was USD 2.96 million, and to other members of its staff whose actions potentially have a material impact on the risk profile of the Company or its funds was USD 970 thousand. These figures relate to the entire Company and not to the Funds.
Disclosures Under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation
The iShares MSCI China ETF and iShares MSCI Philippines ETF (the “Funds”) are registered under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive to be marketed to European Union (“EU”) investors, as noted above. As a result, certain disclosures are required under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (“SFDR”).
Each Fund has not been categorized under the SFDR as an “Article 8” or “Article 9” product. In addition, each Fund’s investment strategy does not take into account the criteria for environmentally sustainable economic activities under the EU sustainable investment taxonomy regulation or principal adverse impacts (“PAIs”) on sustainability factors under the SFDR. PAIs are identified under the SFDR as the material impacts of investment decisions on sustainability factors relating to environmental, social and employee matters, respect for human rights, and anti-corruption and anti-bribery matters.
112 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) | Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
(b) | Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 113 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). |
Officers | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
114 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 115 |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
116 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation
ADR | American Depositary Receipt | |
JSC | Joint Stock Company | |
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
PJSC | Public Joint Stock Company | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT | 117 |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-806-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
|
2023 Annual Report
|
iShares Trust
· iShares MSCI Denmark ETF | EDEN | Cboe BZX
· iShares MSCI Finland ETF | EFNL | Cboe BZX
· iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF | EWGS | Cboe BZX
· iShares MSCI Ireland ETF | EIRL | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF | KWT | Cboe BZX
· iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF | ENZL | NASDAQ
· iShares MSCI Norway ETF | ENOR | Cboe BZX
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023 | ||||
6-Month | 12-Month | |||
U.S. large cap equities | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Denmark ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Denmark ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Danish equities, as represented by the MSCI Denmark IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 23.48 | % | 10.69 | % | 12.37 | % | 23.48 | % | 66.20 | % | 220.90% | |||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 23.72 | 10.78 | 12.36 | 23.72 | 66.83 | 220.66 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 23.86 | 11.09 | 12.75 | 23.86 | 69.22 | 231.98 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,049.20 | $ 2.74 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.50 | $ 2.70 | 0.53 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Denmark ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Denmark rose for the reporting period. Denmark’s economy grew modestly, as strength in the country’s healthcare sector outweighed weakness in other parts of the economy. Denmark’s central bank raised interest rates eight times during the reporting period, mirroring the ECB, and inflation gradually decreased from a four-decade high of 10.1% in October 2022 to 2.4% in August 2023, well below the European average. However, the Danish central bank set interest rates lower than the ECB to weaken the Danish krone, which is pegged to the euro, as conversion of an influx of U.S. dollars from pharmaceuticals exports pushed the Danish currency higher.
Healthcare stocks contributed the most to the Index’s performance, led by the pharmaceuticals industry. Strong demand for new anti-obesity drugs drove the outlook for sales and profits higher, as demand exceeded available production capacity. A new study showed that the obesity treatments may also reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes from cardiovascular disease, broadening the already robust outlook for this new class of drugs and putting pressure on healthcare plans to cover the treatment costs.
The financials sector also contributed to the Index’s performance, particularly bank stocks. Banks posted stronger profits, driven by interest income, as higher interest rates increased the gap between the interest banks charge for loans and the interest they pay on customer deposits. Trading activity in financial markets also boosted earnings.
The industrials sector added to the Index’s gains, led by the transportation industry. The strengthening outlook for global trade volume benefited Denmark’s air freight and logistics industry.
Conversely, the utilities sector detracted from the Index’s return. The electric utilities industry declined, as high interest rates, supplier delays, and elevated materials costs weakened the outlook for offshore wind energy projects.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Health Care | 39.7 | % | ||
Industrials | 25.4 | |||
Financials | 13.1 | |||
Consumer Staples | 6.4 | |||
Materials | 4.5 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 4.3 | |||
Information Technology | 3.1 | |||
Utilities | 2.9 | |||
Energy | 0.6 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B | 22.7 | % | ||
DSV A/S | 7.8 | |||
Genmab A/S | 5.5 | |||
Vestas Wind Systems A/S | 5.1 | |||
Danske Bank A/S | 3.6 | |||
Carlsberg AS, Class B | 3.4 | |||
Coloplast A/S, Class B | 3.3 | |||
Orsted AS | 2.9 | |||
Pandora A/S | 2.6 | |||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B | 2.5 |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Finland ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Finland ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Finnish equities, as represented by the MSCI Finland IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 1.53 | % | 0.01 | % | 5.70 | % | 1.53 | % | 0.05 | % | 74.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 1.62 | 0.14 | 5.68 | 1.62 | 0.72 | 73.73 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 0.11 | (0.67 | ) | 5.07 | 0.11 | (3.32 | ) | 64.03 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value | | | Expenses Paid During | | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value | | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 927.40 | $ 2.87 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Finland ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Finland were flat for the reporting period, as an economic recession and high inflation weighed on the market. Finland’s economy contracted during the second half of 2022, as consumer spending weakened amid rising interest rates and high rates of inflation, which peaked at 9.1% in November and December 2022. Inflation rates declined in 2023, which combined with growing wages increased consumer purchasing power, contributing to a resumption in Finnish economic growth in the first half of 2023.
The capital goods industry contributed the most to the Index’s performance. Manufacturers of mining equipment benefited from expanding mining operations, particularly for the minerals and metals that power the transition to green energy technologies. The construction machinery industry benefited from North American demand for machinery used to extract aggregates such as sand and gravel. Additionally, the transition to renewable energy solutions such as wind and solar farms increased sales for manufacturers of energy storage systems, while merger and acquisition activity drove gains in the plumbing products industry.
Stocks in the utilities sector also contributed to the Index’s return. Germany’s plans to nationalize gas companies improved investor confidence in Finnish utilities that operated in the country.
On the downside, the information technology sector detracted the most from the Index’s performance. Telecommunications and networking equipment manufacturers cut their sales outlooks as high inflation and a modest economic outlook led carriers to delay investment plans.
The energy sector also detracted from the Index’s performance. Production of renewable fuels used in the aviation and transportation industries decreased following a fire at a major refinery. In addition, costs for raw materials to process renewable fuels increased as competitors entered the growing market for alternative energy sources.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Industrials | 25.2 | % | ||
Materials | 19.8 | |||
Information Technology | 14.8 | |||
Financials | 10.9 | |||
Energy | 7.3 | |||
Communication Services | 4.3 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 4.2 | |||
Consumer Staples | 4.0 | |||
Utilities | 4.0 | |||
Health Care | 3.7 | |||
Real Estate | 1.8 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Nokia OYJ | 10.9 | % | ||
Sampo OYJ, Class A | 10.2 | |||
UPM-Kymmene OYJ | 9.0 | |||
Neste OYJ | 7.3 | |||
Kone OYJ, Class B | 7.2 | |||
Stora Enso OYJ, Class R | 4.6 | |||
Metso OYJ | 4.5 | |||
Elisa OYJ | 4.3 | |||
Wartsila OYJ Abp | 4.0 | |||
Fortum OYJ | 4.0 |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization German equities, as represented by the MSCI Germany Small Cap Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the Fund to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 17.58 | % | 0.78 | % | 7.54 | % | 17.58 | % | 3.95 | % | 106.91 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 17.77 | 0.83 | 7.50 | 17.77 | 4.24 | 106.17 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 17.25 | 0.66 | 7.43 | 17.25 | 3.35 | 104.76 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 989.60 | $ 2.96 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 9 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Despite slow economic growth, small-capitalization stocks in Germany advanced significantly for the reporting period. While inflation remained elevated, it declined notably as the ECB raised interest rates eight times during the reporting period in an attempt to control rising prices. Higher interest rates supported the euro, which appreciated relative to the U.S. dollar, making German stocks more valuable in U.S. dollar terms. German stocks also benefited from improved energy security, as alternate fuel suppliers and a warm winter helped offset supply problems in the wake of Russia’s decision to stop supplying Germany with natural gas shortly before the start of the reporting period. Small-capitalization stocks trailed larger-capitalization stocks in recent years, leading to attractive valuations during the reporting period, which was another tailwind for German small-capitalization stocks.
The industrials sector was the largest contributor to the Index’s return despite weak industrial production. The machinery industry advanced, partially due to demand for industrial truck services and improving supply chains, while the construction and engineering industry benefited from demand for high-tech infrastructure projects.
The information technology sector also contributed significantly to the Index’s return, as rising investment in applied artificial intelligence drove demand for semiconductors that can process large datasets. Sharply rising sales, especially increasing commercial orders for energy efficient electronics, and surging profitability drove strong results for a specialty semiconductor materials and equipment company. In the software and services industry, a provider of remote connectivity software continued to advance due to the coronavirus pandemic-driven shift toward communicating online. In the healthcare sector, a company that specializes in medical packaging and drug delivery systems posted strong sales, particularly for the biologics and injectables market, driving sector gains.
On the downside, the utilities sector detracted from the Index’s performance. Weaker earnings from a wind and solar park operator reflected the integration of a recent acquisition, unfavorable weather conditions, and slightly lower power prices.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Industrials | 25.3 | % | ||
Information Technology | 17.0 | |||
Materials | 13.4 | |||
Health Care | 11.9 | |||
Communication Services | 9.8 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 9.0 | |||
Real Estate | 4.7 | |||
Financials | 3.3 | |||
Consumer Staples | 3.2 | |||
Utilities | 1.5 | |||
Energy | 0.9 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Gerresheimer AG | 3.6 | % | ||
AIXTRON SE | 3.5 | |||
Hugo Boss AG | 3.4 | |||
CTS Eventim AG & Co. KGaA | 3.1 | |||
thyssenkrupp AG | 3.1 | |||
K+S AG | 2.9 | |||
Evotec SE | 2.7 | |||
FUCHS SE | 2.3 | |||
KION Group AG | 2.3 | |||
Freenet AG | 2.3 |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Ireland ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Ireland ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Irish equities, as represented by the MSCI All Ireland Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 38.57 | % | 5.89 | % | 7.99 | % | 38.57 | % | 33.14 | % | 115.62 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 38.51 | 5.97 | 7.83 | 38.51 | 33.62 | 112.53 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 38.82 | 6.38 | 8.39 | 38.82 | 36.22 | 123.75 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Certain sectors and markets performed exceptionally well based on market conditions during the one-year period. Achieving such exceptional returns involves the risk of volatility and investors should not expect that such exceptional returns will be repeated.
Index performance through November 26, 2013 reflects the performance of the MSCI Ireland Investable Market Index 25/50. Index performance beginning on November 27, 2013 reflects the performance of the MSCI All Ireland Capped Index.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,122.10 | $ 2.67 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.70 | $ 2.55 | 0.50 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 11 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Ireland ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Ireland increased for the reporting period as employment rates hit the highest level in 25 years, and the economy recovered from a short-lived slowdown. Ireland’s economy expanded slightly in the second quarter of 2023, rebounding from a technical recession. Growth was especially strong in sectors dominated by multinational corporations, attracted to Ireland for its low corporate taxes, access to Europe, and English-speaking workforce. Business investment and government expenditures led domestic growth, while consumer spending increased slightly, driven higher partly by increased tourism. The sharp rise in interest rates, at the fastest pace since the launch of the euro in 1999, sent inflation rates sharply lower, from a peak of 9.2% in October 2022 to 5.8% in July 2023. The value of Irish stocks in U.S. dollar terms increased as the euro strengthened relative to the U.S. dollar.
The materials sector contributed the most to the Index’s performance. The construction materials industry benefited from higher prices for aggregates, such as sand and gravel used in construction projects, and an increase in commercial building in the U.S., particularly in the telecommunications, water utilities, and energy markets. New U.S. laws passed in 2021 and 2022 to rebuild infrastructure and provide incentives for business investment in alternative energy sources and microchip manufacturing plants benefited the construction industry, including Irish companies with operations in the U.S.
The consumer discretionary sector also contributed to the Index’s strong performance, led by the hotels, restaurants, and leisure industry. Irish online sports betting and gambling operators benefited from the rapid growth of sports betting, particularly in the U.S., where more than 30 states legalized wagering on sports in recent years following a 2018 Supreme Court decision. Online gambling revenues also rose sharply.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Materials | 28.2 | % | ||
Consumer Discretionary | 28.2 | |||
Industrials | 13.8 | |||
Consumer Staples | 12.9 | |||
Financials | 9.4 | |||
Health Care | 6.4 | |||
Real Estate | 1.1 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
|
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Flutter Entertainment PLC, Class DI | 22.9 | % | ||
CRH PLC | 22.1 | |||
Smurfit Kappa Group PLC | 4.7 | |||
Kingspan Group PLC | 4.6 | |||
Grafton Group PLC | 4.5 | |||
ICON PLC | 4.5 | |||
Kerry Group PLC, Class A | 4.4 | |||
Glanbia PLC | 4.4 | |||
AIB Group PLC | 4.3 | |||
Ryanair Holdings PLC | 4.3 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Kuwait ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based equity index with exposure to Kuwait, as defined by the index provider, as represented by the MSCI All Kuwait Select Size Liquidity Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception |
| 1 Year | Since Inception | ||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (8.04 | )% | 13.57 | % | (8.04 | )% | 46.50 | % | ||||||||||||
Fund Market | (8.44 | ) | 13.46 | (8.44 | ) | 46.05 | ||||||||||||||
Index | (7.42 | ) | 14.49 | (7.42 | ) | 50.00 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was September 1, 2020. The first day of secondary market trading was September 3, 2020.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 993.00 | $ 3.72 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,021.50 | $ 3.77 | 0.74 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 13 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Kuwait ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Kuwait declined for the reporting period amid ongoing political turmoil and lower global crude oil prices. Kuwait’s government resigned less than four months after elections changed the makeup of the country’s legislative assembly. In addition, the nation’s fifth finance minister in three years resigned after control over Kuwait’s sovereign wealth fund shifted to another ministry. Meanwhile, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, of which Kuwait is the fourth-largest supplier, cut production in an attempt to stabilize prices. Kuwait’s oil exports decreased substantially amid production cuts and diversion of some of its crude supply to a new domestic refinery. Oil accounts for approximately half of the trade-dependent nation’s economic output and all but a small portion of its exports.
Kuwait’s financials sector, led by banks, detracted the most from the Index’s performance. Credit growth declined sharply from a more than 12-year high in 2022, turning negative in the second quarter of 2023. The credit growth slowdown occurred as interest rates increased, while oil production cuts weakened credit demand from oil producers, and the government reduced spending. Meanwhile, operating expenses and provisions for credit losses and impaired loans increased, pressuring profit growth at some banks. Investor concerns about repercussions from the global banking turmoil in Spring 2023 also weighed on Kuwaiti banks.
The industrials sector also detracted from performance. The air freight and logistics industry declined amid concerns about slowing demand, rising costs, and lingering effects from supply chain disruptions due to China’s coronavirus restrictions and the war in Ukraine. On the upside, the consumer discretionary sector contributed to performance, led by strong profit growth in the specialty retail industry.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Financials | 63.9 | % | ||
Industrials | 11.5 | |||
Real Estate | 11.0 | |||
Communication Services | 4.5 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 4.5 | |||
Materials | 1.9 | |||
Energy | 1.3 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.4 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
|
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
National Bank of Kuwait SAKP | 22.6 | % | ||
Kuwait Finance House KSCP | 22.4 | |||
Mobile Telecommunications Co. KSCP | 4.5 | |||
Agility Public Warehousing Co. KSC | 4.4 | |||
Mabanee Co. KPSC | 3.8 | |||
Gulf Bank KSCP | 3.2 | |||
Humansoft Holding Co. KSC | 2.6 | |||
National Industries Group Holding SAK | 2.5 | |||
Kuwait Projects Co. Holding KSCP | 2.3 | |||
Warba Bank KSCP | 2.2 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI New Zealand ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of New Zealand equities, as represented by the MSCI New Zealand IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (1.25 | )% | 1.04 | % | 6.52 | % | (1.25 | )% | 5.30 | % | 88.06 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (1.55 | ) | 0.87 | 6.49 | (1.55 | ) | 4.42 | 87.55 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | (1.42 | ) | 1.52 | 6.99 | (1.42 | ) | 7.81 | 96.45 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Index performance through February 11, 2013 reflects the performance of the MSCI New Zealand Investable Market Index. Index performance beginning on February 12, 2013 reflects the performance of the MSCI New Zealand IMI 25/50 Index.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 938.60 | $ 2.44 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.70 | $ 2.55 | 0.50 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 15 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI New Zealand ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in New Zealand declined modestly for the reporting period as the nation’s economy entered a mild recession. The aftermath of two significant cyclones and widespread flash flooding in early 2023 led to reduced growth, a rising government budget deficit, and a contraction in manufacturing. Inconsistent exports, which account for about a third of the New Zealand’s economic output, was another headwind to economic growth. Exports to China, the nation’s largest trading partner, rose initially but later fell as China’s economic growth stalled. Meanwhile, inflation remained at the highest level since the 1990s, but moderated somewhat. Attempting to curb rising prices, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand more than doubled its policy rate. As interest rates rose, equity values retreated, and housing prices dropped dramatically.
Stocks in the consumer discretionary sector detracted the most from the Index’s return. Lingering effects from the coronavirus pandemic, including some structural business changes, affected the hotel, restaurants, and leisure industry. In addition, a large casino operator faced potential financial penalties related to alleged money laundering. Consumer staples also detracted from the Index’s return. Within the food products industry, China’s sluggish economy and falling birth rate reduced export demand for dairy products and infant formula. In addition, order delays, distribution changes within the industry, and weaker demand for certain products created inventory backlogs.
The utilities sector, on the other hand, contributed to the Index’s performance. Underlying profits increased in the electrical utilities industry, led by an investment conglomerate that acquired the full stake in a mobile and broadband partnership. Earnings also increased for the nation’s leading power generator as it substantially increased spending on renewable energy operations.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Health Care | 33.8 | % | ||
Industrials | 26.1 | |||
Utilities | 13.4 | |||
Communication Services | 12.7 | |||
Real Estate | 8.2 | |||
Consumer Staples | 4.8 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 1.0 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp. Ltd. | 17.3 | % | ||
Auckland International Airport Ltd. | 13.2 | |||
Spark New Zealand Ltd. | 12.7 | |||
EBOS Group Ltd. | 5.0 | |||
a2 Milk Co. Ltd. (The) | 4.8 | |||
Summerset Group Holdings Ltd. | 4.6 | |||
Contact Energy Ltd. | 4.5 | |||
Infratil Ltd. | 4.5 | |||
Meridian Energy Ltd. | 4.5 | |||
Ryman Healthcare Ltd. | 4.5 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Norway ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Norway ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of a broad-based index composed of Norwegian equities, as represented by the MSCI Norway IMI 25/50 Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (7.05 | )% | (0.48 | )% | 0.96 | % | (7.05 | )% | (2.39 | )% | 10.03% | |||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (6.48 | ) | (0.40 | ) | 0.98 | (6.48 | ) | (1.97 | ) | 10.24 | ||||||||||||||||||
Index | (6.76 | ) | (0.04 | ) | 1.31 | (6.76 | ) | (0.21 | ) | 13.94 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 977.20 | $ 2.64 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.50 | $ 2.70 | 0.53 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 17 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Norway ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Norway declined for the reporting period. Norway’s economy slowed, with growth stagnating in the second quarter of 2023, as higher interest rates and elevated inflation weakened consumer spending. Norway’s central bank raised interest rates seven times during the reporting period, slowing housing construction and household consumption. Higher wages and the weak Norwegian currency, which increased prices for imports, contributed to inflation.
The energy sector detracted the most from the Index’s performance. Oil and natural gas prices declined sharply from historically high levels in 2022 in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, weakening stocks in the oil, gas, and consumable fuels industry. An unseasonably warm winter across Europe reduced demand for natural gas, sending prices lower. Sanctions imposed on Russia led to a sharp reduction in its gas exports to Europe, however, the continent secured other energy sources, increasing supplies at storage facilities to near capacity.
The consumer staples sector also detracted from the Index’s return, particularly the food products industry. Stocks of Norway’s large seafood companies dropped sharply after the government proposed a new 40% ground rent tax, charging for the use of natural resources. However, stocks partially rebounded, as salmon prices climbed to near historic highs, and the government ultimately implemented the new tax at a lower rate of 25%.
Norwegian industrials stocks also weighed on the Index’s performance, in particular the commercial services and supplies industry. Stocks in the industry declined as increasing costs weakened profits.
Conversely, the financials sector contributed to the Index’s performance. Banks posted stronger profits, mainly from interest income, as higher interest rates helped banks increase the gap between the interest they charge for loans and the interest they pay on customer deposits.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Energy | 32.6 | % | ||
Financials | 19.5 | |||
Consumer Staples | 13.7 | |||
Industrials | 10.9 | |||
Materials | 9.9 | |||
Communication Services | 8.8 | |||
Information Technology | 2.9 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.7 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS |
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Equinor ASA | 17.3 | % | ||
DNB Bank ASA | 11.4 | |||
Aker BP ASA | 5.4 | |||
Mowi ASA | 5.0 | |||
Telenor ASA | 4.7 | |||
Norsk Hydro ASA | 4.6 | |||
Yara International ASA | 3.8 | |||
Orkla ASA | 3.6 | |||
Kongsberg Gruppen ASA | 2.3 | |||
Storebrand ASA | 2.2 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 19 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Denmark ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 7.7% | ||||||||
DSV A/S | 100,196 | $ | 19,027,178 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 8.6% | ||||||||
Danske Bank A/S | 384,157 | 8,622,916 | ||||||
Jyske Bank A/S, Registered(a) | 49,424 | 3,514,722 | ||||||
Ringkjoebing Landbobank A/S | 25,854 | 3,826,940 | ||||||
Spar Nord Bank A/S | 135,996 | 2,052,309 | ||||||
Sydbank AS | 67,204 | 3,156,543 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,173,430 | ||||||||
Beverages — 5.0% | ||||||||
Carlsberg AS, Class B | 57,345 | 8,291,965 | ||||||
Royal Unibrew A/S | 45,842 | 4,020,072 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,312,037 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 8.0% | ||||||||
Bavarian Nordic A/S(a)(b) | 131,094 | 2,910,131 | ||||||
Genmab A/S(a) | 35,104 | 13,449,575 | ||||||
Zealand Pharma A/S, Class A(a) | 89,502 | 3,335,564 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
19,695,270 | ||||||||
Building Products — 1.3% | ||||||||
Rockwool A/S, Class B | 12,324 | 3,145,329 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 4.5% | ||||||||
Chr Hansen Holding A/S | 77,272 | 5,038,486 | ||||||
Novozymes A/S, Class B | 137,214 | 5,939,415 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,977,901 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.3% | ||||||||
ISS A/S | 183,278 | 3,253,279 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.6% | ||||||||
Per Aarsleff Holding A/S | 31,002 | 1,497,950 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 2.9% | ||||||||
Orsted AS(c) | 110,088 | 7,062,660 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 6.5% | ||||||||
NKT A/S(a)(b) | 62,992 | 3,409,016 | ||||||
Vestas Wind Systems A/S(a) | 539,770 | 12,471,442 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,880,458 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.7% | ||||||||
Schouw & Co. A/S | 23,130 | 1,697,781 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.3% | ||||||||
NTG Nordic Transport Group A/S, Class A(a) | 12,521 | 685,933 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 5.9% | ||||||||
Ambu A/S, Class B(a)(b) | 232,803 | 2,813,268 | ||||||
Coloplast A/S, Class B | 69,837 | 7,954,130 | ||||||
Demant A/S(a) | 92,340 | 3,769,701 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
14,537,099 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 1.3% | ||||||||
GN Store Nord A/S(a) | 154,295 | 3,151,062 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 4.3% | ||||||||
Alm Brand A/S | 1,518,161 | 2,509,206 | ||||||
Topdanmark AS | 63,048 | 2,983,771 | ||||||
Tryg A/S | 261,966 | 4,998,124 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,491,101 | ||||||||
IT Services — 1.3% | ||||||||
Netcompany Group A/S(a)(c) | 73,143 | 2,767,863 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
IT Services (continued) | ||||||||
Trifork Holding AG | 19,922 | $ | 384,347 | |||||
|
| |||||||
3,152,210 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.5% | ||||||||
Chemometec A/S(a) | 21,811 | 1,334,883 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 1.5% | ||||||||
FLSmidth & Co. A/S | 68,386 | 3,120,232 | ||||||
Nilfisk Holding A/S(a) | 22,897 | 447,902 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,568,134 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 5.8% | ||||||||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class A | 2,393 | 4,276,479 | ||||||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B, NVS | 3,283 | 5,959,839 | ||||||
D/S Norden A/S | 36,563 | 1,754,713 | ||||||
Dfds A/S | 63,935 | 2,137,975 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
14,129,006 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 0.6% | ||||||||
TORM PLC, Class A | 60,661 | 1,490,989 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 24.8% | ||||||||
ALK-Abello AS(a) | 237,473 | 2,821,616 | ||||||
H Lundbeck AS | 488,004 | 2,472,068 | ||||||
H Lundbeck AS, Class A | 79,633 | 355,199 | ||||||
Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B | 299,190 | 55,186,709 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
60,835,592 | ||||||||
Software — 1.8% | ||||||||
cBrain A/S | 20,182 | 523,696 | ||||||
SimCorp A/S | 36,527 | 3,883,761 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,407,457 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.4% | ||||||||
Matas A/S | 61,905 | 958,329 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 2.6% | ||||||||
Pandora A/S | 60,895 | 6,306,181 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Tobacco — 0.6% | ||||||||
Scandinavian Tobacco Group A/S, Class A(c) | 101,138 | 1,536,208 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.2% | ||||||||
Solar A/S, Class B | 8,285 | 561,239 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.0% | 242,868,696 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 2.8% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 6,767,158 | 6,769,188 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 130,000 | 130,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 2.8% |
| 6,899,188 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 101.8% |
| 249,767,884 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.8)% |
| (4,373,985 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% |
| $ | 245,393,899 | |||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Denmark ETF |
(c) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 3,637,677 | $ | 3,130,364 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 1,738 | $ | (591 | ) | $ | 6,769,188 | 6,767,158 | $ | 47,710 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 160,000 | — | (30,000 | )(a) | — | — | 130,000 | 130,000 | 7,421 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 1,738 | $ | (591 | ) | $ | 6,899,188 | $ | 55,131 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
OMX Copenhagen 25 Index | 95 | 09/15/23 | $ | 2,398 | $ | (61,514 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 61,514 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 61,514 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 72,383 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 72,383 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 22,057 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 22,057 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Denmark ETF |
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 2,124,730 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 1,342,676 | $ | 241,526,020 | $ | — | $ | 242,868,696 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 6,899,188 | — | — | 6,899,188 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 8,241,864 | $ | 241,526,020 | $ | — | $ | 249,767,884 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | (61,514 | ) | $ | — | $ | (61,514 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Finland ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 1.0% | ||||||||
Nokian Renkaat OYJ | 23,670 | $ | 205,062 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 0.6% | ||||||||
Aktia Bank OYJ | 12,669 | 130,407 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Beverages — 0.5% | ||||||||
Anora Group OYJ | 18,185 | 92,427 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Broadline Retail — 1.3% | ||||||||
Puuilo OYJ | 15,427 | 124,369 | ||||||
Tokmanni Group Corp. | 10,335 | 153,035 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
277,404 | ||||||||
Building Products — 1.4% | ||||||||
Uponor OYJ | 9,250 | 292,105 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 1.3% | ||||||||
Kemira OYJ | 17,598 | 278,543 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.8% | ||||||||
Caverion OYJ | 17,164 | 161,923 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Communications Equipment — 10.7% | ||||||||
Nokia OYJ | 553,409 | 2,213,120 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 3.5% | ||||||||
Kesko OYJ, Class B | 37,037 | 722,973 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Containers & Packaging — 3.4% | ||||||||
Huhtamaki OYJ | 13,988 | 480,485 | ||||||
Metsa Board OYJ, Class B(a) | 28,049 | 224,022 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
704,507 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 4.2% | ||||||||
Elisa OYJ | 17,872 | 877,355 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 3.9% | ||||||||
Fortum OYJ | 60,163 | 807,660 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.9% | ||||||||
Kempower OYJ(a)(b) | 3,744 | 180,661 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.4% | ||||||||
Incap OYJ(b) | 8,239 | 89,143 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.6% | ||||||||
Revenio Group OYJ | 5,062 | 129,419 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0% | ||||||||
Oriola OYJ, Class B | 2,520 | 2,582 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Household Durables — 0.5% | ||||||||
YIT OYJ | 40,992 | 99,976 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 10.1% | ||||||||
Sampo OYJ, Class A | 47,396 | 2,080,403 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 1.9% | ||||||||
TietoEVRY OYJ | 15,810 | 386,555 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 21.2% | ||||||||
Cargotec OYJ, Class B | 6,157 | 289,025 | ||||||
Kone OYJ, Class B | 32,065 | 1,458,611 | ||||||
Konecranes OYJ | 10,252 | 353,871 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Machinery (continued) | ||||||||
Metso OYJ | 79,803 | $ | 916,580 | |||||
Valmet OYJ | 21,937 | 557,825 | ||||||
Wartsila OYJ Abp | 63,766 | 809,248 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,385,160 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 1.3% | ||||||||
Outokumpu OYJ | 58,781 | 273,851 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 7.2% | ||||||||
Neste OYJ | 40,668 | 1,487,760 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 13.3% | ||||||||
Stora Enso OYJ, Class R | 73,980 | 940,846 | ||||||
UPM-Kymmene OYJ | 53,140 | 1,818,585 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,759,431 | ||||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.5% | ||||||||
Finnair OYJ(b) | 194,714 | 108,858 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 3.0% | ||||||||
Orion OYJ, Class B | 14,950 | �� | 611,013 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 1.7% | ||||||||
Citycon OYJ | 21,069 | 129,433 | ||||||
Kojamo OYJ | 22,704 | 226,288 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
355,721 | ||||||||
Software — 1.6% | ||||||||
F-Secure OYJ | 41,771 | 107,859 | ||||||
QT Group OYJ(a)(b) | 3,410 | 217,608 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
325,467 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.8% | ||||||||
Musti Group OYJ | 7,229 | 160,177 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.6% | ||||||||
Marimekko OYJ | 9,875 | 119,394 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 98.2% | 20,319,057 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 3.2% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(c)(d)(e) | 631,640 | 631,830 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 20,000 | 20,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 3.2% | 651,830 | |||||||
Total Investments — 101.4% | 20,970,887 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.4)% | (280,073) | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ 20,690,814 | |||||||
|
|
(a) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(e) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 23 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Finland ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 143,791 | $ | 487,889 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 112 | $ | 38 | $ | 631,830 | 631,640 | $ | 15,998 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 40,000 | — | (20,000 | )(a) | — | — | 20,000 | 20,000 | 1,470 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 112 | $ | 38 | $ | 651,830 | $ | 17,468 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Euro STOXX 50 Index | 7 | 09/15/23 | $ | 327 | $ | (2,944 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,944 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,944 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 85,025 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 85,025 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (1,550 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (1,550 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 356,813 |
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Finland ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 464,560 | $ | 19,854,497 | $ | — | $ | 20,319,057 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 651,830 | — | — | 651,830 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 1,116,390 | $ | 19,854,497 | $ | — | $ | 20,970,887 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | (2,944 | ) | $ | — | $ | (2,944 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 25 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 1.4% | ||||||||
Hensoldt AG | 8,932 | $ | 289,491 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Automobile Components — 1.9% | ||||||||
ElringKlinger AG | 4,846 | 31,858 | ||||||
SAF-Holland SE | 7,700 | 95,877 | ||||||
Vitesco Technologies Group AG(a) | 3,405 | 268,761 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
396,496 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 0.2% | ||||||||
Knaus Tabbert AG | 618 | 37,890 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Biotechnology — 2.0% | ||||||||
CureVac NV(a) | 17,138 | 155,286 | ||||||
Formycon AG | 1,499 | 99,501 | ||||||
MorphoSys AG(a) | 5,536 | 166,807 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
421,594 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.2% | ||||||||
Steico SE(b) | 959 | 31,517 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Capital Markets — 0.9% | ||||||||
Deutsche Beteiligungs AG | 2,395 | 84,320 | ||||||
flatexDEGIRO AG(a)(b) | 12,160 | 106,455 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
190,775 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 5.0% | ||||||||
K+S AG, Registered | 32,564 | 611,546 | ||||||
LANXESS AG | 13,956 | 440,399 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,051,945 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 2.7% | ||||||||
Befesa SA(c) | 6,808 | 250,581 | ||||||
Bilfinger SE | 4,805 | 166,503 | ||||||
Cewe Stiftung & Co. KGaA | 884 | 86,837 | ||||||
Takkt AG | 3,903 | 56,881 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
560,802 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.3% | ||||||||
ADVA Optical Networking SE(a) | 3,092 | 67,224 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 2.0% | ||||||||
HOCHTIEF AG(b) | 3,966 | 423,402 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.4% | ||||||||
METRO AG(a)(b) | 24,536 | 195,329 | ||||||
Shop Apotheke Europe NV(a)(c) | 2,578 | 306,998 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
502,327 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.5% | ||||||||
United Internet AG, Registered(d) | 16,333 | 314,080 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 2.7% | ||||||||
Energiekontor AG | 1,188 | 112,499 | ||||||
Nordex SE(a) | 20,115 | 240,519 | ||||||
PNE AG | 5,217 | 72,071 | ||||||
SGL Carbon SE(a)(b) | 10,395 | 78,629 | ||||||
Varta AG(a)(b) | 3,257 | 71,714 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
575,432 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.4% | ||||||||
Basler AG | 2,142 | 32,291 | ||||||
Jenoptik AG | 8,765 | 256,611 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
288,902 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 3.4% | ||||||||
Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. KGaA(a) | 13,115 | 65,767 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Entertainment (continued) | ||||||||
CTS Eventim AG & Co. KGaA | 10,617 | $ | 660,467 | |||||
|
| |||||||
726,234 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 2.1% | ||||||||
Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG(c) | 22,892 | 180,307 | ||||||
GRENKE AG | 4,762 | 121,077 | ||||||
Hypoport SE(a) | 757 | 140,743 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
442,127 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.8% | ||||||||
Suedzucker AG | 10,422 | 168,125 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Ground Transportation — 1.2% | ||||||||
Sixt SE | 2,325 | 247,865 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.8% | ||||||||
Eckert & Ziegler Strahlen- und Medizintechnik AG | 2,517 | 90,539 | ||||||
Stratec SE | 1,341 | 72,388 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
162,927 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Medios AG(a) | 2,428 | 39,230 | ||||||
Synlab AG | 11,310 | 115,772 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
155,002 | ||||||||
Health Care Technology — 1.0% | ||||||||
CompuGroup Medical SE & Co. KgaA | 4,581 | 214,089 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.5% | ||||||||
Encavis AG(a) | 20,548 | 314,708 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.5% | ||||||||
Indus Holding AG(b) | 3,433 | 82,401 | ||||||
MBB SE | 353 | 29,818 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
112,219 | ||||||||
Insurance — 0.3% | ||||||||
Wuestenrot & Wuerttembergische AG | 3,983 | 66,306 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 3.6% | ||||||||
Adesso SE | 554 | 69,318 | ||||||
CANCOM SE | 6,283 | 182,279 | ||||||
Datagroup SE | 710 | 41,574 | ||||||
GFT Technologies SE | 2,914 | 81,390 | ||||||
Ionos SE(a) | 3,570 | 60,765 | ||||||
Kontron AG | 6,519 | 141,901 | ||||||
Nagarro SE(a)(b) | 1,400 | 105,380 | ||||||
Secunet Security Networks AG | 275 | 66,180 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
748,787 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 6.3% | ||||||||
Evotec SE(a) | 24,117 | 565,218 | ||||||
Gerresheimer AG | 5,877 | 762,832 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,328,050 | ||||||||
Machinery — 8.9% | ||||||||
Deutz AG | 20,471 | 96,048 | ||||||
Duerr AG | 8,830 | 263,208 | ||||||
Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG(a)(b) | 44,171 | 62,008 | ||||||
JOST Werke AG(c) | 2,148 | 110,794 | ||||||
KION Group AG | 12,277 | 490,113 | ||||||
Krones AG | 2,419 | 261,940 | ||||||
Norma Group SE | 5,144 | 94,435 | ||||||
Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology AG | 587 | 93,709 | ||||||
Stabilus SE | 4,205 | 235,919 | ||||||
Vossloh AG | 1,492 | 67,205 |
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Machinery (continued) | ||||||||
Wacker Neuson SE | 4,758 | $ | 105,095 | |||||
|
| |||||||
1,880,474 | ||||||||
Media — 2.1% | ||||||||
ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE(b) | 23,785 | 188,530 | ||||||
Stroeer SE & Co. KGaA | 5,787 | 262,835 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
451,365 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 5.8% | ||||||||
Aurubis AG | 5,354 | 442,714 | ||||||
Salzgitter AG(b) | 4,105 | 120,780 | ||||||
thyssenkrupp AG | 84,733 | 651,155 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,214,649 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 0.9% | ||||||||
CropEnergies AG | 4,449 | 41,082 | ||||||
VERBIO Vereinigte BioEnergie AG(b) | 3,249 | 153,566 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
194,648 | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.7% | ||||||||
Dermapharm Holding SE | 3,209 | 153,416 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Professional Services — 0.8% | ||||||||
Amadeus Fire AG | 970 | 118,355 | ||||||
Bertrandt AG | 862 | 42,997 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
161,352 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 4.2% | ||||||||
Aroundtown SA(a) | 143,828 | 259,313 | ||||||
Deutsche EuroShop AG | 2,597 | 59,490 | ||||||
DIC Asset AG(b) | 7,067 | 33,244 | ||||||
Grand City Properties SA(a) | 13,453 | 120,069 | ||||||
Patrizia SE | 7,047 | 67,274 | ||||||
TAG Immobilien AG(a) | 28,364 | 321,536 | ||||||
Vib Vermoegen AG(a) | 1,968 | 32,168 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
893,094 | ||||||||
Retail REITs — 0.4% | ||||||||
Hamborner REIT AG | 12,456 | 90,521 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 6.7% | ||||||||
AIXTRON SE | 19,291 | 732,333 | ||||||
Elmos Semiconductor SE | 1,054 | 76,190 | ||||||
PVA TePla AG(a) | 3,693 | 70,784 | ||||||
Siltronic AG | 3,066 | 244,439 | ||||||
SMA Solar Technology AG(a)(b) | 2,659 | 213,623 | ||||||
SUESS MicroTec SE | 3,252 | 76,085 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,413,454 | ||||||||
Software — 5.1% | ||||||||
Atoss Software AG | 678 | 165,019 | ||||||
Northern Data AG(a) | 2,697 | 48,752 | ||||||
Software AG, NVS | 8,813 | 303,893 | ||||||
SUSE SA(a) | 7,265 | 122,355 | ||||||
TeamViewer AG(a)(c) | 22,969 | 425,693 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,065,712 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 2.6% | ||||||||
About You Holding SE(a)(b) | 6,328 | 42,328 | ||||||
Auto1 Group SE(a)(c) | 16,573 | 138,821 | ||||||
Ceconomy AG(a) | 24,698 | 64,338 | ||||||
Fielmann AG | 4,294 | 201,540 | ||||||
Hornbach Holding AG & Co. KGaA | 1,361 | 107,025 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
554,052 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 3.4% | ||||||||
Hugo Boss AG | 9,582 | 721,336 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.9% | ||||||||
BayWa AG | 2,441 | $ | 86,077 | |||||
Kloeckner & Co. SE | 11,961 | 102,101 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
188,178 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 1.9% | ||||||||
Fraport AG Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide(a) | 6,293 | 340,823 | ||||||
Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG(b) | 4,491 | 49,369 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
390,192 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 2.7% | ||||||||
1&1 AG | 6,007 | 89,244 | ||||||
Freenet AG | 20,229 | 484,443 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
573,687 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 93.9% | 19,784,446 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 0.6% | ||||||||
Schaeffler AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 21,094 | 125,206 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 2.3% | ||||||||
FUCHS SE, Preference Shares, NVS | 11,825 | 490,182 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 0.3% | ||||||||
STO SE & Co. KGaA, Preference Shares, NVS | 432 | 64,336 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.9% | ||||||||
Sixt SE, Preference Shares, NVS | 2,812 | 182,302 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.3% | ||||||||
Draegerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,461 | 70,613 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Household Durables — 0.2% | ||||||||
Einhell Germany AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 286 | 45,526 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 1.3% | ||||||||
Jungheinrich AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 8,167 | 271,069 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 5.9% | 1,249,234 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.8% | 21,033,680 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 7.0% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(e)(f)(g) | 1,471,988 | 1,472,430 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(e)(f) | 10,000 | 10,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 7.0% | 1,482,430 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 106.8% | 22,516,110 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (6.8)% |
| (1,440,588 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 21,075,522 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(c) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 27 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF |
(d) | This security may be resold to qualified foreign investors and foreign institutional buyers under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933. |
(e) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(f) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(g) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 2,477,142 | $ | — | $ | (1,004,885 | )(a) | $ | 1,308 | $ | (1,135 | ) | $ | 1,472,430 | 1,471,988 | $ | 74,667 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 10,000 | 0 | (a) | — | — | — | 10,000 | 10,000 | 391 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 1,308 | $ | (1,135 | ) | $ | 1,482,430 | $ | 75,058 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 8,280 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 8,280 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (372 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (372 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 55,577 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 700,412 | $ | 19,084,034 | $ | — | $ | 19,784,446 | ||||||||
Preferred Stocks | 45,526 | 1,203,708 | — | 1,249,234 | ||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 1,482,430 | — | — | 1,482,430 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 2,228,368 | $ | 20,287,742 | $ | — | $ | 22,516,110 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Ireland ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Banks — 9.2% | ||||||||
AIB Group PLC | 937,964 | $ | 4,269,182 | |||||
Bank of Ireland Group PLC | 422,582 | 4,207,973 | ||||||
Permanent TSB Group Holdings PLC(a) | 266,586 | 604,631 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,081,786 | ||||||||
Beverages — 1.5% | ||||||||
C&C Group PLC | 873,542 | 1,510,477 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Building Products — 4.6% | ||||||||
Kingspan Group PLC | 53,980 | 4,561,012 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 22.1% | ||||||||
CRH PLC | 379,010 | 21,805,830 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Containers & Packaging — 5.9% | ||||||||
Ardagh Metal Packaging SA | 333,084 | 1,195,772 | ||||||
Smurfit Kappa Group PLC | 109,719 | 4,602,765 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,798,537 | ||||||||
Food Products — 11.3% | ||||||||
Dole PLC | 137,527 | 1,639,322 | ||||||
Glanbia PLC | 259,389 | 4,314,661 | ||||||
Kerry Group PLC, Class A | 46,507 | 4,339,109 | ||||||
Origin Enterprises PLC | 248,877 | 885,173 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,178,265 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 1.8% | ||||||||
Uniphar PLC(a) | 578,259 | 1,749,429 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 25.2% | ||||||||
Dalata Hotel Group PLC(a) | 473,241 | 2,209,150 | ||||||
Flutter Entertainment PLC, Class DI(a) | 124,264 | 22,599,330 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
24,808,480 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 3.1% | ||||||||
Cairn Homes PLC(a) | 1,347,023 | 1,678,586 | ||||||
Glenveagh Properties PLC(a)(b) | 1,226,879 | 1,333,028 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,011,614 | ||||||||
Insurance — 0.2% | ||||||||
FBD Holdings PLC | 11,982 | 169,555 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 4.5% | ||||||||
ICON PLC(a) | 17,081 | 4,440,035 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.4% | ||||||||
Irish Continental Group PLC | 80,956 | $ | 390,642 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Metals & Mining — 0.2% | ||||||||
Kenmare Resources PLC | 47,480 | 245,700 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 4.3% | ||||||||
Ryanair Holdings PLC, ADR(a) | 42,678 | 4,235,791 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.2% | ||||||||
GH Research PLC(a) | 14,816 | 157,494 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Residential REITs — 1.1% | ||||||||
Irish Residential Properties REIT PLC | 1,003,601 | 1,078,053 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 4.5% | ||||||||
Grafton Group PLC | 408,696 | 4,465,471 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 100.1% | 98,688,171 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% | 60,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.2% | 98,748,171 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.2)% |
| (198,981 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 98,549,190 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | — | $ 60,000 | (a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 60,000 | 60,000 | $ | 1,540 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 29 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Ireland ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 49,492 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 49,492 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,417 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,417 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 189,992 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 27,185,523 | $ | 71,502,648 | $ | — | $ | 98,688,171 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 60,000 | — | — | 60,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 27,245,523 | $ | 71,502,648 | $ | — | $ | 98,748,171 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Kuwait ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 4.4% | ||||||||
Agility Public Warehousing Co. KSC(a) | 1,367,700 | $ | 2,549,899 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 57.8% | ||||||||
Ahli United Bank KSCP | 87,081 | 73,168 | ||||||
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait KSCP | 1,562,085 | 1,135,140 | ||||||
Boubyan Bank KSCP | 36,952 | 73,094 | ||||||
Burgan Bank SAK | 1,321,065 | 826,899 | ||||||
Gulf Bank KSCP | 2,253,836 | 1,842,062 | ||||||
Kuwait Finance House KSCP | 5,410,661 | 13,072,192 | ||||||
Kuwait International Bank KSCP | 1,969,094 | 1,027,947 | ||||||
Kuwait Projects Co. Holding KSCP(a) | 3,376,745 | 1,346,689 | ||||||
National Bank of Kuwait SAKP | 4,411,315 | 13,163,979 | ||||||
Warba Bank KSCP | 1,964,912 | 1,280,836 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
33,842,006 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 2.3% | ||||||||
Boursa Kuwait Securities Co. KPSC | 146,762 | 947,108 | ||||||
Noor Financial Investment Co. KSC | 661,721 | 399,117 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,346,225 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 1.9% | ||||||||
Boubyan Petrochemicals Co. KSCP | 464,300 | 1,114,490 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.7% | ||||||||
Combined Group Contracting Co. SAK | 368,954 | 441,668 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 2.6% | ||||||||
Humansoft Holding Co. KSC | 146,422 | 1,532,859 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.7% | ||||||||
Gulf Cable & Electrical Industries Co. KSCP | 100,482 | 396,060 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 1.3% | ||||||||
Heavy Engineering & Ship Building Co. KSCP | 336,038 | 771,110 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Financial Services — 3.5% | ||||||||
A’ayan Leasing & Investment Co. KSCP | 1,463,067 | 767,990 | ||||||
Alimtiaz Investment Group KSC(a) | 1,988,604 | 453,370 | ||||||
National Investments Co. KSCP | 1,081,582 | 817,069 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,038,429 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.9% | ||||||||
Mezzan Holding Co. KSCC | 323,256 | 546,363 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.5% | ||||||||
Shamal Az-Zour Al-Oula for the First Phase of Az-Zour Power Plant KSC | 480,555 | 302,194 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 2.5% | ||||||||
National Industries Group Holding SAK | 1,969,803 | 1,449,749 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 1.8% | ||||||||
Jazeera Airways Co. KSCP | 193,506 | 1,048,354 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 11.0% | ||||||||
Commercial Real Estate Co. Ksc | 3,266,004 | $ | 1,080,308 | |||||
Kuwait Real Estate Co. KSC | 1,916,816 | 1,007,111 | ||||||
Mabanee Co. KPSC | 813,973 | 2,205,773 | ||||||
National Real Estate Co. KPSC(a) | 3,356,379 | 884,690 | ||||||
Salhia Real Estate Co. KSCP | 793,428 | 1,232,934 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,410,816 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 1.8% | ||||||||
Ali Alghanim Sons Automotive Co. KSCC, NVS | 277,736 | 1,066,795 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 1.4% | ||||||||
ALAFCO Aviation Lease & Finance Co. KSCP(a) | 207,142 | 116,243 | ||||||
Integrated Holding Co. KCSC | 514,710 | 692,535 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
808,778 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 4.5% | ||||||||
Mobile Telecommunications Co. KSCP | 1,582,386 | 2,617,469 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 99.6% | 58,283,264 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Banks — 0.0% | ||||||||
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait KSCP (Expires 09/17/23, Strike Price KWD 0.20)(a) | 105,417 | 6,156 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | 6,156 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.6% | 58,289,420 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 1.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(b)(c) | 640,000 | 640,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 1.1% | 640,000 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.7% | 58,929,420 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.7)% |
| (434,806 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 58,494,614 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 31 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Kuwait ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | 50,000 | $590,000 | (a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 640,000 | 640,000 | $ | 8,348 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 1 | 09/15/23 | $ | 49 | $ | (1,500 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,500 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,500 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (11,737 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (11,737 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 283 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 283 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 36,161 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Kuwait ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 7,473,341 | $ | 50,809,923 | $ | — | $ | 58,283,264 | ||||||||
Rights | 6,156 | — | — | 6,156 | ||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 640,000 | — | — | 640,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 8,119,497 | $ | 50,809,923 | $ | — | $ | 58,929,420 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (1,500 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (1,500 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 33 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI New Zealand ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 1.0% | ||||||||
Warehouse Group Ltd. (The) | 1,267,772 | $ | 1,345,631 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Building Products — 4.3% | ||||||||
Fletcher Building Ltd. | 2,001,044 | 5,760,246 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 12.6% | ||||||||
Spark New Zealand Ltd. | 5,518,840 | 16,696,195 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 8.9% | ||||||||
Contact Energy Ltd. | 1,202,574 | 6,002,085 | ||||||
Mercury NZ Ltd. | 1,556,718 | 5,761,039 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,763,124 | ||||||||
Food Products — 4.7% | ||||||||
a2 Milk Co. Ltd. (The)(a)(b) | 2,112,214 | 6,297,567 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 17.2% | ||||||||
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp. Ltd.(b) | 1,687,347 | 22,788,841 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 16.4% | ||||||||
EBOS Group Ltd. | 289,887 | 6,559,459 | ||||||
Oceania Healthcare Ltd. | 7,127,165 | 3,229,946 | ||||||
Ryman Healthcare Ltd. | 1,486,490 | 5,880,147 | ||||||
Summerset Group Holdings Ltd. | 996,488 | 6,086,371 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,755,923 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 4.5% | ||||||||
Meridian Energy Ltd. | 1,847,693 | 5,910,425 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 4.5% | ||||||||
Infratil Ltd. | 993,483 | 5,982,807 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial REITs — 4.4% | ||||||||
Goodman Property Trust | 4,472,923 | 5,774,497 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Passenger Airlines — 4.0% | ||||||||
Air New Zealand Ltd.(a) | 10,938,251 | $ | 5,251,242 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Retail REITs — 3.8% | ||||||||
Kiwi Property Group Ltd. | 9,560,545 | 5,048,736 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 13.1% | ||||||||
Auckland International Airport Ltd.(a) | 3,739,229 | 17,409,796 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.4% | 131,785,030 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.4% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(c)(d)(e) | 432,650 | 432,780 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(c)(d) | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.4% | 492,780 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.8% | 132,277,810 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.2% | 322,334 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 132,600,144 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(c) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(d) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(e) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 437,876 | $ | — | $ | (5,172 | )(a) | $ | 374 | $ | (298 | ) | $ | 432,780 | 432,650 | $ | 1,518 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | — | 60,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 60,000 | 60,000 | 3,293 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 374 | $ | (298 | ) | $ | 492,780 | $ | 4,811 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI New Zealand ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
SPI 200 Index | 3 | 09/21/23 | $ | 352 | $ | 1,608 | ||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (47,261 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (47,261 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 324,769 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 22,649,726 | $ | 109,135,304 | $ | — | $ | 131,785,030 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 492,780 | — | — | 492,780 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 23,142,506 | $ | 109,135,304 | $ | — | $ | 132,277,810 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | $ | — | $ | 1,608 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 35 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Norway ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 2.3% | ||||||||
Kongsberg Gruppen ASA | 18,842 | $ | 781,584 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 14.7% | ||||||||
DNB Bank ASA | 198,264 | 3,918,996 | ||||||
SpareBank 1 Nord Norge | 20,431 | 183,183 | ||||||
SpareBank 1 Oestlandet | 7,444 | 93,717 | ||||||
SpareBank 1 SMN | 30,892 | 408,199 | ||||||
SpareBank 1 SR-Bank ASA | 38,349 | 463,626 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,067,721 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 0.3% | ||||||||
Nykode Therapeutics AS(a) | 31,649 | 85,555 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Broadline Retail — 0.6% | ||||||||
Europris ASA(b) | 33,978 | 193,360 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 5.1% | ||||||||
Bewi ASA | 10,453 | 31,364 | ||||||
Borregaard ASA | 20,350 | 296,277 | ||||||
Elkem ASA(b) | 61,638 | 127,286 | ||||||
Yara International ASA | 35,467 | 1,292,748 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,747,675 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.3% | ||||||||
Aker Carbon Capture ASA(a) | 77,660 | 89,445 | ||||||
Aker Horizons Holding AS(a)(c) | 52,661 | 23,796 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
113,241 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 0.9% | ||||||||
Cadeler AS(a)(c) | 23,247 | 87,419 | ||||||
Veidekke ASA | 23,127 | 219,269 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
306,688 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 4.7% | ||||||||
Telenor ASA | 149,888 | 1,604,754 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.1% | ||||||||
NEL ASA(a)(c) | 358,011 | 391,188 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.4% | ||||||||
Kitron ASA | 38,214 | 135,540 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 5.1% | ||||||||
Aker Solutions ASA | 52,713 | 220,157 | ||||||
Borr Drilling Ltd.(a) | 43,572 | 307,748 | ||||||
BW Offshore Ltd. | 19,847 | 46,295 | ||||||
Odfjell Drilling Ltd.(a) | 20,326 | 69,052 | ||||||
PGS ASA(a) | 185,091 | 127,837 | ||||||
Subsea 7 SA | 48,887 | 636,976 | ||||||
TGS ASA | 27,026 | 349,817 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,757,882 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 0.7% | ||||||||
Kahoot! ASA(a) | 73,899 | 238,749 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 13.6% | ||||||||
Austevoll Seafood ASA | 19,541 | 141,373 | ||||||
Bakkafrost P/F | 10,784 | 543,354 | ||||||
Grieg Seafood ASA | 10,936 | 77,352 | ||||||
Leroy Seafood Group ASA | 57,429 | 237,066 | ||||||
Mowi ASA | 94,154 | 1,706,761 | ||||||
Orkla ASA | 160,886 | 1,228,272 | ||||||
Salmar ASA | 15,545 | 758,895 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,693,073 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.5% | ||||||||
Scatec ASA(b) | 25,531 | $ | 170,240 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 1.1% | ||||||||
Aker ASA, Class A | 4,776 | 294,433 | ||||||
Bonheur ASA | 4,548 | 99,031 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
393,464 | ||||||||
Insurance — 4.7% | ||||||||
Gjensidige Forsikring ASA | 42,842 | 665,233 | ||||||
Protector Forsikring ASA | 12,371 | 197,233 | ||||||
Storebrand ASA | 96,046 | 769,624 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,632,090 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 1.3% | ||||||||
Adevinta ASA(a) | 62,425 | 442,841 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 0.6% | ||||||||
Atea ASA | 16,852 | 209,229 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 2.4% | ||||||||
Hexagon Composites ASA(a) | 25,913 | 92,034 | ||||||
Hexagon Purus ASA(a)(c) | 29,646 | 54,606 | ||||||
TOMRA Systems ASA | 50,731 | 695,481 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
842,121 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 2.2% | ||||||||
Belships ASA | 18,482 | 27,906 | ||||||
Golden Ocean Group Ltd. | 27,915 | 205,288 | ||||||
Hoegh Autoliners ASA | 16,346 | 114,004 | ||||||
MPC Container Ships AS | 66,584 | 114,819 | ||||||
Stolt-Nielsen Ltd. | 5,015 | 125,001 | ||||||
Wallenius Wilhelmsen ASA | 22,658 | 183,282 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
770,300 | ||||||||
Media — 2.2% | ||||||||
Schibsted ASA, Class A | 15,663 | 332,387 | ||||||
Schibsted ASA, Class B | 20,853 | 408,710 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
741,097 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 4.6% | ||||||||
Norsk Hydro ASA | 284,208 | 1,572,493 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 27.4% | ||||||||
Aker BP ASA | 67,692 | 1,841,078 | ||||||
BLUENORD ASA(a) | 5,051 | 229,033 | ||||||
BW Energy Ltd.(a) | 19,581 | 47,279 | ||||||
BW LPG Ltd.(b) | 16,494 | 199,831 | ||||||
Cool Co. Ltd. | 5,175 | 72,417 | ||||||
DNO ASA | 101,635 | 94,721 | ||||||
Equinor ASA | 192,987 | 5,926,865 | ||||||
Flex LNG Ltd. | 6,333 | 192,319 | ||||||
Frontline PLC, NVS | 28,613 | 509,322 | ||||||
Hafnia Ltd. | 54,282 | 317,197 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,430,062 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.2% | ||||||||
Norske Skog ASA(a)(b)(c) | 15,144 | 62,326 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.4% | ||||||||
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA(a) | 154,474 | 130,431 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 0.4% | ||||||||
Entra ASA(b) | 15,606 | 145,860 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.5% | ||||||||
Nordic Semiconductor ASA(a) | 35,101 | 426,307 |
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Norway ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued) | ||||||||
REC Silicon ASA(a)(c) | 58,566 | $ | 93,384 | |||||
|
| |||||||
519,691 | ||||||||
Software — 0.4% | ||||||||
Crayon Group Holding ASA(a)(b) | 15,285 | 123,607 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.7% |
| 34,302,862 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 1.6% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 552,721 | 552,887 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 10,000 | 10,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 1.6% |
| 562,887 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 101.3% |
| 34,865,749 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.3)% |
| (455,190 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% |
| $ | 34,410,559 | |||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 860,484 | $ | — | $ | (308,024 | )(a) | $ | 728 | $ | (301 | ) | $ | 552,887 | 552,721 | $ | 19,016 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 10,000 | 0 | (a) | — | — | — | 10,000 | 10,000 | 1,068 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 728 | $ | (301 | ) | $ | 562,887 | $ | 20,084 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Euro STOXX 50 Index | 2 | 09/15/23 | $ | 93 | $ | (195 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 37 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Norway ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 195 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 195 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9,564 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9,564 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5,272 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5,272 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $143,997 |
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 1,140,258 | $ | 33,162,604 | $ | — | $ | 34,302,862 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 562,887 | — | — | 562,887 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 1,703,145 | $ | 33,162,604 | $ | — | $ | 34,865,749 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | (195 | ) | $ | — | $ | (195 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF | iShares MSCI Finland ETF | iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI Ireland ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 242,868,696 | $ | 20,319,057 | $ | 21,033,680 | $ | 98,688,171 | ||||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | 6,899,188 | 651,830 | 1,482,430 | 60,000 | ||||||||||||
Cash | 7,040 | 4,982 | 7,339 | 5,193 | ||||||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 4,100 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency collateral pledged for futures contracts(d) | 227,845 | 27,109 | 4,338 | 10,843 | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(e) | 471,530 | 22,580 | 40,992 | 64,742 | ||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments sold | 9,058,923 | 348,493 | 176,837 | 6,079,159 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 5,721 | 1,617 | 4,970 | — | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 80,732 | — | 7,044 | 68,924 | ||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 417 | 118 | 14 | 142 | ||||||||||||
Tax reclaims | 1,933,607 | 418,645 | 449 | 35,264 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total assets | 261,557,799 | 21,794,431 | 22,758,093 | 105,012,438 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | 6,769,622 | 631,671 | 1,471,426 | — | ||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 9,251,511 | 356,966 | 200,243 | 6,420,963 | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 112,119 | 9,142 | 10,586 | 41,402 | ||||||||||||
IRS compliance fee for foreign withholding tax claims | — | 99,041 | — | — | ||||||||||||
Professional fees | — | 4,706 | — | — | ||||||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 30,648 | 2,091 | 316 | 883 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total liabilities | 16,163,900 | 1,103,617 | 1,682,571 | 6,463,248 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 245,393,899 | $ | 20,690,814 | $ | 21,075,522 | $ | 98,549,190 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 236,251,356 | $ | 32,109,968 | $ | 30,496,895 | $ | 99,068,565 | ||||||||
Accumulated earnings (loss) | 9,142,543 | (11,419,154 | ) | (9,421,373 | ) | (519,375 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 245,393,899 | $ | 20,690,814 | $ | 21,075,522 | $ | 98,549,190 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 2,350,000 | 600,000 | 350,000 | 1,700,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 104.42 | $ | 34.48 | $ | 60.22 | $ | 57.97 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Par value | None | None | None | None | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 229,707,498 | $ | 25,829,915 | $ | 25,913,106 | $ | 84,698,978 | ||||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | 6,174,377 | $ | 585,479 | $ | 1,386,888 | $ | — | ||||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 6,898,486 | $ | 651,726 | $ | 1,482,276 | $ | 60,000 | ||||||||
(d) Foreign currency collateral pledged, at cost | $ | 232,694 | $ | 27,973 | $ | 4,546 | $ | 10,908 | ||||||||
(e) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 471,049 | $ | 21,781 | $ | 41,995 | $ | 65,834 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 39 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF | iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF | iShares MSCI Norway ETF | ||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 58,289,420 | $ | 131,785,030 | $ | 34,302,862 | ||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | 640,000 | 492,780 | 562,887 | |||||||||
Cash | 1,754 | 2,710 | 4,569 | |||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 3,000 | — | — | |||||||||
Foreign currency collateral pledged for futures contracts(d) | — | 9,719 | 14,097 | |||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(e) | 37,557 | 206,400 | 157,448 | |||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||
Investments sold | 1,977,327 | 12,754,820 | 874,897 | |||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | — | 49 | 848 | |||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | — | 192 | 30,212 | |||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 2,009 | 237 | 56 | |||||||||
Tax reclaims | — | — | 4,625 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total assets | 60,951,067 | 145,251,937 | 35,952,501 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | — | 432,780 | 552,875 | |||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 2,417,999 | 12,078,785 | 973,746 | |||||||||
Capital shares redeemed | — | 81,864 | — | |||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 37,365 | 58,123 | 14,318 | |||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 1,089 | 241 | 1,003 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total liabilities | 2,456,453 | 12,651,793 | 1,541,942 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 58,494,614 | $ | 132,600,144 | $ | 34,410,559 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 57,995,113 | $ | 205,422,202 | $ | 54,523,412 | ||||||
Accumulated earnings (loss) | 499,501 | (72,822,058 | ) | (20,112,853 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 58,494,614 | $ | 132,600,144 | $ | 34,410,559 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 1,850,000 | 2,900,000 | 1,500,000 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net asset value | $ | 31.62 | $ | 45.72 | $ | 22.94 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Par value | None | None | None | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 56,383,515 | $ | 157,882,846 | $ | 42,431,704 | ||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | — | $ | 412,160 | $ | 525,908 | ||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 640,000 | $ | 492,780 | $ | 562,833 | ||||||
(d) Foreign currency collateral pledged, at cost | $ | — | $ | 9,962 | $ | 14,266 | ||||||
(e) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 37,527 | $ | 205,725 | $ | 156,228 |
See notes to financial statements.
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF | iShares MSCI Finland ETF | iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI Ireland ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 7,112,776 | $ | 640,343 | $ | 476,446 | $ | 1,251,572 | ||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 7,421 | 1,470 | 391 | 1,540 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 47,710 | 15,998 | 74,667 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (1,006,935 | ) | (105 | ) | (57,780 | ) | (15,949 | ) | ||||||||
IRS compliance fee for foreign withholding tax claims | — | 2,529 | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total investment income | 6,160,972 | 660,235 | 493,724 | 1,237,163 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 1,171,412 | 100,517 | 131,261 | 357,816 | ||||||||||||
Professional | — | 5,498 | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses | 1,171,412 | 106,015 | 131,261 | 357,816 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 4,989,560 | 554,220 | 362,463 | 879,347 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (276,680 | ) | (1,421,811 | ) | (2,249,867 | ) | (643,077 | ) | ||||||||
Investments — affiliated | 1,738 | 112 | 1,308 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | 63,150 | 1,171 | 4,104 | 6,660 | ||||||||||||
Futures contracts | 72,383 | 85,025 | 8,280 | 49,492 | ||||||||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | 9,089,105 | (461,766 | ) | (705,808 | ) | 1,404,962 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
8,949,696 | (1,797,269 | ) | (2,941,983 | ) | 818,037 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 30,329,705 | 947,921 | 5,878,015 | 19,306,987 | ||||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | (591 | ) | 38 | (1,135 | ) | — | ||||||||||
Foreign currency translations | 93,406 | 30,327 | (493 | ) | 3,483 | |||||||||||
Futures contracts | 22,057 | (1,550 | ) | (372 | ) | 1,417 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
30,444,577 | 976,736 | 5,876,015 | 19,311,887 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 39,394,273 | (820,533 | ) | 2,934,032 | 20,129,924 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 44,383,833 | $ | (266,313 | ) | $ | 3,296,495 | $ | 21,009,271 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 41 |
Statements of Operations (continued)
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF | iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF | iShares MSCI Norway ETF | ||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 1,917,752 | $ | 3,925,237 | $ | 2,169,481 | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 8,348 | 3,293 | 1,068 | |||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | — | 1,518 | 19,016 | |||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | — | (540,587 | ) | (464,656 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total investment income | 1,926,100 | 3,389,461 | 1,724,909 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 326,704 | 615,711 | 163,873 | |||||||||
Commitment costs | 526 | — | — | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total expenses | 327,230 | 615,711 | 163,873 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net investment income | 1,598,870 | 2,773,750 | 1,561,036 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (736,801 | ) | (14,575,587 | ) | (1,049,173 | ) | ||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | 374 | 728 | |||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (47,239 | ) | (68,318 | ) | (9,164 | ) | ||||||
Futures contracts | (11,737 | ) | (47,261 | ) | 9,564 | |||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | — | 2,479,193 | 145,113 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
(795,777 | ) | (12,211,599 | ) | (902,932 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (3,931,085 | ) | 5,502,291 | (3,261,969 | ) | |||||||
Investments — affiliated | — | (298 | ) | (301 | ) | |||||||
Foreign currency translations | 72 | 2,185 | 3,271 | |||||||||
Futures contracts | 283 | 1,608 | 5,272 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
(3,930,730 | ) | 5,505,786 | (3,253,727 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net realized and unrealized loss | (4,726,507 | ) | (6,705,813 | ) | (4,156,659 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | (3,127,637 | ) | $ | (3,932,063 | ) | $ | (2,595,623 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF | iShares MSCI Finland ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 4,989,560 | $ | 2,198,978 | $ | 554,220 | $ | 1,075,096 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | 8,949,696 | 1,121,567 | (1,797,269 | ) | (3,205,805 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 30,444,577 | (49,461,654 | ) | 976,736 | (8,127,501 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 44,383,833 | (46,141,109 | ) | (266,313 | ) | (10,258,210 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (4,553,471 | ) | (2,119,208 | ) | (542,108 | ) | (1,184,601 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 29,047,817 | 57,908,228 | (1,153,170 | ) | 2,896,784 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 68,878,179 | 9,647,911 | (1,961,591 | ) | (8,546,027 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 176,515,720 | 166,867,809 | 22,652,405 | 31,198,432 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 245,393,899 | $ | 176,515,720 | $ | 20,690,814 | $ | 22,652,405 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 43 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF | iShares MSCI Ireland ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 362,463 | $ | 581,010 | $ | 879,347 | $ | 698,514 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (2,941,983 | ) | 235,246 | 818,037 | 1,786,489 | |||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 5,876,015 | (15,947,442 | ) | 19,311,887 | (26,719,519 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 3,296,495 | (15,131,186 | ) | 21,009,271 | (24,234,516 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (379,636 | ) | (680,980 | ) | (758,088 | ) | (817,439 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (5,305,003 | ) | (3,365,971 | ) | 29,818,961 | (9,098,537 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (2,388,144 | ) | (19,178,137 | ) | 50,070,144 | (34,150,492 | ) | |||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 23,463,666 | 42,641,803 | 48,479,046 | 82,629,538 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 21,075,522 | $ | 23,463,666 | $ | 98,549,190 | $ | 48,479,046 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF | iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,598,870 | $ | 516,727 | $ | 2,773,750 | $ | 2,502,958 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (795,777 | ) | 970,196 | (12,211,599 | ) | (5,137,784 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (3,930,730 | ) | 1,964,246 | 5,505,786 | (33,250,612 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (3,127,637 | ) | 3,451,169 | (3,932,063 | ) | (35,885,438 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (2,297,236 | ) | (1,532,424 | ) | (1,728,068 | ) | (3,416,129 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 34,803,545 | 8,535,177 | 23,113,264 | 11,592,502 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 29,378,672 | 10,453,922 | 17,453,133 | (27,709,065 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 29,115,942 | 18,662,020 | 115,147,011 | 142,856,076 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 58,494,614 | $ | 29,115,942 | $ | 132,600,144 | $ | 115,147,011 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 45 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Norway ETF | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||
| ||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,561,036 | $ | 1,547,885 | ||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (902,932 | ) | 4,236,964 | |||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (3,253,727 | ) | (8,683,731 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations | (2,595,623 | ) | (2,898,882 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (1,339,598 | ) | (1,471,431 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 4,655,667 | (7,807,097 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 720,446 | (12,177,410 | ) | |||||
Beginning of year | 33,690,113 | 45,867,523 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
End of year | $ | 34,410,559 | $ | 33,690,113 | ||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 86.11 | $ | 115.08 | $ | 84.54 | $ | 60.99 | $ | 67.75 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 2.23 | 1.37 | 0.76 | 0.50 | 0.97 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 17.99 | (28.97 | ) | 30.62 | 23.52 | (5.99 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 20.22 | (27.60 | ) | 31.38 | 24.02 | (5.02 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.91 | ) | (1.37 | ) | (0.84 | ) | (0.47 | ) | (1.74 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 104.42 | $ | 86.11 | $ | 115.08 | $ | 84.54 | $ | 60.99 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 23.48 | % | (24.07 | )% | 37.21 | % | 39.52 | % | (7.41 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.26 | % | 1.37 | % | 0.77 | % | 0.71 | % | 1.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 245,394 | $ | 176,516 | $ | 166,868 | $ | 109,899 | $ | 33,544 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 16 | % | 12 | % | 11 | % | 21 | % | 14 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 47 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Finland ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 34.85 | $ | 52.00 | $ | 41.34 | $ | 35.63 | $ | 41.83 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.05 | 1.73 | 1.10 | 0.85 | 1.30 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (0.47 | ) | (16.54 | ) | 10.93 | 6.25 | (5.98 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 0.58 | (14.81 | ) | 12.03 | 7.10 | (4.68 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.95 | ) | (2.34 | ) | (1.37 | ) | (1.39 | ) | (1.52 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 34.48 | $ | 34.85 | $ | 52.00 | $ | 41.34 | $ | 35.63 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 1.53 | % | (28.85 | )% | 29.37 | % | 20.61 | % | (11.24 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.56 | % | 0.57 | % | 0.55 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses excluding professional fees for foreign withholding tax claims | 0.53 | % | N/A | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.92 | % | 4.05 | % | 2.39 | % | 2.36 | % | 3.40 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 20,691 | $ | 22,652 | $ | 31,198 | $ | 35,139 | $ | 26,725 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 15 | % | 20 | % | 12 | % | 22 | % | 16 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
48 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 52.14 | $ | 85.28 | $ | 63.72 | $ | 52.75 | $ | 63.43 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.94 | 1.19 | 0.99 | 0.38 | 1.07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 8.20 | (32.86 | ) | 21.79 | 10.74 | (10.06 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 9.14 | (31.67 | ) | 22.78 | 11.12 | (8.99 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.06 | ) | (1.47 | ) | (1.22 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (1.69 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 60.22 | $ | 52.14 | $ | 85.28 | $ | 63.72 | $ | 52.75 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 17.58 | % | (37.52 | )% | 35.96 | % | 21.12 | % | (14.08 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 1.63 | % | 1.66 | % | 1.30 | % | 0.69 | % | 1.95 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 21,076 | $ | 23,464 | $ | 42,642 | $ | 31,862 | $ | 36,927 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 14 | % | 27 | % | 24 | % | 25 | % | 13 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 49 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Ireland ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 42.16 | $ | 61.21 | $ | 42.50 | $ | 39.39 | $ | 46.25 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.64 | 0.52 | 0.32 | 0.43 | 0.61 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 15.63 | (18.92 | ) | 18.74 | 3.34 | (6.80 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 16.27 | (18.40 | ) | 19.06 | 3.77 | (6.19 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.46 | ) | (0.65 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.66 | ) | (0.67 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 57.97 | $ | 42.16 | $ | 61.21 | $ | 42.50 | $ | 39.39 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 38.57 | % | (30.16 | )% | 44.90 | % | 9.59 | % | (13.44 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.51 | % | 0.49 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 1.23 | % | 1.02 | % | 0.62 | % | 1.06 | % | 1.49 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 98,549 | $ | 48,479 | $ | 82,630 | $ | 53,119 | $ | 55,151 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 23 | % | 33 | % | 40 | % | 47 | % | 24 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
50 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
Period From | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended | Year Ended | 09/01/20 | (a) | |||||||||||||||||||||
08/31/23 | 08/31/22 | to 08/31/21 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 36.39 | $ | 33.93 | $ | 25.22 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 1.19 | 0.87 | 0.66 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | (4.09 | ) | 4.38 | 8.62 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (2.90 | ) | 5.25 | 9.28 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Distributions(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (1.14 | ) | (2.79 | ) | (0.57 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
From net realized gain | (0.73 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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| |||||||||||||||||||
Total distributions | (1.87 | ) | (2.79 | ) | (0.57 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ | 31.62 | $ | 36.39 | $ | 33.93 | ||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (8.04 | )% | 16.26 | % | 37.03 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 3.62 | % | 2.42 | % | 2.24 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $ | 58,495 | $ | 29,116 | $ | 18,662 | ||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 25 | % | 26 | % | 16 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 51 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 47.00 | $ | 63.49 | $ | 60.80 | $ | 51.80 | $ | 49.11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.09 | 1.06 | 1.04 | 1.06 | 1.58 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (1.65 | ) | (16.12 | ) | 2.97 | 9.49 | 2.70 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (0.56 | ) | (15.06 | ) | 4.01 | 10.55 | 4.28 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.72 | ) | (1.43 | ) | (1.32 | ) | (1.55 | ) | (1.59 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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|
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 45.72 | $ | 47.00 | $ | 63.49 | $ | 60.80 | $ | 51.80 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (1.25 | )% | (23.96 | )% | 6.58 | % | 20.71 | % | 9.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.51 | % | 0.50 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.26 | % | 1.95 | % | 1.64 | % | 1.96 | % | 3.16 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 132,600 | $ | 115,147 | $ | 142,856 | $ | 167,203 | $ | 165,751 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 34 | % | 12 | % | 16 | % | 12 | % | 15 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
52 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Norway ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 25.92 | $ | 28.67 | $ | 22.40 | $ | 22.63 | $ | 27.67 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.19 | 0.97 | 0.69 | 0.34 | 0.67 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | (3.05 | ) | (2.79 | ) | 6.30 | (0.15 | ) | (4.91 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (1.86 | ) | (1.82 | ) | 6.99 | 0.19 | (4.24 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.12 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (0.72 | ) | (0.42 | ) | (0.80 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 22.94 | $ | 25.92 | $ | 28.67 | $ | 22.40 | $ | 22.63 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (7.05 | )% | (6.50 | )% | 31.42 | % | 1.04 | % | (15.42 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 5.05 | % | 3.39 | % | 2.61 | % | 1.58 | % | 2.66 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 34,411 | $ | 33,690 | $ | 45,868 | $ | 31,364 | $ | 22,632 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 11 | % | 27 | % | 12 | % | 16 | % | 13 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 53 |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
MSCI Denmark | Non-diversified | |
MSCI Finland | Non-diversified | |
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | Diversified | |
MSCI Ireland | Non-diversified | |
MSCI Kuwait | Non-diversified | |
MSCI New Zealand | Non-diversified | |
MSCI Norway | Non-diversified |
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
54 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 55 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
4. | SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS |
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Denmark | ||||||||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | $ | 1,940,734 | $ | (1,940,734 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 2,240,168 | (2,240,168 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 1,993,475 | (1,993,475 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 6,174,377 | $ | (6,174,377 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
MSCI Finland | ||||||||||||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | $ | 282,345 | $ | (282,345 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 197,940 | (197,940 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 105,194 | (105,194 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 585,479 | $ | (585,479 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Capital, Inc. | $ | 34,379 | $ | (34,379 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 229,314 | (229,314 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 285,763 | (285,763 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 781,704 | (781,704 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS AG | 55,728 | (55,728 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 1,386,888 | $ | (1,386,888 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
MSCI New Zealand | ||||||||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | $ | 212,399 | $ | (212,399 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 199,761 | (199,761 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 412,160 | $ | (412,160 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
56 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Norway | ||||||||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | $ | 89,686 | $ | (89,686 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. | 284,080 | (284,080 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 121,641 | (121,641 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 30,501 | (30,501 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 525,908 | $ | (525,908 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
6. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
| ||||
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
| ||||
MSCI Denmark | 0.53% | |||
MSCI Finland | 0.53 | |||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 0.59 | |||
MSCI Kuwait | 0.74 | |||
MSCI Norway | 0.53 | |||
|
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 57 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
For its investment advisory services to each of the iShares MSCI Ireland and iShares MSCI New Zealand ETFs, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on each Fund’s allocable portion of the aggregate of the average daily net assets of the Fund and certain other iShares funds, as follows:
Aggregate Average Daily Net Assets | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
First $7 billion | 0.59 | % | ||
Over $7 billion, up to and including $11 billion | 0.54 | |||
Over $11 billion, up to and including $24 billion | 0.49 | |||
Over $24 billion, up to and including $48 billion | 0.44 | |||
Over $48 billion, up to and including $72 billion | 0.40 | |||
Over $72 billion, up to and including $96 billion | 0.36 | |||
Over $96 billion | 0.32 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 12,209 | ||
MSCI Finland | 3,571 | |||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 16,829 | |||
MSCI New Zealand | 445 | |||
MSCI Norway | 4,429 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
58 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 6,530,020 | $ | 12,677,648 | $ | (439,477 | ) | |||||
MSCI Finland | 991,456 | 917,987 | (383,746 | ) | ||||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 847,859 | 184,909 | (74,787 | ) | ||||||||
MSCI Ireland | 1,426,309 | 5,036,362 | 263,951 | |||||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 989,711 | 4,397,731 | (431,515 | ) | ||||||||
MSCI Norway | 258,175 | 287,546 | (17,852 | ) |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
7. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 35,332,280 | $ | 35,424,901 | ||||
MSCI Finland | 2,999,175 | 2,918,281 | ||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 3,069,986 | 3,079,403 | ||||||
MSCI Ireland | 16,647,345 | 16,005,959 | ||||||
MSCI Kuwait | 45,067,506 | 11,132,222 | ||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 42,517,300 | 41,853,173 | ||||||
MSCI Norway | 3,500,800 | 3,397,045 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 62,149,486 | $ | 33,436,078 | ||||
MSCI Finland | 5,388,270 | 6,588,307 | ||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | — | 5,288,628 | ||||||
MSCI Ireland | 36,319,265 | 6,756,944 | ||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 65,812,573 | 43,192,371 | ||||||
MSCI Norway | 14,034,126 | 9,259,921 |
8. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 59 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to distributions paid in excess of taxable income and realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
| ||||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 9,058,067 | $ | (9,058,067) | ||||
MSCI Finland | (520,992 | ) | 520,992 | |||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | (837,907 | ) | 837,907 | |||||
MSCI Ireland | 1,262,455 | (1,262,455) | ||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 2,356,195 | (2,356,195) | ||||||
MSCI Norway | 142,711 | (142,711) | ||||||
|
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
| ||||||||
MSCI Denmark | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 4,553,471 | $ | 2,119,208 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Finland | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 542,108 | $ | 1,184,601 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 379,636 | $ | 680,980 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Ireland | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 758,088 | $ | 817,439 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Kuwait | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,745,313 | $ | 1,532,424 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 551,923 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
$ | 2,297,236 | $ | 1,532,424 | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI New Zealand | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,728,068 | $ | 3,416,129 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
MSCI Norway | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,339,598 | $ | 1,471,431 | ||||
|
|
|
|
As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Ordinary Income |
| | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards |
(a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | Total | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 590,886 | $ | (2,424,703 | ) | $ | 10,976,360 | $ | 9,142,543 | |||||||
MSCI Finland | 15,824 | (5,577,801 | ) | (5,857,177 | ) | (11,419,154) | ||||||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 162,377 | (3,979,594 | ) | (5,604,156 | ) | (9,421,373) | ||||||||||
MSCI Ireland | — | (13,733,284 | ) | 13,213,909 | (519,375) | |||||||||||
MSCI Kuwait | 19,731 | (490,446 | ) | 970,216 | 499,501 | |||||||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 260,236 | (45,886,373 | ) | (27,195,921 | ) | (72,822,058) | ||||||||||
MSCI Norway | 293,173 | (11,977,242 | ) | (8,428,784 | ) | (20,112,853) | ||||||||||
|
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain futures contracts, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, the iShares MSCI Denmark ETF utilized $838,460 of its capital loss carryforwards.
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
60 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 238,676,802 | $ | 43,240,845 | $ | (32,211,277 | ) | $ | 11,029,568 | |||||||
MSCI Finland | 26,813,232 | 286,656 | (6,129,001 | ) | (5,842,345 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 28,118,946 | 2,063,114 | (7,665,950 | ) | (5,602,836 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Ireland | 85,531,947 | 16,408,128 | (3,191,904 | ) | 13,216,224 | |||||||||||
MSCI Kuwait | 57,959,235 | 2,806,419 | (1,836,234 | ) | 970,185 | |||||||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 159,475,818 | 1,749,966 | (28,946,366 | ) | (27,196,400 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Norway | 43,294,777 | 708,356 | (9,137,384 | ) | (8,429,028 | ) |
9. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The Funds, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), is a party to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Fund did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
10. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 61 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities. Investment percentages in specific countries are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries. The European financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns about economic downturns in, or rising government debt levels of, several European countries as well as acts of war in the region. These events may spread to other countries in Europe and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
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. The United Kingdom has withdrawn from the European Union, and one or more other countries may withdraw from the European Union and/or abandon the Euro, the common currency of the European Union. These events and actions have adversely affected, and may in the future adversely affect, the value and exchange rate of the Euro and may continue to significantly affect the economies of every country in Europe, including countries that do not use the Euro and non-European Union member states. The impact of these actions, especially if they occur in a disorderly fashion, is not clear but could be significant and far reaching. In addition, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The extent and duration of the military action, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in the region are impossible to predict, but have been, and may continue to be significant and have a severe adverse effect on the region, including significant negative impacts on the economy and the markets for certain securities and commodities, such as oil and natural gas, as well as other sectors.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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MSCI Denmark | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 650,000 | $ | 62,810,244 | 750,000 | $ | 73,265,705 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (350,000 | ) | (33,762,427 | ) | (150,000 | ) | (15,357,477 | ) | ||||||||
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300,000 | $ | 29,047,817 | 600,000 | $ | 57,908,228 | |||||||||||
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62 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
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Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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MSCI Finland | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 150,000 | $ | 5,542,446 | 600,000 | $ | 25,593,046 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (200,000 | ) | (6,695,616 | ) | (550,000 | ) | (22,696,262 | ) | ||||||||
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(50,000 | ) | $ | (1,153,170 | ) | 50,000 | $ | 2,896,784 | |||||||||
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MSCI Germany Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (100,000 | ) | $ | (5,305,003 | ) | (50,000 | ) | $ | (3,365,971 | ) | ||||||
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MSCI Ireland | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 700,000 | $ | 36,609,982 | 150,000 | $ | 9,005,153 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (150,000 | ) | (6,791,021 | ) | (350,000 | ) | (18,103,690 | ) | ||||||||
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550,000 | $ | 29,818,961 | (200,000 | ) | $ | (9,098,537 | ) | |||||||||
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MSCI Kuwait | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 1,050,000 | $ | 34,803,545 | 300,000 | $ | 10,365,554 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | — | — | (50,000 | ) | (1,830,377 | ) | ||||||||||
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1,050,000 | $ | 34,803,545 | 250,000 | $ | 8,535,177 | |||||||||||
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MSCI New Zealand | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 1,350,000 | $ | 66,595,558 | 650,000 | $ | 33,480,693 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (900,000 | ) | (43,482,294 | ) | (450,000 | ) | (21,888,191 | ) | ||||||||
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450,000 | $ | 23,113,264 | 200,000 | $ | 11,592,502 | |||||||||||
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MSCI Norway | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 600,000 | $ | 14,097,793 | 1,150,000 | $ | 33,999,245 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (400,000 | ) | (9,442,126 | ) | (1,450,000 | ) | (41,806,342 | ) | ||||||||
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200,000 | $ | 4,655,667 | (300,000 | ) | $ | (7,807,097 | ) | |||||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. | FOREIGN WITHHOLDING TAX CLAIMS |
The iShares MSCI Finland ETF is seeking a closing agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) to address any prior years’ U.S. income tax liabilities attributable to Fund shareholders resulting from the recovery of foreign taxes. The closing agreement would result in the Fund paying a compliance fee to the IRS, on behalf of its shareholders, representing the estimated tax savings generated from foreign tax credits claimed by Fund shareholders on their tax returns in prior years. The Fund has accrued a liability for the estimated IRS compliance fee related to foreign withholding tax claims, which is disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The actual IRS compliance fee may differ from the estimate and that difference may be material.
13. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following items were noted:
iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF paid an ordinary income distribution in the amount of $0.552053 per share on October 16, 2023 to shareholders of record on October 11, 2023.
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms. iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF was removed from the Syndicated Credit Agreement due to its pending liquidation.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 63 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the seven funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (seven of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF |
iShares MSCI Finland ETF iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF iShares MSCI Ireland ETF iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF iShares MSCI Norway ETF |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
64 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Important Tax Information (unaudited)
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 7,094,699 | ||
MSCI Finland | 639,114 | |||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 426,120 | |||
MSCI Ireland | 1,244,634 | |||
MSCI New Zealand | 3,713,594 | |||
MSCI Norway | 1,975,683 |
The Fund hereby designates the following amount, or maximum amount allowable by law, as capital gain dividends, subject to a long-term capital gains tax rate as noted below, for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | 20% Rate Long-Term Capital Gain Dividends | |||
MSCI Kuwait | $ | 551,923 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
MSCI Denmark | $ | 7,092,768 | $ | 1,006,935 | ||||
MSCI Finland | 640,152 | — | ||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap | 476,187 | 57,208 | ||||||
MSCI Ireland | 1,250,788 | 14,338 | ||||||
MSCI Kuwait | 1,918,562 | — | ||||||
MSCI New Zealand | 3,924,794 | 540,506 | ||||||
MSCI Norway | 2,169,159 | 463,871 |
The Fund hereby designates the following amount, or maximum amount allowable by law, as qualified short-term capital gains eligible for exemption from U.S. withholding tax for nonresident aliens and foreign corporations for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Short-Term Capital Gains | |||
MSCI Kuwait | $ | 108,633 |
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION | 65 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares MSCI Denmark ETF, iShares MSCI Norway ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
66 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 67 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI Finland ETF, iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
68 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI Germany Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI Ireland ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 73 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI New Zealand ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
74 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 75 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
76 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share |
Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Finland | $ | 0.947150 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 0.947150 | 100 | % | — | % | — | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Germany Small-Cap(a) | 1.018916 | — | 0.041334 | 1.060250 | 96 | — | 4 | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Kuwait | 1.135729 | 0.733952 | — | 1.869681 | 61 | 39 | — | 100 |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | 77 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) | Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
(b) | Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
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Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). |
Officers | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 79 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President. |
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer. |
80 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
GENERAL INFORMATION | 81 |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation | ||
ADR | American Depositary Receipt | |
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
82 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-808-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
2023 Annual Report
|
iShares Trust
· | iShares MSCI India ETF | INDA | Cboe BZX |
· | iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF | SMIN | Cboe BZX |
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023
| ||||
6-Month
|
12-Month
| |||
U.S. large cap equities | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
2 | THIS PAGE IS NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT |
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI India ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of Indian equities, as represented by the MSCI India Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 1.44 | % | 6.00 | % | 9.31 | % | 1.44 | % | 33.80 | % | 143.61 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 2.40 | 6.11 | 9.45 | 2.40 | 34.52 | 146.77 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 1.33 | 7.41 | 10.54 | 1.33 | 42.94 | 172.40 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,128.40 | $ 3.43 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.00 | $ 3.26 | 0.64 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI India ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Indian equities advanced slightly during the reporting period, as India’s economy continued to rapidly expand despite persistent inflation and monetary tightening by the Reserve Bank of India. Economic data released in the first half of 2023 showed rising manufacturing output and industrial production buoyed by strong domestic demand. However, the country’s inflation rate increased substantially in July 2023, largely the result of sharply higher prices for food and beverages.
The consumer discretionary sector contributed the most to the Index’s return, led by the automobiles and components industry. Sales of both commercial and private vehicles in India rose substantially as supply chain holdups and chip shortages lessened. Industry analysts viewed increased production of vehicles as a positive indicator of shrinking debt levels, further supporting investor sentiment toward automobiles companies.
The financials sector also contributed to the Index’s return. Within the financial services industry, growing demand for housing drove an increase in home loans, lifting net interest income for Indian lenders. Strength in sales of generic drugs in the U.S. and an acquisition of a U.S. biotechnology firm benefited Indian pharmaceutical companies, driving contribution from the healthcare sector.
On the downside, the utilities sector was the largest detractor from the Index’s performance amid concerns over corporate governance. India’s electric utilities and gas utilities industries declined significantly following allegations of fraudulent accounting and stock manipulation raised by a U.S. investment research firm. Toward the end of the reporting period, an investigative journalism network spotlighted offshore trades involving Indian gas and electric utilities companies that possibly violated securities laws. While the companies denied the allegations, the Securities and Exchange Board of India launched an investigation.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION | ||||
| ||||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments(a) |
| |
| ||||
Financials | 27.3% | |||
Information Technology | 13.2 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 11.3 | |||
Energy | 10.8 | |||
Consumer Staples | 9.2 | |||
Materials | 8.7 | |||
Industrials | 7.3 | |||
Health Care | 5.2 | |||
Utilities | 3.7 | |||
Communication Services | 2.7 | |||
Real Estate | 0.6 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments(a) |
| |
| ||||
Reliance Industries Ltd. | 8.8% | |||
ICICI Bank Ltd. | 5.9 | |||
Infosys Ltd. | 5.7 | |||
HDFC Bank Ltd. | 5.2 | |||
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. | 3.7 | |||
Axis Bank Ltd. | 2.7 | |||
Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 2.5 | |||
Bajaj Finance Ltd. | 2.3 | |||
Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. | 2.3 | |||
Bharti Airtel Ltd. | 2.3 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization Indian equities, as represented by the MSCI India Small Cap Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 15.75 | %(a) | 8.35 | % | 16.35 | % | 15.75 | %(a) | 49.36 | % | 354.55 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 17.35 | 8.57 | 16.52 | 17.35 | 50.84 | 361.48 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 20.23 | 10.83 | 18.02 | 20.23 | 67.20 | 424.41 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
(a) | The NAV total return presented in the table for the one-year period differs from the same period return disclosed in the financial highlights. The total return in the financial highlights is calculated in the same manner but differs due to certain adjustments made for financial reporting purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 |
) | | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,253.80 | $ 4.26 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,021.40 | $ 3.82 | 0.75 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Small-capitalization Indian equities advanced sharply for the reporting period, as India’s economy continued to rapidly expand despite persistent inflation and monetary tightening by the Reserve Bank of India. Economic data released in the first half of 2023 showed rising manufacturing output and industrial production buoyed by strong domestic demand. Substantial inflows of foreign investment supported the performance of Indian equities generally and small-capitalization stocks in particular.
The industrials sector was the largest contributor to the Index’s performance, led by the electrical equipment industry. Electricity generation in India rose significantly during the reporting period, pushing demand higher for equipment related to power generation and bolstering sales for companies that distribute wires, cables, and transformers. A growing preference among Indian consumers for electricity generated by solar and wind power drove gains for providers of renewable energy infrastructure. Additionally, the machinery industry contributed to the Index’s return amid increased industrial output and demand for commercial vehicles. Profits rose for manufacturers of construction machinery and heavy transportation equipment despite continuing supply chain obstacles.
The financials sector contributed meaningfully to the Index’s return, led by financial services companies. A state-owned provider of infrastructure financing for power projects reported substantial revenue gains driven by an increase in net interest income on loan assets. An upward trajectory for energy demand, alongside plans for a broader transition to renewable energy put in place by the Indian government, also buoyed investor sentiment toward the company.
Materials stocks were also contributors to the Index’s performance, led by steel companies in the metals and mining industry. Indian steel producers gained amid increased activity in areas such as construction, railway expansion, road building, and modernization of ports.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION | ||||
| ||||
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
Industrials | 21.1% | |||
Materials | 19.3 | |||
Financials | 15.5 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 12.9 | |||
Health Care | 9.8 | |||
Information Technology | 7.8 | |||
Real Estate | 4.1 | |||
Communication Services | 3.4 | |||
Consumer Staples | 3.1 | |||
Utilities | 2.0 | |||
Energy | 1.0 | |||
|
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS | ||||
| ||||
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |||
| ||||
APL Apollo Tubes Ltd. | 1.2% | |||
Persistent Systems Ltd. | 1.2 | |||
Federal Bank Ltd. | 1.1 | |||
Coforge Ltd. | 1.0 | |||
Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. | 1.0 | |||
Max Financial Services Ltd. | 1.0 | |||
KPIT Technologies Ltd. | 0.8 | |||
Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. | 0.8 | |||
Suzlon Energy Ltd. | 0.8 | |||
Phoenix Mills Ltd. (The) | 0.8 | |||
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 9 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 1.0% | ||||||||
Bharat Electronics Ltd. | 21,428,966 | $ | 34,427,761 | |||||
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. | 490,136 | 23,065,818 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
57,493,579 | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 1.7% | ||||||||
Balkrishna Industries Ltd. | 453,375 | 12,716,400 | ||||||
Bharat Forge Ltd. | 1,501,385 | 19,400,034 | ||||||
MRF Ltd. | 11,190 | 14,685,267 | ||||||
Samvardhana Motherson International Ltd. | 13,905,502 | 16,075,604 | ||||||
Sona Blw Precision Forgings Ltd.(a) | 2,402,643 | 17,275,106 | ||||||
Tube Investments of India Ltd. | 623,209 | 21,815,696 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
101,968,107 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 6.3% | ||||||||
Bajaj Auto Ltd. | 398,161 | 22,170,995 | ||||||
Eicher Motors Ltd. | 802,243 | 32,316,236 | ||||||
Hero MotoCorp Ltd. | 644,430 | 22,685,200 | ||||||
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. | 5,468,196 | 103,970,365 | ||||||
Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. | 796,795 | 96,222,216 | ||||||
Tata Motors Ltd. | 9,738,195 | 70,609,944 | ||||||
TVS Motor Co. Ltd. | 1,392,743 | 23,866,183 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
371,841,139 | ||||||||
Banks — 18.4% | ||||||||
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.(a) | 977,694 | 8,534,650 | ||||||
Axis Bank Ltd. | 13,362,210 | 156,987,158 | ||||||
Bandhan Bank Ltd.(a) | 4,250,081 | 11,774,122 | ||||||
Bank of Baroda | 6,064,038 | 13,693,109 | ||||||
HDFC Bank Ltd. | 16,351,592 | 309,633,199 | ||||||
ICICI Bank Ltd. | 30,358,100 | 350,451,946 | ||||||
IDFC First Bank Ltd.(b) | 17,871,641 | 20,152,111 | ||||||
Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. | 6,408,168 | 135,980,485 | ||||||
State Bank of India | 10,465,171 | 70,875,412 | ||||||
Yes Bank Ltd.(b) | 75,868,761 | 15,388,751 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,093,470,943 | ||||||||
Beverages — 0.8% |
| |||||||
United Spirits Ltd.(b) | 1,705,811 | 20,744,212 | ||||||
Varun Beverages Ltd. | 2,665,937 | 28,927,357 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
49,671,569 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.3% | ||||||||
Astral Ltd. | 708,723 | 16,728,384 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Capital Markets — 0.2% | ||||||||
HDFC Asset Management Co. Ltd.(a) | 477,817 | 14,568,913 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Chemicals — 3.6% | ||||||||
Asian Paints Ltd. | 2,248,709 | 88,409,431 | ||||||
Berger Paints India Ltd. | 1,423,886 | 12,353,167 | ||||||
PI Industries Ltd. | 489,108 | 21,428,172 | ||||||
Pidilite Industries Ltd. | 898,178 | 27,272,721 | ||||||
SRF Ltd. | 868,984 | 24,710,980 | ||||||
Supreme Industries Ltd. | 331,964 | 17,874,900 | ||||||
UPL Ltd. | 2,640,531 | 18,842,607 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
210,891,978 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.2% | ||||||||
Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corp. Ltd. | 1,407,143 | 11,414,421 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 2.2% | ||||||||
Larsen & Toubro Ltd. | 4,038,094 | 131,751,844 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Construction Materials — 2.3% | ||||||||
Ambuja Cements Ltd. | 3,492,609 | $ | 18,059,703 | |||||
Grasim Industries Ltd. | 1,544,180 | 33,379,142 | ||||||
Shree Cement Ltd. | 52,886 | 15,198,526 | ||||||
UltraTech Cement Ltd. | 677,038 | 67,829,050 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
134,466,421 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 4.8% | ||||||||
Bajaj Finance Ltd. | 1,598,651 | 138,181,746 | ||||||
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Co. Ltd. | 2,410,376 | 32,639,947 | ||||||
Jio Financial Services Ltd., NVS(b) | 17,850,284 | 50,347,024 | ||||||
Muthoot Finance Ltd. | 706,119 | 10,744,254 | ||||||
SBI Cards & Payment Services Ltd. | 1,664,580 | 16,408,144 | ||||||
Shriram Transport Finance Co. Ltd. | 1,649,119 | 38,383,205 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
286,704,320 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.7% | ||||||||
Avenue Supermarts Ltd.(a)(b) | 953,828 | 42,855,909 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 1.4% | ||||||||
Power Grid Corp. of India Ltd. | 20,448,874 | 60,356,116 | ||||||
Tata Power Co. Ltd. (The) | 8,430,562 | 24,940,611 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
85,296,727 | ||||||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.0% | ||||||||
ABB India Ltd. | 310,610 | 16,427,478 | ||||||
CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd. | 3,581,723 | 18,565,375 | ||||||
Havells India Ltd. | 1,469,216 | 24,552,141 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
59,544,994 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 1.6% | ||||||||
Bajaj Finserv Ltd. | 2,238,447 | 40,212,487 | ||||||
Bajaj Holdings & Investment Ltd. | 156,606 | 14,061,430 | ||||||
Power Finance Corp. Ltd. | 6,191,620 | 19,460,472 | ||||||
REC Ltd. | 6,947,480 | 20,027,675 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
93,762,064 | ||||||||
Food Products — 2.4% | ||||||||
Britannia Industries Ltd. | 635,505 | 34,291,890 | ||||||
Marico Ltd. | 3,032,809 | 20,868,965 | ||||||
Nestle India Ltd. | 197,853 | 52,520,959 | ||||||
Tata Consumer Products Ltd. | 3,268,131 | 32,913,569 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
140,595,383 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.5% | ||||||||
GAIL India Ltd. | 13,492,653 | 18,737,754 | ||||||
Indraprastha Gas Ltd. | 1,846,875 | 10,426,575 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
29,164,329 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.2% | ||||||||
Container Corp. of India Ltd. | 1,607,558 | 13,045,710 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 1.1% | ||||||||
Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd. | 590,116 | 34,289,218 | ||||||
Max Healthcare Institute Ltd.(b) | 4,556,410 | 32,464,119 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
66,753,337 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.2% | ||||||||
Indian Hotels Co. Ltd. (The), Class A | 4,996,763 | 25,381,821 | ||||||
Jubilant Foodworks Ltd. | 2,321,241 | 14,343,685 | ||||||
Zomato Ltd.(b) | 25,150,297 | 29,594,437 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
69,319,943 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.8% | ||||||||
Adani Green Energy Ltd.(b) | 1,857,467 | 20,836,030 | ||||||
Adani Power Ltd.(b) | 4,522,721 | 17,493,604 | ||||||
NTPC Ltd. | 25,583,617 | 68,064,816 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
106,394,450 |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||||||
Siemens Ltd. | 521,816 | $ | 24,706,963 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 2.1% | ||||||||
HDFC Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 5,671,699 | 44,132,920 | ||||||
ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 1,411,180 | 22,375,952 | ||||||
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 2,109,088 | 14,356,651 | ||||||
SBI Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 2,640,941 | 41,200,372 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
122,065,895 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 0.4% | ||||||||
Info Edge India Ltd. | 416,026 | 21,739,478 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 12.8% | ||||||||
HCL Technologies Ltd. | 5,555,698 | 78,594,495 | ||||||
Infosys Ltd. | 19,466,380 | 337,335,974 | ||||||
Larsen & Toubro Infotech Ltd.(a) | 520,446 | 32,601,219 | ||||||
Mphasis Ltd. | 442,203 | 12,959,249 | ||||||
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. | 5,363,342 | 217,236,177 | ||||||
Tech Mahindra Ltd. | 3,143,268 | 45,575,974 | ||||||
Wipro Ltd. | 7,650,137 | 37,682,904 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
761,985,992 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.5% | ||||||||
Divi’s Laboratories Ltd. | 700,410 | 30,361,958 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 0.6% | ||||||||
Ashok Leyland Ltd. | 8,607,398 | 19,115,132 | ||||||
Cummins India Ltd. | 812,625 | 16,763,175 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
35,878,307 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 2.8% | ||||||||
Hindalco Industries Ltd. | 7,216,806 | 40,009,742 | ||||||
Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. | 2,093,306 | 17,286,667 | ||||||
JSW Steel Ltd. | 3,543,099 | 33,331,714 | ||||||
Tata Steel Ltd. | 42,993,625 | 63,760,147 | ||||||
Vedanta Ltd. | 4,358,867 | 12,203,200 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
166,591,470 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 10.8% | ||||||||
Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd. | 4,451,488 | 18,298,483 | ||||||
Coal India Ltd. | 9,033,166 | 25,081,368 | ||||||
Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd. | 3,326,834 | 9,964,321 | ||||||
Indian Oil Corp. Ltd. | 16,558,834 | 17,810,049 | ||||||
Oil & Natural Gas Corp. Ltd. | 18,439,845 | 38,785,824 | ||||||
Petronet LNG Ltd. | 4,397,322 | 11,425,752 | ||||||
Reliance Industries Ltd. | 17,850,346 | 518,571,029 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
639,936,826 | ||||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.4% | ||||||||
InterGlobe Aviation Ltd.(a)(b) | 791,175 | 23,262,576 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Personal Care Products — 3.6% | ||||||||
Colgate-Palmolive India Ltd. | 717,605 | 16,823,744 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Personal Care Products (continued) | ||||||||
Dabur India Ltd. | 3,636,363 | $ | 24,273,384 | |||||
Godrej Consumer Products Ltd.(b) | 2,398,483 | 29,109,525 | ||||||
Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 4,821,557 | 145,851,335 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
216,057,988 | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 3.5% | ||||||||
Aurobindo Pharma Ltd. | 1,545,936 | 15,485,187 | ||||||
Cipla Ltd. | 3,076,398 | 46,692,590 | ||||||
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. | 634,745 | 42,937,080 | ||||||
Lupin Ltd. | 1,200,723 | 15,912,113 | ||||||
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. | 5,626,880 | 75,423,080 | ||||||
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 595,301 | 13,250,781 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
209,700,831 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 0.6% | ||||||||
DLF Ltd. | 3,628,247 | 22,073,812 | ||||||
Godrej Properties Ltd.(b) | 733,550 | 14,570,865 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
36,644,677 | ||||||||
Software — 0.3% | ||||||||
Tata Elxsi Ltd. | 200,925 | 17,571,383 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.4% | ||||||||
Trent Ltd. | 1,062,971 | 26,293,287 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 1.6% | ||||||||
Page Industries Ltd. | 35,968 | 17,435,313 | ||||||
Titan Co. Ltd. | 2,082,070 | 78,017,656 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
95,452,969 | ||||||||
Tobacco — 1.6% | ||||||||
ITC Ltd. | 17,504,109 | 92,918,075 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.5% | ||||||||
Adani Enterprises Ltd. | 1,002,591 | 29,269,852 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.5% | ||||||||
Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd. | 3,096,262 | 29,594,627 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 2.3% | ||||||||
Bharti Airtel Ltd. | 13,097,594 | 135,416,602 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.4% | 5,903,154,220 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.6% | 37,028,148 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 5,940,182,368 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 11 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | | Value at 08/31/22 |
| | Purchases at Cost |
| | Proceeds from Sale |
| | Net Realized Gain (Loss) |
| | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
| | Value at 08/31/23 |
| | Shares Held at 08/31/23 |
| Income | | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds |
| |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | 39,580,000 | $ | — | $(39,580,000)(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 1,883,471 | $ | 11 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
SGX Nifty 50 Index | 601 | 09/28/23 | $23,378 | $ | 32,631 | |||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,631 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,631 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 270,637 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 270,637 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 485,602 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 485,602 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 14,997,494 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 85,751,967 | $ | 5,817,402,253 | $ | — | $ | 5,903,154,220 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | 32,631 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32,631 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 13 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 0.5% | ||||||||
Bharat Dynamics Ltd. | 68,266 | $ | 927,718 | |||||
Data Patterns India Ltd.(a) | 29,098 | 833,139 | ||||||
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. | 42,321 | 417,566 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,178,423 | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 1.1% | ||||||||
Allcargo Logistics Ltd. | 88,339 | 292,802 | ||||||
Blue Dart Express Ltd. | 8,861 | 672,286 | ||||||
Delhivery Ltd.(a) | 489,242 | 2,583,351 | ||||||
Mahindra Logistics Ltd.(b) | 46,746 | 219,845 | ||||||
TCI Express Ltd. | 14,296 | 242,535 | ||||||
Transport Corp. of India Ltd. | 34,148 | 334,121 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,344,940 | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 4.4% | ||||||||
Apollo Tyres Ltd. | 473,108 | 2,218,144 | ||||||
Asahi India Glass Ltd. | 108,817 | 779,894 | ||||||
Ceat Ltd. | 30,195 | 821,363 | ||||||
CIE Automotive India Ltd. | 197,820 | 1,248,042 | ||||||
Endurance Technologies Ltd.(b) | 41,209 | 826,482 | ||||||
Exide Industries Ltd. | 569,874 | 1,835,585 | ||||||
JBM Auto Ltd. | 34,734 | 635,572 | ||||||
JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. | 128,262 | 419,594 | ||||||
Minda Corp. Ltd. | 105,101 | 415,093 | ||||||
Motherson Sumi Wiring India Ltd. | 2,634,744 | 1,974,171 | ||||||
Sansera Engineering Ltd.(b) | 38,857 | 447,432 | ||||||
Sundaram Clayton Ltd., NVS | 6,689 | 82,046 | ||||||
Sundram Fasteners Ltd. | 156,532 | 2,405,167 | ||||||
Suprajit Engineering Ltd. | 101,415 | 517,937 | ||||||
TVS Holdings Ltd. | 7,536 | 471,647 | ||||||
UNO Minda Ltd. | 256,136 | 1,862,036 | ||||||
Varroc Engineering Ltd.(a)(b) | 54,959 | 280,501 | ||||||
ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Ltd. | 7,065 | 1,179,420 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,420,126 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 0.1% | ||||||||
Maharashtra Scooters Ltd. | 4,020 | 346,588 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 3.3% | ||||||||
City Union Bank Ltd. | 532,117 | 792,466 | ||||||
DCB Bank Ltd. | 222,231 | 312,867 | ||||||
Equitas Small Finance Bank Ltd.(b) | 811,315 | 886,022 | ||||||
Federal Bank Ltd. | 2,589,380 | 4,498,122 | ||||||
Indian Bank | 370,785 | 1,694,400 | ||||||
Jammu & Kashmir Bank Ltd. (The) | 421,814 | 456,684 | ||||||
Karnataka Bank Ltd. (The) | 224,825 | 599,905 | ||||||
Karur Vysya Bank Ltd. (The) | 575,822 | 844,590 | ||||||
RBL Bank Ltd.(b) | 661,167 | 1,905,329 | ||||||
South Indian Bank Ltd. (The) | 1,492,973 | 418,763 | ||||||
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd., NVS | 114,534 | 756,285 | ||||||
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Ltd.(b) | 873,742 | 516,603 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,682,036 | ||||||||
Beverages — 0.5% | ||||||||
Radico Khaitan Ltd. | 109,536 | 1,668,203 | ||||||
Sula Vineyards Ltd., NVS | 43,999 | 260,158 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,928,361 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 0.5% | ||||||||
Biocon Ltd. | 626,057 | 1,959,578 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Broadline Retail — 0.3% | ||||||||
RattanIndia Enterprises Ltd.(a) | 460,019 | 342,231 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Broadline Retail (continued) | ||||||||
Shoppers Stop Ltd.(a) | 56,632 | $ | 498,418 | |||||
V-Mart Retail Ltd.(a) | 14,167 | 381,389 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,222,038 | ||||||||
Building Products — 1.3% | ||||||||
Blue Star Ltd. | 172,194 | 1,539,069 | ||||||
Cera Sanitaryware Ltd. | 8,720 | 1,000,925 | ||||||
Kajaria Ceramics Ltd. | 130,495 | 2,317,134 | ||||||
Prince Pipes and Fittings Ltd. | 65,888 | 569,757 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,426,885 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 3.9% | ||||||||
360 ONE WAM Ltd. | 159,567 | 938,710 | ||||||
Anand Rathi Wealth Ltd. | 24,844 | 428,090 | ||||||
Angel One Ltd. | 49,952 | 1,127,234 | ||||||
BSE Ltd. | 98,892 | 1,268,393 | ||||||
Central Depository Services India Ltd. | 76,289 | 1,048,222 | ||||||
CRISIL Ltd. | 27,226 | 1,305,162 | ||||||
Digidrive Distributors Ltd., NVS | 14,346 | 13,343 | ||||||
Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd. | 773,171 | 508,021 | ||||||
ICICI Securities Ltd.(b) | 120,333 | 907,959 | ||||||
ICRA Ltd. | 6,471 | 457,301 | ||||||
IDFC Ltd. | 1,783,924 | 2,621,440 | ||||||
Indian Energy Exchange Ltd.(b) | 650,966 | 991,635 | ||||||
JM Financial Ltd. | 604,106 | 570,203 | ||||||
Kfin Technologies Ltd.(a) | 75,832 | 410,147 | ||||||
Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd. | 55,120 | 612,033 | ||||||
Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd. | 37,230 | 758,540 | ||||||
Nippon Life India Asset Management Ltd.(b) | 186,119 | 700,957 | ||||||
Share India Securities Ltd. | 17,036 | 287,621 | ||||||
Tata Investment Corp. Ltd. | 18,933 | 556,856 | ||||||
UTI Asset Management Co. Ltd. | 66,216 | 597,946 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
16,109,813 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 11.1% | ||||||||
Aarti Industries Ltd. | 270,041 | 1,603,176 | ||||||
Advanced Enzyme Technologies Ltd. | 83,301 | 329,902 | ||||||
Akzo Nobel India Ltd. | 13,231 | 439,109 | ||||||
Alkyl Amines Chemicals | 22,398 | 675,457 | ||||||
Anupam Rasayan India Ltd. | 32,103 | 389,433 | ||||||
Archean Chemical Industries Ltd., NVS | 82,174 | 664,832 | ||||||
Atul Ltd. | 21,986 | 1,946,781 | ||||||
Balaji Amines Ltd. | 14,256 | 386,757 | ||||||
BASF India Ltd. | 15,906 | 505,543 | ||||||
Bayer CropScience Ltd. | 20,087 | 1,167,551 | ||||||
Carborundum Universal Ltd. | 155,645 | 2,134,556 | ||||||
Castrol India Ltd. | 589,463 | 1,030,311 | ||||||
Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd. | 248,281 | 824,758 | ||||||
Chemplast Sanmar Ltd.(a) | 106,011 | 665,084 | ||||||
Clean Science and Technology | 31,659 | 541,697 | ||||||
Coromandel International Ltd. | 175,234 | 2,308,020 | ||||||
Deepak Fertilisers & Petrochemicals Corp. Ltd. | 103,981 | 761,554 | ||||||
Deepak Nitrite Ltd. | 91,443 | 2,450,448 | ||||||
EID Parry India Ltd. | 119,015 | 686,549 | ||||||
Fine Organic Industries Ltd. | 11,426 | 661,441 | ||||||
Fineotex Chemical Ltd. | 56,283 | 212,543 | ||||||
Finolex Industries Ltd. | 369,771 | 1,069,265 | ||||||
Galaxy Surfactants Ltd. | 18,488 | 599,280 | ||||||
GHCL Ltd. | 96,314 | 722,736 | ||||||
Gujarat Alkalies & Chemicals Ltd. | 26,482 | 223,007 | ||||||
Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd. | 40,915 | 1,505,250 | ||||||
Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd. | 127,354 | 936,886 |
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Chemicals (continued) | ||||||||
Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd. | 356,207 | $ | 753,820 | |||||
Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd. | 261,618 | 708,715 | ||||||
Indigo Paints Ltd. | 17,725 | 336,122 | ||||||
Jubilant Ingrevia Ltd. | 94,739 | 588,321 | ||||||
Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd. | 301,094 | 1,209,360 | ||||||
Laxmi Organic Industries Ltd. | 98,610 | 354,064 | ||||||
Linde India Ltd. | 31,716 | 2,399,785 | ||||||
Meghmani Finechem Ltd. | 18,239 | 221,434 | ||||||
Navin Fluorine International Ltd. | 47,997 | 2,668,553 | ||||||
Neogen Chemicals Ltd. | 14,720 | 303,590 | ||||||
NOCIL Ltd. | 150,767 | 408,480 | ||||||
Paradeep Phosphates Ltd., NVS(a)(b) | 472,847 | 401,672 | ||||||
PCBL Ltd. | 247,588 | 521,160 | ||||||
Polyplex Corporation Ltd. | 22,971 | 337,311 | ||||||
Privi Specility Chemical Ltd. | 11,800 | 164,215 | ||||||
Rain Industries Ltd. | 276,461 | 541,928 | ||||||
Rallis India Ltd. | 117,000 | 332,542 | ||||||
Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd. | 200,844 | 294,674 | ||||||
Rossari Biotech Ltd. | 28,017 | 292,741 | ||||||
Sharda Cropchem Ltd. | 39,229 | 213,665 | ||||||
Solar Industries India Ltd. | 40,445 | 2,362,285 | ||||||
Sumitomo Chemical India Ltd. | 148,864 | 791,668 | ||||||
Supreme Petrochem Ltd., NVS | 96,903 | 577,951 | ||||||
Tata Chemicals Ltd. | 227,732 | 2,917,392 | ||||||
Tatva Chintan Pharma Chem Ltd. | 7,855 | 163,382 | ||||||
Vinati Organics Ltd. | 38,283 | 857,535 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
46,164,291 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.4% | ||||||||
CMS Info Systems Ltd. | 115,018 | 501,400 | ||||||
ION Exchange India Ltd., NVS | 109,257 | 747,692 | ||||||
SIS Ltd.(a) | 65,135 | 373,197 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,622,289 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.3% | ||||||||
Sterlite Technologies Ltd. | 238,303 | 493,254 | ||||||
Tejas Networks Ltd.(a)(b) | 88,423 | 929,272 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,422,526 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 3.5% | ||||||||
Engineers India Ltd. | 376,816 | 701,862 | ||||||
G R Infraprojects Ltd.(a) | 28,469 | 435,827 | ||||||
HG Infra Engineering Ltd. | 24,329 | 273,397 | ||||||
IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd., NVS | 1,799,460 | 614,616 | ||||||
IRCON International Ltd.(b) | 351,515 | 483,707 | ||||||
Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. | 142,488 | 1,135,794 | ||||||
KEC International Ltd. | 191,514 | 1,552,821 | ||||||
KNR Constructions Ltd. | 209,501 | 696,974 | ||||||
NBCC India Ltd. | 944,834 | 586,528 | ||||||
NCC Ltd./India | 558,836 | 1,143,874 | ||||||
Patel Engineering Ltd.(a) | 403,405 | 278,727 | ||||||
PNC Infratech Ltd. | 172,443 | 691,098 | ||||||
Power Mech Projects Ltd. | 7,506 | 382,712 | ||||||
Praj Industries Ltd. | 177,667 | 1,056,493 | ||||||
Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. | 468,061 | 739,950 | ||||||
Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Ltd.(a) | 84,785 | 386,998 | ||||||
Techno Electric & Engineering Co. Ltd. | 62,861 | 405,614 | ||||||
Voltas Ltd. | 295,784 | 3,106,287 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
14,673,279 | ||||||||
Construction Materials — 3.1% | ||||||||
ACC Ltd. | 97,922 | 2,372,460 | ||||||
Birla Corp. Ltd. | 40,428 | 560,879 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Construction Materials (continued) | ||||||||
Dalmia Bharat Ltd. | 111,662 | $ | 2,810,153 | |||||
HeidelbergCement India Ltd. | 91,129 | 205,815 | ||||||
India Cements Ltd. (The) | 182,384 | 520,172 | ||||||
JK Cement Ltd. | 51,804 | 2,061,484 | ||||||
JK Lakshmi Cement Ltd. | 96,422 | 784,545 | ||||||
Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd.(a) | 159,634 | 650,248 | ||||||
Prism Johnson Ltd.(a) | 184,822 | 289,158 | ||||||
Ramco Cements Ltd. (The) | 158,420 | 1,659,296 | ||||||
Rhi Magnesita India Ltd. | 91,356 | 795,262 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,709,472 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 2.6% | ||||||||
Cholamandalam Financial Holdings Ltd. | 139,882 | 1,662,480 | ||||||
CreditAccess Grameen Ltd.(a) | 82,945 | 1,417,768 | ||||||
Five-Star Business Finance Ltd., NVS | 107,605 | 995,187 | ||||||
Fusion Micro Finance Ltd., NVS | 44,952 | 342,014 | ||||||
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd. | 735,159 | 2,640,032 | ||||||
Manappuram Finance Ltd. | 819,660 | 1,529,413 | ||||||
MAS Financial Services Ltd.(b) | 23,498 | 231,650 | ||||||
Paisalo Digital Ltd. | 13,360 | 9,699 | ||||||
Poonawalla Fincorp Ltd. | 343,327 | 1,726,846 | ||||||
Spandana Sphoorty Financial Ltd.(a) | 36,985 | 369,648 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,924,737 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.2% | ||||||||
Medplus Health Services Ltd.(a) | 71,091 | 696,773 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Containers & Packaging — 0.1% | ||||||||
EPL Ltd. | 189,636 | 449,691 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
NIIT Learning Systems Ltd., NVS | 107,638 | 496,218 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.5% | ||||||||
HFCL Ltd. | 1,026,338 | 943,568 | ||||||
Railtel Corp. of India Ltd. | 138,323 | 349,539 | ||||||
Tata Teleservices Maharashtra Ltd.(a) | 728,145 | 771,272 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,064,379 | ||||||||
Electric Utilities — 0.8% | ||||||||
CESC Ltd. | 888,715 | 892,801 | ||||||
Reliance Infrastructure Ltd.(a) | 314,472 | 708,925 | ||||||
Torrent Power Ltd. | 214,816 | 1,703,986 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,305,712 | ||||||||
Electrical Equipment — 4.4% | ||||||||
Amara Raja Batteries Ltd. | 127,244 | 965,410 | ||||||
Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. | 1,556,342 | 2,276,926 | ||||||
Elecon Engineering Co. Ltd. | 58,778 | 626,232 | ||||||
Finolex Cables Ltd. | 102,537 | 1,361,406 | ||||||
GE T&D India Ltd.(a) | 95,368 | 380,959 | ||||||
Graphite India Ltd. | 100,487 | 574,556 | ||||||
HBL Power Systems Ltd. | 165,193 | 535,071 | ||||||
HEG Ltd. | 23,001 | 486,257 | ||||||
Hitachi Energy India Ltd. | 15,790 | 838,991 | ||||||
KEI Industries Ltd. | 87,290 | 2,852,464 | ||||||
Olectra Greentech Ltd. | 61,073 | 920,601 | ||||||
Schneider Electric Infrastructure Ltd.(a) | 71,247 | 306,379 | ||||||
Suzlon Energy Ltd.(a) | 11,089,839 | 3,286,637 | ||||||
TD Power Systems Ltd. | 93,069 | 297,915 | ||||||
Triveni Turbine Ltd. | 213,117 | 1,007,197 | ||||||
V-Guard Industries Ltd. | 258,360 | 980,906 | ||||||
Voltamp Transformers Ltd. | 7,537 | 523,831 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,221,738 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 15 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.9% |
| |||||||
Avalon Technologies Ltd., NVS(b) | 34,047 | $ | 206,681 | |||||
Genus Power Infrastructures Ltd. | 92,203 | 288,015 | ||||||
Kaynes Technology India Ltd., NVS | 25,987 | 631,778 | ||||||
Redington Ltd. | 873,455 | 1,652,192 | ||||||
Syrma SGS Technology Ltd.(a) | 78,749 | 513,176 | ||||||
Zen Technologies Ltd. | 42,829 | 434,828 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,726,670 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 0.8% | ||||||||
Nazara Technologies Ltd.(a) | 54,225 | 508,380 | ||||||
PVR Inox Ltd.(a) | 102,181 | 2,209,470 | ||||||
Saregama India Ltd. | 99,667 | 477,143 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,194,993 | ||||||||
Financial Services — 3.6% | ||||||||
Aavas Financiers Ltd.(a) | 72,385 | 1,426,726 | ||||||
Aptus Value Housing Finance India Ltd. | 260,042 | 844,162 | ||||||
Can Fin Homes Ltd. | 119,029 | 1,079,671 | ||||||
Home First Finance Company India Ltd.(b) | 52,577 | 529,541 | ||||||
IIFL Finance Ltd. | 282,198 | 2,065,502 | ||||||
Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd.(a) | 467,844 | 1,119,695 | ||||||
Infibeam Avenues Ltd.(a) | 1,360,880 | 239,807 | ||||||
L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. | 1,108,447 | 1,670,169 | ||||||
LIC Housing Finance Ltd. | 450,736 | 2,303,345 | ||||||
Nuvama Wealth Management Ltd., NVS | 6,386 | 215,412 | ||||||
Piramal Enterprises Ltd. | 176,919 | 2,248,241 | ||||||
PNB Housing Finance Ltd.(a)(b) | 151,211 | 1,187,053 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
14,929,324 | ||||||||
Food Products — 1.6% | ||||||||
Avanti Feeds Ltd. | 81,369 | 426,710 | ||||||
Balrampur Chini Mills Ltd. | 180,348 | 849,073 | ||||||
Bikaji Foods International Ltd. | 92,776 | 558,317 | ||||||
Bombay Burmah Trading Co. | 25,779 | 310,644 | ||||||
CCL Products India Ltd. | 109,007 | 797,419 | ||||||
Gujarat Ambuja Exports Ltd. | 102,434 | 324,887 | ||||||
Hindustan Foods Ltd.(a) | 41,896 | 277,625 | ||||||
Kaveri Seed Co. Ltd. | 29,161 | 192,462 | ||||||
KRBL Ltd. | 70,382 | 342,215 | ||||||
LT Foods Ltd. | 195,759 | 390,922 | ||||||
Mrs Bectors Food Specialities Ltd. | 42,164 | 546,644 | ||||||
Shree Renuka Sugars Ltd.(a) | 932,617 | 524,364 | ||||||
Tata Coffee Ltd. | 111,159 | 329,865 | ||||||
Triveni Engineering & Industries Ltd. | 114,145 | 432,813 | ||||||
Zydus Wellness Ltd. | 23,232 | 460,828 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,764,788 | ||||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.9% | ||||||||
Gujarat Gas Ltd. | 256,402 | 1,391,767 | ||||||
Gujarat State Petronet Ltd. | 420,300 | 1,401,445 | ||||||
Mahanagar Gas Ltd. | 73,583 | 909,436 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,702,648 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.1% | ||||||||
VRL Logistics Ltd. | 51,086 | 414,825 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.2% | ||||||||
Poly Medicure Ltd. | 42,883 | 758,037 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 2.7% | ||||||||
Aster DM Healthcare Ltd.(a)(b) | 223,262 | 893,729 | ||||||
Dr Lal PathLabs Ltd.(b) | 55,680 | 1,462,403 | ||||||
Fortis Healthcare Ltd. | 674,872 | 2,704,256 | ||||||
Global Health Ltd., NVS(a) | 119,624 | 1,026,173 | ||||||
Krishna Institute Of Medical Sciences Ltd.(a)(b) | 71,538 | 1,724,822 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Health Care Providers & Services (continued) | ||||||||
Metropolis Healthcare Ltd.(b) | 38,183 | $ | 618,195 | |||||
Narayana Hrudayalaya Ltd. | 105,891 | 1,329,939 | ||||||
Rainbow Children’s Medicare Ltd. | 75,612 | 969,161 | ||||||
Vijaya Diagnostic Centre Pvt Ltd. | 68,463 | 430,417 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,159,095 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.7% | ||||||||
Barbeque Nation Hospitality Ltd.(a) | 30,296 | 255,993 | ||||||
Chalet Hotel Ltd.(a) | 92,029 | 612,259 | ||||||
Delta Corp. Ltd. | 93,920 | 205,184 | ||||||
Devyani International Ltd.(a) | 449,008 | 1,060,151 | ||||||
Easy Trip Planners Ltd., NVS(a) | 515,795 | 258,564 | ||||||
EIH Ltd. | 280,086 | 841,355 | ||||||
Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd.(a)(b) | 648,664 | 854,991 | ||||||
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd.(a) | 89,262 | 430,514 | ||||||
Restaurant Brands Asia Ltd.(a) | 400,820 | 614,103 | ||||||
Sapphire Foods India Ltd.(a) | 47,581 | 818,589 | ||||||
Westlife Development Ltd. | 92,924 | 1,053,145 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,004,848 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 2.8% | ||||||||
Amber Enterprises India Ltd.(a) | 25,100 | 878,677 | ||||||
Bajaj Electricals Ltd. | 68,595 | 961,594 | ||||||
Borosil Ltd.(a) | 41,620 | 219,133 | ||||||
Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. | 953,036 | 3,452,296 | ||||||
Dixon Technologies India Ltd. | 44,368 | 2,679,617 | ||||||
LA Opala RG Ltd. | 57,420 | 303,736 | ||||||
Orient Electric Ltd. | 190,732 | 550,229 | ||||||
Sheela Foam Ltd.(a) | 43,608 | 590,192 | ||||||
Symphony Ltd. | 26,141 | 278,884 | ||||||
TTK Prestige Ltd. | 60,989 | 577,440 | ||||||
Whirlpool of India Ltd. | 47,256 | 932,358 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,424,156 | ||||||||
Household Products — 0.2% | ||||||||
Jyothy Labs Ltd. | 191,482 | 805,719 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3% | ||||||||
Jaiprakash Power Ventures Ltd.(a) | 5,150,280 | 496,909 | ||||||
Reliance Power Ltd.(a) | 3,895,470 | 900,652 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,397,561 | ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 1.0% | ||||||||
3M India Ltd. | 4,196 | 1,578,612 | ||||||
Apar Industries Ltd. | 22,806 | 1,378,570 | ||||||
Godrej Industries Ltd.(a) | 100,607 | 652,976 | ||||||
Nava Ltd. | 108,090 | 554,902 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,165,060 | ||||||||
Insurance — 2.1% | ||||||||
Max Financial Services Ltd.(a) | 359,922 | 4,056,725 | ||||||
PB Fintech Ltd.(a) | 301,776 | 2,820,709 | ||||||
Religare Enterprises Ltd.(a) | 144,775 | 410,717 | ||||||
Star Health & Allied Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 173,415 | 1,332,145 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,620,296 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 0.2% | ||||||||
Brightcom Group Ltd. | 1,954,761 | 401,406 | ||||||
Just Dial Ltd.(a) | 31,670 | 291,647 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
693,053 | ||||||||
IT Services — 3.3% | ||||||||
Coforge Ltd. | 63,718 | 4,202,905 | ||||||
Happiest Minds Technologies Ltd. | 99,327 | 1,112,551 | ||||||
Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd. | 20,255 | 246,326 | ||||||
Mastek Ltd. | 24,944 | 714,865 |
16 | 2 0 2 3 ISHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
IT Services (continued) | ||||||||
Persistent Systems Ltd. | 74,495 | $ | 4,826,504 | |||||
Sonata Software Ltd. | 125,339 | 1,582,081 | ||||||
Zensar Technologies Ltd. | 167,924 | 1,067,830 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,753,062 | ||||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.6% | ||||||||
Syngene International Ltd.(b) | 269,328 | 2,516,190 | ||||||
Tarsons Products Ltd.(a) | 22,741 | 140,819 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,657,009 | ||||||||
Machinery — 6.3% | ||||||||
Action Construction Equipment Ltd. | 53,286 | 491,967 | ||||||
AIA Engineering Ltd. | 63,236 | 2,820,871 | ||||||
BEML Ltd., (Acquired 09/19/22, | 27,874 | 830,054 | ||||||
Cochin Shipyard Ltd.(b) | 58,793 | 643,089 | ||||||
Craftsman Automation Ltd. | 12,591 | 747,532 | ||||||
Elgi Equipments Ltd. | 282,899 | 1,675,144 | ||||||
ESAB India Ltd. | 6,789 | 443,938 | ||||||
Escorts Kubota Ltd. | 49,143 | 1,874,097 | ||||||
GMM Pfaudler Ltd. | 40,121 | 763,951 | ||||||
Greaves Cotton Ltd. | 155,542 | 282,595 | ||||||
Grindwell Norton Ltd. | 65,983 | 1,813,197 | ||||||
Ingersoll Rand India Ltd. | 11,803 | 459,031 | ||||||
ISGEC Heavy Engineering Ltd. | 42,717 | 358,475 | ||||||
Jamna Auto Industries Ltd. | 297,103 | 428,136 | ||||||
Jupiter Wagons Ltd., NVS | 22,008 | 91,277 | ||||||
Kennametal India Ltd. | 8,070 | 275,145 | ||||||
Kirloskar Brothers Ltd. | 41,455 | 425,435 | ||||||
Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltd. | 129,476 | 756,354 | ||||||
Kirloskar Pneumatic Co. Ltd., NVS | 57,796 | 449,459 | ||||||
KSB Ltd. | 17,875 | 602,607 | ||||||
Lakshmi Machine Works Ltd. | 5,571 | 1,031,151 | ||||||
MTAR Technologies Ltd.(a) | 28,937 | 859,165 | ||||||
Rolex Rings Ltd.(a) | 18,025 | 474,735 | ||||||
SKF India Ltd. | 36,828 | 2,317,441 | ||||||
Tega Industries Ltd., NVS | 24,715 | 297,167 | ||||||
Thermax Ltd. | 62,134 | 2,107,333 | ||||||
Timken India Ltd. | 44,673 | 1,753,698 | ||||||
Titagarh Rail System Ltd.(a) | 67,379 | 661,978 | ||||||
Vesuvius India Ltd. | 12,095 | 501,069 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
26,236,091 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.1% | ||||||||
Shipping Corp. of India Ltd. | 206,804 | 325,323 | ||||||
Shipping Corp. of India Ltd. | 158,258 | 53,813 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
379,136 | ||||||||
Media — 1.6% | ||||||||
Affle India Ltd.(a) | 79,365 | 1,032,126 | ||||||
Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.(a) | 233,143 | 192,284 | ||||||
Sun TV Network Ltd. | 117,427 | 874,702 | ||||||
TV18 Broadcast Ltd.(a) | 642,783 | 372,948 | ||||||
Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. | 1,287,941 | 4,073,504 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,545,564 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 4.4% | ||||||||
APL Apollo Tubes Ltd. | 246,307 | 4,983,242 | ||||||
Godawari Power and Ispat Ltd. | 70,889 | 529,882 | ||||||
Gravita India Ltd.(a) | 30,240 | 285,666 | ||||||
Hindustan Copper Ltd. | 360,184 | 688,367 | ||||||
Jindal Saw Ltd. | 166,600 | 704,164 | ||||||
Jindal Stainless Ltd. | 550,066 | 3,017,813 | ||||||
Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd. | 70,421 | 402,231 | ||||||
Maharashtra Seamless Ltd. | 50,045 | 324,850 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Metals & Mining (continued) | ||||||||
Mishra Dhatu Nigam Ltd.(b) | 69,628 | $ | 345,296 | |||||
National Aluminium Co. Ltd. | 1,231,351 | 1,397,664 | ||||||
Nmdc Steel Limited, NVS(a) | 1,091,657 | 742,583 | ||||||
PTC Industries Ltd., NVS | 4,654 | 337,187 | ||||||
Rajratan Global Wire Ltd. | 22,249 | 199,860 | ||||||
Ramkrishna Forgings Ltd. | 94,745 | 815,712 | ||||||
Ratnamani Metals & Tubes Ltd. | 41,771 | 1,332,509 | ||||||
Sarda Energy & Minerals Ltd., NVS | 144,251 | 385,679 | ||||||
Shivalik Bimetal Controls Ltd., NVS | 30,037 | 213,251 | ||||||
Usha Martin Ltd. | 204,311 | 875,150 | ||||||
Welspun Corp. Ltd. | 117,410 | 463,828 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,044,934 | ||||||||
Office REITs — 1.2% | ||||||||
Brookfield India Real Estate Trust(b) | 285,868 | 856,016 | ||||||
Embassy Office Parks REIT | 776,729 | 2,863,613 | ||||||
Mindspace Business Parks REIT(b) | 309,231 | 1,151,965 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,871,594 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.0% | ||||||||
Aegis Logistics Ltd. | 209,177 | 934,212 | ||||||
Chennai Petroleum Corp. Ltd. | 66,557 | 337,382 | ||||||
Great Eastern Shipping Co. Ltd. (The) | 148,893 | 1,374,288 | ||||||
Gujarat Mineral Development Corp. Ltd. | 114,744 | 344,440 | ||||||
Oil India Ltd. | 403,905 | 1,331,816 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,322,138 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.6% | ||||||||
Century Plyboards India Ltd. | 82,752 | 684,168 | ||||||
Century Textiles & Industries Ltd. | 66,565 | 826,194 | ||||||
Greenpanel Industries Ltd. | 91,381 | 417,055 | ||||||
JK Paper Ltd. | 101,177 | 445,354 | ||||||
West Coast Paper Mills Ltd. | 44,236 | 313,327 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,686,098 | ||||||||
Personal Care Products — 0.4% | ||||||||
Emami Ltd. | 292,647 | 1,853,370 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 5.9% | ||||||||
Aarti Drugs Ltd. | 51,814 | 357,539 | ||||||
Aarti Pharmalabs Ltd., NVS(a) | 67,341 | 320,940 | ||||||
Aether Industries Ltd., NVS | 39,488 | 489,461 | ||||||
Ajanta Pharma Ltd. | 65,364 | 1,364,342 | ||||||
Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 73,256 | 686,876 | ||||||
AMI Organics Ltd. | 19,000 | 301,928 | ||||||
AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd. | 7,279 | 374,500 | ||||||
Caplin Point Laboratories Ltd. | 30,904 | 394,875 | ||||||
Eris Lifesciences Ltd.(b) | 60,789 | 594,774 | ||||||
FDC Ltd./India(a) | 73,552 | 338,115 | ||||||
Gland Pharma Ltd.(a)(b) | 43,888 | 923,728 | ||||||
GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 50,496 | 871,616 | ||||||
Glenmark Life Sciences Ltd. | 36,510 | 280,331 | ||||||
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 210,196 | 1,945,913 | ||||||
Granules India Ltd. | 199,349 | 716,008 | ||||||
Hikal Ltd. | 63,012 | 225,171 | ||||||
Indoco Remedies Ltd. | 56,116 | 215,309 | ||||||
Ipca Laboratories Ltd. | 207,892 | 2,193,642 | ||||||
JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 51,903 | 1,735,716 | ||||||
Jubilant Pharmova Ltd., Class A | 106,648 | 603,767 | ||||||
Laurus Labs Ltd.(b) | 521,637 | 2,513,920 | ||||||
Marksans Pharma Ltd. | 299,850 | 409,283 | ||||||
Natco Pharma Ltd. | 118,828 | 1,310,397 | ||||||
Neuland Laboratories Ltd. | 11,469 | 537,449 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 17 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Pharmaceuticals (continued) | ||||||||
Piramal Pharma Ltd., NVS(a) | 788,453 | $ | 976,206 | |||||
Procter & Gamble Health Ltd. | 11,138 | 655,879 | ||||||
Sanofi India Ltd. | 12,009 | 1,030,041 | ||||||
Strides Pharma Science Ltd. | 94,209 | 503,918 | ||||||
Sun Pharma Advanced Research Co. Ltd.(a) | 94,192 | 291,988 | ||||||
Suven Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 151,707 | 938,742 | ||||||
Wockhardt Ltd.(a) | 85,869 | 246,354 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
24,348,728 | ||||||||
Professional Services — 1.3% | ||||||||
BLS International Services Ltd. | 153,017 | 531,306 | ||||||
Computer Age Management Services Ltd. | 47,465 | 1,360,809 | ||||||
eClerx Services Ltd. | 32,228 | 631,902 | ||||||
Firstsource Solutions Ltd. | 465,880 | 917,844 | ||||||
Latent View Analytics Ltd.(a) | 74,346 | 382,207 | ||||||
Quess Corp. Ltd.(b) | 88,865 | 457,907 | ||||||
RITES Ltd. | 71,899 | 434,699 | ||||||
TeamLease Services Ltd.(a) | 17,493 | 511,249 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,227,923 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 2.7% | ||||||||
Anant Raj Ltd. | 120,715 | 320,065 | ||||||
Brigade Enterprises Ltd. | 171,925 | 1,230,390 | ||||||
Indiabulls Real Estate Ltd.(a) | 726,321 | 700,536 | ||||||
Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd. | 115,412 | 790,327 | ||||||
NESCO Ltd. | 30,497 | 266,117 | ||||||
Oberoi Realty Ltd. | 189,602 | 2,563,877 | ||||||
Phoenix Mills Ltd. (The) | 146,378 | 3,180,363 | ||||||
Prestige Estates Projects Ltd. | 204,834 | 1,592,928 | ||||||
Sobha Ltd. | 42,392 | 312,142 | ||||||
Sunteck Realty Ltd. | 65,644 | 286,328 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,243,073 | ||||||||
Retail REITs — 0.2% | ||||||||
Nexus Select Trust, NVS | 677,144 | 1,014,576 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Borosil Renewables Ltd.(a) | 66,610 | 352,360 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Software — 3.2% | ||||||||
Birlasoft Ltd. | 245,970 | 1,511,947 | ||||||
CE Info Systems Ltd. | 19,470 | 410,865 | ||||||
Cyient Ltd. | 123,272 | 2,436,321 | ||||||
Intellect Design Arena Ltd. | 121,695 | 1,079,415 | ||||||
KPIT Technologies Ltd. | 244,843 | 3,473,457 | ||||||
Newgen Software Technologies Ltd. | 41,533 | 430,926 | ||||||
Oracle Financial Services Software Ltd. | 32,215 | 1,597,880 | ||||||
Rategain Travel Technologies Ltd.(a) | 63,581 | 461,751 | ||||||
Route Mobile Ltd. | 41,195 | 780,826 | ||||||
Tanla Platforms Ltd. | 98,117 | 1,155,660 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,339,048 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.5% | ||||||||
Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd.(a) | 494,772 | 1,311,218 | ||||||
Arvind Fashions Ltd.(a) | 69,445 | 269,789 | ||||||
Go Fashion India Ltd.(a) | 39,494 | 641,382 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,222,389 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 3.0% | ||||||||
Alok Industries Ltd.(a) | 1,841,805 | 441,054 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods (continued) | ||||||||
Bata India Ltd. | 86,170 | $ | 1,756,276 | |||||
Campus Activewear Ltd.(a) | 88,901 | 323,927 | ||||||
Garware Technical Fibres Ltd. | 13,697 | 528,278 | ||||||
Indo Count Industries Ltd. | 102,364 | 303,043 | ||||||
Kalyan Jewellers India Ltd. | 298,182 | 906,941 | ||||||
KPR Mill Ltd. | 127,314 | 1,164,404 | ||||||
LUX Industries Ltd.(a) | 10,906 | 193,963 | ||||||
Rajesh Exports Ltd. | 87,980 | 530,145 | ||||||
Raymond Ltd. | 49,567 | 1,196,233 | ||||||
Relaxo Footwears Ltd. | 111,266 | 1,269,155 | ||||||
Safari Industries India Ltd. | 14,132 | 628,821 | ||||||
Trident Ltd. | 1,898,073 | 837,101 | ||||||
Vaibhav Global Ltd. | 74,127 | 395,539 | ||||||
Vardhman Textiles Ltd.(a) | 151,352 | 718,359 | ||||||
VIP Industries Ltd. | 95,019 | 763,343 | ||||||
Welspun India Ltd. | 289,573 | 436,502 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,393,084 | ||||||||
Tobacco — 0.2% | ||||||||
Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. | 18,292 | 475,001 | ||||||
VST Industries Ltd. | 5,412 | 238,927 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
713,928 | ||||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.4% | ||||||||
Hindware Home Innovation Ltd.(a) | 44,744 | 316,665 | ||||||
IndiaMART Intermesh Ltd.(b) | 41,050 | 1,516,985 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,833,650 | ||||||||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.8% | ||||||||
Dreamfolks Services Ltd., NVS | 27,651 | 168,405 | ||||||
GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd.(a) | 3,147,463 | 2,345,905 | ||||||
Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd. | 396,143 | 621,322 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,135,632 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.4% | ||||||||
Vodafone Idea Ltd.(a) | 14,505,244 | 1,584,550 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 100.3% | 415,888,903 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 0.0% | ||||||||
Sundaram-Clayton DCD Ltd., Preference Shares | 7,035 | 765 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 0.0% | 765 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.3% | 415,889,668 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.3)% | (1,324,945) | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ 414,564,723 | |||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | Restricted security as to resale, excluding 144A securities. The Fund held restricted securities with a current value of $830,054, representing 0.2% of its net assets as of period end, and an original cost of $565,905. |
18 | 2 0 2 3 ISHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI India Small-Cap ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | 1,770,000 | $ | — | $ | (1,770,000 | )(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 175,650 | $ | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,552 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,552 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 38,002 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 38,002 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 730,862 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 30,375,938 | $ | 385,512,965 | $ | — | $ | 415,888,903 | ||||||||
Preferred Stocks | — | 765 | — | 765 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 30,375,938 | $ | 385,513,730 | $ | — | $ | 415,889,668 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 19 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
| iShares MSCI India ETF |
| | iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF |
| |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a) | $ | 5,903,154,220 | $ | 415,889,668 | ||||||||||||
Cash | 82,873,006 | 9,488,843 | ||||||||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 1,269,000 | 3,000 | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(b) | 143 | 196,770 | ||||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments sold | 151,461,504 | 34,713,356 | ||||||||||||||
Capital shares sold | — | 1,178 | ||||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 6,986,099 | 289,486 | ||||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 354,253 | 30,612 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Total assets | 6,146,098,225 | 460,612,913 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 146,417,866 | 34,461,204 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred foreign capital gain tax | 56,246,386 | 11,347,852 | ||||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 3,247,178 | 238,945 | ||||||||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 4,427 | 189 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 205,915,857 | 46,048,190 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,940,182,368 | $ | 414,564,723 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 4,618,300,078 | $ | 339,493,730 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated earnings | 1,321,882,290 | 75,070,993 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,940,182,368 | $ | 414,564,723 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 135,700,000 | 6,600,000 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 43.77 | $ | 62.81 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Par value | None | None | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 5,489,997,737 | $ | 362,115,734 | ||||||||||||
(b) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 143 | $ | 196,871 |
See notes to financial statements.
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI India ETF | iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Consolidated) | |||||||
| ||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 69,834,968 | $ | 3,644,517 | ||||
Dividends — affiliated | 1,883,471 | 175,650 | ||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (16,585,998 | ) | (658,459 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total investment income | 55,132,441 | 3,161,708 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||
Investment advisory | 30,728,324 | 2,169,724 | ||||||
Commitment costs | 49,961 | 3,532 | ||||||
Interest expense | — | 163,859 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total expenses | 30,778,285 | 2,337,115 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net investment income | 24,354,156 | 824,593 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(a) | (167,123,519 | ) | 83,765,304 | |||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | 11 | 2 | ||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (3,949,363 | ) | (1,979,992 | ) | ||||
Futures contracts | 270,637 | (5,552 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(170,802,234 | ) | 81,779,762 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(b) | 210,571,993 | (42,327,873 | ) | |||||
Foreign currency translations | 66,933 | (2,169 | ) | |||||
Futures contracts | 485,602 | 38,002 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
211,124,528 | (42,292,040 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain | 40,322,294 | 39,487,722 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 64,676,450 | $ | 40,312,315 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(a) Net of foreign capital gain tax and capital gain tax refund, if applicable of | $ | (4,814,313 | ) | $ | (5,245,287 | ) | ||
(b) Net of increase in deferred foreign capital gain tax of | $ | (26,247,680 | ) | $ | (6,608,235 | ) |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 21 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares MSCI India ETF | iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (Consolidated) | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 |
| | Year Ended 08/31/22 | (a)
| | Year Ended 08/31/23 |
| | Year Ended 08/31/22 |
| |||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 24,354,156 | $ | 25,600,458 | $ | 824,593 | $ | 275,777 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (170,802,234 | ) | 2,081,503,169 | 81,779,762 | 29,257,151 | |||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 211,124,528 | (2,523,600,088 | ) | (42,292,040 | ) | (53,555,310 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 64,676,450 | (416,496,461 | ) | 40,312,315 | (24,022,382 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(b) | ||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income and net realized gain | — | (374,889,807 | ) | (224,971 | ) | (5,222,073 | ) | |||||||||||||
Return of capital | (9,188,147 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (9,188,147 | ) | (374,889,807 | ) | (224,971 | ) | (5,222,073 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 1,699,075,760 | (1,373,587,175 | ) | 69,677,478 | 4,578,598 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 1,754,564,063 | (2,164,973,443 | ) | 109,764,822 | (24,665,857 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 4,185,618,305 | 6,350,591,748 | 304,799,901 | 329,465,758 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 5,940,182,368 | $ | 4,185,618,305 | $ | 414,564,723 | $ | 304,799,901 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets. |
(b) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI India ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Year Ended 08/31/22 | (a) | | Year Ended 08/31/21 | (a) | | Year Ended 08/31/20 | (a) | | Year Ended 08/31/19 | (a) | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 43.22 | $ | 48.79 | $ | 33.37 | $ | 32.38 | $ | 35.68 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 0.21 | 0.21 | 0.14 | 0.14 | 0.29 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | 0.42 | (2.87 | ) | 15.35 | 0.96 | (3.00 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 0.63 | (2.66 | ) | 15.49 | 1.10 | (2.71 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | — | (2.91 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (0.49 | ) | |||||||||||
Return of capital | (0.08 | ) | — | — | — | (0.10 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total distributions | (0.08 | ) | (2.91 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (0.59 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 43.77 | $ | 43.22 | $ | 48.79 | $ | 33.37 | $ | 32.38 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 1.44 | % | (5.66 | )% | 46.54 | % | 3.40 | % | (7.61 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.65 | % | 0.68 | % | 0.65 | % | 0.69 | % | 0.69 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income | 0.51 | % | 0.47 | % | 0.35 | % | 0.43 | % | 0.86 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 5,940,182 | $ | 4,185,618 | $ | 6,350,592 | $ | 3,093,833 | $ | 4,899,749 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(g) | 18 | %(h) | 95 | %(h) | 25 | %(h) | 25 | %(h) | 9 | %(h) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
(a) Consolidated Financial Highlights. (b) Based on average shares outstanding. (c) The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. (d) Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. (e) Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. (f) Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. (g) Portfolio turnover rate includes portfolio transactions that are executed as a result of the Fund offering and redeeming Creation Units solely for cash in U.S. dollars (“cash creations”). |
| |||||||||||||||||||
(h) Portfolio turnover rate excluding cash creations was as follows: | 14 | % | 91 | % | 17 | % | 19 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 23 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Consolidated) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 54.43 | $ | 57.80 | $ | 34.60 | $ | 33.39 | $ | 44.10 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.15 | 0.04 | (0.01 | ) | 0.15 | 0.10 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 8.28 | (2.64 | ) | 23.26 | 1.88 | (10.60 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 8.43 | (2.60 | ) | 23.25 | 2.03 | (10.50 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | — | (0.77 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.82 | ) | (0.21 | ) | |||||||||||
From net realized gain | (0.05 | ) | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Return of capital | — | — | (0.00 | )(d) | — | — | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total distributions | (0.05 | ) | (0.77 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.82 | ) | (0.21 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 62.81 | $ | 54.43 | $ | 57.80 | $ | 34.60 | $ | 33.39 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 15.50 | % | (4.61 | )% | 67.25 | % | 6.35 | % | (23.88 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.80 | %(g) | 0.74 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.81 | % | 0.76 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) | 0.28 | % | 0.08 | % | (0.01 | )% | 0.45 | % | 0.28 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 414,565 | $ | 304,800 | $ | 329,466 | $ | 193,770 | $ | 270,433 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(h) | 150 | %(i) | 56 | %(i) | 55 | %(i) | 32 | %(i) | 24 | %(i) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
(a) Based on average shares outstanding. (b) The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. (c) Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. (d) Rounds to less than $0.01. (e) Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. (f) Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. (g) Includes non-recurring expense of Interest expense. Without this cost, total expenses would have been 0.74%. (h) Portfolio turnover rate includes portfolio transactions that are executed as a result of the Fund offering and redeeming Creation Units solely for cash in U.S. dollars (“cash creations”). |
| |||||||||||||||||||
(i) Portfolio turnover rate excluding cash creations was as follows: | 128 | % | 37 | % | 37 | % | 28 | % | 19 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These consolidated financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
MSCI India | Non-diversified | |
MSCI India Small-Cap | Diversified |
Basis of Consolidation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements for MSCI India Small-Cap includes the accounts of its subsidiary in the Republic of Mauritius, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Subsidiary”) of the Fund that invests in Indian securities. Through this investment structure, the Fund expects to obtain certain benefits under a current tax treaty between Mauritius and India.
Effective October 28, 2022, MSCI India Small-Cap finalized the transfer of all the assets of MSCI India Small-Cap’s wholly owned Mauritius Subsidiary to MSCI India Small-Cap through on-exchange transactions in India. MSCI India Small-Cap recognized a net realized gain of $86,211,257 as a result of this transaction. After the transfer, MSCI India Small-Cap began making new investments in India directly. On June 13, 2023, MSCI India Small-Cap filed to liquidate its Subsidiary with the Mauritius Financial Services Commission.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Consolidated Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Consolidated Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
MSCI India Small-Cap has conducted investment activities in India through its Subsidiary and, where applicable, expects to obtain benefits under the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (“DTAA”) between India and Mauritius. In order to be eligible to claim benefits under the DTAA, MSCI India Small-Cap must have commercial
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 25 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
substance, on an annual basis, to satisfy certain tests and conditions, including the establishment and maintenance of valid tax residence in Mauritius, have the place of effective management outside of India, and related requirements. MSCI India Small-Cap has obtained a current tax residence certificate issued by the Mauritian Revenue Authorities.
Based upon current interpretation and practice of the current tax laws in India and Mauritius and the DTAA, the Subsidiary is subject to tax in Mauritius on its net income at the rate of 15%. However, the Subsidiary is entitled to a tax credit equivalent to the higher of the actual foreign tax incurred or 80% of the Mauritius tax on its foreign source income, thus reducing its maximum effective tax rate to 3% up to June 30, 2021. After June 30, 2021, under the new tax regime and subject to meeting the necessary substance requirements as required under the Financial Services Act 2007 (as amended by the Finance Act 2018) and such guidelines issued by the Financial Services Commission (the “FSC”), the Subsidiary is entitled to either (a) a foreign tax credit equivalent to the actual foreign tax suffered on its foreign income against the Subsidiary’s tax liability computed at 15% on such income, or (b) a partial exemption of 80% of some of the income derived, including interest income or foreign source dividends. Taxes on income, if any, are paid by the Subsidiary and are disclosed in its Consolidated Statements of Operations. Any dividends paid by a Subsidiary to its Fund are not subject to tax in Mauritius. The Subsidiary is currently exempt from tax in Mauritius on any gains from the sale of securities.
The DTAA provides that capital gains will be taxable in India with respect to the sale of shares acquired on or after April 1, 2017. Capital gains arising from shares acquired before April 1, 2017, regardless of when they are sold, will continue to be exempt from taxation under the amended DTAA, assuming requirements for eligibility under the DTAA are satisfied. There can be no assurance, however, that the DTAA will remain in effect during the Subsidiary’s existence or that it will continue to enjoy its benefits on the shares acquired prior to April 1, 2017.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income, net realized capital gains and/or return of capital for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
The portion of distributions that exceeds each Fund’s current and accumulated earning and profits will constitute a non-taxable return of capital. Distributions in excess of each Fund’s minimum distribution requirements, but not in excess of the Fund’s earnings and profits, will be taxable to the Fund’s shareholders and will not constitute non-taxable returns of capital. Return of capital distributions will reduce a shareholder’s cost basis and will result in higher capital gains or lower capital losses when each Fund’s shares on which distributions were received are sold. Once a shareholder’s cost basis is reduced to zero, further distributions will be treated as capital gains.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published net asset value (“NAV”). |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value.
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
4. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
5. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”) manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to the iShares MSCI India ETF, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Fund, based on the average daily net assets of the Fund as follows:
Aggregate Average Daily Net Assets | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
First $4 billion | 0.6500 | % | ||
Over $4 billion, up to and including $6 billion | 0.6175 | |||
Over $6 billion, up to and including $8 billion | 0.5867 | |||
Over $8 billion | 0.5573 |
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 27 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
For its investment advisory services to the iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF, BFAis entitled to an annual investment advisory fee of 0.74%, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Fund, based on the average daily net assets of the Fund.
Each Subsidiary has entered into a separate contract with BFA under which BFA provides investment advisory services to the Subsidiary but does not receive separate compensation from the Subsidiary for providing it with such services. Each Subsidiary has also entered into separate arrangements that provide for the provision of other services to the Subsidiary (including administrative, custody, transfer agency and other services), and BFA pays the costs and expenses related to the provision of those services.
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
6. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
MSCI India | $ | 2,521,854,271 | $ | 873,966,871 | ||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | 506,967,532 | 447,930,811 |
There were no in-kind transactions for the year ended August 31, 2023.
7. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to net operating loss were reclassified to the following accounts:
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
MSCI India | $ | (256,855,914 | ) | $ | 256,855,914 | |||
MSCI India Small-Cap | (5,704,581 | ) | 5,704,581 |
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
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MSCI India | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | — | $ | 374,889,807 | ||||
Return of capital | 9,188,147 | — | ||||||
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$ | 9,188,147 | $ | 374,889,807 | |||||
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MSCI India Small-Cap | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | — | $ | 5,222,073 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 224,971 | — | ||||||
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$ | 224,971 | $ | 5,222,073 | |||||
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28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Long-Term Capital Gains |
| | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards |
(a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | | Qualified Late-Year Ordinary Losses |
(c) | Total | |||||||
MSCI India | $ | — | $ | (408,251,134 | ) | $ | 1,800,829,364 | $ | (70,695,940 | ) | $ | 1,321,882,290 | ||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | 1,937,787 | — | 73,133,206 | — | 75,070,993 |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, characterization of corporate actions, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies and the timing and recognition of realized gains/losses for tax purposes. |
(c) | The Funds have elected to defer these qualified late-year losses and recognize such losses in the next taxable year. |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds listed below utilized the following amounts of their respective capital loss carryforwards:
iShares ETF | Utilized | |||
MSCI India Small-Cap | $ | 28,005,798 |
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
MSCI India | $ | 4,046,111,563 | $ | 1,947,401,480 | $ | (90,326,192 | ) | $ | 1,857,075,288 | |||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | 331,407,938 | 98,482,050 | (14,000,320 | ) | 84,481,730 |
8. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The Funds, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
Effective April 21, 2022, the Funds, along with certain other iShares funds (“Mauritius Participating Funds”), were parties to a $1.50 billion unsecured and uncommitted line of credit (“Uncommitted Liquidity Facility”) with State Street Bank and Trust Company, which was used solely to facilitate trading associated with the closure of each Fund’s Mauritius subsidiary. The Uncommitted Liquidity Facility had interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) the U.S. Federal Funds rate (not less than zero) plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Overnight Bank Funding rate (not less than zero) plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. The Uncommitted Liquidity Facility was terminated on December 7, 2022.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, iShares MSCI India ETF did not borrow under the Uncommitted Liquidity Facility.
iShares ETF | Maximum Amount Borrowed | Average Borrowing | Weighted Average Interest Rates | |||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | $ | 70,000,000 | $ | 3,556,164 | 4.19 | % |
9. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 29 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
The price each Fund could receive upon the sale of any particular portfolio investment may differ from each Fund’s valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair valuation technique or a price provided by an independent pricing service. Changes to significant unobservable inputs and assumptions (i.e., publicly traded company multiples, growth rate, time to exit) due to the lack of observable inputs.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Asia or with significant exposure to Asian issuers or countries. The Asian financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns in several Asian countries regarding monetary policy, government intervention in the markets, rising government debt levels or economic downturns. These events may spread to other countries in Asia and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
10. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
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Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI India | ||||||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 44,900,000 | $ | 1,947,706,220 | 7,750,000 | $ | 344,412,931 | ||||||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (6,050,000 | ) | (248,630,460 | ) | (41,050,000 | ) | (1,718,000,106 | ) | ||||||||||||
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38,850,000 | $ | 1,699,075,760 | (33,300,000 | ) | $ | (1,373,587,175 | ) | |||||||||||||
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MSCI India Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 2,100,000 | $ | 126,296,325 | 1,100,000 | $ | 67,453,633 | ||||||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (1,100,000 | ) | (56,618,847 | ) | (1,200,000 | ) | (62,875,035 | ) | ||||||||||||
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1,000,000 | $ | 69,677,478 | (100,000 | ) | $ | 4,578,598 | ||||||||||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
11. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ Consolidated financial statements was completed through the date the Consolidated financial statements were available to be issued and the following item was noted:
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 31 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the two funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (two of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations and of changes in net assets for each of the periods indicated in the table below, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations, the changes in each of their net assets, and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares MSCI India ETF(1) |
iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF(2)
|
(1) | Statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, statement of changes in net assets for the year ended August 31, 2023, consolidated statement of changes in net assets for the year ended August 31, 2022, the financial highlights for the year ended August 31, 2023 and the consolidated financial highlights for each of the four years in the period ended August 31, 2022. |
(2) | Consolidated statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, consolidated statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and the consolidated financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023. |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Important Tax Information (unaudited) |
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
|
| |||||||||
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income |
| ||||||||
MSCI India | $ | 62,770,292 | ||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | 2,952,362 | |||||||||
The Funds hereby designate the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, as capital gain dividends, subject to a long-term capital gains tax rate as noted below, for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
|
| |||||||||
iShares ETF | 20% Rate Long-Term Capital Gain Dividends | |||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | $ | 224,971 | ||||||||
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
|
| |||||||||
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | |||||||||
MSCI India | $ 69,596,476 | |||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap | 3,715,775 |
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION | 33 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares MSCI India ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 35 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts withsubstantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 37 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year |
% Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share |
| Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI India(a) | $ | 0.046913 | $ | — | $ | 0.033158 | $ | 0.080071 | 59 | % | — | % | 41 | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI India Small-Cap(a) | — | — | 0.046477 | 0.046477 | — | — | 100 | 100 |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
Regulation under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive, and its United Kingdom (“UK”) equivalent, ( “AIFMD”) impose detailed and prescriptive obligations on fund managers established in the European Union (the “EU”) and the UK. These do not currently apply to managers established outside of the EU or UK, such as BFA (the “Company”). Rather, the Company is only required to comply with certain disclosure, reporting and transparency obligations of AIFMD because it has registered the iShares MSCI India ETF (the “Fund”) to be marketed to investors in the EU and/or UK.
Report on Remuneration
The Company is required under AIFMD to make quantitative disclosures of remuneration. These disclosures are made in line with BlackRock’s interpretation of currently available regulatory guidance on quantitative remuneration disclosures. As market or regulatory practice develops BlackRock may consider it appropriate to make changes to the way in which quantitative remuneration disclosures are calculated. Where such changes are made, this may result in disclosures in relation to a fund not being comparable to the disclosures made in the prior year, or in relation to other BlackRock fund disclosures in that same year.
Disclosures are provided in relation to (a) the staff of the Company; (b) staff who are senior management; and (c) staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund.
All individuals included in the aggregated figures disclosed are rewarded in line with BlackRock’s remuneration policy for their responsibilities across the relevant BlackRock business area. As all individuals have a number of areas of responsibilities, only the portion of remuneration for those individuals’ services attributable to the Fund is included in the aggregate figures disclosed.
BlackRock has a clear and well-defined pay-for-performance philosophy, and compensation programs which support that philosophy.
BlackRock operates a total compensation model for remuneration which includes a base salary, which is contractual, and a discretionary bonus scheme. Although all employees are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, there is no contractual obligation to make a discretionary bonus award to any employees. For senior management and staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund, a significant percentage of variable remuneration is deferred over time. All employees are subject to a clawback policy.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Supplemental Information (unaudited) (continued)
Remuneration decisions for employees are made once annually in January following the end of the performance year, based on BlackRock’s full-year financial results and other non-financial goals and objectives. Alongside financial performance, individual total compensation is also based on strategic and operating results and other considerations such as management and leadership capabilities. No set formulas are established and no fixed benchmarks are used in determining annual incentive awards.
Annual incentive awards are paid from a bonus pool which is reviewed throughout the year by BlackRock’s independent compensation committee, taking into account both actual and projected financial information together with information provided by the Enterprise Risk and Regulatory Compliance departments in relation to any activities, incidents or events that warrant consideration in making compensation decisions. Individuals are not involved in setting their own remuneration.
Each of the control functions (Enterprise Risk, Legal & Compliance, and Internal Audit) each have their own organizational structures which are independent of the business units and therefore staff members in control functions are remunerated independently of the businesses they oversee. Functional bonus pools for those control functions are determined with reference to the performance of each individual function and the remuneration of the senior members of control functions is directly overseen by BlackRock’s independent remuneration committee.
Members of staff and senior management of the Company typically provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the Company and across the broader BlackRock group. Conversely, members of staff and senior management of the broader BlackRock group may provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the broader BlackRock group and of the Company. Therefore, the figures disclosed are a sum of individuals’ portion of remuneration attributable to the Company according to an objective apportionment methodology which acknowledges the multiple-service nature of the Company and the broader BlackRock group. Accordingly, the figures are not representative of any individual’s actual remuneration or their remuneration structure.
The amount of the total remuneration awarded to the Company’s staff in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022 was USD 4.12 million. This figure is comprised of fixed remuneration of USD 685 thousand and variable remuneration of USD 3.44 million. There was a total of 8 beneficiaries of the remuneration described above.
The amount of the aggregate remuneration awarded by the Company in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022, to its senior management was USD 2.96 million, and to other members of its staff whose actions potentially have a material impact on the risk profile of the Company or its funds was USD 970 thousand. These figures relate to the entire Company and not to the Fund.
Disclosures Under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation
The iShares MSCI India ETF (the “Fund”) is registered under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive to be marketed to European Union (“EU”) investors, as noted above. As a result, certain disclosures are required under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (“SFDR”).
The Fund has not been categorized under the SFDR as an “Article 8” or “Article 9” product. In addition, the Fund’s investment strategy does not take into account the criteria for environmentally sustainable economic activities under the EU sustainable investment taxonomy regulation or principal adverse impacts (“PAIs”) on sustainability factors under the SFDR. PAIs are identified under the SFDR as the material impacts of investment decisions on sustainability factors relating to environmental, social and employee matters, respect for human rights, and anti-corruption and anti-bribery matters.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | 39 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002).
| Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014).
| Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). | |||
(a) Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. | ||||||
(b) Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. | ||||||
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022).
| |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012).
| Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019).
| Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018).
| Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021).
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John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019).
| Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016).
| Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Officers | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023).
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Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds.
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Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023).
| Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||||
Marisa Rolland
| Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019).
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Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022).
| Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 41 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020).
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Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President. |
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer. |
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
GENERAL INFORMATION | 43 |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation | ||
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-809-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
| 2023 Annual Report
|
iShares Trust
· iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF | HEWC | NYSE Arca
· iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF | HEZU | NYSE Arca
· iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF | HEWG | NASDAQ
· iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF | HEWJ | NYSE Arca
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023 | ||||
6-Month | 12-Month | |||
U.S. large cap equities | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities (Russell 2000® Index) | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
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Market Overview |
iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large-and mid-capitalization Canadian equities while mitigating exposure to fluctuations between the value of the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar, as represented by the MSCI Canada 100% Hedged to USD Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in one underlying fund, the iShares MSCI Canada ETF.
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the Fund to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception |
| 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 9.78 | % | 8.06 | % | 7.43 | % | 9.78 | % | 47.32 | % | 79.64% | |||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 9.76 | 8.05 | 7.44 | 9.76 | 47.29 | 79.74 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 9.67 | 7.92 | 7.45 | 9.67 | 46.41 | 79.88 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was June 29, 2015. The first day of secondary market trading was July 1, 2015.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,023.50 | $ 0.15 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,025.10 | $ 0.15 | 0.03 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. The fees and expenses of the underlying funds in which the Fund invests are not included in the Fund’s annualized expense ratio. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in Canada advanced for the reporting period in U.S. dollar terms, as consumer spending continued to rise despite stalling economic growth and concerns about rebounding inflation. While unemployment remained low by historic standards, it rose near the end of the reporting period, as job creation failed to keep pace with Canada’s significant population growth. To combat inflation, the Bank of Canada raised interest rates six times during the reporting period, and the inflation rate declined substantially. However, prices grew again toward the end of the reporting period, raising concerns among investors that additional monetary tightening would be needed to control inflation.
The information technology sector contributed the most to the Index’s return, led by the information technology services industry. Revenues from e-commerce platforms and point of sale systems grew substantially amid sharply higher gross merchandise volume (the total value of merchandise sold through an e-commerce platform). The industry also benefited from optimism surrounding the impact of new developments in the area of artificial intelligence (“AI”). New AI-powered products generated investor enthusiasm, including a new feature designed to help online vendors manage their virtual storefronts using AI and another aimed at assisting merchants with text used in marketing their businesses.
Stocks in the materials sector also gained, due to strength in the metals and mining industry. Although some metal commodities prices declined during the reporting period, gold prices rose notably. This price increase bolstered the earnings of precious metals streamers (companies that provide capital and financing for mines in exchange for discounted precious metal prices) in the gold industry.
On the downside, utilities companies detracted from the Index’s performance in U.S. dollar terms. Financing delays for a new wind farm project amid tighter financial conditions pressured the independent power and renewable electricity producers industry.
In terms of currency performance, the Canadian dollar depreciated relative to the U.S. dollar by approximately 3% for the reporting period. The Bank of Canada’s slower pace of interest rate increases compared to the Fed pressured the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar.
The Canadian dollar’s negative performance meant hedging activity contributed to the Index’s return. A fully hedged investor seeks to bypass the currency fluctuations — both on the upside and on the downside — related to holding foreign-currency-denominated securities. The Index’s hedging activity offset the negative impact of the Canadian dollar’s performance relative to the U.S. dollar, resulting in an Index return that was relatively close to the return of Canadian equities measured in Canadian dollars.
Portfolio Information
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
Investment Type | Percent of Net Assets | |
Investment Companies | 100.1% | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, net cumulative appreciation | 2.6 | |
Other assets less liabilities | (2.7) |
SECTOR ALLOCATION (of the UNDERLYING FUND)
Sector | Percent of Total Investment(a) | |
Financials | 34.9% | |
Energy | 18.4 | |
Industrials | 12.7 | |
Materials | 11.1 | |
Information Technology | 8.9 | |
Consumer Staples | 4.6 | |
Consumer Discretionary | 3.8 | |
Utilities | 3.3 | |
Communication Services | 1.6 | |
Real Estate | 0.6 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization equities from developed market countries which use the euro as their official currency while mitigating exposure to fluctuations between the value of the euro and the U.S. dollar, as represented by the MSCI EMU 100% Hedged to USD Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in one underlying fund, the iShares MSCI Eurozone ETF.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 24.30 | % | 8.20 | % | 7.71 | % | 24.30 | % | 48.33 | % | 97.31 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 24.42 | 8.22 | 7.72 | 24.42 | 48.43 | 97.44 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 24.28 | 8.15 | 7.87 | 24.28 | 47.92 | 99.92 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was July 9, 2014. The first day of secondary market trading was July 10, 2014.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,035.90 | $ 0.15 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,025.10 | $ 0.15 | 0.03 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. The fees and expenses of the underlying funds in which the Fund invests are not included in the Fund’s annualized expense ratio. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks in the Eurozone advanced for the reporting period in U.S. dollar terms as equity markets in Europe outpaced most other regions of the globe, despite modest economic growth. Eurozone stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict initially disrupted critical natural gas supplies, the acquisition of new sources led to price declines, and a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The ECB responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings. Inflation across the Eurozone declined steadily from a peak of 10.6% in October 2022.
Stocks in France contributed the most to the Index’s performance. The French capital goods industry, in the industrials sector, led the gains. Overcoming significant supply-chain challenges, French manufacturers of jets and engines advanced as air travel recovered, and orders for new planes increased accordingly. French electrical equipment manufacturers benefited from stronger sales in the U.S., where new government incentives and funding encouraged business investment in new semiconductor, electric vehicle, and battery manufacturing plants. The French consumer discretionary sector also contributed, buoyed by solid sales of luxury goods in Europe and Asia, owing in part to the rebound in international travel and the end of China’s coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns.
German stocks also contributed to the Index’s return, despite a sharp slowdown in the German economy. Following a two-quarter recession, German economic growth was stagnant in the second quarter of 2023. The information technology sector led the gains, benefiting from growth in cloud-based services in the software industry. Stocks of multi-line insurers in the financials sector also contributed, amid strong profits from life and health insurance sales. In the industrials sector, stocks in the industrial conglomerates industry were buoyed by strong earnings guidance amid easing supply chain bottlenecks.
In terms of currency performance during the reporting period, the euro appreciated by approximately 8% against the U.S. dollar. As the Fed slowed and then paused its interest rate increases, the ECB continued to raise interest rates, supporting the value of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar.
The euro’s positive performance meant hedging activity detracted from the Index’s return. A fully hedged investor seeks to bypass the currency fluctuations — both on the upside and on the downside — related to holding foreign-currency-denominated securities. The Index’s hedging activity offset the positive impact of the euro’s performance relative to the U.S. dollar, resulting in an Index return that was relatively close to the return of European equities measured in euros.
Portfolio Information
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
Investment Type | Percent of Net Assets | |
Investment Companies | 99.8% | |
Short-term Investments | 2.2 | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, net cumulative appreciation | 1.9 | |
Other assets less liabilities | (3.9) |
SECTOR ALLOCATION (of the UNDERLYING FUND)
Sector | Percent of Total Investment(a) | |
Financials | 17.3% | |
Consumer Discretionary | 16.6 | |
Industrials | 15.9 | |
Information Technology | 11.8 | |
Health Care | 8.2 | |
Consumer Staples | 8.0 | |
Materials | 6.5 | |
Utilities | 6.1 | |
Energy | 4.6 | |
Communication Services | 4.2 | |
Real Estate | 0.9 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization German equities while mitigating exposure to fluctuations between the value of the euro and the U.S. dollar, as represented by the MSCI Germany 100% Hedged to USD Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in one underlying fund, the iShares MSCI Germany ETF.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 26.26 | % | 4.97 | % | 5.90 | % | 26.26 | % | 27.47 | % | 73.17 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 26.29 | 4.97 | 5.90 | 26.29 | 27.44 | 73.18 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 25.82 | 5.10 | 6.11 | 25.82 | 28.26 | 76.52 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was January 31, 2014. The first day of secondary market trading was February 4, 2014.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,039.20 | $ 0.15 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,025.10 | $ 0.15 | 0.03 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. The fees and expenses of the underlying funds in which the Fund invests are not included in the Fund’s annualized expense ratio. |
FUND SUMMARY | 9 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Despite sluggish economic growth, stocks in Germany advanced significantly in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. German stocks benefited from improved energy security, as alternate fuel suppliers and a warm winter helped offset supply problems in the wake of Russia’s decision to stop supplying Germany with natural gas shortly before the start of the reporting period. While inflation remained elevated, it declined notably as the ECB raised interest rates eight times during the reporting period in an attempt to control rising prices.
The information technology sector contributed the most to the Index’s return, led by the software industry. Product offerings as part of enterprise resource planning software drove revenue gains, as software designed to improve business processes and operations was adopted by several major companies. Strong sales of cloud software, which provides a recurring stream of revenue, bolstered the industry’s profits, and layoffs helped to reduce costs while divestment of a large subsidiary was part of a restructuring plan to focus on core business.
Stocks in the financials sector also contributed to the Index’s return, most notably in the insurance industry. The ECB’s substantial interest rate increases benefited the industry, as higher interest rates allowed insurance companies to make more income from their investments. Earnings from insurance related to life and health or property and casualty were particularly strong.
The industrials sector also posted solid gains, as stocks in the industrial conglomerates industry were buoyed by strong earnings guidance amid easing supply chain bottlenecks. Price increases and productivity gains helped to offset higher wages and more expensive raw materials.
In terms of currency performance during the reporting period, the euro appreciated by approximately 8% against the U.S. dollar. As the Fed slowed and then paused its interest rate increases, the ECB continued to raise interest rates, supporting the value of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar.
The euro’s positive performance meant hedging activity detracted from the Index’s return. A fully hedged investor seeks to bypass the currency fluctuations — both on the upside and on the downside — related to holding foreign-currency-denominated securities. The Index’s hedging activity offset the positive impact of the euro’s performance relative to the U.S. dollar, resulting in an Index return that was relatively close to the return of German equities measured in euros.
Portfolio Information
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
Investment Type | Percent of Net Assets | |
Investment Companies | 99.9% | |
Short-term Investments | 5.8 | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, net cumulative appreciation | 1.9 | |
Other assets less liabilities | (7.6) |
SECTOR ALLOCATION (of the UNDERLYING FUND)
Sector | Percent of Total Investment(a) | |
Industrials | 18.6% | |
Financials | 18.0 | |
Consumer Discretionary | 15.9 | |
Information Technology | 15.4 | |
Health Care | 10.7 | |
Materials | 6.7 | |
Communication Services | 5.9 | |
Utilities | 4.1 | |
Consumer Staples | 2.9 | |
Real Estate | 1.8 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization Japanese equities while mitigating exposure to fluctuations between the value of the Japanese yen and the U.S. dollar, as represented by the MSCI Japan 100% Hedged to USD Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in one underlying fund, the iShares MSCI Japan ETF.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 27.07 | % | 10.41 | % | 9.94 | % | 27.07 | % | 64.10 | % | 147.93 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 26.96 | 10.40 | 9.93 | 26.96 | 63.98 | 147.68 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 26.98 | 11.00 | 10.23 | 26.98 | 68.51 | 154.22 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was January 31, 2014. The first day of secondary market trading was February 4, 2014.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,213.40 | $ 0.00 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,025.20 | $ 0.00 | 0.00 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. The fees and expenses of the underlying funds in which the Fund invests are not included in the Fund’s annualized expense ratio. |
FUND SUMMARY | 11 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Japanese stocks advanced for the reporting period in U.S. dollar terms, as the economy grew at its fastest pace in three years. The Japanese economy, which has struggled with weak growth and deflation, or falling prices, in recent decades, returned to growth while logging its highest inflation rate in more than 30 years. Foreign demand for automotive products and tourism drove stronger economic growth. The lifting of coronavirus pandemic-related travel restrictions on foreign tourism unleashed pent-up demand, spurring strong growth in tourism. Automotive exports recovered from lingering supply chain disruptions related to prior pandemic-related policies. Domestic consumption trailed, however, as household spending contracted, and the country’s notoriously high savings rate remained elevated for the reporting period, leading to concerns about the sustainability of recent economic growth. Nevertheless, investor optimism that Japan would maintain accommodative monetary policy to stimulate growth and inflation, as well as other policy shifts, such as limiting government intervention in bond markets and corporate governance reforms, ultimately drove strong flows into the Japanese equity market.
The industrials sector contributed the most to the Index’s return. The trading companies and distributors industry, which acts as an intermediary for the trading of many Japanese exports, benefited from growth in exports, a recovery in Japanese auto sales, and relatively elevated commodities prices.
The financials sector also contributed to the Index’s return, as Japan’s diversified banks advanced with strong earnings growth, including gains on bond sales, higher fees, lower credit costs, and growth in overseas lending activity. The information technology sector also advanced, led by the semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industry, as Chinese companies brought forward chip orders ahead of the Japanese government’s restrictions on semiconductor trade, while expectations for chip demand from artificial intelligence also rose sharply.
In terms of currency performance during the reporting period, the Japanese yen depreciated by approximately 5% against the U.S. dollar. Interest rates increased substantially in the U.S., while the Bank of Japan kept interest rates low, pressuring the value of the Japanese yen relative to the U.S. dollar.
The Japanese yen’s negative performance meant hedging activity contributed to the Index’s return. A fully hedged investor seeks to bypass the currency fluctuations — both on the upside and on the downside — related to holding foreign-currency-denominated securities. The Index’s hedging activity offset the negative impact of the Japanese yen’s performance relative to the U.S. dollar, resulting in an Index return that was relatively close to the return of Japanese equities measured in Japanese yen.
Portfolio Information
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
Investment Type | Percent of Net Assets | |
Investment Companies | 100.1% | |
Short-term Investments | 0.0(a) | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, net cumulative appreciation | 3.4 | |
Other assets less liabilities | (3.5) |
(a) | Rounds to less than 0.1%. |
SECTOR ALLOCATION (of the UNDERLYING FUND)
Sector | Percent of Total Investment(a) | |
Industrials | 23.3% | |
Consumer Discretionary | 18.9 | |
Information Technology | 14.1 | |
Financials | 11.8 | |
Health Care | 8.7 | |
Communication Services | 7.2 | |
Consumer Staples | 6.2 | |
Materials | 4.7 | |
Real Estate | 3.0 | |
Utilities | 1.2 | |
Energy | 0.8 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 13 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security |
Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Investment Companies | ||||||||
Exchange-Traded Funds — 100.1% | ||||||||
iShares MSCI Canada ETF(a) | 389,219 | $ | 13,502,007 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments in Securities — 100.1% |
| 13,502,007 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.1)% |
| (11,390 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 13,490,617 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | — | $ | 3,125 | (b) | $ | — | $ | (3,125 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 34,336 | (c) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | — | 0 | (b) | — | — | — | — | — | 525 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares MSCI Canada ETF | 21,141,688 | 4,791,217 | (12,756,681 | ) | 366,640 | (40,857 | ) | 13,502,007 | 389,219 | 340,040 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 363,515 | $ | (40,857 | ) | $ | 13,502,007 | $ | 374,901 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(c) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAD | 17,909,000 | USD | 13,237,744 | BNP Paribas SA | 09/05/23 | $ | 17,151 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 13,236,904 | CAD | 17,415,000 | BNP Paribas SA | 09/05/23 | 347,630 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 94,175 | CAD | 124,000 | Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 09/05/23 | 2,400 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 281,234 | CAD | 370,000 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | 7,387 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
374,568 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAD | 100,000 | USD | 74,043 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 10/03/23 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 13,561,726 | CAD | 18,340,000 | BNP Paribas SA | 10/03/23 | (17,645 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(17,645 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$356,923 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 374,568 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 374,568 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 17,645 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 17,645 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 873,091 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 873,091 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (170,168 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (170,168 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts: | ||||
Average amounts purchased — in USD | $ | 14,617,291 | ||
Average amounts sold — in USD | $ | 29,337,699 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End
The Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities (by type) were as follows:
| ||||||||||||
Assets | Liabilities | |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments: | ||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 374,568 | $ | 17,645 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities | 374,568 | 17,645 | ||||||||||
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”) | — | — | ||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA | 374,568 | 17,645 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
The following tables present the Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Fund:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by |
| | Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| | Net Amount of Derivative |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b)(c) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | $ | 364,781 | $ | (17,645 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 347,136 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 2,400 | — | — | — | 2,400 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 7,387 | — | — | — | 7,387 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 374,568 | $ | (17,645 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 356,923 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 15 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Liabilities Subject to an MNA by |
| | Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| | Net Amount of Derivative |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty |
| for Offset | (a) | Pledged | Pledged | Liabilities | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA |
| $ | 17,645 | $ | (17,645 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of derivative assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA. |
(b) | Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Net amount may also include forward foreign currency exchange contracts that are not required to be collateralized. |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Investment Companies | $ | 13,502,007 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,502,007 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | $ | — | $ | 374,568 | $ | — | $ | 374,568 | ||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | (17,645 | ) | — | (17,645 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | — | $ | 356,923 | $ | — | 356,923 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Investment Companies | ||||||||
Exchange-Traded Funds — 99.8% | ||||||||
iShares MSCI Eurozone ETF(a)(b) | 7,387,045 | $ | 331,161,227 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investment Companies | 331,161,227 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 2.2% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(a)(c)(d) | 7,070,142 | 7,072,263 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(a)(c) | 160,000 | 160,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 2.2% | 7,232,263 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments in Securities — 102.0% |
| 338,393,490 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (2.0)% |
| (6,700,071 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% |
| $ | 331,693,419 | |||||
|
|
(a) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(d) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | — | $ | 7,068,225 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 4,038 | $ | — | $ | 7,072,263 | 7,070,142 | $ | 34,880 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 1,610,000 | — | (1,450,000 | )(a) | — | — | 160,000 | 160,000 | 20,796 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares MSCI Eurozone ETF | 352,789,764 | 272,331,901 | (367,824,443 | ) | (29,336,355 | ) | 103,200,360 | 331,161,227 | 7,387,045 | 7,541,583 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (29,332,317 | ) | $ | 103,200,360 | $ | 338,393,490 | $ | 7,597,259 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 4,858,036 | EUR | 4,399,000 | Bank of America N.A. | 09/05/23 | $ | 87,978 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 6,333,153 | EUR | 5,779,000 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | 66,691 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 1,810,325 | EUR | 1,642,000 | Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 09/05/23 | 29,821 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 331,432,681 | EUR | 300,115,345 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | 6,002,444 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 530,363 | EUR | 488,000 | Bank of America N.A. | 10/03/23 | 486 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 17 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF |
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts (continued)
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 334,250,164 | EUR | 307,549,345 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 10/03/23 | $ 309,515 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
6,496,935 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 1,459,000 | USD | 1,588,438 | Bank of America N.A. | 09/05/23 | (6,371 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 2,927,000 | USD | 3,206,528 | BNP Paribas SA | 09/05/23 | (32,634 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 307,549,345 | USD | 333,798,682 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | (307,382 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 3,467,000 | USD | 3,766,927 | BNP Paribas SA | 10/03/23 | (2,418 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(348,805 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$6,148,130 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,496,935 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,496,935 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 348,805 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 348,805 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (15,368,127 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (15,368,127 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 71,817 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 71,817 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts: | ||||
Average amounts purchased — in USD | $ | 324,582,782 | ||
Average amounts sold — in USD | $ | 646,652,402 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End
The Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities (by type) were as follows:
| ||||||||
Assets | Liabilities | |||||||
| ||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments: | ||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 6,496,935 | $ | 348,805 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities | 6,496,935 | 348,805 | ||||||
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”) | — | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA | 6,496,935 | 348,805 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End (continued)
The following tables present the Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Fund:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by |
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral | | | Net Amount of Derivative |
| |||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b)(c) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 88,464 | $ | (6,371 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 82,093 | |||||||||||||||||||
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 66,691 | — | — | — | 66,691 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 29,821 | — | — | — | 29,821 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 6,311,959 | (307,382 | ) | — | — | 6,004,577 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 6,496,935 | $ | (313,753 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,183,182 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | | Derivative Liabilities Subject to an MNA by |
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| | Net Amount of Derivative |
| ||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Pledged | Pledged | Liabilities | (c)(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 6,371 | $ | (6,371 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 35,052 | — | — | — | 35,052 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 307,382 | (307,382 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 348,805 | $ | (313,753 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 35,052 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of derivative assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA. |
(b) | Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Net amount may also include forward foreign currency exchange contracts that are not required to be collateralized. |
(d) | Net amount represents the net amount payable due to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment Companies | $ | 331,161,227 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 331,161,227 | ||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 7,232,263 | — | — | 7,232,263 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
$ | 338,393,490 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 338,393,490 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | $ | — | $ | 6,496,935 | $ | — | $ | 6,496,935 | ||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | (348,805 | ) | — | (348,805 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
$ | — | $ | 6,148,130 | $ | — | 6,148,130 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 19 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Investment Companies |
| |||||||
Exchange-Traded Funds — 99.9% | ||||||||
iShares MSCI Germany ETF(a)(b) | 1,259,011 | $ | 35,151,587 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investment Companies |
| 35,151,587 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 5.8% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(a)(c)(d) | 1,997,538 | 1,998,138 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(a)(c) | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 5.8% |
| 2,058,138 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments in Securities — 105.7% |
| 37,209,725 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (5.7)% |
| (2,004,174 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 35,205,551 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(d) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | — | $ | 1,997,979 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 159 | $ | — | $ | 1,998,138 | 1,997,538 | $ | 176,320 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 10,000 | 50,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 60,000 | 60,000 | 1,387 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares MSCI Germany ETF | 36,246,996 | 162,636,180 | (173,159,767 | ) | (2,984,618 | ) | 12,412,796 | 35,151,587 | 1,259,011 | 981,694 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (2,984,459 | ) | $ | 12,412,796 | $ | 37,209,725 | $ | 1,159,401 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 2,999,726 | EUR | 2,757,000 | Bank of New York | 09/05/23 | $ | 10,172 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 224,917 | EUR | 204,000 | HSBC Bank PLC | 09/05/23 | 3,709 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 3,086,978 | EUR | 2,826,000 | Natwest Markets PLC | 09/05/23 | 22,603 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 35,454,085 | EUR | 32,104,000 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | 642,094 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 665,913 | EUR | 603,000 | Toronto Dominion Bank | 09/05/23 | 12,050 |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF |
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts (continued)
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 35,726,968 | EUR | 32,873,000 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 10/03/23 | $ | 33,083 | |||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
723,711 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 5,540,000 | USD | 6,026,883 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | (19,581 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 32,873,000 | USD | 35,678,711 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | (32,855 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 81,000 | USD | 88,123 | Toronto Dominion Bank | 09/05/23 | (291 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 215,000 | USD | 233,668 | Bank of America N.A. | 10/03/23 | (218 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
EUR | 404,000 | USD | 438,946 | Bank of New York | 10/03/23 | (278 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
(53,223 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
$670,488 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 723,711 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 723,711 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 53,223 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 53,223 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (2,040,653 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (2,040,653 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 17,370 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 17,370 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts: | ||||
Average amounts purchased — in USD | $ | 44,522,822 | ||
Average amounts sold — in USD | $ | 81,982,483 |
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End
The Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities (by type) were as follows:
| ||||||||
Assets | Liabilities | |||||||
| ||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments: | ||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 723,711 | $ | 53,223 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities | 723,711 | 53,223 | ||||||
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”) | — | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA | 723,711 | 53,223 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End (continued)
The following tables present the Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Fund:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by |
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| | Net Amount of Derivative |
| |||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b)(c) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of New York | $ | 10,172 | $ | (278 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9,894 | |||||||||||||||||||
HSBC Bank PLC | 3,709 | — | — | — | 3,709 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Natwest Markets PLC | 22,603 | — | — | — | 22,603 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 675,177 | (32,855 | ) | — | — | 642,322 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Toronto Dominion Bank | 12,050 | (291 | ) | — | — | 11,759 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 723,711 | $ | (33,424 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 690,287 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative Liabilities Subject to an MNA by |
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| | Net Amount of Derivative |
| |||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Pledged | Pledged | Liabilities | (c)(d) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 218 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 218 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of New York | 278 | (278 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 19,581 | — | — | — | 19,581 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 32,855 | (32,855 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Toronto Dominion Bank | 291 | (291 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 53,223 | $ | (33,424 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 19,799 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of derivative assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA. |
(b) | Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Net amount may also include forward foreign currency exchange contracts that are not required to be collateralized. |
(d) | Net amount represents the net amount payable due to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Investment Companies | $ | 35,151,587 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 35,151,587 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 2,058,138 | — | — | 2,058,138 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 37,209,725 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 37,209,725 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | $ | — | $ | 723,711 | $ | — | $ | 723,711 | ||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | (53,223 | ) | — | (53,223 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | — | $ | 670,488 | $ | — | 670,488 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Investment Companies |
| |||||||
Exchange-Traded Funds — 100.1% | ||||||||
iShares MSCI Japan ETF(a) | 3,497,674 | $ | 215,596,625 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investment Companies |
| 215,596,625 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.0% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(a)(b) | 100,000 | 100,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.0% |
| 100,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments in Securities — 100.1% |
| 215,696,625 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.1)% |
| (203,428 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 215,493,197 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(b) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | — | $ | 30,248 | (b) | $ | — | $ | (30,248 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 56,179 | (c) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 1,710,000 | — | (1,610,000 | )(b) | — | — | 100,000 | 100,000 | 22,893 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares MSCI Japan ETF | 463,540,692 | 591,970,453 | (859,771,858 | ) | (81,993,902 | ) | 101,851,240 | 215,596,625 | 3,497,674 | 1,580,476 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (82,024,150 | ) | $ | 101,851,240 | $ | 215,696,625 | $ | 1,659,548 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(c) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 27,484,000 | USD | 187,800 | Bank of New York | 09/05/23 | $ | 1,099 | |||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 29,893,489,000 | USD | 205,333,578 | BNP Paribas SA | 09/05/23 | 127,015 | ||||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 717,844,000 | USD | 4,909,281 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | 24,525 | ||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 3,285,769 | JPY | 466,160,000 | Bank of America N.A. | 09/05/23 | 81,810 | ||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 205,918,955 | JPY | 29,147,931,000 | BNP Paribas SA | 09/05/23 | 5,582,648 | ||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 178,907,646 | JPY | 25,285,930,000 | Commonwealth Bank of Australia | 09/05/23 | 5,115,213 | ||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 24,233,303 | JPY | 3,487,423,000 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | 263,937 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 23 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts (continued)
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 59,755 | JPY | 8,522,000 | Nomura Securities International Inc. | 09/05/23 | $ | 1,183 | |||||||||||||||||||
USD | 665,153 | JPY | 96,246,000 | Toronto Dominion Bank | 09/05/23 | 3,646 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
11,201,076 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 21,033,926,000 | USD | 147,431,856 | Bank of America N.A. | 09/05/23 | (2,863,823 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 6,041,827,000 | USD | 42,346,919 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | (820,908 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 777,642,000 | USD | 5,499,658 | Toronto Dominion Bank | 09/05/23 | (154,856 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
JPY | 278,173,000 | USD | 1,921,601 | Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 10/03/23 | (1,107 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
USD | 206,260,144 | JPY | 29,893,489,000 | BNP Paribas SA | 10/03/23 | (123,211 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
USD | 9,232,633 | JPY | 1,338,111,000 | Citibank N.A. | 10/03/23 | (5,627 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
(3,969,532 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
$7,231,544 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 11,201,076 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 11,201,076 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 3,969,532 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 3,969,532 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 30,478,315 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 30,478,315 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (12,326,672 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (12,326,672 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts: | ||||
Average amounts purchased — in USD | $ | 275,538,906 | ||
Average amounts sold — in USD | $ | 465,629,091 |
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End
The Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities (by type) were as follows:
| ||||||||||||
Assets | Liabilities | |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments: | ||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 11,201,076 | $ | 3,969,532 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
| Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities | 11,201,076 | 3,969,532 | |||||||||
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”) | — | — | ||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA | 11,201,076 | 3,969,532 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
The following tables present the Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Fund:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by |
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| Net Amount of Derivative |
| |||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty |
| for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b)(c) | ||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 81,810 | $ | (81,810 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||||||||
Bank of New York | 1,099 | — | — | — | 1,099 | |||||||||||||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 5,709,663 | (123,211 | ) | — | — | 5,586,452 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Commonwealth Bank of Australia | 5,115,213 | — | — | — | 5,115,213 | |||||||||||||||||||||
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 288,462 | (288,462 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Nomura Securities International Inc. | 1,183 | — | — | — | 1,183 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Toronto Dominion Bank | 3,646 | (3,646 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
$ | 11,201,076 | $ | (497,129 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 10,703,947 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Liabilities Subject to an MNA by |
|
| Derivatives Available |
| | Non-Cash Collateral |
| | Cash Collateral |
| Net Amount of Derivative |
| ||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty |
| for Offset | (a) | Pledged | Pledged | Liabilities | (c)(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 2,863,823 | $ | (81,810 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,782,013 | |||||||||||||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 123,211 | (123,211 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Citibank N.A. | 5,627 | — | — | — | 5,627 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 820,908 | (288,462 | ) | — | — | 532,446 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC | 1,107 | — | — | — | 1,107 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Toronto Dominion Bank | 154,856 | (3,646 | ) | — | — | 151,210 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
$ | 3,969,532 | $ | (497,129 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 3,472,403 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of derivative assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA. |
(b) | Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Net amount may also include forward foreign currency exchange contracts that are not required to be collateralized. |
(d) | Net amount represents the net amount payable due to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Assets | |||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Investment Companies | $ | 215,596,625 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 215,596,625 | ||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 100,000 | — | — | 100,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
$ | 215,696,625 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 215,696,625 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 25 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | $ | — | $ | 11,201,076 | $ | — | $ | 11,201,076 | ||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | (3,969,532 | ) | — | (3,969,532 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | — | $ | 7,231,544 | $ | — | 7,231,544 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(a)(b) | $ | 13,502,007 | $ | 338,393,490 | $ | 37,209,725 | $ | 215,696,625 | ||||||||
Cash | 8,459 | 816 | 2,567 | 3,341 | ||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 109 | 1,397 | 2,726 | 825 | ||||||||||||
Capital shares sold | — | — | 44,741 | — | ||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | — | 744 | 128 | 592 | ||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 374,568 | 6,496,935 | 723,711 | 11,201,076 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total assets | 13,885,143 | 344,893,382 | 37,983,598 | 226,902,459 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | — | 7,072,273 | 1,999,049 | — | ||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 376,542 | 5,770,470 | 724,620 | 7,437,458 | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 339 | 8,415 | 1,155 | 2,272 | ||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 17,645 | 348,805 | 53,223 | 3,969,532 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total liabilities | 394,526 | 13,199,963 | 2,778,047 | 11,409,262 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 13,490,617 | $ | 331,693,419 | $ | 35,205,551 | $ | 215,493,197 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 14,568,620 | $ | 393,765,592 | $ | 80,986,149 | $ | 271,162,604 | ||||||||
Accumulated loss | (1,078,003 | ) | (62,072,173 | ) | (45,780,598 | ) | (55,669,407 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 13,490,617 | $ | 331,693,419 | $ | 35,205,551 | $ | 215,493,197 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETVALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 440,000 | 10,450,000 | 1,150,000 | 6,350,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 30.66 | $ | 31.74 | $ | 30.61 | $ | 33.94 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Par value | None | None | None | None | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 14,343,478 | $ | 360,067,645 | $ | 44,450,240 | $ | 231,675,206 | ||||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | — | $ | 6,855,135 | $ | 1,940,915 | $ | — |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 27 |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares Currency MSCI Canada ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | $ | 340,565 | $ | 7,562,379 | $ | 983,081 | $ | 1,603,369 | ||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 34,336 | 34,880 | 176,320 | 56,179 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total investment income | 374,901 | 7,597,259 | 1,159,401 | 1,659,548 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 93,316 | 1,941,727 | 192,500 | 1,176,606 | ||||||||||||
Commitment costs | — | 3,833 | 450 | 3,044 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses | 93,316 | 1,945,560 | 192,950 | 1,179,650 | ||||||||||||
Less: | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees waived | (88,901 | ) | (1,852,137 | ) | (183,823 | ) | (1,164,967 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses after fees waived | 4,415 | 93,423 | 9,127 | 14,683 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 370,486 | 7,503,836 | 1,150,274 | 1,644,865 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | (190,057 | ) | (20,122,311 | ) | (2,883,118 | ) | (30,814,754 | ) | ||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 873,091 | (15,368,127 | ) | (2,040,653 | ) | 30,478,315 | ||||||||||
In-kind redemptions — affiliated(a) | 553,572 | (9,210,006 | ) | (101,341 | ) | (51,209,396 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
1,236,606 | (44,700,444 | ) | (5,025,112 | ) | (51,545,835 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | (40,857 | ) | 103,200,360 | 12,412,796 | 101,851,240 | |||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (170,168 | ) | 71,817 | 17,370 | (12,326,672 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(211,025 | ) | 103,272,177 | 12,430,166 | 89,524,568 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain | 1,025,581 | 58,571,733 | 7,405,054 | 37,978,733 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 1,396,067 | $ | 66,075,569 | $ | 8,555,328 | $ | 39,623,598 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 370,486 | $ | 396,182 | $ | 7,503,836 | $ | 17,460,591 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | 1,236,606 | 1,307,339 | (44,700,444 | ) | 103,600,247 | |||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (211,025 | ) | (2,637,667 | ) | 103,272,177 | (188,711,508 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 1,396,067 | (934,146 | ) | 66,075,569 | (67,650,670 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (1,312,124 | ) | (630,468 | ) | (57,511,739 | ) | (17,477,602 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (7,812,767 | ) | 6,214,372 | (30,008,453 | ) | (306,403,605 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (7,728,824 | ) | 4,649,758 | (21,444,623 | ) | (391,531,877 | ) | |||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 21,219,441 | 16,569,683 | 353,138,042 | 744,669,919 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 13,490,617 | $ | 21,219,441 | $ | 331,693,419 | $ | 353,138,042 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 29 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF | iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,150,274 | $ | 1,846,296 | $ | 1,644,865 | $ | 15,014,014 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (5,025,112 | ) | 5,622,904 | (51,545,835 | ) | 95,391,932 | ||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 12,430,166 | (18,792,628 | ) | 89,524,568 | (110,567,650 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 8,555,328 | (11,323,428 | ) | 39,623,598 | (161,704 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (1,139,414 | ) | (1,848,200 | ) | (79,916,537 | ) | (15,018,714 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net decrease in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (8,490,927 | ) | (13,942,180 | ) | (208,964,696 | ) | (55,467,158 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total decrease in net assets | (1,075,013 | ) | (27,113,808 | ) | (249,257,635 | ) | (70,647,576 | ) | ||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 36,280,564 | 63,394,372 | 464,750,832 | 535,398,408 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 35,205,551 | $ | 36,280,564 | $ | 215,493,197 | $ | 464,750,832 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 30.31 | $ | 32.49 | $ | 25.68 | $ | 26.41 | $ | 26.79 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.75 | 0.64 | 0.53 | 0.71 | 0.59 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 2.14 | (1.75 | ) | 6.80 | 0.30 | 0.30 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 2.89 | (1.11 | ) | 7.33 | 1.01 | 0.89 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.80 | ) | (0.67 | ) | (0.52 | ) | (1.37 | ) | (0.64 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net realized gain | (1.74 | ) | (0.40 | ) | — | (0.37 | ) | (0.63 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| �� |
|
|
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total distributions | (2.54 | ) | (1.07 | ) | (0.52 | ) | (1.74 | ) | (1.27 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 30.66 | $ | 30.31 | $ | 32.49 | $ | 25.68 | $ | 26.41 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 9.78 | % | (3.60 | )% | 28.81 | % | 4.08 | % | 3.84 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses after fees waived | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.46 | % | 1.97 | % | 1.84 | % | 2.75 | % | 2.31 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 13,491 | $ | 21,219 | $ | 16,570 | $ | 11,556 | $ | 38,290 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 14 | % | 10 | % | 10 | % | 15 | % | 12 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 31 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 30.98 | $ | 37.33 | $ | 28.36 | $ | 29.86 | $ | 29.76 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income(a) | 0.75 | 1.18 | 0.83 | 0.35 | 0.76 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 6.16 | (6.17 | ) | 9.00 | (0.64 | ) | 0.24 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 6.91 | (4.99 | ) | 9.83 | (0.29 | ) | 1.00 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.71 | ) | (1.36 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (0.38 | ) | (0.90 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net realized gain | (5.44 | ) | (0.00 | )(d) | — | (0.83 | ) | (0.00 | )(d) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.00 | )(d) | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total distributions | (6.15 | ) | (1.36 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (1.21 | ) | (0.90 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net asset value, end of year | $ | 31.74 | $ | 30.98 | $ | 37.33 | $ | 28.36 | $ | 29.86 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 24.30 | % | (13.50 | )% | 35.04 | % | (1.21 | )% | 3.41 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total expenses after fees waived | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.03 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income | 2.40 | % | 3.32 | % | 2.52 | % | 1.18 | % | 2.63 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 331,693 | $ | 353,138 | $ | 744,670 | $ | 569,970 | $ | 868,987 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Portfolio turnover rate(g) | 14 | % | 6 | % | 14 | % | 10 | % | 5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Rounds to less than $0.01. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(g) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 25.02 | $ | 33.37 | $ | 28.13 | $ | 26.21 | $ | 27.64 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income(a) | 0.92 | 1.06 | 0.85 | 0.21 | 0.55 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 5.64 | (8.32 | ) | 5.31 | 2.06 | (1.25 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 6.56 | (7.26 | ) | 6.16 | 2.27 | (0.70 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.97 | ) | (1.09 | ) | (0.92 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.73 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.00 | )(d) | (0.00 | )(d) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total distributions | (0.97 | ) | (1.09 | ) | (0.92 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.73 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net asset value, end of year | $ | 30.61 | $ | 25.02 | $ | 33.37 | $ | 28.13 | $ | 26.21 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 26.26 | % | (21.88 | )% | 22.12 | % | 8.71 | % | (2.65 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total expenses after fees waived | 0.03 | % | 0.04 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.02 | % | 0.04 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income | 3.17 | % | 3.49 | % | 2.78 | % | 0.77 | % | 2.09 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 35,206 | $ | 36,281 | $ | 63,394 | $ | 75,957 | $ | 154,620 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Portfolio turnover rate(g) | 18 | % | 9 | % | 16 | % | 12 | % | 5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Rounds to less than $0.01. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(g) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 33 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 38.73 | $ | 38.66 | $ | 31.50 | $ | 29.13 | $ | 32.36 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income(a) | 0.25 | 1.02 | 0.51 | 0.72 | 0.45 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 7.27 | (0.09 | ) | 7.06 | 2.35 | (3.04 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 7.52 | 0.93 | 7.57 | 3.07 | (2.59 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions(c) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.27 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (0.41 | ) | (0.70 | ) | (0.64 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
From net realized gain | (12.04 | ) | (0.00 | )(d) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total distributions | (12.31 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (0.41 | ) | (0.70 | ) | (0.64 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net asset value, end of year | $ | 33.94 | $ | 38.73 | $ | 38.66 | $ | 31.50 | $ | 29.13 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 27.07 | % | 2.43 | % | 24.08 | % | 10.52 | % | (8.06 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Ratios to Average Net Assets(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.53 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total expenses after fees waived | 0.00 | %(g) | 0.01 | % | 0.00 | %(g) | 0.00 | %(g) | 0.00 | %(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income | 0.74 | % | 2.62 | % | 1.38 | % | 2.31 | % | 1.47 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 215,493 | $ | 464,751 | $ | 535,398 | $ | 247,256 | $ | 329,138 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Portfolio turnover rate(h) | 29 | % | 6 | % | 7 | % | 9 | % | 9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Rounds to less than $0.01. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(g) | Rounds to less than 0.01%. |
(h) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | Diversified | |
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | Diversified | |
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | Diversified | |
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | Diversified |
Currently each Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in an iShares fund (an “underlying fund”). The financial statements, including the accounting policies, and schedules of investments for the underlying funds are available on iShares.com and should be read in conjunction with the Funds’ financial statements.
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from the underlying funds, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income is recognized daily on an accrual basis.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, each Fund has elected to treat realized gains (losses) from certain foreign currency contracts as capital gain (loss) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 35 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the fund is primarily traded. Funds traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day may be valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices and are determined as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) based on that day’s prevailing forward exchange rate for the underlying currencies. |
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
4. | SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS |
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | ||||||||||||||||
BARCLAYS BANK PLC | $ | 4,743,014 | $ | (4,743,014 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
BNP PARIBAS PRIME BROKERAGE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED | 2,111,493 | (2,111,493 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
HSBC BANK PLC | 628 | (628 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 6,855,135 | $ | (6,855,135 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | ||||||||||||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | $ | 279,200 | $ | (279,200 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
HSBC BANK PLC | 475 | (475 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
National Financial Services LLC | 1,661,240 | (1,661,240 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 1,940,915 | $ | (1,940,915 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts: Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are entered into to gain or reduce exposure to foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
A forward foreign currency exchange contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a specified date. These contracts help to manage the overall exposure to the currencies in which some of the investments held by the Funds are denominated and in some cases, may be used to obtain exposure to a particular market. The contracts are traded over-the-counter (“OTC”) and not on an organized exchange.
The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded as unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. Non-deliverable forward foreign currency exchange contracts are settled with the counterparty in cash without the delivery of foreign currency. The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts involves the risk that the value of a contract changes unfavorably due to movements in the value of the referenced foreign currencies, and such value may exceed the amount(s) reflected in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Cash amounts pledged for forward foreign currency exchange contracts are considered restricted and are included in cash pledged as collateral for OTC derivatives in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. A fund’s risk of loss from counterparty credit risk on OTC derivatives is generally limited to the aggregate unrealized gain netted against any collateral held by the Fund.
Master Netting Arrangements: In order to define its contractual rights and to secure rights that will help mitigate its counterparty risk, a Fund may enter into an International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreement (“ISDA Master Agreement”) or similar agreement with its derivative contract counterparties. An ISDA Master Agreement is a bilateral agreement between a Fund and a counterparty that governs certain OTC derivatives and typically contains, among other things, collateral posting
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 37 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
terms and netting provisions in the event of a default and/or termination event. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, a Fund may, under certain circumstances, offset with the counterparty certain derivative financial instruments’ payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment. The provisions of the ISDA Master Agreement typically permit a single net payment in the event of default including the bankruptcy or insolvency of the counterparty. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against the right of offset in bankruptcy, insolvency, or other events.
For derivatives traded under an ISDA Master Agreement, the collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark-to-market amount for each transaction under such agreement, and comparing that amount to the value of any collateral currently pledged by a fund and the counterparty.
Cash collateral that has been pledged to cover obligations of the Funds and cash collateral received from the counterparty, if any, is reported separately in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged as collateral and cash received as collateral, respectively. Non-cash collateral pledged by the Funds, if any, is noted in the Schedules of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a counterparty is subject to a certain minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer is required, which is determined at the close of business of the Funds. Any additional required collateral is delivered to/pledged by the Funds on the next business day. Typically, the counterparty is not permitted to sell, re-pledge or use cash and non-cash collateral it receives. A fund generally agrees not to use non-cash collateral that it receives but may, absent default or certain other circumstances defined in the underlying ISDA Master Agreement, be permitted to use cash collateral received. In such cases, interest may be paid pursuant to the collateral arrangement with the counterparty. To the extent amounts due to the Funds from the counterparty are not fully collateralized, each Fund bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance. Likewise, to the extent the Funds have delivered collateral to a counterparty and stand ready to perform under the terms of their agreement with such counterparty, each Fund bears the risk of loss from a counterparty in the amount of the value of the collateral in the event the counterparty fails to return such collateral. Based on the terms of agreements, collateral may not be required for all derivative contracts.
For financial reporting purposes, each Fund does not offset derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to netting arrangements, if any, in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
6. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”) manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFAis entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | 0.62 | % | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 0.62 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 0.53 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 0.53 |
Expense Waivers: A fund may incur its pro rata share of fees and expenses attributable to its investments in other investment companies (“acquired fund fees and expenses”). The total of the investment advisory fee and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any, is a fund’s total annual operating expenses. Total expenses as shown in the Statements of Operations do not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
For the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF, BFA has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 so that the Fund’s total annual operating expenses after fee waiver is equal to the acquired fund fees and expenses attributable to the Fund’s investment in the iShares MSCI Canada ETF (“EWC”), after taking into account any fee waivers by EWC, plus 0.03%.
For the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF, BFA has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 so that the Fund’s total annual operating expenses after fee waiver is equal to the acquired fund fees and expenses attributable to the Fund’s investment in the iShares MSCI Eurozone ETF (“EZU”), after taking into account any fee waivers by EZU, plus 0.03%.
For the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF, BFA has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 in an amount equal to the acquired fund fees and expenses, if any, attributable to the Fund’s investments in other iShares funds, provided that the waiver be no greater than the Fund’s investment advisory fee of 0.53%.
For the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF, BFA has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 in an amount equal to the acquired fund fees and expenses, if any, attributable to the Fund’s investments in other iShares funds, provided that the waiver be no greater than the Fund’s investment advisory fee of 0.53%. BFA has also contractually agreed to waive an additional portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 such that the Fund’s total annual operating expenses after fee waiver will be equal to the greater of the acquired fund fees and expenses or 0.48%.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
These amounts are included in investment advisory fees waived in the Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the amounts waived in investment advisory fees pursuant to these arrangements were as follows:
iShares ETF | Amounts Waived | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 88,901 | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 1,852,137 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 183,823 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 1,164,967 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees) and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 7,947 | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 9,459 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 39,529 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 18,498 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | $ | 2,049,592 | $ | — | $ | — |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 39 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
7. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 2,081,276 | $ | 2,239,778 | ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 44,126,866 | 108,834,642 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 6,511,120 | 8,426,554 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 71,690,012 | 131,596,472 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 2,709,942 | $ | 10,516,903 | ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 228,205,037 | 258,989,802 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 156,125,059 | 164,733,211 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 520,280,442 | 728,175,385 |
8. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to certain deemed distributions and realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
| ||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 594,473 | $ | (594,473) | ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | (10,728,420 | ) | 10,728,420 | |||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | (1,385,255 | ) | 1,385,255 | |||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | (50,120,653 | ) | 50,120,653 | |||||
|
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
| ||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 634,101 | $ | 611,347 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 678,023 | 19,121 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
$ | 1,312,124 | $ | 630,468 | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 31,699,087 | $ | 17,477,602 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 25,812,652 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
$ | 57,511,739 | $ | 17,477,602 | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,139,414 | $ | 1,848,200 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 35,066,452 | $ | 15,018,714 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 44,850,085 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
$ | 79,916,537 | $ | 15,018,714 | |||||
|
|
|
|
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Ordinary Income |
| | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards |
(a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | | Qualified Late-Year Capital Losses |
(c) | Total | |||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 362 | $ | — | $ | (845,784 | ) | $ | (232,581 | ) | $ | (1,078,003) | ||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 4,687 | — | (22,316,907 | ) | (39,759,953 | ) | (62,072,173) | |||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 10,860 | (38,514,846 | ) | (7,276,612 | ) | — | (45,780,598) | |||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 3,571 | — | (16,520,543 | ) | (39,152,435 | ) | (55,669,407) | |||||||||||||
|
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain foreign currency contracts. |
(c) | The Funds have elected to defer these qualified late-year losses and recognize such losses in the next taxable year. |
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 14,347,791 | $ | 374,568 | $ | (1,220,352 | ) | $ | (845,784 | ) | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 360,710,397 | 6,496,935 | (28,813,842 | ) | (22,316,907 | ) | ||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 44,486,337 | 723,711 | (8,000,323 | ) | (7,276,612 | ) | ||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 232,217,168 | 11,201,076 | (27,721,619 | ) | (16,520,543 | ) |
9. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF, iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF and iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
10. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 41 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued) |
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 90,000 | $ | 2,731,784 | 330,000 | $ | 10,691,502 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (350,000 | ) | (10,544,551 | ) | (140,000 | ) | (4,477,130 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
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|
| |||||||||
(260,000 | ) | $ | (7,812,767 | ) | 190,000 | $ | 6,214,372 | |||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 7,400,000 | $ | 228,433,701 | 8,300,000 | $ | 287,220,148 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (8,350,000 | ) | (258,442,154 | ) | (16,850,000 | ) | (593,623,753 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(950,000 | ) | $ | (30,008,453 | ) | (8,550,000 | ) | $ | (306,403,605 | ) | |||||||
|
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|
|
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|
|
| |||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 5,650,000 | $ | 155,408,081 | 9,700,000 | $ | 283,625,278 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (5,950,000 | ) | (163,899,008 | ) | (10,150,000 | ) | (297,567,458 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(300,000 | ) | $ | (8,490,927 | ) | (450,000 | ) | $ | (13,942,180 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 15,600,000 | $ | 515,196,763 | 22,300,000 | $ | 859,549,528 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (21,250,000 | ) | (724,161,459 | ) | (24,150,000 | ) | (915,016,686 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(5,650,000 | ) | $ | (208,964,696 | ) | (1,850,000 | ) | $ | (55,467,158 | ) | |||||||
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|
|
The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following items were noted:
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF paid an ordinary income distribution in the amount of $0.072265 per share on October 16, 2023 to shareholders of record on October 11, 2023.
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the four funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (four of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and each of the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM | 43 |
Important Tax Information (unaudited) |
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
| ||||
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
| ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 310,322 | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 7,521,654 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 980,314 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 1,362,425 | |||
|
| ||||
iShares ETF | 20% Rate Long-Term Capital Gain Dividends | |||
| ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 777,036 | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 26,666,745 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 48,563,640 | |||
|
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
| ||||||||
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
| ||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 408,797 | $ | 68,632 | ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 8,165,930 | 622,440 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Germany | 1,168,814 | 187,284 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 1,922,818 | 336,141 | ||||||
|
The Funds hereby designate the following amount(s), or maximum amount(s) allowable by law, as qualified short-term capital gains eligible for exemption from U.S. withholding tax for nonresident aliens and foreign corporations for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
| ||||
iShares ETF | Qualified Short-Term Capital Gains | |||
| ||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 294,356 | ||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 24,485,855 | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 34,613,954 | |||
|
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Canada ETF, iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone ETF, iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Germany ETF, iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 45 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 47 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Canada | $ | 0.800267 | $ | 1.744446 | $ | — | $ | 2.544713 | 31 | % | 69 | % | — | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Eurozone | 0.715051 | 5.436151 | — | 6.151202 | 12 | 88 | — | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI Japan | 0.271063 | 12.042345 | — | 12.313408 | 2 | 98 | — | 100 |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
48 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). | |||
(a) Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. (b) Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. | ||||||
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 49 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Officers | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
50 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer.
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 51 |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
52 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Currency Abbreviation | ||
CAD | Canadian Dollar | |
EUR | Euro | |
JPY | Japanese Yen | |
USD | United States Dollar |
GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT | 53 |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-801-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
| 2023 Annual Report |
iShares Trust
· iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF | HEWU | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF | EWU | NYSE Arca
· iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF | EWUS | Cboe BZX
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023 | ||||
6-Month | 12-Month | |||
U.S. large cap equities | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index) | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization United Kingdom equities while mitigating exposure to fluctuations between the value of the British pound and the U.S. dollar, as represented by the MSCI United Kingdom 100% Hedged to USD Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in one underlying fund, the iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF.
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the Fund to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | 1 Year | 5 Years | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 6.89 | % | 4.60 | % | 5.89 | % | 6.89 | % | 25.20 | % | 59.72 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 6.87 | 4.59 | 5.90 | 6.87 | 25.14 | 59.77 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 7.06 | 5.25 | 6.42 | 7.06 | 29.15 | 66.20 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was June 29, 2015. The first day of secondary market trading was July 1, 2015.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 963.70 | $ 0.00 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,025.20 | $ 0.00 | 0.00 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. The fees and expenses of the underlying funds in which the Fund invests are not included in the Fund’s annualized expense ratio. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Despite a slowing economy, stocks from the U.K. advanced significantly in U.S. dollar terms during the reporting period. Early in the reporting period, a tax plan proposed by the government raised investor concerns about additional borrowing requirements and the impact of the plan on financial markets. However, the plan was withdrawn, and new leadership stabilized the country’s fiscal position. Inflation remained elevated, although it declined notably during the reporting period, as the Bank of England raised interest rates eight times in an attempt to control rising prices.
The financials sector contributed the most to the Index’s return, driven primarily by the banking industry. Rising interest rates drove increased bank revenues, and cost cuts in the form of automation and layoffs also improved profitability, supporting larger dividend payouts and a stock buyback program. A rebound in an international interbank lending rate led to higher net interest margins (a measure of the profitability of interest-bearing assets compared to interest paid to depositors) for large British banks.
The industrials sector contributed meaningfully to the Index’s performance, as the aerospace and defense industry drove solid gains. The rebound in international travel following the end of coronavirus pandemic-related restrictions increased demand for aircraft engines, bolstering profits in the industry. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to a significant increase in orders for defense equipment. The energy sector also contributed, as the oil, gas, and consumable fuels industry was buoyed by strong cash flows that enabled increased dividend payments to shareholders.
In terms of currency performance during the reporting period, the British pound appreciated by approximately 9% against the U.S. dollar. As the Fed slowed and then paused its interest rate increases, the Bank of England continued to raise interest rates, supporting the value of the British pound relative to the U.S. dollar.
The British pound’s positive performance meant hedging activity detracted from the Index’s return. A fully hedged investor seeks to bypass the currency fluctuations — both on the upside and on the downside — related to holding foreign-currency-denominated securities. The Index’s hedging activity offset the positive impact of the British pound’s performance relative to the U.S. dollar, resulting in an Index return that was relatively close to the return of British equities measured in British pounds.
Portfolio Information
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
| ||
Investment Type | Percent of Net Assets | |
Investment Companies | 99.9% | |
Short-term Investments | 45.8 | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, net cumulative appreciation | 1.6 | |
Other assets less liabilities | (47.3) |
SECTOR ALLOCATION (of the UNDERLYING FUND)
| ||
Sector | Percent of Total Investment(a) | |
Consumer Staples | 19.5% | |
Financials | 18.6 | |
Energy | 13.9 | |
Health Care | 13.2 | |
Industrials | 11.5 | |
Materials | 8.6 | |
Consumer Discretionary | 6.0 | |
Utilities | 4.2 | |
Communication Services | 2.7 | |
Information Technology | 1.0 | |
Real Estate | 0.7 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of U.K. equities, as represented by the MSCI United Kingdom Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 14.46 | % | 2.77 | % | 2.62 | % | 14.46 | % | 14.66 | % | 29.55 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 14.53 | 2.82 | 2.57 | 14.53 | 14.92 | 28.84 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 14.82 | 3.39 | 3.19 | 14.82 | 18.11 | 36.85 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,011.00 | $ | 2.53 | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,022.70 | $ | 2.55 | 0.50 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Despite a slowing economy, stocks from the U.K. advanced significantly during the reporting period. Early in the reporting period, a tax plan proposed by the government raised investor concerns about additional borrowing requirements and the impact of the plan on financial markets. However, the plan was withdrawn, and new leadership stabilized the country’s fiscal position. Inflation remained elevated, although it declined notably during the reporting period, as the Bank of England raised interest rates eight times in an attempt to control rising prices. Higher interest rates supported the British pound, which appreciated relative to the U.S. dollar, making British stocks more valuable in U.S. dollar terms.
The financials sector contributed the most to the Index’s return, driven primarily by the banking industry. Rising interest rates drove increased bank revenues, and cost cuts in the form of automation and layoffs also improved profitability, supporting larger dividend payouts and a stock buyback program. A rebound in an international interbank lending rate led to higher net interest margins (a measure of the profitability of interest-bearing assets compared to interest paid to depositors) for large British banks.
The industrials sector contributed meaningfully to the Index’s performance, as the aerospace and defense industry drove solid gains. The rebound in international travel following the end of coronavirus pandemic-related restrictions increased demand for aircraft engines, bolstering profits in the industry. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to a significant increase in orders for defense equipment. The energy sector also contributed, as the oil, gas, and consumable fuels industry was buoyed by strong cash flows that enabled increased dividend payments to shareholders.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Consumer Staples | 19.5 | % | ||
Financials | 18.6 | |||
Energy | 14.0 | |||
Health Care | 13.2 | |||
Industrials | 11.5 | |||
Materials | 8.6 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 6.0 | |||
Utilities | 4.2 | |||
Communication Services | 2.7 | |||
Information Technology | 1.0 | |||
Real Estate | 0.7 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
|
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
AstraZeneca PLC | 9.3 | % | ||
Shell PLC | 9.2 | |||
HSBC Holdings PLC | 6.5 | |||
Unilever PLC | 5.7 | |||
BP PLC | 4.8 | |||
Diageo PLC | 4.1 | |||
GSK PLC | 3.2 | |||
British American Tobacco PLC | 3.1 | |||
Rio Tinto PLC | 3.1 | |||
RELX PLC | 2.8 |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of small-capitalization U.K. equities, as represented by the MSCI United Kingdom Small Cap Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 9.55 | % | (2.55 | )% | 2.03 | % | 9.55 | % | (12.14 | )% | 22.28 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 9.71 | (2.50 | ) | 1.97 | 9.71 | (11.90 | ) | 21.54 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 9.87 | (1.99 | ) | 2.65 | 9.87 | (9.55 | ) | 29.84 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(AT NET ASSET VALUE)
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||||
$ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,002.10 | $ | 2.98 | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,022.20 | $ | 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 9 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Despite a slowing economy and higher interest rates, small capitalization stocks from the U.K. advanced significantly during the reporting period. Many larger companies were reclassified as small companies due to falling stock prices in 2022, which lowered valuations for small capitalization stocks overall. Relatively low valuations, as well as solid fundamental results both from companies with global exposure and from domestically focused niche companies, ultimately propelled small capitalization stocks. Higher interest rates supported the British pound, which appreciated relative to the U.S. dollar, making British stocks more valuable in U.S. dollar terms.
The consumer discretionary sector was the largest contributor to the Index’s return despite declining retail sales. U.K. consumers sought refuge from rising prices by shifting purchases to less expensive products. Consequently, a prominent discount store’s strong sales and improving earnings guidance drove the company’s stock higher. Similarly, the leisure products industry advanced, driven mostly by solid earnings at a company that sells miniature figurines for a medieval fantasy wargame.
The industrials sector also advanced amid a modest recovery in industrial production. Engineering services stocks in the machinery industry gained, as strong demand for mining equipment, sustainability projects, and automation drove earnings growth. Among trading companies and distributors, a manufacturer of custom kitchen cabinets advanced despite a flat housing market. The financials sector benefited from rising capital markets and solid growth at a bank with operations in Georgia, whose economy grew rapidly amid rising foreign investment, tourism, and the country’s ascendance as a key shipping center during the war in Ukraine.
On the downside, broad-based weakness in the real estate sector detracted from the Index’s return. Rising interest rates, office vacancy due to the rise of remote work, and financial distress at a subsidized housing provider weighed on the sector.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Industrials | 21.2 | % | ||
Consumer Discretionary | 17.6 | |||
Financials | 16.6 | |||
Real Estate | 12.1 | |||
Health Care | 6.2 | |||
Information Technology | 5.9 | |||
Communication Services | 5.8 | |||
Consumer Staples | 5.4 | |||
Materials | 5.0 | |||
Energy | 2.5 | |||
Utilities | 1.7 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
|
| |||
Security | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
B&M European Value Retail SA | 1.9 | % | ||
Weir Group PLC (The) | 1.6 | |||
Rightmove PLC | 1.6 | |||
Marks & Spencer Group PLC | 1.5 | |||
Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC | 1.5 | |||
DS Smith PLC | 1.5 | |||
Diploma PLC | 1.4 | |||
Howden Joinery Group PLC | 1.4 | |||
Intermediate Capital Group PLC | 1.3 | |||
IMI PLC | 1.3 |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 11 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security |
Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Investment Companies | ||||||||
Exchange-Traded Funds — 99.9% | ||||||||
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF(a)(b) | 270,201 | $ | 8,646,432 | |||||
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| |||||||
Total Investment Companies | 8,646,432 | |||||||
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Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 45.8% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(a)(c)(d) | 3,958,815 | 3,960,002 | ||||||
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| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 45.8% |
| 3,960,002 | ||||||
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| |||||||
Total Investments in Securities — 145.7% |
| 12,606,434 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (45.7)% |
| (3,951,756 | ) | |||||
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| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 8,654,678 | ||||||
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(a) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(b) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(d) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | — | $ | 3,959,324 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 676 | $ | 2 | $ | 3,960,002 | 3,958,815 | $ | 20,969 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(c) | 700,000 | — | (700,000 | )(a) | — | — | — | — | 404 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF | 15,793,013 | 3,600,763 | (12,154,058 | ) | (240,889 | ) | 1,647,603 | 8,646,432 | 270,201 | 378,854 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$ | (240,213 | ) | $ | 1,647,605 | $ | 12,606,434 | $ | 400,227 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
(c) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End Forward
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 8,812,396 | GBP | 6,848,000 | Bank of America N.A. | 09/05/23 | $ | 137,355 | |||||||||||||||||
USD | 41,100 | GBP | 32,000 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 09/05/23 | 562 | ||||||||||||||||||
USD | 83,643 | GBP | 66,000 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 10/03/23 | 23 | ||||||||||||||||||
USD | 8,719,168 | GBP | 6,880,000 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 10/03/23 | 2,444 | ||||||||||||||||||
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140,384 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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GBP | 6,880,000 | USD | 8,717,992 | State Street Bank & Trust Company | 09/05/23 | (2,412 | ) |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts (continued)
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
GBP | 94,000 | USD | 119,119 | Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. | 10/03/23 | $ | (25 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
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(2,437 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$ | 137,947 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 140,384 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 140,384 | ||||||||||||||
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Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,437 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 2,437 | ||||||||||||||
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For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (32,146 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (32,146 | ) | ||||||||||||
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Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (868,900 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (868,900 | ) | ||||||||||||
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Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts: | ||||
Average amounts purchased — in USD | $ | 10,626,717 | ||
Average amounts sold — in USD | $ | 20,564,223 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End
The Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities (by type) were as follows:
| ||||||||
Assets | Liabilities | |||||||
| ||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments: | ||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 140,384 | $ | 2,437 | ||||
|
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| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities | 140,384 | 2,437 | ||||||
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”) | — | — | ||||||
|
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| |||||
Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA | 140,384 | 2,437 | ||||||
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The following tables present the Fund’s derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Fund:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by | Derivatives | Non-Cash Collateral | Cash Collateral | Net Amount | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bank of America N.A. | $ | 137,355 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $137,355 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 585 | — | — | — | 585 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 13 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments - Offsetting as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Assets Subject to an MNA by | Derivatives Available | Non-Cash Collateral | Cash Collateral | Net Amount of Derivative | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty | Counterparty | for Offset | (a) | Received | Received | Assets | (b) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | $ | 2,444 | $ | (2,412 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 32 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$ | 140,384 | $ | (2,412 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 137,972 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Derivative Liabilities Subject to an MNA by | Derivatives Available | Non-Cash Collateral | Cash Collateral | Net Amount of Derivative | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Counterparty |
| Counterparty |
| for Offset | (a) | Pledged | Pledged | Liabilities | (c) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. | $ | 25 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
State Street Bank & Trust Company | 2,412 | (2,412 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$ | 2,437 | $ | (2,412 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(a) | The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of derivative assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA. |
(b) | Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Net amount represents the net amount payable due to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||
Investment Companies | $ | 8,646,432 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 8,646,432 | ||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 3,960,002 | — | — | 3,960,002 | ||||||||||||||
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$ | 12,606,434 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 12,606,434 | |||||||||||
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Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | $ | — | $ | 140,384 | $ | — | $ | 140,384 | ||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | (2,437 | ) | — | (2,437 | ) | ||||||||||||
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$ | — | $ | 137,947 | $ | — | 137,947 | ||||||||||||
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(a) | Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 3.1% | ||||||||
BAE Systems PLC | 3,618,596 | $ | 46,056,634 | |||||
Melrose Industries PLC | 1,606,769 | 10,433,737 | ||||||
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC(a) | 10,006,610 | 28,071,739 | ||||||
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84,562,110 | ||||||||
Banks — 10.9% | ||||||||
Barclays PLC | 18,494,251 | 34,448,454 | ||||||
HSBC Holdings PLC | 23,501,726 | 173,377,103 | ||||||
Lloyds Banking Group PLC | 76,567,010 | 40,906,881 | ||||||
NatWest Group PLC, NVS | 6,910,139 | 20,095,244 | ||||||
Standard Chartered PLC | 2,819,960 | 25,373,167 | ||||||
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| |||||||
294,200,849 | ||||||||
Beverages — 4.3% | ||||||||
Coca-Cola HBC AG, Class DI | 262,393 | 7,558,729 | ||||||
Diageo PLC | 2,672,030 | 109,427,541 | ||||||
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116,986,270 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 0.5% | ||||||||
Next PLC | 144,683 | 12,786,891 | ||||||
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Capital Markets — 3.7% | ||||||||
3i Group PLC | 1,154,984 | 29,084,164 | ||||||
abrdn PLC | 2,353,311 | 4,909,178 | ||||||
Hargreaves Lansdown PLC | 419,549 | 4,037,401 | ||||||
London Stock Exchange Group PLC | 475,903 | 49,234,127 | ||||||
Schroders PLC | 947,459 | 4,928,963 | ||||||
St. James’s Place PLC | 647,529 | 7,240,566 | ||||||
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99,434,399 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 0.6% | ||||||||
Croda International PLC | 166,105 | 11,600,419 | ||||||
Johnson Matthey PLC | 219,567 | 4,526,638 | ||||||
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16,127,057 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.8% | ||||||||
Rentokil Initial PLC | 2,986,677 | 22,738,966 | ||||||
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Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.6% | ||||||||
J Sainsbury PLC | 1,969,606 | 6,735,565 | ||||||
Ocado Group PLC(a) | 688,716 | 7,586,299 | ||||||
Tesco PLC | 8,522,575 | 28,672,325 | ||||||
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| |||||||
42,994,189 | ||||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3% | ||||||||
Pearson PLC | 761,184 | 8,067,566 | ||||||
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Diversified REITs — 0.2% | ||||||||
Land Securities Group PLC | 839,332 | 6,395,619 | ||||||
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Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.4% | ||||||||
BT Group PLC | 7,677,327 | 11,231,248 | ||||||
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Electric Utilities — 1.0% | ||||||||
SSE PLC | 1,296,322 | 26,638,312 | ||||||
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Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.4% | ||||||||
Halma PLC | 451,139 | 12,229,661 | ||||||
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Financial Services — 0.5% | ||||||||
M&G PLC | 2,672,948 | 6,456,076 | ||||||
Wise PLC, Class A(a) | 723,565 | 5,856,874 | ||||||
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12,312,950 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.4% | ||||||||
Associated British Foods PLC | 416,485 | 10,491,189 | ||||||
|
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Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.5% |
| |||||||
Smith & Nephew PLC | 1,039,174 | $ | 14,023,671 | |||||
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Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0% |
| |||||||
NMC Health PLC, NVS(b) | 122,262 | 2 | ||||||
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Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.3% | ||||||||
Compass Group PLC | 2,061,046 | 51,972,799 | ||||||
Entain PLC | 755,718 | 11,053,664 | ||||||
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC | 200,128 | 15,052,692 | ||||||
Whitbread PLC | 235,276 | 10,232,974 | ||||||
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88,312,129 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 0.9% | ||||||||
Barratt Developments PLC | 1,156,991 | 6,632,419 | ||||||
Berkeley Group Holdings PLC | 128,224 | 6,587,655 | ||||||
Persimmon PLC | 380,561 | 5,130,446 | ||||||
Taylor Wimpey PLC | 4,202,456 | 6,073,379 | ||||||
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24,423,899 | ||||||||
Household Products — 2.3% | ||||||||
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC | 853,046 | 61,560,618 | ||||||
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Industrial Conglomerates — 0.6% | ||||||||
DCC PLC | 117,222 | 6,414,043 | ||||||
Smiths Group PLC | 416,480 | 8,637,727 | ||||||
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| |||||||
15,051,770 | ||||||||
Industrial REITs — 0.5% | ||||||||
Segro PLC | 1,383,228 | 12,894,818 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 3.3% | ||||||||
Admiral Group PLC | 253,151 | 7,975,269 | ||||||
Aviva PLC | 3,255,530 | 15,446,709 | ||||||
Legal & General Group PLC | 7,107,022 | 19,635,960 | ||||||
Phoenix Group Holdings PLC | 892,294 | 5,877,896 | ||||||
Prudential PLC | 3,273,297 | 39,865,667 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
88,801,501 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 0.3% | ||||||||
Auto Trader Group PLC(c) | 1,092,871 | 8,380,636 | ||||||
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| |||||||
Machinery — 0.4% | ||||||||
Spirax-Sarco Engineering PLC | 87,594 | 11,224,836 | ||||||
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Media — 1.0% | ||||||||
Informa PLC | 1,663,971 | 15,374,251 | ||||||
WPP PLC | 1,272,375 | 12,333,637 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
27,707,888 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 7.5% | ||||||||
Anglo American PLC | 1,510,734 | 40,172,930 | ||||||
Antofagasta PLC | 468,847 | 8,586,411 | ||||||
Endeavour Mining PLC | 218,541 | 4,462,801 | ||||||
Glencore PLC | 12,522,018 | 66,682,172 | ||||||
Rio Tinto PLC | 1,338,553 | 82,434,278 | ||||||
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| |||||||
202,338,592 | ||||||||
Multi-Utilities — 2.5% | ||||||||
Centrica PLC | 6,615,571 | 12,697,692 | ||||||
National Grid PLC | 4,377,601 | 54,642,943 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
67,340,635 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 13.8% | ||||||||
BP PLC | 20,629,546 | 127,475,819 | ||||||
Shell PLC | 7,970,809 | 243,709,557 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
371,185,376 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 15 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.3% | ||||||||
Mondi PLC | 576,052 | $ | 9,568,696 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Personal Care Products — 6.7% | ||||||||
Haleon PLC | 6,587,390 | 26,972,340 | ||||||
Unilever PLC | 2,990,116 | 152,702,859 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
179,675,199 | ||||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 12.5% | ||||||||
AstraZeneca PLC | 1,842,650 | 247,509,549 | ||||||
GSK PLC | 4,868,549 | 85,277,179 | ||||||
Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC | 194,524 | 5,373,359 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
338,160,087 | ||||||||
Professional Services — 4.5% | ||||||||
Experian PLC | 1,093,822 | 38,200,167 | ||||||
Intertek Group PLC | 191,597 | 10,033,859 | ||||||
RELX PLC | 2,255,063 | 73,503,168 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
121,737,194 | ||||||||
Software — 0.5% | ||||||||
Sage Group PLC (The) | 1,219,059 | 14,980,533 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.5% | ||||||||
JD Sports Fashion PLC | 3,057,845 | 5,612,666 | ||||||
Kingfisher PLC | 2,308,882 | 6,842,354 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
12,455,020 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.5% | ||||||||
Burberry Group PLC | 448,276 | 12,376,733 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Tobacco — 4.0% | ||||||||
British American Tobacco PLC | 2,525,868 | 83,667,708 | ||||||
Imperial Brands PLC | 1,026,459 | 23,240,654 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
106,908,362 | ||||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 1.9% | ||||||||
Ashtead Group PLC | 521,223 | 36,359,612 | ||||||
Bunzl PLC | 400,662 | 14,347,325 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
50,706,937 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Water Utilities — 0.7% | ||||||||
Severn Trent PLC | 298,855 | $ | 9,075,604 | |||||
United Utilities Group PLC | 806,786 | 9,661,045 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,736,649 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.9% | ||||||||
Vodafone Group PLC | 27,338,794 | 25,344,501 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 98.6% |
| 2,661,093,558 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 1,260,000 | 1,260,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% |
| 1,260,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 98.7% |
| 2,662,353,558 | ||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 1.3% |
| 35,399,958 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 2,697,753,516 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(c) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | $ | 120,000 | $ | 1,140,000 | (a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,260,000 | 1,260,000 | $ | 99,928 | $ | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
FTSE 100 Index | 375 | 09/15/23 | $ | 35,374 | $ | (407,099 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 407,099 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 407,099 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (758,593 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (758,593 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (302,155 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (302,155 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 25,905,480 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | — | $ | 2,661,093,556 | $ | 2 | $ | 2,661,093,558 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 1,260,000 | — | — | 1,260,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 1,260,000 | $ | 2,661,093,556 | $ | 2 | $ | 2,662,353,558 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | (407,099 | ) | $ | — | $ | (407,099 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 17 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 1.2% | ||||||||
Babcock International Group PLC(a) | 30,011 | $ | 146,769 | |||||
Chemring Group PLC | 33,746 | 124,401 | ||||||
QinetiQ Group PLC | 61,693 | 259,852 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
531,022 | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.7% | ||||||||
International Distributions Services PLC(a) | 84,939 | 260,853 | ||||||
Wincanton PLC | 13,840 | 41,903 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
302,756 | ||||||||
Automobile Components — 0.8% | ||||||||
AB Dynamics PLC | 2,009 | 44,792 | ||||||
Dowlais Group PLC(a) | 160,069 | 230,353 | ||||||
TI Fluid Systems PLC(b) | 40,053 | 64,235 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
339,380 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 0.3% | ||||||||
Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings PLC(a)(b)(c) | 30,499 | 137,359 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Banks — 1.9% | ||||||||
Bank of Georgia Group PLC | 4,106 | 181,272 | ||||||
Close Brothers Group PLC | 17,818 | 184,937 | ||||||
TBC Bank Group PLC | 4,898 | 176,526 | ||||||
Virgin Money UK PLC | 137,566 | 282,819 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
825,554 | ||||||||
Beverages — 1.6% | ||||||||
AG Barr PLC | 11,259 | 69,532 | ||||||
Britvic PLC | 30,502 | 339,084 | ||||||
C&C Group PLC | 45,965 | 79,480 | ||||||
Fevertree Drinks PLC | 12,437 | 206,865 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
694,961 | ||||||||
Biotechnology — 0.6% | ||||||||
Genus PLC | 7,820 | 230,056 | ||||||
Oxford Biomedica PLC(a)(c) | 7,833 | 31,975 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
262,031 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 2.0% | ||||||||
B&M European Value Retail SA | 112,726 | 823,811 | ||||||
THG PLC, Class B(a) | 69,253 | 86,232 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
910,043 | ||||||||
Building Products — 0.7% | ||||||||
Genuit Group PLC | 29,512 | 119,088 | ||||||
Tyman PLC | 23,058 | 86,339 | ||||||
Volution Group PLC | 23,501 | 113,666 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
319,093 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 8.1% | ||||||||
AJ Bell PLC | 36,632 | 134,669 | ||||||
Alpha FX Group PLC(c) | 4,120 | 111,691 | ||||||
Ashmore Group PLC | 54,991 | 134,877 | ||||||
Bridgepoint Group PLC(b) | 28,794 | 63,559 | ||||||
CMC Markets PLC(b) | 13,257 | 17,802 | ||||||
Draper Esprit PLC(a) | 15,403 | 47,493 | ||||||
IG Group Holdings PLC | 47,974 | 410,617 | ||||||
Impax Asset Management Group PLC | 11,892 | 80,471 | ||||||
IntegraFin Holdings PLC | 34,913 | 106,589 | ||||||
Intermediate Capital Group PLC | 34,420 | 588,223 | ||||||
Investec PLC | 76,739 | 453,272 | ||||||
IP Group PLC | 123,408 | 91,768 | ||||||
JTC PLC(b) | 17,951 | 158,500 | ||||||
Jupiter Fund Management PLC | 51,638 | 64,989 | ||||||
Liontrust Asset Management PLC | 7,362 | 61,280 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Capital Markets (continued) | ||||||||
Man Group PLC/Jersey | 142,111 | $ | 380,846 | |||||
Ninety One PLC | 32,772 | 71,116 | ||||||
Polar Capital Holdings PLC | 10,908 | 67,364 | ||||||
Quilter PLC(b) | 166,302 | 179,939 | ||||||
Rathbones Group PLC | 7,137 | 158,971 | ||||||
TP ICAP Group PLC | 93,410 | 195,484 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,579,520 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 0.9% | ||||||||
Elementis PLC(a) | 69,532 | 100,591 | ||||||
Essentra PLC | 35,102 | 65,634 | ||||||
Synthomer PLC(a) | 40,665 | 32,969 | ||||||
Victrex PLC | 10,306 | 195,779 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
394,973 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.6% | ||||||||
Finablr PLC(a)(b)(d) | 61,710 | 1 | ||||||
Johnson Service Group PLC | 49,262 | 74,193 | ||||||
Mitie Group PLC | 151,667 | 186,410 | ||||||
Renewi PLC(a) | 8,917 | 54,261 | ||||||
Serco Group PLC | 131,455 | 254,620 | ||||||
Smart Metering Systems PLC | 15,832 | 137,784 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
707,269 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.3% | ||||||||
Spirent Communications PLC | 71,218 | 141,553 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction & Engineering — 1.4% | ||||||||
Balfour Beatty PLC | 66,529 | 275,761 | ||||||
Keller Group PLC | 8,624 | 84,012 | ||||||
Kier Group PLC(a) | 49,594 | 53,339 | ||||||
Morgan Sindall Group PLC | 5,062 | 126,275 | ||||||
Renew Holdings PLC | 9,373 | 85,253 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
624,640 | ||||||||
Construction Materials — 1.2% | ||||||||
Breedon Group PLC | 36,123 | 159,933 | ||||||
Forterra PLC(b) | 23,647 | 50,087 | ||||||
Ibstock PLC(b) | 46,890 | 88,447 | ||||||
Marshalls PLC | 26,965 | 93,760 | ||||||
RHI Magnesita NV(c) | 3,348 | 119,911 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
512,138 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 0.1% | ||||||||
Provident Financial PLC | 29,695 | 38,972 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.5% | ||||||||
Marks & Spencer Group PLC(a) | 233,527 | 669,801 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Containers & Packaging — 1.4% | ||||||||
DS Smith PLC | 163,145 | 644,068 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Distributors — 1.0% | ||||||||
Inchcape PLC | 44,025 | 424,907 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3% | ||||||||
Auction Technology Group PLC(a) | 11,493 | 103,080 | ||||||
Me Group International PLC | 22,399 | 45,060 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
148,140 | ||||||||
Diversified REITs — 2.0% | ||||||||
Balanced Commercial Property Trust Ltd. | 83,648 | 73,328 | ||||||
British Land Co. PLC (The) | 104,332 | 427,695 | ||||||
Custodian Reit PLC | 48,915 | 49,572 | ||||||
LXI REIT PLC | 192,909 | 228,248 | ||||||
Picton Property Income Ltd. | 64,366 | 56,076 |
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Diversified REITs (continued) | ||||||||
UK Commercial Property REIT Ltd. | 91,519 | $ | 62,543 | |||||
|
| |||||||
897,462 | ||||||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.6% | ||||||||
Gamma Communications PLC | 10,912 | 148,073 | ||||||
Helios Towers PLC(a) | 87,095 | 100,567 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
248,640 | ||||||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.8% | ||||||||
Ceres Power Holdings PLC(a)(c) | 15,049 | 65,047 | ||||||
DiscoverIE Group PLC | 11,412 | 105,438 | ||||||
ITM Power PLC(a)(c) | 54,053 | 60,097 | ||||||
Volex PLC | 15,000 | 61,756 | ||||||
XP Power Ltd. | 2,079 | 56,537 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
348,875 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 2.0% | ||||||||
Oxford Instruments PLC | 6,495 | 182,247 | ||||||
Renishaw PLC | 4,311 | 198,677 | ||||||
Spectris PLC | 12,309 | 517,770 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
898,694 | ||||||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 0.6% | ||||||||
Hunting PLC | 16,761 | 52,127 | ||||||
John Wood Group PLC(a) | 81,941 | 165,424 | ||||||
Petrofac Ltd.(a)(c) | 53,587 | 49,046 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
266,597 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Team17 Group PLC(a) | 13,624 | 58,680 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Financial Services — 2.6% | ||||||||
Burford Capital Ltd. | 22,044 | 304,166 | ||||||
Network International Holdings PLC(a)(b) | 56,789 | 279,128 | ||||||
OSB Group PLC | 49,370 | 213,031 | ||||||
Paragon Banking Group PLC | 25,014 | 166,836 | ||||||
Plus500 Ltd. | 9,736 | 176,123 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,139,284 | ||||||||
Food Products — 2.2% | ||||||||
Cranswick PLC | 6,365 | 271,492 | ||||||
Greencore Group PLC(a) | 57,800 | 61,689 | ||||||
Hilton Food Group PLC | 9,551 | 81,549 | ||||||
Premier Foods PLC | 77,295 | 120,634 | ||||||
Tate & Lyle PLC | 47,573 | 425,775 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
961,139 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 0.7% | ||||||||
Firstgroup PLC | 81,805 | 149,963 | ||||||
National Express Group PLC | 65,459 | 69,289 | ||||||
Redde Northgate PLC | 27,148 | 110,396 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
329,648 | ||||||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 1.5% | ||||||||
Advanced Medical Solutions Group PLC | 25,374 | 81,966 | ||||||
ConvaTec Group PLC(b) | 193,824 | 568,898 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
650,864 | ||||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
CVS Group PLC | 8,460 | 226,870 | ||||||
Spire Healthcare Group PLC(b) | 33,504 | 92,313 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
319,183 | ||||||||
Health Care REITs — 1.1% | ||||||||
Assura PLC | 351,211 | 204,126 | ||||||
Impact Healthcare Reit PLC, Class B | 38,774 | 44,993 | ||||||
Primary Health Properties PLC | 158,294 | 188,588 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Health Care REITs (continued) | ||||||||
Target Healthcare REIT PLC | 73,461 | $ | 67,748 | |||||
|
| |||||||
505,455 | ||||||||
Health Care Technology — 0.6% | ||||||||
Craneware PLC | 3,533 | 63,553 | ||||||
EMIS Group PLC | 7,499 | 181,825 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
245,378 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 5.1% | ||||||||
888 Holdings PLC(a) | 39,846 | 64,269 | ||||||
Carnival PLC(a) | 16,456 | 232,526 | ||||||
Deliveroo PLC, Class A(a)(b) | 112,839 | 161,670 | ||||||
Domino’s Pizza Group PLC | 44,364 | 221,991 | ||||||
Greggs PLC | 12,111 | 377,555 | ||||||
J D Wetherspoon PLC(a) | 10,744 | 98,404 | ||||||
Mitchells & Butlers PLC(a) | 31,556 | 88,144 | ||||||
Patisserie Holdings PLC, NVS(d) | 6,053 | — | ||||||
Playtech PLC(a) | 27,475 | 182,728 | ||||||
Rank Group PLC(a) | 24,289 | 25,846 | ||||||
SSP Group PLC(a) | 94,341 | 280,851 | ||||||
Trainline PLC(a)(b) | 54,085 | 159,366 | ||||||
TUI AG(a) | 54,090 | 320,799 | ||||||
Young & Co’s Brewery PLC, Series A, Class A | 2,396 | 34,905 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,249,054 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 2.4% | ||||||||
Bellway PLC | 14,364 | 388,673 | ||||||
Crest Nicholson Holdings PLC | 27,047 | 61,845 | ||||||
Redrow PLC | 33,300 | 200,169 | ||||||
Victoria PLC(a)(c) | 6,726 | 48,311 | ||||||
Vistry Group PLC | 38,900 | 384,890 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,083,888 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.7% | ||||||||
Drax Group PLC | 46,123 | 322,526 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial REITs — 1.9% | ||||||||
LondonMetric Property PLC | 129,003 | 295,384 | ||||||
Tritax Big Box REIT PLC | 221,344 | 395,343 | ||||||
Urban Logistics REIT PLC | 55,206 | 82,243 | ||||||
Warehouse REIT PLC | 47,898 | 51,697 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
824,667 | ||||||||
Insurance — 3.9% | ||||||||
Beazley PLC | 79,629 | 549,788 | ||||||
Direct Line Insurance Group PLC | 155,321 | 318,292 | ||||||
Hiscox Ltd. | 41,097 | 518,526 | ||||||
Just Group PLC | 123,374 | 117,843 | ||||||
Lancashire Holdings Ltd. | 28,901 | 209,602 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,714,051 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 2.0% | ||||||||
Moneysupermarket.com Group PLC | 60,407 | 190,085 | ||||||
Rightmove PLC | 96,571 | 683,550 | ||||||
Trustpilot Group PLC(a)(b) | 29,223 | 30,467 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
904,102 | ||||||||
IT Services — 2.3% | ||||||||
Computacenter PLC | 10,139 | 279,926 | ||||||
FDM Group Holdings PLC | 11,028 | 80,469 | ||||||
Kainos Group PLC | 9,604 | 147,603 | ||||||
Keywords Studios PLC | 8,894 | 171,820 | ||||||
NCC Group PLC | 37,559 | 47,437 | ||||||
Softcat PLC | 15,362 | 292,140 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,019,395 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 19 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Leisure Products — 1.2% | ||||||||
Games Workshop Group PLC | 3,898 | $ | 533,763 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.6% | ||||||||
Ergomed PLC(a) | 5,049 | 66,903 | ||||||
Oxford Nanopore Technologies PLC(a) | 63,805 | 192,371 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
259,274 | ||||||||
Machinery — 5.0% | ||||||||
Bodycote PLC | 22,676 | 190,740 | ||||||
IMI PLC | 30,891 | 586,235 | ||||||
Judges Scientific PLC | 704 | 84,010 | ||||||
Morgan Advanced Materials PLC | 33,503 | 111,438 | ||||||
Rotork PLC | 101,965 | 387,518 | ||||||
Vesuvius PLC | 25,698 | 143,332 | ||||||
Weir Group PLC (The) | 30,748 | 712,731 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,216,004 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 0.3% | ||||||||
Clarkson PLC | 3,453 | 118,542 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Media — 2.6% | ||||||||
4imprint Group PLC | 3,326 | 214,566 | ||||||
Ascential PLC(a) | 52,203 | 132,658 | ||||||
Future PLC | 12,910 | 126,733 | ||||||
ITV PLC | 430,051 | 384,574 | ||||||
Next Fifteen Communications Group PLC | 10,018 | 78,302 | ||||||
S4 Capital PLC(a)(c) | 45,120 | 56,596 | ||||||
Tremor International Ltd.(a) | 11,693 | 22,767 | ||||||
YouGov PLC | 12,479 | 137,533 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,153,729 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 1.5% | ||||||||
Atalaya Mining PLC | 11,597 | 47,746 | ||||||
Centamin PLC | 137,205 | 152,387 | ||||||
Central Asia Metals PLC | 20,468 | 51,806 | ||||||
Ferrexpo PLC(a) | 34,981 | 34,277 | ||||||
Greatland Gold PLC(a) | 551,193 | 44,758 | ||||||
Hill & Smith PLC | 9,490 | 214,961 | ||||||
Hochschild Mining PLC | 39,069 | 45,256 | ||||||
Pan African Resources PLC | 226,991 | 40,257 | ||||||
SolGold PLC(a)(c) | 176,459 | 33,554 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
665,002 | ||||||||
Multi-Utilities — 0.4% | ||||||||
Telecom Plus PLC | 8,472 | 170,644 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Office REITs — 1.2% | ||||||||
CLS Holdings PLC | 21,718 | 34,838 | ||||||
Derwent London PLC | 11,305 | 265,797 | ||||||
Great Portland Estates PLC | 24,054 | 128,042 | ||||||
Workspace Group PLC | 17,046 | 108,202 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
536,879 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.8% | ||||||||
Diversified Energy Co. PLC | 115,139 | 133,533 | ||||||
Energean PLC | 15,906 | 229,304 | ||||||
EnQuest PLC(a) | 189,863 | 40,878 | ||||||
Genel Energy PLC | 17,591 | 18,541 | ||||||
Gulf Keystone Petroleum Ltd. | 26,346 | 31,239 | ||||||
Harbour Energy PLC | 66,095 | 209,102 | ||||||
Serica Energy PLC | 29,556 | 93,513 | ||||||
Tullow Oil PLC(a)(c) | 137,226 | 60,869 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
816,979 | ||||||||
Passenger Airlines — 1.0% | ||||||||
easyJet PLC(a) | 35,911 | 191,836 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Passenger Airlines (continued) | ||||||||
JET2 PLC | 20,341 | $ | 271,949 | |||||
|
| |||||||
463,785 | ||||||||
Personal Care Products — 0.1% | ||||||||
PZ Cussons PLC | 27,581 | 55,371 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 2.3% | ||||||||
Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC | 13,489 | 648,496 | ||||||
Indivior PLC, NVS(a) | 15,514 | 357,687 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,006,183 | ||||||||
Professional Services — 2.0% | ||||||||
Alpha Financial Markets Consulting PLC | 13,514 | 62,144 | ||||||
Capita PLC(a) | 202,103 | 46,187 | ||||||
Hays PLC | 188,217 | 254,938 | ||||||
Learning Technologies Group PLC | 71,144 | 69,036 | ||||||
Marlowe PLC(a) | 9,545 | 72,308 | ||||||
Pagegroup PLC | 38,922 | 206,417 | ||||||
RWS Holdings PLC | 34,167 | 104,311 | ||||||
SThree PLC | 15,931 | 71,766 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
887,107 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 1.8% | ||||||||
Grainger PLC | 83,436 | 249,303 | ||||||
IWG PLC(a) | 89,424 | 203,002 | ||||||
Savills PLC | 16,246 | 187,385 | ||||||
Sirius Real Estate Ltd. | 139,489 | 153,743 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
793,433 | ||||||||
Residential REITs — 1.5% | ||||||||
Empiric Student Property PLC | 72,138 | 79,687 | ||||||
Home Reit PLC(d) | 103,572 | 42,093 | ||||||
PRS REIT PLC (The) | 64,244 | 58,515 | ||||||
UNITE Group PLC (The) | 40,529 | 482,028 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
662,323 | ||||||||
Retail REITs — 1.2% | ||||||||
Capital & Counties Properties PLC | 173,500 | 258,192 | ||||||
Hammerson PLC | 473,245 | 144,001 | ||||||
Supermarket Income Reit PLC | 147,604 | 144,112 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
546,305 | ||||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Alphawave IP Group PLC(a) | 29,647 | 54,082 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Software — 1.1% | ||||||||
Bytes Technology Group PLC | 26,946 | 165,692 | ||||||
Darktrace PLC(a) | 37,375 | 170,105 | ||||||
FD Technologies PLC(a)(c) | 2,833 | 59,337 | ||||||
GB Group PLC | 29,527 | 84,997 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
480,131 | ||||||||
Specialized REITs — 1.3% | ||||||||
Big Yellow Group PLC | 20,737 | 281,925 | ||||||
Safestore Holdings PLC | 25,821 | 282,778 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
564,703 | ||||||||
Specialty Retail — 3.5% | ||||||||
AO World PLC(a) | 37,689 | 44,514 | ||||||
ASOS PLC(a)(c) | 9,056 | 50,017 | ||||||
boohoo Group PLC(a)(c) | 105,164 | 47,382 | ||||||
Currys PLC | 114,113 | 72,260 | ||||||
Dunelm Group PLC | 14,335 | 211,377 | ||||||
Frasers Group PLC(a) | 13,546 | 138,320 | ||||||
Halfords Group PLC | 26,045 | 60,346 | ||||||
Lookers PLC | 36,173 | 59,113 | ||||||
Moonpig Group PLC(a) | 28,832 | 61,909 |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Specialty Retail (continued) | ||||||||
Pets at Home Group PLC | 57,060 | $ | 272,332 | |||||
Watches of Switzerland Group PLC(a)(b) | 28,375 | 208,987 | ||||||
WH Smith PLC | 15,505 | 287,472 | ||||||
Wickes Group PLC | 30,697 | 54,597 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,568,626 | ||||||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.8% | ||||||||
Coats Group PLC | 189,244 | 183,876 | ||||||
Dr. Martens PLC | 77,058 | 153,085 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
336,961 | ||||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 5.6% | ||||||||
Diploma PLC | 15,875 | 628,600 | ||||||
Grafton Group PLC | 24,036 | 262,621 | ||||||
Howden Joinery Group PLC | 64,947 | 607,419 | ||||||
RS GROUP PLC | 56,071 | 538,808 | ||||||
SIG PLC(a) | 85,028 | 36,239 | ||||||
Travis Perkins PLC | 25,170 | 273,789 | ||||||
Yellow Cake PLC(a)(b) | 24,013 | 141,787 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,489,263 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 0.6% | ||||||||
Penno Group PLC | 30,950 | 252,536 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.4% |
| |||||||
Airtel Africa PLC(b) | 111,279 | 160,704 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.3% | 43,988,091 | |||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
| ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 1.4% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(e)(f)(g) | 621,797 | $ | 621,984 | |||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(e)(f) | 20,000 | 20,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 1.4% | 641,984 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.7% |
| 44,630,075 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.7)% |
| (314,873 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 44,315,202 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(e) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(f) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(g) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 685,192 | $ | — | $ | (63,431 | )(a) | $ | 353 | $ | (130 | ) | $ | 621,984 | 621,797 | $ | 50,680 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 20,000 | 0 | (a) | — | — | — | 20,000 | 20,000 | 1,028 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 353 | $ | (130 | ) | $ | 641,984 | $ | 51,708 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
FTSE 250 Index | 7 | 09/15/23 | $ | 329 | $ | (559 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 559 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 559 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (12,786 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (12,786 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 11,735 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 11,735 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 268,867 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 15,115,175 | $ | 28,830,822 | $ | 42,094 | $ | 43,988,091 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 641,984 | — | — | 641,984 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 15,757,159 | $ | 28,830,822 | $ | 42,094 | $ | 44,630,075 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | (559 | ) | $ | — | $ | (559 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI United ETF | iShares MSCI United | iShares MSCI United | ||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | — | $ | 2,661,093,558 | $ | 43,988,091 | ||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(b)(c) | 12,606,434 | 1,260,000 | 641,984 | |||||||||
Cash | 4,404 | 7,007 | 8,477 | |||||||||
Foreign currency collateral pledged for futures contracts(d) | — | 1,679,915 | 13,935 | |||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(e) | — | 7,246,952 | 69,008 | |||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||
Investments sold | — | 17,738,755 | 1,485,194 | |||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 1,344 | — | 1,827 | |||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | — | 27,091,190 | 168,746 | |||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | — | 5,406 | 41 | |||||||||
Tax reclaims | — | 158,827 | 24,804 | |||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 140,384 | — | — | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total assets | 12,752,566 | 2,716,281,610 | 46,402,107 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | 3,960,000 | — | 622,851 | |||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||
Investments purchased | 135,451 | 17,203,233 | 1,440,875 | |||||||||
Investment advisory fees | — | 1,158,179 | 22,604 | |||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | — | 166,682 | 575 | |||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 2,437 | — | — | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total liabilities | 4,097,888 | 18,528,094 | 2,086,905 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 8,654,678 | $ | 2,697,753,516 | $ | 44,315,202 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 14,271,209 | $ | 3,816,583,739 | $ | 78,540,196 | ||||||
Accumulated loss | (5,616,531 | ) | (1,118,830,223 | ) | (34,224,994 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 8,654,678 | $ | 2,697,753,516 | $ | 44,315,202 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET ASSETVALUE | ||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 350,000 | 84,400,000 | 1,350,000 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net asset value | $ | 24.73 | $ | 31.96 | $ | 32.83 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Par value | None | None | None | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | — | $ | 3,195,228,282 | $ | 62,687,542 | ||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | 3,840,000 | $ | — | $ | 559,486 | ||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 13,016,856 | $ | 1,260,000 | $ | 641,519 | ||||||
(d) Foreign currency collateral pledged, at cost | $ | — | $ | 1,686,623 | $ | 14,516 | ||||||
(e) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | — | $ | 7,248,537 | $ | 68,504 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 23 |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF | iShares MSCI United ETF | iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | — | $ | 124,147,760 | $ | 1,588,907 | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 379,258 | 99,928 | 1,028 | |||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 20,969 | — | 50,680 | |||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | — | (142,241 | ) | (43,389 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total investment income | 400,227 | 124,105,447 | 1,597,226 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 68,809 | 15,428,590 | 274,606 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total expenses | 68,809 | 15,428,590 | 274,606 | |||||||||
Less: | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees waived | (68,809 | ) | — | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Total expenses after fees waived | — | 15,428,590 | 274,606 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net investment income | 400,227 | 108,676,857 | 1,322,620 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | — | (65,249,898 | ) | (2,977,882 | ) | |||||||
Investments — affiliated | (183,972 | ) | — | 353 | ||||||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | — | 1 | — | |||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (32,146 | ) | — | — | ||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | — | (73,811 | ) | 30,242 | ||||||||
Futures contracts | — | (758,593 | ) | (12,786 | ) | |||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | — | 58,286,509 | 565,846 | |||||||||
In-kind redemptions — affiliated(a) | (56,241 | ) | — | — | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
(272,359 | ) | (7,795,792 | ) | (2,394,227 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | — | 320,564,226 | 5,457,828 | |||||||||
Investments — affiliated | 1,647,605 | — | (130 | ) | ||||||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (868,900 | ) | — | — | ||||||||
Foreign currency translations | — | 1,180,790 | 9,129 | |||||||||
Futures contracts | — | (302,155 | ) | 11,735 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
778,705 | 321,442,861 | 5,478,562 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain | 506,346 | 313,647,069 | 3,084,335 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 906,573 | $ | 422,323,926 | $ | 4,406,955 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 400,227 | $ | 688,168 | $ | 108,676,857 | $ | 131,753,890 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (272,359 | ) | 1,841,564 | (7,795,792 | ) | 200,034,166 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 778,705 | (1,080,231 | ) | 321,442,861 | (677,452,421 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 906,573 | 1,449,501 | 422,323,926 | (345,664,365 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (398,737 | ) | (688,249 | ) | (103,364,666 | ) | (144,252,025 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (7,691,272 | ) | 6,810,679 | (921,047,759 | ) | 210,576,943 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (7,183,436 | ) | 7,571,931 | (602,088,499 | ) | (279,339,447 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 15,838,114 | 8,266,183 | 3,299,842,015 | 3,579,181,462 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 8,654,678 | $ | 15,838,114 | $ | 2,697,753,516 | $ | 3,299,842,015 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 25 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,322,620 | $ | 1,925,857 | ||||||||||||
Net realized loss | (2,394,227 | ) | (2,383,431 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 5,478,562 | (37,540,449 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 4,406,955 | (37,998,023 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (804,655 | ) | (3,896,752 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net decrease in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (6,527,018 | ) | (41,424,975 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Total decrease in net assets | (2,924,718 | ) | (83,319,750 | ) | ||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 47,239,920 | 130,559,670 | ||||||||||||||
|
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|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 44,315,202 | $ | 47,239,920 | ||||||||||||
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|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
08/31/23 | 08/31/22 | 08/31/21 | 08/31/20 | 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 24.00 | $ | 22.96 | $ | 18.95 | $ | 23.43 | $ | 23.83 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.90 | 1.08 | 0.59 | 0.74 | 0.92 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 0.75 | 1.00 | 4.04 | (4.46 | ) | (0.26 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 1.65 | 2.08 | 4.63 | (3.72 | ) | 0.66 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.92 | ) | (1.04 | ) | (0.62 | ) | (0.76 | ) | (1.06 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 24.73 | $ | 24.00 | $ | 22.96 | $ | 18.95 | $ | 23.43 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
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|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 6.89 | % | 9.18 | % | 24.59 | % | (16.34 | )% | 2.92 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | 0.62 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses after fees waived | 0.00 | %(f) | 0.00 | %(f) | 0.00 | %(f) | 0.00 | %(f) | 0.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 3.61 | % | 4.50 | % | 2.82 | % | 3.31 | % | 3.96 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 8,655 | $ | 15,838 | $ | 8,266 | $ | 10,420 | $ | 35,146 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
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|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(g) | 15 | % | 12 | % | 15 | % | 15 | % | 11 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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|
|
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|
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|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Rounds to less than 0.01%. |
(g) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 27 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 28.90 | $ | 33.05 | $ | 26.88 | $ | 30.27 | $ | 33.62 | ||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.10 | 1.26 | 1.20 | 0.90 | 1.49 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 3.05 | (3.95 | ) | 5.87 | (3.30 | ) | (3.39 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 4.15 | (2.69 | ) | 7.07 | (2.40 | ) | (1.90 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.09 | ) | (1.46 | ) | (0.90 | ) | (0.99 | ) | (1.45 | ) | ||||||||||
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| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 31.96 | $ | 28.90 | $ | 33.05 | $ | 26.88 | $ | 30.27 | ||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 14.46 | % | (8.50 | )% | 26.46 | % | (8.25 | )% | (5.64 | )% | ||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.51 | % | 0.50 | % | ||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income | 3.54 | % | 3.90 | % | 3.91 | % | 3.12 | % | 4.64 | % | ||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
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| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 2,697,754 | $ | 3,299,842 | $ | 3,579,181 | $ | 2,191,064 | $ | 2,000,722 | ||||||||||
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|
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|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 6 | % | 7 | % | 9 | % | 4 | % | 11 | % | ||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
08/31/23 | 08/31/22 | 08/31/21 | 08/31/20 | 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 30.48 | $ | 50.22 | $ | 35.68 | $ | 35.95 | $ | 42.65 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 0.90 | 0.92 | 0.86 | 0.72 | 1.05 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 2.00 | (18.83 | ) | 14.32 | 0.03 | (6.69 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 2.90 | (17.91 | ) | 15.18 | 0.75 | (5.64 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
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|
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|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (0.55 | ) | (1.83 | ) | (0.64 | ) | (1.02 | ) | (1.06 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
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|
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|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 32.83 | $ | 30.48 | $ | 50.22 | $ | 35.68 | $ | 35.95 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 9.55 | % | (36.56 | )% | 42.88 | % | 1.90 | % | (13.17 | )% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.84 | % | 2.23 | % | 1.94 | % | 1.99 | % | 2.76 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
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|
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 44,315 | $ | 47,240 | $ | 130,560 | $ | 60,657 | $ | 61,109 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 22 | % | 17 | % | 15 | % | 25 | % | 20 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 29 |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | Diversified | |||
MSCI United Kingdom | Non-diversified | |||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | Diversified |
Currently the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing a substantial portion of its assets in the iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “underlying fund”). The financial statements, including the accounting policies, and Schedule of Investments for the underlying fund are included in this report and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF.
On June 6, 2023, the Board approved a proposal to close the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF to new and subsequent investments and thereafter to liquidate the Fund. After the close of business on October 30, 2023, the Fund will no longer accept creation orders. Trading in the Fund will be halted prior to market open on October 31, 2023. Proceeds of the liquidation will be sent to shareholders on or about November 2, 2023.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, the currency hedged fund has elected to treat realized gains (losses) from certain foreign currency contracts as capital gain (loss) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the fund is primarily traded. Funds traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day may be valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
• | Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices and are determined as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) based on that day’s prevailing forward exchange rate for the underlying currencies. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the NYSE. Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 31 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
4. | SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS |
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value |
| | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | ||||||||||||||||
BNP PARIBAS SECURITIES CORP | $ | 3,840,000 | $ | (3,840,000 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
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MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Capital, Inc. | $ | 193,915 | $ | (193,915 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | 102,433 | (102,433 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. | 60,558 | (60,558 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC | 6,398 | (6,398 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 58,111 | (58,111 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 89,225 | (89,225 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
STATE STREET BANK & TRUST COMPANY | 48,846 | (48,846 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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$ | 559,486 | $ | (559,486 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
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(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
5. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts: Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are entered into to gain or reduce exposure to foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
A forward foreign currency exchange contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a specified date. These contracts help to manage the overall exposure to the currencies in which some of the investments held by the Funds are denominated and in some cases, may be used to obtain exposure to a particular market. The contracts are traded over-the-counter (“OTC”) and not on an organized exchange.
The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded as unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. Non-deliverable forward foreign currency exchange contracts are settled with the counterparty in cash without the delivery of foreign currency. The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts involves the risk that the value of a contract changes unfavorably due to movements in the value of the referenced foreign currencies, and such value may exceed the amount(s) reflected in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Cash amounts pledged for forward foreign currency exchange contracts are considered restricted and are included in cash pledged as collateral for OTC derivatives in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. A fund’s risk of loss from counterparty credit risk on OTC derivatives is generally limited to the aggregate unrealized gain netted against any collateral held by the Fund.
Master Netting Arrangements: In order to define its contractual rights and to secure rights that will help mitigate its counterparty risk, a Fund may enter into an International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreement (“ISDA Master Agreement”) or similar agreement with its derivative contract counterparties. An ISDA Master Agreement is a bilateral agreement between a Fund and a counterparty that governs certain OTC derivatives and typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of a default and/or termination event. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, a Fund may, under certain circumstances, offset with the counterparty certain derivative financial instruments’ payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment. The provisions of the ISDA Master Agreement typically permit a single net payment in the event of default including the bankruptcy or insolvency of the counterparty. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against the right of offset in bankruptcy, insolvency, or other events.
For derivatives traded under an ISDA Master Agreement, the collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark-to-market amount for each transaction under such agreement, and comparing that amount to the value of any collateral currently pledged by a fund and the counterparty.
Cash collateral that has been pledged to cover obligations of the Funds and cash collateral received from the counterparty, if any, is reported separately in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged as collateral and cash received as collateral, respectively. Non-cash collateral pledged by the Funds, if any, is noted in the Schedules of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a counterparty is subject to a certain minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer is required, which is determined at the close of business of the Funds. Any additional required collateral is delivered to/pledged by the Funds on the next business day. Typically, the counterparty is not permitted to sell, re-pledge or use cash and non-cash collateral it receives. A fund generally agrees not to use non-cash collateral that it receives but may, absent default or certain other circumstances defined in the underlying ISDA Master Agreement, be permitted to use cash collateral received. In such cases, interest may be paid pursuant to the collateral arrangement with the counterparty. To the extent amounts due to the Funds from the counterparty are not fully collateralized, each Fund bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance. Likewise, to the extent the Funds have delivered collateral to a counterparty and stand ready to perform under the terms of their agreement with such counterparty, each Fund bears the risk of loss from a counterparty in the amount of the value of the collateral in the event the counterparty fails to return such collateral. Based on the terms of agreements, collateral may not be required for all derivative contracts.
For financial reporting purposes, each Fund does not offset derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to netting arrangements, if any, in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 33 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
6. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | 0.62 | % | ||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 0.59 |
For its investment advisory services to the iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF, BFA is entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Fund, based on the Fund’s allocable portion of the aggregate of the average daily net assets of the Fund and certain other iShares funds, as follows:
Aggregate Average Daily Net Assets | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
First $7 billion | 0.59 | % | ||
Over $7 billion, up to and including $11 billion | 0.54 | |||
Over $11 billion, up to and including $24 billion | 0.49 | |||
Over $24 billion, up to and including $48 billion | 0.44 | |||
Over $48 billion, up to and including $72 billion | 0.40 | |||
Over $72 billion, up to and including $96 billion | 0.36 | |||
Over $96 billion | 0.32 |
Expense Waivers: A fund may incur its pro rata share of fees and expenses attributable to its investments in other investment companies (“acquired fund fees and expenses”). The total of the investment advisory fee and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any, is a fund’s total annual operating expenses. Total expenses as shown in the Statements of Operations does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
For the iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF, BFA has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory fee for the Fund through December 31, 2025 so that the Fund’s total annual operating expenses after fee waiver is equal to the acquired fund fees and expenses attributable to the Fund’s investment in the iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (“EWU”), after taking into account any fee waivers by EWU, plus 0.03%. BFA has also contractually agreed to an additional reduction in its investment advisory fee of 0.03% through December 31, 2025.
This amount is included in investment advisory fees waived in the Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the amounts waived in investment advisory fees pursuant to this arrangement were as follows:
iShares ETF | Amounts Waived | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 68,809 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement,
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 4,881 | ||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 11,175 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||||
MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 64,042,971 | $ | 11,902,168 | $ | (4,637,726) | ||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 444,378 | 2,181,076 | 676,507 |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
7. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 1,610,144 | $ | 2,317,356 | ||||
MSCI United Kingdom | 232,466,778 | 166,602,346 | ||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 10,487,396 | 10,043,247 |
For the year ended August��31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 1,990,618 | $ | 9,836,702 | ||||
MSCI United Kingdom | 3,056,794 | 972,350,043 | ||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | — | 6,457,789 |
8. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 35 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | (198,700 | ) | $ | 198,700 | |||
MSCI United Kingdom | 56,766,840 | (56,766,840 | ) | |||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 86,734 | (86,734 | ) |
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 398,737 | $ | 688,249 | ||||
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MSCI United Kingdom | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 103,364,666 | $ | 144,252,025 | ||||
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MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 804,655 | $ | 3,896,752 | ||||
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As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Ordinary Income |
| | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards |
(a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | Total | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 1,490 | $ | (5,203,029 | ) | $ | (414,992 | ) | $ | (5,616,531 | ) | |||||
MSCI United Kingdom | 46,261,533 | (599,102,446 | ) | (565,989,310 | ) | (1,118,830,223 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 286,263 | (15,128,508 | ) | (19,382,749 | ) | (34,224,994 | ) |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain foreign currency contracts and futures contracts, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 13,021,476 | $ | 140,386 | $ | (555,378 | ) | $ | (414,992 | ) | ||||||
MSCI United Kingdom | 3,228,269,253 | 79,798,774 | (645,714,469 | ) | (565,915,695 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 64,011,452 | 1,432,245 | (20,813,622 | ) | (19,381,377 | ) |
9. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF and iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Fund did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
10. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
The price each Fund could receive upon the sale of any particular portfolio investment may differ from each Fund’s valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair valuation technique or a price provided by an independent pricing service. Changes to significant unobservable inputs and assumptions (i.e., publicly traded company multiples, growth rate, time to exit) due to the lack of observable inputs.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 37 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries. The European financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns about economic downturns in, or rising government debt levels of, several European countries as well as acts of war in the region. These events may spread to other countries in Europe and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
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. The United Kingdom has withdrawn from the European Union, and one or more other countries may withdraw from the European Union and/or abandon the Euro, the common currency of the European Union. These events and actions have adversely affected, and may in the future adversely affect, the value and exchange rate of the Euro and may continue to significantly affect the economies of every country in Europe, including countries that do not use the Euro and non-European Union member states. The impact of these actions, especially if they occur in a disorderly fashion, is not clear but could be significant and far reaching. In addition, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The extent and duration of the military action, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in the region are impossible to predict, but have been, and may continue to be significant and have a severe adverse effect on the region, including significant negative impacts on the economy and the markets for certain securities and commodities, such as oil and natural gas, as well as other sectors.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
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Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
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iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 80,000 | $ | 1,992,127 | 760,000 | $ | 17,906,170 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (390,000 | ) | (9,683,399 | ) | (460,000 | ) | (11,095,491 | ) | ||||||||
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(310,000 | ) | $ | (7,691,272 | ) | 300,000 | $ | 6,810,679 | |||||||||
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MSCI United Kingdom | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 3,100,000 | $ | 98,515,459 | 43,500,000 | $ | 1,432,434,045 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (32,900,000 | ) | (1,019,563,218 | ) | (37,600,000 | ) | (1,221,857,102 | ) | ||||||||
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(29,800,000 | ) | $ | (921,047,759 | ) | 5,900,000 | $ | 210,576,943 | |||||||||
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MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | — | $ | 16 | 50,000 | $ | 1,854,361 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (200,000 | ) | (6,527,034 | ) | (1,100,000 | ) | (43,279,336 | ) | ||||||||
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(200,000 | ) | $ | (6,527,018 | ) | (1,050,000 | ) | $ | (41,424,975 | ) | |||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following items were noted:
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF paid an ordinary income distribution in the amount of $0.071140 per share on October 16, 2023 to shareholders of record on October 11, 2023.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 39 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the three funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (three of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and each of the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF
iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Important Tax Information (unaudited)
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 372,988 | ||
MSCI United Kingdom | 121,281,725 | |||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 1,229,668 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom | $ | 379,974 | $ | 521 | ||||
MSCI United Kingdom | 124,104,062 | 103,159 | ||||||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 1,564,960 | 41,799 |
The following percentage, or maximum percentage allowable by law, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023 qualified for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders:
iShares ETF | Dividends-Received Deduction | |||
MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap | 2.05 | % |
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION | 41 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom ETF, iShares MSCI United Kingdom Small-Cap ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 43 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were higher than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund already provided for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund, on an aggregated basis with the assets of certain other iShares funds, increase. The Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding new or revised breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 45 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Currency Hedged MSCI United Kingdom(a) | $ | 0.916912 | $ | — | $ | 0.000010 | $ | 0.916922 | 100 | % | — | % | 0 | %(b) | 100 | % |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
(b) | Rounds to less than 1%. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
Regulation under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive, and its United Kingdom (“UK”) equivalent, (“AIFMD”) impose detailed and prescriptive obligations on fund managers established in the European Union (the “EU”) and the UK. These do not currently apply to managers established outside of the EU or UK, such as BFA (the “Company”). Rather, the Company is only required to comply with certain disclosure, reporting and transparency obligations of AIFMD because it has registered the iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “Fund”) to be marketed to investors in the EU and/or UK.
Report on Remuneration
The Company is required under AIFMD to make quantitative disclosures of remuneration. These disclosures are made in line with BlackRock’s interpretation of currently available regulatory guidance on quantitative remuneration disclosures. As market or regulatory practice develops BlackRock may consider it appropriate to make changes to the way in which quantitative remuneration disclosures are calculated. Where such changes are made, this may result in disclosures in relation to a fund not being comparable to the disclosures made in the prior year, or in relation to other BlackRock fund disclosures in that same year.
Disclosures are provided in relation to (a) the staff of the Company; (b) staff who are senior management; and (c) staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund.
All individuals included in the aggregated figures disclosed are rewarded in line with BlackRock’s remuneration policy for their responsibilities across the relevant BlackRock business area. As all individuals have a number of areas of responsibilities, only the portion of remuneration for those individuals’ services attributable to the Fund is included in the aggregate figures disclosed.
BlackRock has a clear and well-defined pay-for-performance philosophy, and compensation programs which support that philosophy.
BlackRock operates a total compensation model for remuneration which includes a base salary, which is contractual, and a discretionary bonus scheme. Although all employees are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, there is no contractual obligation to make a discretionary bonus award to any employees. For senior management and staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund, a significant percentage of variable remuneration is deferred over time. All employees are subject to a clawback policy.
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Supplemental Information (unaudited) (continued)
Remuneration decisions for employees are made once annually in January following the end of the performance year, based on BlackRock’s full-year financial results and other non-financial goals and objectives. Alongside financial performance, individual total compensation is also based on strategic and operating results and other considerations such as management and leadership capabilities. No set formulas are established and no fixed benchmarks are used in determining annual incentive awards.
Annual incentive awards are paid from a bonus pool which is reviewed throughout the year by BlackRock’s independent compensation committee, taking into account both actual and projected financial information together with information provided by the Enterprise Risk and Regulatory Compliance departments in relation to any activities, incidents or events that warrant consideration in making compensation decisions. Individuals are not involved in setting their own remuneration.
Each of the control functions (Enterprise Risk, Legal & Compliance, and Internal Audit) each have their own organizational structures which are independent of the business units and therefore staff members in control functions are remunerated independently of the businesses they oversee. Functional bonus pools for those control functions are determined with reference to the performance of each individual function and the remuneration of the senior members of control functions is directly overseen by BlackRock’s independent remuneration committee.
Members of staff and senior management of the Company typically provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the Company and across the broader BlackRock group. Conversely, members of staff and senior management of the broader BlackRock group may provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the broader BlackRock group and of the Company. Therefore, the figures disclosed are a sum of individuals’ portion of remuneration attributable to the Company according to an objective apportionment methodology which acknowledges the multiple-service nature of the Company and the broader BlackRock group. Accordingly, the figures are not representative of any individual’s actual remuneration or their remuneration structure.
The amount of the total remuneration awarded to the Company’s staff in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022 was USD 4.12 million. This figure is comprised of fixed remuneration of USD 685 thousand and variable remuneration of USD 3.44 million. There was a total of 8 beneficiaries of the remuneration described above.
The amount of the aggregate remuneration awarded by the Company in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022, to its senior management was USD 2.96 million, and to other members of its staff whose actions potentially have a material impact on the risk profile of the Company or its funds was USD 970 thousand. These figures relate to the entire Company and not to the Fund.
Disclosures Under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation
The iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (the “Fund”) is registered under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive to be marketed to European Union (“EU”) investors, as noted above. As a result, certain disclosures are required under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (“SFDR”).
The Fund has not been categorized under the SFDR as an “Article 8” or “Article 9” product. In addition, the Fund’s investment strategy does not take into account the criteria for environmentally sustainable economic activities under the EU sustainable investment taxonomy regulation or principal adverse impacts (“PAIs”) on sustainability factors under the SFDR. PAIs are identified under the SFDR as the material impacts of investment decisions on sustainability factors relating to environmental, social and employee matters, respect for human rights, and anti-corruption and anti-bribery matters.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | 47 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) | Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
(b) | Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
48 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Officers | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 49 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer.
|
50 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
GENERAL INFORMATION | 51 |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Currency Abbreviation
GBP | British Pound | |
USD | United States Dollar | |
Portfolio Abbreviation | ||
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
52 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-813-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
| 2023 Annual Report
|
iShares Trust
· | iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF | IVEG | NASDAQ |
· | iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF | ESGD | NASDAQ |
· | iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF | LDEM | NASDAQ |
· | iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF | SDG | NASDAQ |
· | iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF | IWTR | NASDAQ |
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023
| ||||||||
6-Month
|
12-Month
| |||||||
U.S. large cap equities (S&P 500® Index)
| 14.50 | % | 15.94 | % | ||||
U.S. small cap equities (Russell 2000® Index)
| 0.99 | 4.65 | ||||||
International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)
| 4.75 | 17.92 | ||||||
Emerging market equities (MSCI Emerging Markets Index)
| 3.62 | 1.25 | ||||||
3-month Treasury bills (ICE BofA 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index)
| 2.47 | 4.25 | ||||||
U.S. Treasury securities (ICE BofA 10-Year U.S. Treasury Index)
| 0.11 | | (4.71 | ) | ||||
U.S. investment grade bonds (Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index)
| 0.95 | (1.19 | ) | |||||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds (Bloomberg Municipal Bond Index)
| 1.04 | 1.70 | ||||||
U.S. high yield bonds (Bloomberg U.S. Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)
| 4.55 | 7.19 | ||||||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.
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Market Overview |
iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of companies from U.S. and non-U.S. markets that are expected to benefit from creating or using agricultural technologies or innovative food products or services as representd by the Morningstar Global Food Innovation Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception | 1 Year | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (4.92 | )% | (12.34 | )% | (4.92 | )% | (16.33 | )% | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (5.21 | ) | (12.20 | ) | (5.21 | ) | (16.15 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Index | (5.16 | ) | (12.37 | ) | (5.16 | ) | (16.29 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was April 25, 2022. The first day of secondary market trading was April 27, 2022.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 945.70 | $ 2.30 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.80 | $ 2.40 | 0.47 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Stocks that create or use agricultural technologies or innovative food products or services declined for the reporting period. Stocks in the U.S., which represented approximately 60% of the Index on average for the reporting period, detracted the most from the Index’s return. The chemicals industry in the materials sector faced headwinds, as the market for fertilizer continued to adjust to the disruption created by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As the reporting period began, stock prices of companies involved in the production of fertilizer and related materials were elevated, amid concerns about a global fertilizer shortage. However, markets adapted, and new production facilities and input sources improved supply, sending the price of fertilizer lower and pressuring the stocks of chemicals companies.
Similarly, the Canadian materials sector weighed on the Index’s return, as trends in the global fertilizer market led to contracting profit margins in the chemicals industry. Some farmers anticipated further declines in fertilizer prices and accordingly delayed some purchases, constraining the industry’s North American potash sales.
Norwegian stocks also detracted from the Index’s performance, particularly the food products industry in the consumer staples sector. Despite strong demand for seafood, a new tax on salmon farming implemented by the Norwegian government negatively impacted the industry. The declining value of the Norwegian krone relative to the U.S. dollar also reduced the value of Norwegian stocks in U.S. dollar terms.
On the upside, German stocks contributed to the Index’s return. Cost cutting benefited the chemicals industry in the materials sector, and the rising value of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar increased the value of Eurozone stocks in U.S. dollar terms. In the German industrials sector, strong demand for food and beverage production equipment drove higher earnings in the machinery industry. The Italian machinery industry also gained amid robust orders for tractors, as higher prices for agricultural commodities early in the reporting period drove farmers to invest in equipment.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of | | |
Materials |
| 48.2 | % | |
Consumer Staples |
| 19.2 |
| |
Industrials |
| 18.7 |
| |
Health Care |
| 9.8 |
| |
Information Technology |
| 4.1 |
|
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of | | |
United States |
| 58.3 | % | |
Germany |
| 10.7 |
| |
United Kingdom |
| 7.5 |
| |
France |
| 7.3 |
| |
Norway |
| 5.1 |
| |
Japan |
| 4.8 |
| |
Canada |
| 3.4 |
| |
Denmark |
| 2.1 |
| |
Other (each representing less than 1%) |
| 0.8 |
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization developed market equities, excluding the U.S. and Canada that have positive environmental, social and governance characteristics, as identified by the index provider while exhibiting risk and return characteristics similar to those of the parent index, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Extended ESG Focus Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | | Since Inception | | 1 Year | 5 Years | | Since Inception | | |||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 18.42 | % | 4.44 | % | 7.43 | % | 18.42 | % | 24.28 | % | 67.28 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 18.52 | 4.47 | 7.44 | 18.52 | 24.42 | 67.38 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 18.06 | 4.50 | 7.54 | 18.06 | 24.61 | 68.38 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was June 28, 2016. The first day of secondary market trading was June 30, 2016.
Index performance through May 31, 2018 reflects the performance of the MSCI EAFE ESG Focus Index. Index performance beginning on June 1, 2018 reflects the performance of the MSCI EAFE Extended ESG Focus Index.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,050.70 | $ 1.03 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,024.20 | $ 1.02 | 0.20 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Investor interest in the environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) attributes of companies was mixed during the reporting period. In Europe, ESG investments continued to attract net inflows, although the rate of net purchases slowed in the first half of 2023.
During the reporting period, the Index of international developed stocks with a tilt towards favorable ESG characteristics in developed markets advanced significantly for the reporting period. Japanese stocks contributed the most to the Index’s return, helped by Japan’s improving economy and corporate reforms designed to reorient focus on corporate profits. The industrials sector and the financial sector contributed the most to the Index’s return.
European stocks, particularly from France and Germany, also gained for the reporting period. In France, the consumer discretionary sector was a source of strength, driven primarily by the textiles and apparel industry. Sales of luxury goods supported revenues in the industry, and European sales were particularly strong, helped by an increase in tourism from North America. In Germany, the information technology sector advanced, benefiting from strong sales of cloud-based enterprise software. U.K. stocks also contributed to the Index’s performance, as cost cutting and high interest rates benefited the banking industry in the financial sector.
In terms of relative performance, the Index slightly outperformed the broader market, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Index, while tracking it relatively closely. The Index balances seeking similar risk and return to the broad market while tilting towards companies with favorable ESG characteristics. Stock selection in the information technology sector and the real estate sector contributed notably to the Index’s relative return. However, stock selection in the materials and industrials sectors detracted from the Index’s performance relative to the broader market.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
Financials | 18.5% | |||
Industrials | 16.1 | |||
Health Care | 12.8 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 12.0 | |||
Consumer Staples | 9.8 | |||
Information Technology | 8.7 | |||
Materials | 7.8 | |||
Energy | 5.0 | |||
Communication Services | 3.7 | |||
Utilities | 3.2 | |||
Real Estate | 2.4 |
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION |
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
Japan | 22.7% | |||
United Kingdom | 14.9 | |||
France | 11.5 | |||
Switzerland | 11.0 | |||
Germany | 8.1 | |||
Australia | 7.2 | |||
Netherlands | 4.2 | |||
Denmark | 3.3 | |||
Sweden | 3.0 | |||
Spain | 2.8 | |||
Hong Kong | 2.2 | |||
Italy | 2.2 | |||
Singapore | 1.4 | |||
Finland | 1.1 | |||
Norway | 1.0 | |||
Belgium | 1.0 | |||
Ireland | 1.0 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.4 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large and mid-capitalization stocks of emerging market companies with high environmental, social, and governance performance relative to their sector peers as determined by the index provider, as represented by the MSCI EM Extended ESG Leaders 5% Issuer Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception | 1 Year | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (0.48 | )% | (1.67 | )% | (0.48 | )% | (5.82 | )% | ||||||||||||||||
Fund Market | (0.21 | ) | (1.85 | ) | (0.21 | ) | (6.46 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Index | (0.72 | ) | (1.16 | ) | (0.72 | ) | (4.07 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was February 5, 2020. The first day of secondary market trading was February 7, 2020.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,013.10 | $ 0.86 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,024.30 | $ 0.87 | 0.17 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 9 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Investor interest in the environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) attributes of companies was mixed during the reporting period. Globally, fund flows to ESG-focused investments slowed in the first half of 2023 while remaining net positive.
During the period, the Index of emerging market stocks with positive ESG characteristics relative to their sector peers posted a modest decline. Chinese stocks detracted the most from the Index’s performance, particularly in the consumer discretionary sector. Concerns about a slowdown in China’s consumer spending weighed on the stock of a major provider of food delivery services. The healthcare sector also declined, as news of a U.S. biotechnology and biomanufacturing initiative pressured the Chinese life sciences tools and services industry.
Stocks in India also faced headwinds. A large company in the utilities sector declined sharply following a high-profile report from a U.S.-based finance firm that accused the utility’s parent company of fraud and market manipulation.]
On the upside, Mexican stocks contributed slightly to the Index’s performance. The beverages industry in the consumer staples sector posted gains amid high consumer demand and effective digital initiatives to improve operations.
In terms of relative performance, the Index underperformed the broader market, as represented by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The Index seeks to achieve higher exposure to ESG Leaders relative to the broader market while excluding companies with an MSCI ESG Rating of ‘B’ and below. Compared to the broader market, the Index held overweight positions in the communication services and financials sectors and a significantly underweight position in the information technology sector. Positioning in the information technology sector and stock selection in the financials and materials sectors detracted from the Index’s relative performance.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
Financials | 23.1% | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 14.7 | |||
Communication Services | 14.1 | |||
Information Technology | 12.9 | |||
Materials | 7.8 | |||
Industrials | 7.7 | |||
Consumer Staples | 6.5 | |||
Energy | 5.2 | |||
Health Care | 4.0 | |||
Real Estate | 2.1 | |||
Utilities | 1.9 |
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION |
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
China | 31.1% | |||
India | 15.1 | |||
Taiwan | 13.8 | |||
South Korea | 7.5 | |||
South Africa | 5.6 | |||
Brazil | 4.7 | |||
Mexico | 3.1 | |||
Thailand | 3.0 | |||
Saudi Arabia | 2.6 | |||
Indonesia | 2.6 | |||
Malaysia | 2.4 | |||
United Arab Emirates | 2.3 | |||
Poland | 1.2 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 5.0 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (the “Fund”) (formerly the iShares MSCI Global Impact ETF) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of companies that derive a majority of their revenue from products and services that address at least one of the world’s major social and environmental challenges as identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as represented by the MSCIACWI Sustainable Impact Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | 5 Years | | Since Inception | | 1 Year | 5 Years | | Since Inception | | |||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 2.08 | % | 7.86 | % | 8.68 | % | 2.08 | % | 46.01 | % | 84.64 | % | ||||||||||||||
Fund Market | 1.48 | 7.75 | 8.63 | 1.48 | 45.27 | 83.97 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Index | 2.30 | 7.92 | 8.83 | 2.30 | 46.37 | 86.45 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was April 20, 2016. The first day of secondary market trading was April 22, 2016.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,020.50 | $ 2.50 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.70 | $ 2.50 | 0.49 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 11 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
The COVID-19 pandemic substantially disrupted progress toward the U.N. sustainable development goals (“SDGs”), and approximately half of the SDGs are moderately or severely off track, with another 30 percent having either stalled or reversed. Despite the ongoing challenges, many countries continued to monitor their SDG implementation, with 39 nations presenting voluntary progress reviews to the U.N. in 2023, including two countries that presented for the first time.
In this environment, global stocks deriving revenue associated with addressing social and environmental challenges advanced modestly for the reporting period. Stocks in the U.S. contributed the most to the Index’s return, particularly stocks in the healthcare sector. The biotechnology industry gained, helped by approval of a treatment for several diseases. Development of a promising drug for treatment of obesity and diabetes buoyed the pharmaceuticals industry as well.
Japanese stocks also posted gains, led by the real estate sector. The Bank of Japan was one of the few central banks that declined to raise interest rates during the reporting period, leading to lower borrowing costs and benefiting the real estate industry. Low interest rates and the weakness of the Japanese yen relative to the U.S. dollar helped attract international investors to the Japanese real estate market.
Swiss stocks further contributed to the Index’s performance, also driven by strength in the healthcare sector. The pharmaceuticals industry gained amid strong sales for a drug for heart patients, a drug for treating breast cancer, and a multiple sclerosis treatment.
On the downside, Chinese stocks detracted from the Index’s performance, as softening exports pressured the industrials sector. The Belgian materials sector also declined amid higher costs and volatility in commodities markets.
In terms of relative performance, the Index significantly underperformed the broader market, as represented by the MSCIACWI Index. The index’s selection process seeks stocks that derive a majority of their revenue from products and services that address at least one of the world’s major social and environmental challenges as identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The index held a significant underweight to the information technology sector which detracted from relative performance as the sector drove returns for the broader market. The Index’s overweight to the real estate sector also hurt relative performance. Additionally, security selection in the both the industrials and materials sectors detracted from the Index’s relative return.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of | | |
Consumer Staples |
| 19.8 | % | |
Health Care |
| 19.6 |
| |
Real Estate |
| 17.1 |
| |
Industrials |
| 14.5 |
| |
Materials |
| 10.9 |
| |
Consumer Discretionary |
| 8.5 |
| |
Information Technology |
| 5.9 |
| |
Utilities |
| 3.7 |
|
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of | | |
United States |
| 28.8 | % | |
Japan |
| 13.8 |
| |
China |
| 11.6 |
| |
Denmark |
| 8.8 |
| |
United Kingdom |
| 5.7 |
| |
Belgium |
| 4.4 |
| |
Hong Kong |
| 4.2 |
| |
South Korea |
| 3.7 |
| |
Canada |
| 3.0 |
| |
Germany |
| 2.7 |
| |
Sweden |
| 2.6 |
| |
Taiwan |
| 1.6 |
| |
France |
| 1.5 |
| |
Australia |
| 1.4 |
| |
Chile |
| 1.0 |
| |
Other (each representing less than 1%) |
| 5.2 |
|
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF(the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of U.S. and non-U.S. companies that either 1) derive a proportion of their revenues from sustainable water products or services or 2) demonstrate relative efficiency in their water management, as represented by the MSCI ACWI IMI SustainableWater Transition Extended Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Cumulative Total Returns | ||||
Since Inception | ||||
Fund NAV | 13.91 | % | ||
Fund Market | 14.08 | |||
Index | 13.67 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was September 20, 2022. The first day of secondary market trading was September 22, 2022.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
��
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) | | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) | | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,036.50 | $ 2.41 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.80 | $ 2.40 | 0.47 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 13 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Governments and businesses continued to invest in technologies to improve water access, quality, and management during the reporting period. Concerns about the sustainability of groundwater sources, which provide a significant portion of the world’s household and agricultural water, highlighted the importance of the management of and investment in securing access to clean water. Demand for water continued to grow globally, as population growth, urbanization, and increased agricultural and industrial use pressured water supplies.
In this environment, the stocks of companies that derive revenues from sustainable water products and services or demonstrate efficient water management advanced for the reporting period. U.S. stocks contributed the most to the Index’s performance, led by the industrials sector, particularly the industrial machinery, supplies, and components industry. Despite ongoing supply chain constraints, companies that manufacture products and equipment used for water conservation and treatment projects posted strong gains. Investments in networked water management equipment to improve product operation and process efficiency helped drive increased industry revenue. Stocks in the information technology sector also contributed to the Index’s return, led by the electronic equipment and instruments industry. Strong commercial and residential demand for advanced products used in water metering drove higher earnings in the industry, and the acquisition of a smart water technology company bolstered sales growth.
French stocks also advanced notably, led by the utilities sector. Robust organic revenue growth in the multiutilities industry drove gains, as increased sales from hazardous waste treatment in Europe and higher energy prices buoyed revenue.
In terms of relative performance, the Index underperformed the broader market, as represented by the MSCIACWI Investable Market Index. Relative to the broader market, the index’s selection process aims to provide exposure to companies that either derive a proportion of their revenues from sustainable water products or service or demonstrate relative efficiency in their water management. Consequently, the Index held underweight positions in the information technology sector which resulted in the largest detractor to relative performance at the sector level. Within the information technology sector, lack of exposure to the software and services industry hurt the Index’s relative performance as the industry boosted the performance of the broader market during the period. The Index’s lack of exposure to the communication services sector also detracted from relative performance. On the other side of the spectrum, the index’s overweight to the industrials sector helped boost relative performance in addition to security selection within the utilities sector.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION |
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
Industrials | 29.0% | |||
Consumer Staples | 20.1 | |||
Information Technology | 16.6 | |||
Utilities | 16.6 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 9.3 | |||
Materials | 7.3 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.1 |
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION |
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of Total Investments(a) | | |
United States | 56.2% | |||
United Kingdom | 8.1 | |||
Taiwan | 6.5 | |||
Switzerland | 6.2 | |||
Brazil | 5.5 | |||
Japan | 4.9 | |||
Austria | 3.0 | |||
Mexico | 2.6 | |||
China | 1.9 | |||
India | 1.4 | |||
Finland | 1.3 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 2.4 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 15 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Australia — 0.4% | ||||||||
Nufarm Ltd./Australia | 7,200 | $ | 24,074 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Canada — 3.4% | ||||||||
Nutrien Ltd. | 3,114 | 197,252 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Denmark — 2.1% | ||||||||
Chr Hansen Holding A/S | 1,910 | 124,541 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
France — 7.3% | ||||||||
Danone SA | 4,721 | 275,200 | ||||||
Eurofins Scientific SE | 2,508 | 154,374 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
429,574 | ||||||||
Germany — 10.6% | ||||||||
BASF SE | 5,032 | 254,707 | ||||||
Bayer AG, Registered | 4,512 | 246,863 | ||||||
GEA Group AG | 3,114 | 122,795 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
624,365 | ||||||||
Japan — 4.7% | ||||||||
Kubota Corp. | 17,300 | 278,418 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Netherlands — 0.4% | ||||||||
Corbion NV | 1,002 | 23,965 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Norway — 5.1% | ||||||||
Austevoll Seafood ASA | 1,800 | 13,022 | ||||||
Bakkafrost P/F | 973 | 49,025 | ||||||
Grieg Seafood ASA | 1,146 | 8,106 | ||||||
Mowi ASA | 9,093 | 164,832 | ||||||
Salmar ASA | 1,309 | 63,904 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
298,889 | ||||||||
United Kingdom — 7.4% | ||||||||
CNH Industrial NV | 15,366 | 211,864 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
United Kingdom (continued) | ||||||||
Croda International PLC | 2,700 | $ | 188,562 | |||||
Genus PLC | 1,231 | 36,215 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
436,641 | ||||||||
United States — 57.9% | ||||||||
AGCO Corp. | 1,194 | 154,659 | ||||||
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. | 2,672 | 211,890 | ||||||
CF Industries Holdings Inc. | 2,460 | 189,592 | ||||||
Corteva Inc. | 3,906 | 197,292 | ||||||
Deere & Co. | 564 | 231,770 | ||||||
Ecolab Inc. | 1,686 | 309,904 | ||||||
Exponent Inc. | 1,020 | 91,657 | ||||||
FMC Corp. | 1,932 | 166,596 | ||||||
Ingredion Inc. | 1,272 | 130,901 | ||||||
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. | 2,317 | 163,233 | ||||||
International Paper Co. | 6,740 | 235,361 | ||||||
Kellogg Co. | 3,382 | 206,370 | ||||||
Mosaic Co. (The) | 5,153 | 200,194 | ||||||
Neogen Corp.(a) | 4,560 | 105,427 | ||||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 1,788 | 266,591 | ||||||
Sealed Air Corp. | 2,867 | 106,251 | ||||||
Sotera Health Co.(a) | 1,938 | 31,279 | ||||||
Trimble Inc.(a) | 4,364 | 239,104 | ||||||
Westrock Co. | 5,274 | 172,512 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,410,583 | ||||||||
Total Investments — 99.3% | 5,848,302 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.7% | 39,604 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 5,887,906 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | 65,147 | $ | — | $ | (65,162 | )(b) | $ | 21 | $ | (6 | ) | $ | — | — | $ | 1,659 | (c) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(a) | — | 0 | (b) | — | — | — | — | — | 97 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 21 | $ | (6 | ) | $ | — | $ | 1,756 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(c) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Micro E-mini Russell 2000 Index | 4 | 09/15/23 | $ | 38 | $ | 9 | ||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,892 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,892 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (269 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (269 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 25,558 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 3,615,941 | $ | 2,232,361 | $ | — | $ | 5,848,302 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | 9 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 17 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks |
| |||||||
Australia — 7.2% | ||||||||
APA Group | 1,075,035 | $ | 6,244,977 | |||||
Aristocrat Leisure Ltd. | 353,536 | 9,332,675 | ||||||
ASX Ltd. | 234,698 | 8,734,362 | ||||||
Aurizon Holdings Ltd. | 3,102,380 | 7,312,170 | ||||||
Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. | 955,585 | 15,601,944 | ||||||
BlueScope Steel Ltd. | 567,265 | 7,669,160 | ||||||
Brambles Ltd. | 1,987,728 | 19,249,100 | ||||||
Cochlear Ltd. | 62,759 | 11,015,736 | ||||||
Coles Group Ltd. | 654,723 | 6,888,685 | ||||||
Commonwealth Bank of Australia | 813,342 | 53,580,602 | ||||||
Computershare Ltd. | 530,115 | 8,618,047 | ||||||
CSL Ltd. | 247,912 | 43,780,988 | ||||||
Dexus | 2,831,909 | 14,151,365 | ||||||
Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. | 1,193,324 | 16,428,954 | ||||||
Goodman Group | 627,378 | 9,452,856 | ||||||
GPT Group (The) | 2,673,513 | 7,238,820 | ||||||
IGO Ltd. | 882,582 | 7,876,410 | ||||||
Insurance Australia Group Ltd. | 1,902,458 | 7,139,956 | ||||||
James Hardie Industries PLC(a) | 246,415 | 7,406,557 | ||||||
Lendlease Corp. Ltd. | 1,390,777 | 7,003,286 | ||||||
Macquarie Group Ltd. | 121,012 | 13,835,361 | ||||||
Mineral Resources Ltd. | 186,757 | 8,572,519 | ||||||
Mirvac Group | 9,860,304 | 15,373,269 | ||||||
National Australia Bank Ltd. | 995,562 | 18,553,760 | ||||||
Newcrest Mining Ltd. | 584,254 | 9,737,554 | ||||||
Northern Star Resources Ltd. | 1,075,647 | 8,241,756 | ||||||
Orica Ltd. | 826,765 | 8,375,816 | ||||||
Pilbara Minerals Ltd. | 2,170,287 | 6,506,559 | ||||||
QBE Insurance Group Ltd. | 751,625 | 7,250,083 | ||||||
REA Group Ltd. | 68,785 | 7,333,703 | ||||||
Rio Tinto Ltd. | 186,437 | 13,502,962 | ||||||
Santos Ltd. | 1,778,997 | 8,802,536 | ||||||
Sonic Healthcare Ltd. | 339,163 | 7,049,226 | ||||||
South32 Ltd. | 2,993,103 | 6,526,452 | ||||||
Suncorp Group Ltd. | 1,398,174 | 12,263,520 | ||||||
Telstra Corp. Ltd. | 3,411,450 | 8,849,698 | ||||||
Transurban Group | 4,170,356 | 35,705,670 | ||||||
Westpac Banking Corp. | 534,204 | 7,557,609 | ||||||
Woodside Energy Group Ltd. | 1,366,792 | 32,628,379 | ||||||
Xero Ltd.(a) | 95,808 | 7,755,045 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
519,148,127 | ||||||||
Austria — 0.3% | ||||||||
OMV AG | 289,815 | 13,420,743 | ||||||
Verbund AG | 99,842 | 8,170,996 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,591,739 | ||||||||
Belgium — 1.0% | ||||||||
Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV | 476,171 | 27,028,419 | ||||||
Argenx SE(a) | 20,594 | 10,350,222 | ||||||
KBC Group NV | 318,031 | 20,866,041 | ||||||
UCB SA | 79,426 | 7,124,277 | ||||||
Umicore SA | 288,333 | 7,640,324 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
73,009,283 | ||||||||
Denmark — 3.3% | ||||||||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class A | 4,039 | 7,218,010 | ||||||
Carlsberg AS, Class B | 54,420 | 7,869,017 | ||||||
Coloplast A/S, Class B | 60,804 | 6,925,311 | ||||||
DSV A/S | 79,571 | 15,110,499 | ||||||
Genmab A/S(a) | 38,989 | 14,938,056 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Denmark (continued) | ||||||||
Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B | 800,339 | $ | 147,625,506 | |||||
Novozymes A/S, Class B | 162,049 | 7,014,417 | ||||||
Orsted AS(b) | 154,975 | 9,942,371 | ||||||
Pandora A/S | 91,268 | 9,451,557 | ||||||
Vestas Wind Systems A/S(a) | 607,430 | 14,034,733 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
240,129,477 | ||||||||
Finland — 1.2% | ||||||||
Kesko OYJ, Class B | 481,315 | 9,395,413 | ||||||
Metso OYJ | 840,876 | 9,657,907 | ||||||
Neste OYJ | 410,824 | 15,029,200 | ||||||
Nokia OYJ | 4,649,278 | 18,592,776 | ||||||
Stora Enso OYJ, Class R | 594,145 | 7,573,294 | ||||||
UPM-Kymmene OYJ | 428,216 | 14,654,636 | ||||||
Wartsila OYJ Abp | 612,623 | 7,774,734 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
82,677,960 | ||||||||
France — 11.4% | ||||||||
Air Liquide SA | 123,132 | 22,247,019 | ||||||
Airbus SE | 189,250 | 27,688,602 | ||||||
AXA SA | 1,013,054 | 30,437,096 | ||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 538,447 | 34,820,099 | ||||||
Bouygues SA | 208,681 | 7,218,439 | ||||||
Capgemini SE | 43,845 | 8,182,411 | ||||||
Carrefour SA | 354,035 | 6,766,927 | ||||||
Cie. de Saint-Gobain | 123,485 | 8,032,963 | ||||||
Cie. Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA | 984,167 | 30,790,620 | ||||||
Covivio | 319,894 | 15,597,683 | ||||||
Danone SA | 659,845 | 38,464,200 | ||||||
Dassault Systemes SE | 596,496 | 23,639,439 | ||||||
Edenred | 121,660 | 7,752,577 | ||||||
Eiffage SA | 72,085 | 7,138,065 | ||||||
Engie SA | 624,989 | 10,064,974 | ||||||
EssilorLuxottica SA | 86,976 | 16,347,734 | ||||||
Gecina SA | 72,411 | 7,746,218 | ||||||
Hermes International | 15,581 | 32,045,218 | ||||||
Kering SA | 52,777 | 28,221,452 | ||||||
Legrand SA | 135,828 | 13,381,692 | ||||||
L’Oreal SA | 125,831 | 55,269,017 | ||||||
LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE | 135,770 | 114,814,900 | ||||||
Pernod Ricard SA | 117,304 | 23,021,338 | ||||||
Publicis Groupe SA | 108,634 | 8,488,476 | ||||||
Safran SA | 125,981 | 20,190,366 | ||||||
Sanofi | 515,480 | 54,900,650 | ||||||
Schneider Electric SE | 375,157 | 64,305,018 | ||||||
Societe Generale SA | 744,858 | 21,102,693 | ||||||
Teleperformance | 56,289 | 7,777,541 | ||||||
TotalEnergies SE | 1,018,083 | 63,863,219 | ||||||
Valeo | 535,593 | 10,411,009 | ||||||
Worldline SA/France(a)(b) | 215,558 | 7,015,592 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
827,743,247 | ||||||||
Germany — 7.7% | ||||||||
adidas AG | 94,733 | 18,905,863 | ||||||
Allianz SE, Registered | 195,504 | 47,522,952 | ||||||
BASF SE | 246,771 | 12,490,901 | ||||||
Bayer AG, Registered | 357,580 | 19,564,110 | ||||||
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG | 170,489 | 17,931,881 | ||||||
Brenntag SE | 89,856 | 7,267,925 | ||||||
Commerzbank AG | 681,394 | 7,486,796 | ||||||
Deutsche Bank AG, Registered | 758,862 | 8,255,483 | ||||||
Deutsche Boerse AG | 114,590 | 20,342,464 |
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Germany (continued) | ||||||||
Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Registered(a) | 769,704 | $ | 6,873,720 | |||||
Deutsche Post AG, Registered | 412,521 | 19,237,111 | ||||||
Deutsche Telekom AG, Registered | 338,989 | 7,255,559 | ||||||
E.ON SE | 1,013,938 | 12,481,236 | ||||||
Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA | 221,533 | 7,102,171 | ||||||
GEA Group AG | 298,830 | 11,783,864 | ||||||
Heidelberg Materials AG | 85,654 | 6,887,148 | ||||||
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA | 285,954 | 19,761,771 | ||||||
Infineon Technologies AG | 755,780 | 27,008,312 | ||||||
LEG Immobilien SE(a) | 124,097 | 8,937,028 | ||||||
Mercedes-Benz Group AG | 357,263 | 26,142,643 | ||||||
Merck KGaA | 138,276 | 24,824,024 | ||||||
MTU Aero Engines AG | 31,607 | 7,377,719 | ||||||
Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG in Muenchen, Registered | 96,608 | 37,499,282 | ||||||
Puma SE | 147,128 | 9,860,307 | ||||||
Rheinmetall AG | 25,872 | 7,027,483 | ||||||
SAP SE | 649,181 | 90,563,635 | ||||||
Siemens AG, Registered | 372,159 | 55,909,732 | ||||||
Vonovia SE | 336,533 | 8,074,531 | ||||||
Zalando SE(a)(b) | 218,649 | 6,796,815 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
561,172,466 | ||||||||
Hong Kong — 2.2% | ||||||||
AIA Group Ltd. | 5,571,800 | 50,415,049 | ||||||
BOC Hong Kong Holdings Ltd. | 3,941,500 | 10,950,626 | ||||||
Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd.(a) | 1,116,000 | 7,376,427 | ||||||
Hang Seng Bank Ltd. | 687,200 | 8,757,755 | ||||||
Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. | 708,400 | 27,456,304 | ||||||
MTR Corp. Ltd. | 4,348,500 | 18,143,947 | ||||||
Sands China Ltd.(a) | 2,154,800 | 7,289,039 | ||||||
Sino Land Co. Ltd. | 6,386,000 | 7,315,022 | ||||||
Swire Pacific Ltd., Class A | 928,500 | 7,655,839 | ||||||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 7,758,000 | 16,212,428 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
161,572,436 | ||||||||
Ireland — 1.0% | ||||||||
CRH PLC | 582,832 | 33,532,454 | ||||||
Flutter Entertainment PLC, Class DI(a) | 71,223 | 12,953,004 | ||||||
Kerry Group PLC, Class A | 201,010 | 18,754,258 | ||||||
Kingspan Group PLC | 89,517 | 7,563,692 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
72,803,408 | ||||||||
Israel — 0.6% | ||||||||
Bank Hapoalim BM | 864,643 | 7,158,505 | ||||||
Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM | 898,697 | 6,976,150 | ||||||
CyberArk Software Ltd.(a)(c) | 47,487 | 7,884,741 | ||||||
Elbit Systems Ltd. | 35,499 | 6,967,488 | ||||||
Isracard Ltd. | 1 | 5 | ||||||
Nice Ltd.(a) | 39,935 | 7,783,470 | ||||||
Wix.com Ltd.(a) | 79,852 | 7,886,982 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
44,657,341 | ||||||||
Italy — 2.2% | ||||||||
Assicurazioni Generali SpA | 1,615,285 | 33,457,376 | ||||||
Enel SpA | 4,680,755 | 31,430,459 | ||||||
Eni SpA | 719,140 | 11,119,346 | ||||||
Intesa Sanpaolo SpA | 9,183,199 | 24,522,822 | ||||||
Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA | 553,266 | 7,241,207 | ||||||
Poste Italiane SpA(b) | 659,463 | 7,320,654 | ||||||
Stellantis NV | 388,954 | 7,220,250 | ||||||
Terna - Rete Elettrica Nazionale | 1,105,517 | 9,116,717 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Italy (continued) | ||||||||
UniCredit SpA | 977,675 | $ | 23,819,200 | |||||
|
| |||||||
155,248,031 | ||||||||
Japan — 22.5% | ||||||||
Advantest Corp. | 97,600 | 12,216,649 | ||||||
Aeon Co. Ltd. | 396,900 | 8,225,421 | ||||||
Ajinomoto Co. Inc. | 589,200 | 24,960,180 | ||||||
ANA Holdings Inc.(a) | 315,000 | 7,111,165 | ||||||
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd. | 325,300 | 12,655,908 | ||||||
Asahi Kasei Corp. | 3,974,400 | 25,654,322 | ||||||
Astellas Pharma Inc. | 1,162,200 | 17,584,510 | ||||||
Azbil Corp. | 408,800 | 13,618,554 | ||||||
Bridgestone Corp. | 569,500 | 22,111,268 | ||||||
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 243,900 | 7,434,536 | ||||||
Daifuku Co. Ltd. | 397,500 | 7,336,089 | ||||||
Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd. | 928,000 | 27,332,990 | ||||||
Daikin Industries Ltd. | 147,700 | 25,531,210 | ||||||
Daiwa Securities Group Inc. | 4,339,300 | 24,676,085 | ||||||
Eisai Co. Ltd. | 163,600 | 10,342,167 | ||||||
ENEOS Holdings Inc. | 3,077,400 | 11,556,045 | ||||||
FANUC Corp. | 849,000 | 24,146,706 | ||||||
Fast Retailing Co. Ltd. | 96,400 | 22,115,243 | ||||||
FUJIFILM Holdings Corp. | 219,100 | 12,948,030 | ||||||
Fujitsu Ltd. | 158,900 | 19,861,200 | ||||||
Hankyu Hanshin Holdings Inc. | 622,700 | 22,349,551 | ||||||
Hitachi Ltd. | 533,300 | 35,444,300 | ||||||
Honda Motor Co. Ltd. | 1,268,200 | 40,983,629 | ||||||
Hoya Corp. | 265,100 | 29,413,087 | ||||||
Ibiden Co. Ltd. | 175,800 | 10,591,970 | ||||||
Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd. | 363,800 | 7,743,960 | ||||||
Inpex Corp. | 1,341,500 | 18,786,134 | ||||||
Isuzu Motors Ltd. | 592,800 | 7,588,757 | ||||||
ITOCHU Corp. | 1,143,900 | 42,929,788 | ||||||
JFE Holdings Inc. | 602,300 | 9,515,198 | ||||||
KDDI Corp. | 1,395,100 | 41,472,717 | ||||||
Keyence Corp. | 62,900 | 26,114,286 | ||||||
Kirin Holdings Co. Ltd. | 738,400 | 10,366,581 | ||||||
Komatsu Ltd. | 537,900 | 15,307,665 | ||||||
Kubota Corp. | 1,029,000 | 16,560,213 | ||||||
Kurita Water Industries Ltd. | 190,300 | 7,413,182 | ||||||
Lixil Corp. | 695,400 | 8,710,331 | ||||||
Marubeni Corp. | 1,197,800 | 19,570,373 | ||||||
MatsukiyoCocokara & Co. | 116,600 | 6,865,460 | ||||||
Mazda Motor Corp. | 737,000 | 7,762,827 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corp. | 1,283,800 | 7,663,913 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Corp. | 368,700 | 18,186,094 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. | 213,200 | 12,073,968 | ||||||
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. | 4,819,000 | 38,444,430 | ||||||
Mitsui Chemicals Inc. | 259,700 | 7,040,156 | ||||||
Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd. | 342,800 | 7,504,959 | ||||||
Mizuho Financial Group Inc. | 1,344,900 | 22,162,634 | ||||||
MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings Inc. | 268,700 | 9,649,452 | ||||||
Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 129,000 | 7,216,683 | ||||||
NEC Corp. | 185,500 | 9,777,866 | ||||||
Nidec Corp. | 133,600 | 6,951,803 | ||||||
Nintendo Co. Ltd. | 441,680 | 18,937,863 | ||||||
Nippon Express Holdings Inc. | 141,800 | 7,363,588 | ||||||
Nippon Steel Corp. | 315,500 | 7,461,046 | ||||||
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. | 6,260,700 | 7,228,827 | ||||||
Nippon Yusen KK | 273,400 | 7,273,640 | ||||||
Nitto Denko Corp. | 103,500 | 7,061,032 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 19 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Japan (continued) | ||||||||
Nomura Holdings Inc. | 1,923,900 | $ | 7,448,593 | |||||
Nomura Research Institute Ltd. | 428,100 | 12,303,225 | ||||||
Omron Corp. | 300,100 | 14,480,559 | ||||||
Oriental Land Co. Ltd./Japan | 639,400 | 23,031,962 | ||||||
ORIX Corp. | 665,300 | 12,404,305 | ||||||
Panasonic Holdings Corp. | 1,335,400 | 15,370,520 | ||||||
Rakuten Group Inc. | 1,913,000 | 7,443,559 | ||||||
Recruit Holdings Co. Ltd. | 731,200 | 26,047,149 | ||||||
Renesas Electronics Corp.(a) | 831,300 | 13,849,176 | ||||||
Secom Co. Ltd. | 159,200 | 11,142,050 | ||||||
Seiko Epson Corp. | 467,600 | 7,321,865 | ||||||
Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd. | 471,500 | 7,231,568 | ||||||
Sekisui House Ltd. | 542,000 | 11,045,630 | ||||||
Seven & i Holdings Co. Ltd. | 238,700 | 9,794,136 | ||||||
SG Holdings Co. Ltd. | 779,600 | 11,261,208 | ||||||
Shimizu Corp. | 1,061,700 | 7,143,056 | ||||||
Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. Ltd. | 620,900 | 19,790,409 | ||||||
Shionogi & Co. Ltd. | 197,100 | 8,656,499 | ||||||
SoftBank Corp. | 2,988,700 | 34,276,513 | ||||||
SoftBank Group Corp. | 433,300 | 19,418,962 | ||||||
Sompo Holdings Inc. | 418,200 | 18,199,013 | ||||||
Sony Group Corp. | 757,600 | 63,026,590 | ||||||
Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. | 6,563,500 | 18,169,906 | ||||||
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd. | 327,800 | 10,172,819 | ||||||
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. | 591,300 | 27,032,144 | ||||||
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. | 217,200 | 8,136,051 | ||||||
Sysmex Corp. | 225,900 | 11,986,375 | ||||||
T&D Holdings Inc. | 462,300 | 7,350,982 | ||||||
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 488,194 | 15,087,665 | ||||||
TDK Corp. | 205,000 | 7,461,408 | ||||||
Terumo Corp. | 250,400 | 7,576,465 | ||||||
Tokio Marine Holdings Inc. | 957,200 | 21,123,961 | ||||||
Tokyo Electron Ltd. | 255,100 | 37,888,887 | ||||||
Tokyo Gas Co. Ltd. | 316,100 | 7,314,730 | ||||||
Tokyu Corp. | 521,000 | 6,583,681 | ||||||
Toray Industries Inc. | 3,011,400 | 16,236,474 | ||||||
Toyota Motor Corp. | 4,922,700 | 84,813,703 | ||||||
West Japan Railway Co. | 170,600 | 7,385,960 | ||||||
Yamaha Corp. | 443,400 | 13,676,343 | ||||||
Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. | 743,200 | 19,231,237 | ||||||
Yaskawa Electric Corp. | 397,900 | 15,600,554 | ||||||
Yokogawa Electric Corp. | 392,100 | 7,763,949 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,636,186,082 | ||||||||
Netherlands — 4.2% | ||||||||
Adyen NV(a)(b) | 8,694 | 7,259,675 | ||||||
Akzo Nobel NV | 198,819 | 16,140,820 | ||||||
ASM International NV | 21,749 | 10,469,301 | ||||||
ASML Holding NV | 214,246 | 140,872,764 | ||||||
Heineken NV | 97,916 | 9,518,457 | ||||||
ING Groep NV | 1,749,867 | 24,793,883 | ||||||
Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV | 687,553 | 22,489,861 | ||||||
Koninklijke KPN NV | 6,110,315 | 21,382,402 | ||||||
Prosus NV | 374,650 | 25,841,256 | ||||||
Universal Music Group NV | 405,639 | 10,057,082 | ||||||
Wolters Kluwer NV | 147,574 | 17,781,237 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
306,606,738 | ||||||||
New Zealand — 0.3% | ||||||||
EBOS Group Ltd. | 483,235 | 10,934,468 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
New Zealand (continued) | ||||||||
Meridian Energy Ltd. | 2,237,282 | $ | 7,156,648 | |||||
|
| |||||||
18,091,116 | ||||||||
Norway — 1.0% | ||||||||
DNB Bank ASA | 1,013,049 | 20,024,486 | ||||||
Equinor ASA | 649,273 | 19,939,961 | ||||||
Gjensidige Forsikring ASA | 477,842 | 7,438,401 | ||||||
Norsk Hydro ASA | 1,265,824 | 7,003,669 | ||||||
Orkla ASA | 1,148,223 | 8,766,025 | ||||||
Telenor ASA | 1,130,840 | 12,107,175 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
75,279,717 | ||||||||
Portugal — 0.2% | ||||||||
Galp Energia SGPS SA | 1,181,029 | 16,300,767 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Singapore — 1.4% | ||||||||
Capitaland Investment Ltd/Singapore | 5,333,300 | 12,775,981 | ||||||
City Developments Ltd. | 3,023,300 | 14,936,317 | ||||||
DBS Group Holdings Ltd. | 381,500 | 9,390,103 | ||||||
Grab Holdings Ltd., Class A(a)(c) | 2,155,262 | 8,125,338 | ||||||
Keppel Corp. Ltd. | 3,910,400 | 20,061,042 | ||||||
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. Ltd. | 2,363,300 | 21,927,425 | ||||||
United Overseas Bank Ltd. | 627,800 | 13,188,422 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
100,404,628 | ||||||||
Spain — 2.7% | ||||||||
Amadeus IT Group SA | 337,010 | 23,123,416 | ||||||
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA | 3,190,641 | 25,173,805 | ||||||
Banco Santander SA | 7,657,310 | 29,891,135 | ||||||
CaixaBank SA | 1,985,079 | 8,040,047 | ||||||
Cellnex Telecom SA(b) | 191,035 | 7,306,221 | ||||||
Corp. ACCIONA Energias Renovables SA | 257,486 | 7,651,504 | ||||||
Endesa SA | 408,092 | 8,475,229 | ||||||
Iberdrola SA | 3,390,126 | 40,216,160 | ||||||
Industria de Diseno Textil SA | 659,871 | 25,280,547 | ||||||
Naturgy Energy Group SA | 385,844 | 11,175,580 | ||||||
Redeia Corp. SA | 248,322 | 4,032,574 | ||||||
Repsol SA | 528,000 | 8,141,477 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
198,507,695 | ||||||||
Sweden — 2.9% | ||||||||
Alfa Laval AB | 212,193 | 7,450,104 | ||||||
Assa Abloy AB, Class B | 360,198 | 8,106,592 | ||||||
Atlas Copco AB, Class A | 1,439,090 | 19,026,513 | ||||||
Boliden AB | 531,393 | 14,130,005 | ||||||
Epiroc AB, Class A | 509,060 | 9,766,512 | ||||||
EQT AB | 347,641 | 6,988,036 | ||||||
Essity AB, Class B | 610,867 | 14,261,411 | ||||||
Evolution AB(b) | 74,474 | 8,054,879 | ||||||
H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB, Class B | 525,878 | 8,029,102 | ||||||
Nibe Industrier AB, Class B | 995,883 | 7,454,256 | ||||||
Nordea Bank Abp | 1,729,620 | 18,948,427 | ||||||
Sandvik AB | 372,540 | 7,045,405 | ||||||
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Class A | 693,960 | 8,045,481 | ||||||
Svenska Cellulosa AB SCA, Class B | 797,831 | 10,620,703 | ||||||
Svenska Handelsbanken AB, Class A | 1,417,929 | 11,831,277 | ||||||
Swedbank AB, Class A | 450,539 | 7,973,511 | ||||||
Tele2 AB, Class B | 1,676,561 | 11,844,558 | ||||||
Telia Co. AB | 8,029,905 | 16,210,791 | ||||||
Volvo AB, Class A | 465,639 | 9,524,086 | ||||||
Volvo AB, Class B | 373,649 | 7,530,379 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
212,842,028 |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Switzerland — 10.9% | ||||||||
ABB Ltd., Registered | 1,497,129 | $ | 56,933,156 | |||||
Alcon Inc. | 386,378 | 32,246,921 | ||||||
Coca-Cola HBC AG, Class DI | 244,232 | 7,035,567 | ||||||
DSM-Firmenich AG | 174,746 | 16,164,172 | ||||||
Geberit AG, Registered | 21,775 | 11,269,473 | ||||||
Givaudan SA, Registered | 6,556 | 21,838,242 | ||||||
Holcim AG | 193,451 | 12,792,942 | ||||||
Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Registered | 60,921 | 18,303,402 | ||||||
Logitech International SA, Registered | 176,575 | 12,215,900 | ||||||
Lonza Group AG, Registered | 49,854 | 27,499,023 | ||||||
Nestle SA, Registered | 1,326,938 | 159,550,238 | ||||||
Novartis AG, Registered | 956,288 | 96,242,458 | ||||||
Roche Holding AG, Bearer | 22,789 | 7,102,384 | ||||||
Roche Holding AG, NVS | 290,218 | 85,175,562 | ||||||
SGS SA | 132,476 | 12,031,842 | ||||||
SIG Group AG | 439,116 | 11,551,138 | ||||||
Sika AG, Registered | 66,726 | 18,855,581 | ||||||
Sonova Holding AG, Registered | 38,709 | 10,228,174 | ||||||
STMicroelectronics NV | 541,361 | 25,549,376 | ||||||
Straumann Holding AG | 47,071 | 7,116,641 | ||||||
Swiss Life Holding AG, Registered | 12,136 | 7,600,353 | ||||||
Swiss Re AG | 256,680 | 24,925,578 | ||||||
Temenos AG, Registered | 85,817 | 6,801,505 | ||||||
UBS Group AG, Registered | 1,745,749 | 46,239,123 | ||||||
VAT Group AG(b) | 19,621 | 7,841,473 | ||||||
Zurich Insurance Group AG | 103,311 | 48,441,796 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
791,552,020 | ||||||||
United Kingdom — 14.9% | ||||||||
3i Group PLC | 831,945 | 20,949,576 | ||||||
Anglo American PLC | 707,809 | 18,821,819 | ||||||
Antofagasta PLC | 398,440 | 7,296,985 | ||||||
Ashtead Group PLC | 182,431 | 12,726,070 | ||||||
Associated British Foods PLC | 283,214 | 7,134,115 | ||||||
AstraZeneca PLC | 755,580 | 101,491,474 | ||||||
BAE Systems PLC | 2,029,149 | 25,826,529 | ||||||
Barclays PLC | 4,927,080 | 9,177,462 | ||||||
Barratt Developments PLC | 1,327,014 | 7,607,071 | ||||||
Berkeley Group Holdings PLC | 160,650 | 8,253,578 | ||||||
BP PLC | 5,405,023 | 33,399,171 | ||||||
BT Group PLC | 4,934,698 | 7,219,025 | ||||||
Burberry Group PLC | 436,924 | 12,063,309 | ||||||
Centrica PLC | 3,840,951 | 7,383,721 | ||||||
CNH Industrial NV | 1,117,931 | 15,413,849 | ||||||
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PLC | 186,645 | 11,965,811 | ||||||
Compass Group PLC | 517,989 | 13,061,978 | ||||||
Croda International PLC(c) | 179,213 | 12,515,853 | ||||||
DCC PLC | 210,047 | 11,493,154 | ||||||
Diageo PLC | 1,466,385 | 60,052,808 | ||||||
Entain PLC | 476,688 | 6,972,375 | ||||||
GSK PLC | 1,804,113 | 31,600,723 | ||||||
HSBC Holdings PLC | 8,845,328 | 65,253,818 | ||||||
Informa PLC | 1,019,451 | 9,419,212 | ||||||
Intertek Group PLC | 137,121 | 7,180,972 | ||||||
J Sainsbury PLC | 4,000,997 | 13,682,420 | ||||||
Johnson Matthey PLC | 384,181 | 7,920,354 | ||||||
Kingfisher PLC | 4,782,675 | 14,173,420 | ||||||
Legal & General Group PLC | 3,904,250 | 10,787,036 | ||||||
Lloyds Banking Group PLC | 31,147,950 | 16,641,181 | ||||||
London Stock Exchange Group PLC | 180,204 | 18,642,847 | ||||||
Mondi PLC | 539,375 | 8,959,461 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
United Kingdom (continued) | ||||||||
National Grid PLC | 2,350,070 | $ | 29,334,501 | |||||
NatWest Group PLC, NVS | 3,334,556 | 9,697,159 | ||||||
Prudential PLC | 1,126,759 | 13,722,861 | ||||||
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC | 289,877 | 20,919,162 | ||||||
RELX PLC | 1,339,235 | 43,652,002 | ||||||
Rio Tinto PLC | 534,419 | 32,911,991 | ||||||
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC(a) | 4,107,271 | 11,522,208 | ||||||
Sage Group PLC (The) | 1,497,039 | 18,396,519 | ||||||
Schroders PLC | 2,441,683 | 12,702,359 | ||||||
Segro PLC | 1,549,943 | 14,448,979 | ||||||
Shell PLC | 3,258,920 | 99,642,326 | ||||||
Smiths Group PLC | 357,439 | 7,413,227 | ||||||
SSE PLC | 987,206 | 20,286,242 | ||||||
St. James’s Place PLC | 648,204 | 7,248,113 | ||||||
Standard Chartered PLC | 1,002,737 | 9,022,331 | ||||||
Taylor Wimpey PLC | 5,266,301 | 7,625,349 | ||||||
Tesco PLC | 3,761,080 | 12,653,324 | ||||||
Unilever PLC | 1,421,966 | 72,618,679 | ||||||
Vodafone Group PLC | 12,216,113 | 11,324,980 | ||||||
WPP PLC | 747,410 | 7,250,736 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,077,480,225 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 99.1% | 7,193,004,531 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Germany — 0.3% | ||||||||
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, | ||||||||
Preference Shares, NVS | 70,027 | 6,728,303 | ||||||
Dr Ing hc F Porsche AG, Preference Shares, NVS(b) | 63,556 | 7,009,579 | ||||||
Sartorius AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 18,612 | 7,616,661 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,354,543 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 0.3% |
| 21,354,543 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.4% |
| 7,214,359,074 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.1% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 6,359,971 | 6,361,879 | ||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 1,330,000 | 1,330,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.1% |
| 7,691,879 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.5% |
| 7,222,050,953 | ||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.5% |
| 38,592,225 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 7,260,643,178 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 9,537,814 | $ | — | $ | (3,178,881 | )(a) | $ | 6,457 | $ | (3,511 | ) | $ | 6,361,879 | 6,359,971 | $ | 132,650 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 1,370,000 | — | (40,000 | )(a) | — | — | 1,330,000 | 1,330,000 | 131,434 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 6,457 | $ | (3,511 | ) | $ | 7,691,879 | $ | 264,084 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
TOPIX Index | 79 | 09/07/23 | $ | 12,621 | $ | 418,599 | ||||||||||
Euro STOXX 50 Index | 392 | 09/15/23 | 18,295 | (152,741 | ) | |||||||||||
FTSE 100 Index | 104 | 09/15/23 | 9,811 | (159,718 | ) | |||||||||||
SPI 200 Index | 46 | 09/21/23 | 5,390 | 63,522 | ||||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||
$ | 169,662 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 482,121 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 482,121 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 312,459 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 312,459 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,496,347 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,496,347 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 619,183 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 619,183 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 44,412,773 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 35,862,872 | $ | 7,157,141,659 | $ | — | $ | 7,193,004,531 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stocks | — | 21,354,543 | — | 21,354,543 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 7,691,879 | — | — | 7,691,879 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 43,554,751 | $ | 7,178,496,202 | $ | — | $ | 7,222,050,953 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 482,121 | $ | — | $ | 482,121 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | — | (312,459 | ) | — | (312,459 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | — | $ | 169,662 | $ | — | 169,662 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 23 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks |
| |||||||
Brazil — 3.0% | ||||||||
Atacadao SA | 280 | $ | 580 | |||||
Banco Santander Brasil SA | 6,446 | 35,289 | ||||||
CCR SA | 16,842 | 42,377 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo | 5,713 | 66,820 | ||||||
Cia. Siderurgica Nacional SA | 10,962 | 26,807 | ||||||
Cosan SA | 20,312 | 71,863 | ||||||
Energisa SA | 3,467 | 32,275 | ||||||
Equatorial Energia SA | 16,862 | 107,804 | ||||||
Hapvida Participacoes e Investimentos SA(a)(b) | 87,462 | 75,239 | ||||||
Klabin SA | 12,688 | 58,315 | ||||||
Localiza Rent a Car SA | 15,037 | 192,060 | ||||||
Lojas Renner SA | 16,062 | 51,993 | ||||||
Natura & Co. Holding SA(b) | 15,035 | 46,088 | ||||||
PRIO SA(b) | 13,186 | 123,604 | ||||||
Raia Drogasil SA | 21,234 | 117,832 | ||||||
Rede D’Or Sao Luiz SA(a) | 9,543 | 55,230 | ||||||
Rumo SA | 21,972 | 99,166 | ||||||
Telefonica Brasil SA | 6,991 | 58,375 | ||||||
Tim SA | 13,911 | 40,480 | ||||||
TOTVS SA | 8,894 | 49,822 | ||||||
Ultrapar Participacoes SA | 12,247 | 44,912 | ||||||
WEG SA | 27,691 | 200,635 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,597,566 | ||||||||
Chile — 0.4% | ||||||||
Cencosud SA | 21,389 | 45,785 | ||||||
Empresas CMPC SA | 18,964 | 34,433 | ||||||
Empresas COPEC SA | 6,506 | 46,992 | ||||||
Enel Americas SA(b) | 355,395 | 42,236 | ||||||
Falabella SA | 13,900 | 34,239 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
203,685 | ||||||||
China — 30.9% | ||||||||
37 Interactive Entertainment Network Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,300 | 7,796 | ||||||
3SBio Inc.(a) | 28,500 | 23,834 | ||||||
AAC Technologies Holdings Inc.(c) | 11,500 | 22,276 | ||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 84,600 | 40,210 | ||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 471,000 | 161,437 | ||||||
Air China Ltd., Class A(b) | 12,700 | 15,113 | ||||||
Air China Ltd., Class H(b) | 28,000 | 20,726 | ||||||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 236,816 | 2,748,519 | ||||||
Alibaba Health Information Technology Ltd.(b) | 90,000 | 53,135 | ||||||
Angel Yeast Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 3,647 | ||||||
Anhui Conch Cement Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,100 | 14,467 | ||||||
Anhui Conch Cement Co. Ltd., Class H | 20,000 | 55,596 | ||||||
Anjoy Foods Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 300 | 5,391 | ||||||
Baidu Inc.(b) | 37,150 | 663,471 | ||||||
Beijing Capital International Airport Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 32,000 | 16,756 | ||||||
Beijing Easpring Material Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 500 | 3,045 | ||||||
Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd. | 68,000 | 15,667 | ||||||
Beijing Tongrentang Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,300 | 10,045 | ||||||
BOC Aviation Ltd.(a) | 3,500 | 26,251 | ||||||
Bosideng International Holdings Ltd. | 60,000 | 23,545 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,900 | 65,166 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class H | 17,000 | 533,981 | ||||||
By-health Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,500 | 3,982 | ||||||
CECEP Solar Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,000 | 2,486 | ||||||
CECEP Wind Power Corp, Class A | 8,510 | 3,927 | ||||||
China Baoan Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,900 | 4,245 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
China Communications Services Corp. Ltd., Class H | 40,000 | $ | 18,008 | |||||
China Conch Venture Holdings Ltd. | 26,000 | 25,546 | ||||||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H | 1,584,000 | 847,521 | ||||||
China Eastern Airlines Corp. Ltd., Class A(b) | 17,300 | 10,328 | ||||||
China Everbright Environment Group Ltd. | 64,000 | 23,313 | ||||||
China Feihe Ltd.(a) | 63,000 | 37,877 | ||||||
China Jinmao Holdings Group Ltd. | 92,000 | 13,026 | ||||||
China Jushi Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,878 | 7,441 | ||||||
China Literature Ltd.(a)(b) | 6,200 | 24,899 | ||||||
China Medical System Holdings Ltd. | 22,000 | 31,686 | ||||||
China Mengniu Dairy Co. Ltd. | 52,000 | 174,848 | ||||||
China Merchants Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 20,100 | 87,309 | ||||||
China Merchants Bank Co. Ltd., Class H | 65,000 | 257,388 | ||||||
China Overseas Land & Investment Ltd. | 63,500 | 133,864 | ||||||
China Resources Cement Holdings Ltd. | 42,000 | 13,912 | ||||||
China Resources Gas Group Ltd. | 15,400 | 43,234 | ||||||
China Resources Land Ltd. | 52,000 | 219,788 | ||||||
China Resources Pharmaceutical Group Ltd.(a) | 24,500 | 16,355 | ||||||
China Resources Sanjiu Medical & Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 5,230 | ||||||
China Ruyi Holdings Ltd.(b) | 96,000 | 25,457 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 12,000 | 10,438 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 28,000 | 14,874 | ||||||
China Three Gorges Renewables Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 26,900 | 18,190 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd.(a) | 1,300 | 17,458 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd., Class A | 2,000 | 29,984 | ||||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,500 | 17,815 | ||||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class H | 37,100 | 43,278 | ||||||
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Ltd.(c) | 32,600 | 49,433 | ||||||
CITIC Ltd. | 97,000 | 96,263 | ||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class A | 14,300 | 11,246 | ||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class H | 66,000 | 39,373 | ||||||
CNGR Advanced Material Co. Ltd. | 700 | 5,279 | ||||||
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,340 | 140,976 | ||||||
COSCO Shipping Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,800 | 17,242 | ||||||
COSCO Shipping Holdings Co. Ltd., Class H | 51,000 | 52,300 | ||||||
Country Garden Services Holdings Co. Ltd. | 38,000 | 44,150 | ||||||
CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 149,360 | 112,260 | ||||||
Ecovacs Robotics Co. Ltd., Class A | 600 | 4,375 | ||||||
ENN Energy Holdings Ltd. | 12,900 | 101,208 | ||||||
ENN Natural Gas Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,250 | 5,390 | ||||||
Far East Horizon Ltd. | 21,000 | 14,347 | ||||||
Fosun International Ltd. | 41,000 | 25,628 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 6,440 | 30,761 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,520 | 9,907 | ||||||
Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. | 99,000 | 122,896 | ||||||
GEM Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,400 | 4,645 | ||||||
Genscript Biotech Corp.(b) | 20,000 | 46,683 | ||||||
Ginlong Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 600 | 6,187 | ||||||
Goldwind Science & Technology Co Ltd., Class A | 3,300 | 4,305 | ||||||
Greentown China Holdings Ltd. | 15,500 | 18,408 | ||||||
Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 6,800 | ||||||
Guangzhou Kingmed Diagnostics Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 400 | 3,287 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,700 | 21,639 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class H | 39,000 | 120,794 | ||||||
Haitian International Holdings Ltd. | 10,000 | 21,473 | ||||||
Hangzhou Robam Appliances Co. Ltd., Class A | 900 | 3,400 |
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
Hangzhou Tigermed Consulting Co. Ltd., Class A | 400 | $ | 3,659 | |||||
Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 20,000 | 25,986 | ||||||
Henan Shuanghui Investment & Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,500 | 12,917 | ||||||
Huadong Medicine Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 8,347 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,300 | 15,956 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 21,400 | 28,158 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 62,500 | 39,674 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 1,068,000 | 489,654 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,700 | 23,956 | ||||||
JD Logistics Inc.(a)(b) | 32,700 | 43,615 | ||||||
JD.com Inc., Class A | 38,700 | 642,734 | ||||||
Jiangsu Eastern Shenghong Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,200 | 11,368 | ||||||
Jiangsu Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 20,000 | 18,061 | ||||||
Jiangsu GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 169 | 3,217 | ||||||
Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 36,794 | ||||||
Jiangsu Zhongtian Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,400 | 6,807 | ||||||
Jiumaojiu International Holdings Ltd.(a) | 15,000 | 24,058 | ||||||
Joincare Pharmaceutical Group Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,400 | 2,193 | ||||||
Jointown Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,000 | 2,839 | ||||||
Kanzhun Ltd., ADR(b) | 3,611 | 53,443 | ||||||
Kingdee International Software Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 46,000 | 71,075 | ||||||
Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.(a)(b) | 6,500 | 32,928 | ||||||
Kuaishou Technology(a)(b) | 38,200 | 312,702 | ||||||
Kuang-Chi Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,800 | 3,685 | ||||||
Kunlun Energy Co. Ltd. | 64,000 | 46,853 | ||||||
Lenovo Group Ltd. | 122,000 | 137,900 | ||||||
Li Auto Inc.(b) | 18,504 | 385,250 | ||||||
Livzon Pharmaceutical Group Inc., Class A | 500 | 2,363 | ||||||
Longfor Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 31,500 | 66,484 | ||||||
Microport Scientific Corp.(b) | 13,800 | 23,631 | ||||||
Ming Yang Smart Energy Group Ltd., Class A | 2,500 | 5,126 | ||||||
MINISO Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 1,572 | 40,715 | ||||||
NetEase Inc. | 31,900 | 660,887 | ||||||
NIO Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 22,853 | 234,700 | ||||||
Nongfu Spring Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 28,600 | 160,629 | ||||||
Offshore Oil Engineering Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,500 | 2,799 | ||||||
Perfect World Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,900 | 3,611 | ||||||
Pharmaron Beijing Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,650 | 6,745 | ||||||
Ping An Healthcare and Technology Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 9,400 | 23,463 | ||||||
Pop Mart International Group Ltd.(a) | 8,000 | 26,021 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class A | 29,057 | 19,411 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 132,000 | 65,106 | ||||||
Pylon Technologies Co. Ltd., NVS | 176 | 3,344 | ||||||
SF Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,800 | 28,666 | ||||||
Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,800 | 3,770 | ||||||
Shandong Weigao Group Medical Polymer Co. Ltd., Class H | 41,200 | 41,022 | ||||||
Shanghai Electric Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 12,300 | 7,548 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,600 | 9,971 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 8,000 | 18,782 | ||||||
Shanghai M&G Stationery Inc., Class A | 1,200 | 6,209 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,600 | 6,384 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class H | 12,500 | 20,552 | ||||||
Shanghai Putailai New Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,095 | 9,421 | ||||||
Shanghai Yuyuan Tourist Mart Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,700 | 2,731 | ||||||
Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 700 | 4,615 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
Shenzhen Inovance Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,350 | $ | 12,676 | |||||
Shenzhen International Holdings Ltd. | 27,000 | 19,193 | ||||||
Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 44,565 | ||||||
Shuangliang Eco-Energy Systems Co. Ltd. | 1,700 | 2,378 | ||||||
Sino Biopharmaceutical Ltd. | 172,000 | 65,289 | ||||||
Sinoma Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 4,826 | ||||||
Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 5,000 | 2,082 | ||||||
Sinopharm Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 22,400 | 65,003 | ||||||
Sinotruk Hong Kong Ltd. | 11,500 | 21,321 | ||||||
Skshu Paint Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 620 | 6,430 | ||||||
Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,400 | 19,192 | ||||||
Sunwoda Electronic Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,900 | 4,135 | ||||||
TCL Technology Group Corp., Class A(b) | 17,600 | 9,907 | ||||||
Tencent Holdings Ltd. | 63,800 | 2,643,893 | ||||||
Tianqi Lithium Corp., Class A | 1,500 | 11,866 | ||||||
Titan Wind Energy Suzhou Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 1,700 | 3,039 | ||||||
Tongcheng Travel Holdings Ltd.(b) | 20,800 | 46,614 | ||||||
Topchoice Medical Corp., Class A(b) | 300 | 3,847 | ||||||
Uni-President China Holdings Ltd. | 22,000 | 16,271 | ||||||
Vinda International Holdings Ltd. | 6,000 | 13,883 | ||||||
Vipshop Holdings Ltd., ADR(b)(c) | 5,588 | 88,235 | ||||||
Want Want China Holdings Ltd. | 79,000 | 52,250 | ||||||
Weichai Power Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,500 | 8,903 | ||||||
Weichai Power Co. Ltd., Class H | 34,000 | 44,044 | ||||||
Western Mining Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,000 | 3,512 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,492 | 27,974 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 6,060 | 66,407 | ||||||
Wuxi Biologics Cayman Inc.(a)(b) | 63,000 | 355,169 | ||||||
XPeng Inc.(b) | 17,100 | 153,686 | ||||||
Yadea Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 20,000 | 38,453 | ||||||
Yihai International Holding Ltd. | 8,000 | 14,992 | ||||||
Yihai Kerry Arawana Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,400 | 6,860 | ||||||
Yum China Holdings Inc. | 6,854 | 367,991 | ||||||
Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,840 | 13,820 | ||||||
Yunnan Chihong Zinc&Germanium Co. Ltd. | 4,000 | 2,886 | ||||||
Yunnan Energy New Material Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,000 | 9,129 | ||||||
Zai Lab Ltd.(b) | 15,300 | 39,843 | ||||||
Zangge Mining Co. Ltd. | 1,600 | 4,939 | ||||||
Zhangzhou Pientzehuang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 600 | 22,802 | ||||||
Zhejiang Chint Electrics Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,200 | 7,488 | ||||||
Zhejiang Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 22,000 | 16,428 | ||||||
Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,810 | 9,936 | ||||||
Zhejiang Jiuzhou Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 900 | 3,365 | ||||||
Zhejiang Weixing New Building Materials Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,000 | 2,776 | ||||||
Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,600 | 6,750 | ||||||
ZTO Express Cayman Inc., ADR | 7,046 | 177,136 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
16,405,155 | ||||||||
Colombia — 0.1% | ||||||||
Bancolombia SA | 4,331 | 30,811 | ||||||
Interconexion Electrica SA ESP | 7,309 | 26,767 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
57,578 | ||||||||
Czech Republic — 0.1% | ||||||||
Komercni Banka AS | 1,305 | 40,750 | ||||||
Moneta Money Bank AS(a) | 5,594 | 20,868 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
61,618 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 25 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Egypt — 0.1% | ||||||||
Commercial International Bank Egypt SAE | 36,001 | $ | 50,024 | |||||
Greece — 0.5% | ||||||||
Alpha Services and Holdings SA(b) | 37,409 | 62,890 | ||||||
Eurobank Ergasias Services and Holdings SA, Class A(b) | 42,893 | 74,359 | ||||||
Hellenic Telecommunications Organization SA | 3,046 | 45,520 | ||||||
Motor Oil Hellas Corinth Refineries SA | 1,122 | 28,591 | ||||||
Mytilineos SA | 1,751 | 71,012 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
282,372 | ||||||||
Hungary — 0.5% | ||||||||
MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas PLC | 7,303 | 55,226 | ||||||
OTP Bank Nyrt | 3,974 | 162,049 | ||||||
Richter Gedeon Nyrt | 2,266 | 56,869 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
274,144 | ||||||||
India — 15.1% | ||||||||
ABB India Ltd. | 827 | 43,738 | ||||||
Adani Green Energy Ltd.(b) | 5,253 | 58,925 | ||||||
Ashok Leyland Ltd. | 23,745 | 52,732 | ||||||
Asian Paints Ltd. | 6,255 | 245,919 | ||||||
Astral Ltd. | 1,958 | 46,216 | ||||||
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.(a) | 2,601 | 22,705 | ||||||
Axis Bank Ltd. | 37,661 | 442,464 | ||||||
Bajaj Finance Ltd. | 4,519 | 390,606 | ||||||
Berger Paints India Ltd. | 4,253 | 36,898 | ||||||
Bharti Airtel Ltd. | 36,840 | 380,890 | ||||||
Britannia Industries Ltd. | 1,793 | 96,750 | ||||||
Colgate-Palmolive India Ltd. | 2,078 | 48,717 | ||||||
Cummins India Ltd. | 2,240 | 46,208 | ||||||
Dabur India Ltd. | 10,378 | 69,275 | ||||||
DLF Ltd. | 10,039 | 61,076 | ||||||
Eicher Motors Ltd. | 2,273 | 91,562 | ||||||
GAIL India Ltd. | 37,864 | 52,583 | ||||||
Grasim Industries Ltd. | 4,421 | 95,565 | ||||||
Havells India Ltd. | 4,235 | 70,771 | ||||||
HCL Technologies Ltd. | 15,576 | 220,348 | ||||||
Hero MotoCorp Ltd. | 1,863 | 65,581 | ||||||
Hindalco Industries Ltd. | 20,016 | 110,968 | ||||||
Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 13,564 | 410,309 | ||||||
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 5,542 | 37,725 | ||||||
Indian Hotels Co. Ltd. (The), Class A | 13,771 | 69,952 | ||||||
Indraprastha Gas Ltd. | 5,292 | 29,876 | ||||||
Info Edge India Ltd. | 1,195 | 62,445 | ||||||
Infosys Ltd. | 54,720 | 948,252 | ||||||
Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. | 18,068 | 383,401 | ||||||
Lupin Ltd. | 3,439 | 45,574 | ||||||
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. | 15,442 | 293,609 | ||||||
Marico Ltd. | 8,421 | 57,946 | ||||||
Nestle India Ltd. | 563 | 149,451 | ||||||
PI Industries Ltd. | 1,367 | 59,889 | ||||||
Pidilite Industries Ltd. | 2,370 | 71,999 | ||||||
Reliance Industries Ltd. | 50,189 | 1,458,042 | ||||||
Shree Cement Ltd. | 152 | 43,682 | ||||||
Shriram Transport Finance Co. Ltd. | 4,641 | 108,019 | ||||||
Siemens Ltd. | 1,440 | 68,181 | ||||||
Supreme Industries Ltd. | 917 | 49,377 | ||||||
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. | 15,075 | 610,596 | ||||||
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 1,585 | 35,281 | ||||||
TVS Motor Co. Ltd. | 3,879 | 66,471 | ||||||
UPL Ltd. | 7,623 | 54,397 | ||||||
Vedanta Ltd. | 11,898 | 33,386 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
India (continued) | ||||||||
Zomato Ltd.(b) | 71,157 | $ | 83,731 | |||||
|
| |||||||
7,982,088 | ||||||||
Indonesia — 2.5% | ||||||||
Aneka Tambang Tbk | 148,800 | 19,413 | ||||||
Bank Central Asia Tbk PT | 915,100 | 550,895 | ||||||
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 1,125,600 | 410,052 | ||||||
Barito Pacific Tbk PT | 461,384 | 32,411 | ||||||
Kalbe Farma Tbk PT | 349,200 | 41,545 | ||||||
Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk PT(b) | 200,857 | 44,520 | ||||||
Sarana Menara Nusantara Tbk PT | 318,500 | 21,538 | ||||||
Telkom Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 815,600 | 199,364 | ||||||
Unilever Indonesia Tbk PT | 119,900 | 28,892 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,348,630 | ||||||||
Kuwait — 0.6% | ||||||||
Kuwait Finance House KSCP | 134,546 | 325,064 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Malaysia — 2.4% | ||||||||
AMMB Holdings Bhd | 30,600 | 24,617 | ||||||
Axiata Group Bhd | 50,400 | 25,648 | ||||||
CIMB Group Holdings Bhd | 102,300 | 124,011 | ||||||
Dialog Group Bhd | 52,900 | 23,353 | ||||||
DiGi.Com Bhd | 55,900 | 52,786 | ||||||
Gamuda Bhd | 29,100 | 28,251 | ||||||
Hong Leong Financial Group Bhd | 3,600 | 14,136 | ||||||
IHH Healthcare Bhd | 34,400 | 43,953 | ||||||
Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd | 7,600 | 35,296 | ||||||
Malayan Banking Bhd | 88,900 | 174,509 | ||||||
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd | 12,863 | 20,425 | ||||||
Maxis Bhd(c) | 41,800 | 36,137 | ||||||
MISC Bhd | 22,100 | 34,259 | ||||||
MR DIY Group M Bhd(a) | 51,500 | 17,204 | ||||||
Nestle Malaysia Bhd | 1,000 | 28,125 | ||||||
Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd | 45,400 | 69,672 | ||||||
Petronas Dagangan Bhd | 4,900 | 23,444 | ||||||
Petronas Gas Bhd | 13,800 | 50,917 | ||||||
PPB Group Bhd | 11,000 | 37,267 | ||||||
Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd | 62,800 | 65,646 | ||||||
Public Bank Bhd | 237,400 | 216,397 | ||||||
QL Resources Bhd | 20,200 | 23,509 | ||||||
RHB Bank Bhd | 26,600 | 32,154 | ||||||
Sime Darby Bhd | 50,800 | 25,149 | ||||||
Telekom Malaysia Bhd | 21,100 | 23,208 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,250,073 | ||||||||
Mexico — 3.1% | ||||||||
America Movil SAB de CV | 311,500 | 293,222 | ||||||
Arca Continental SAB de CV | 8,500 | 82,754 | ||||||
Cemex SAB de CV, NVS(b) | 248,869 | 196,316 | ||||||
Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV | 32,000 | 358,127 | ||||||
Gruma SAB de CV, Class B | 3,030 | 50,581 | ||||||
Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste SAB de CV, Class B | 3,235 | 88,145 | ||||||
Grupo Bimbo SAB de CV, Series A | 21,800 | 107,245 | ||||||
Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV, Class O | 42,800 | 362,522 | ||||||
Grupo Televisa SAB, CPO | 42,500 | 37,713 | ||||||
Industrias Penoles SAB de CV(b) | 3,240 | 45,826 | ||||||
Orbia Advance Corp. SAB de CV | 16,600 | 36,947 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,659,398 | ||||||||
Netherlands — 0.1% | ||||||||
NEPI Rockcastle NV | 7,952 | 47,725 | ||||||
|
|
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Peru — 0.3% | ||||||||
Credicorp Ltd. | 1,111 | $ | 157,129 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Philippines — 0.5% | ||||||||
Ayala Corp. | 4,430 | 48,160 | ||||||
JG Summit Holdings Inc. | 43,928 | 28,331 | ||||||
PLDT Inc. | 1,180 | 23,947 | ||||||
SM Investments Corp. | 4,230 | 62,181 | ||||||
SM Prime Holdings Inc. | 159,000 | 81,987 | ||||||
Universal Robina Corp. | 14,880 | 29,370 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
273,976 | ||||||||
Poland — 1.2% | ||||||||
Allegro.eu SA (a)(b) | 7,860 | 62,869 | ||||||
CD Projekt SA | 1,117 | 39,870 | ||||||
KGHM Polska Miedz SA | 2,331 | 64,278 | ||||||
mBank SA(b) | 232 | 24,095 | ||||||
Polski Koncern Naftowy ORLEN SA | 9,501 | 145,050 | ||||||
Powszechna Kasa Oszczednosci Bank Polski SA | 14,549 | 131,389 | ||||||
Powszechny Zaklad Ubezpieczen SA | 9,852 | 98,666 | ||||||
Santander Bank Polska SA(b) | 596 | 53,621 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
619,838 | ||||||||
Qatar — 0.8% | ||||||||
Qatar Fuel QSC | 9,092 | 39,905 | ||||||
Qatar Gas Transport Co. Ltd. | 40,643 | 41,303 | ||||||
Qatar National Bank QPSC | 76,536 | 327,377 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
408,585 | ||||||||
Russia — 0.0% | ||||||||
Gazprom PJSC(b)(d) | 244,340 | 26 | ||||||
LUKOIL PJSC(b)(d) | 8,544 | 1 | ||||||
Mobile TeleSystems PJSC(b)(d) | 18,946 | 2 | ||||||
Moscow Exchange MICEX-RTS PJSC(b)(d) | 30,360 | 3 | ||||||
Novatek PJSC(b)(d) | 18,630 | 2 | ||||||
Novolipetsk Steel PJSC(b)(d) | 31,136 | 3 | ||||||
PhosAgro PJSC(b)(d) | 910 | — | ||||||
PhosAgro PJSC, New(b)(d) | 18 | — | ||||||
Polymetal International PLC(b)(d) | 7,120 | 1 | ||||||
Polyus PJSC(b)(d) | 698 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
38 | ||||||||
Saudi Arabia — 2.6% | ||||||||
ACWA Power Co. | 1,551 | 79,728 | ||||||
Alinma Bank | 16,084 | 158,029 | ||||||
Bank AlBilad | 8,231 | 93,997 | ||||||
Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group Co. | 1,445 | 93,485 | ||||||
National Industrialization Co.(b) | 5,115 | 17,346 | ||||||
Sahara International Petrochemical Co. | 5,860 | 56,884 | ||||||
Saudi Arabian Oil Co.(a) | 43,922 | 408,991 | ||||||
Saudi Basic Industries Corp. | 14,872 | 350,253 | ||||||
Saudi Electricity Co. | 13,735 | 75,765 | ||||||
Savola Group (The) | 4,296 | 43,348 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,377,826 | ||||||||
South Africa — 5.6% | ||||||||
Absa Group Ltd. | 14,136 | 136,293 | ||||||
Anglo American Platinum Ltd. | 1,084 | 37,804 | ||||||
Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Ltd. | 6,257 | 57,053 | ||||||
Bid Corp. Ltd. | 5,593 | 125,818 | ||||||
Bidvest Group Ltd. (The) | 4,748 | 71,641 | ||||||
Capitec Bank Holdings Ltd. | 1,452 | 121,842 | ||||||
Clicks Group Ltd. | 4,021 | 58,234 | ||||||
Discovery Ltd.(b) | 9,066 | 70,440 | ||||||
FirstRand Ltd. | 83,181 | 323,193 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
South Africa (continued) | ||||||||
Gold Fields Ltd. | 14,654 | $ | 187,478 | |||||
Growthpoint Properties Ltd. | 57,954 | 36,242 | ||||||
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. | 14,274 | 73,484 | ||||||
Kumba Iron Ore Ltd. | 1,112 | 24,459 | ||||||
MTN Group Ltd. | 28,030 | 178,585 | ||||||
Naspers Ltd., Class N | 3,230 | 550,219 | ||||||
Nedbank Group Ltd. | 7,297 | 83,387 | ||||||
Northam Platinum Holdings Ltd.(b) | 5,933 | 39,113 | ||||||
Old Mutual Ltd. | 79,916 | 53,701 | ||||||
Sanlam Ltd. | 29,237 | 105,507 | ||||||
Sasol Ltd. | 9,520 | 122,676 | ||||||
Shoprite Holdings Ltd. | 8,283 | 115,716 | ||||||
Sibanye Stillwater Ltd. | 46,328 | 69,901 | ||||||
Standard Bank Group Ltd. | 21,709 | 222,102 | ||||||
Vodacom Group Ltd. | 9,714 | 55,481 | ||||||
Woolworths Holdings Ltd. | 14,896 | 58,511 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,978,880 | ||||||||
South Korea — 7.4% | ||||||||
Amorepacific Corp. | 488 | 49,357 | ||||||
BGF retail Co. Ltd. | 145 | 17,145 | ||||||
Celltrion Healthcare Co. Ltd. | 1,743 | 85,287 | ||||||
CJ CheilJedang Corp. | 133 | 30,055 | ||||||
Coway Co. Ltd. | 936 | 30,563 | ||||||
Doosan Bobcat Inc. | 914 | 37,141 | ||||||
Doosan Enerbility Co. Ltd.(b) | 7,387 | 101,828 | ||||||
Hana Financial Group Inc. | 4,849 | 144,901 | ||||||
Hanon Systems | 2,916 | 20,077 | ||||||
Hanwha Solutions Corp.(b) | 1,743 | 47,976 | ||||||
HD Hyundai Co. Ltd. | 649 | 28,991 | ||||||
HMM Co. Ltd. | 4,112 | 51,765 | ||||||
Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. | 1,306 | 35,030 | ||||||
Hyundai Glovis Co. Ltd. | 306 | 39,900 | ||||||
Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd.(b) | 393 | 27,016 | ||||||
Kakao Corp. | 5,147 | 186,795 | ||||||
KB Financial Group Inc. | 6,356 | 258,919 | ||||||
Korea Zinc Co. Ltd. | 133 | 52,954 | ||||||
Korean Air Lines Co. Ltd. | 3,082 | 53,075 | ||||||
Kumho Petrochemical Co. Ltd. | 275 | 25,929 | ||||||
LG Chem Ltd. | 815 | 358,851 | ||||||
LG Corp. | 1,559 | 96,718 | ||||||
LG Display Co. Ltd.(b) | 4,034 | 40,812 | ||||||
LG Electronics Inc. | 1,752 | 130,387 | ||||||
LG H&H Co. Ltd. | 157 | 55,094 | ||||||
LG Uplus Corp. | 2,941 | 23,236 | ||||||
Lotte Chemical Corp. | 325 | 33,541 | ||||||
Mirae Asset Securities Co. Ltd. | 4,251 | 21,396 | ||||||
NAVER Corp. | 2,165 | 350,453 | ||||||
NCSoft Corp. | 238 | 45,217 | ||||||
Netmarble Corp.(a)(b) | 380 | 12,303 | ||||||
POSCO Future M Co. Ltd. | 513 | 174,114 | ||||||
Samsung Engineering Co. Ltd.(b) | 2,594 | 66,637 | ||||||
Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. | 907 | 420,668 | ||||||
Samsung SDS Co. Ltd. | 618 | 66,323 | ||||||
Samsung Securities Co. Ltd. | 1,055 | 29,776 | ||||||
Shinhan Financial Group Co. Ltd. | 7,220 | 193,941 | ||||||
SK Biopharmaceuticals Co. Ltd.(b) | 521 | 33,735 | ||||||
SK Bioscience Co. Ltd.(b) | 455 | 25,292 | ||||||
SK IE Technology Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 422 | 28,775 | ||||||
SK Inc. | 591 | 64,531 | ||||||
SK Innovation Co. Ltd.(b) | 911 | 122,193 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 27 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
South Korea (continued) | ||||||||
SK Square Co. Ltd.(b) | 1,604 | $ | 54,648 | |||||
SKC Co. Ltd. | 326 | 22,528 | ||||||
Woori Financial Group Inc. | 10,013 | 90,082 | ||||||
Yuhan Corp. | 901 | 49,596 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,935,551 | ||||||||
Taiwan — 13.7% | ||||||||
Acer Inc. | 49,000 | 56,182 | ||||||
Airtac International Group | 2,000 | 57,613 | ||||||
AUO Corp. | 108,600 | 60,644 | ||||||
Cathay Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 155,650 | 222,554 | ||||||
China Airlines Ltd. | 48,000 | 34,021 | ||||||
China Steel Corp. | 194,000 | 161,360 | ||||||
Chunghwa Telecom Co. Ltd. | 63,000 | 229,688 | ||||||
CTBC Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 291,000 | 217,500 | ||||||
Delta Electronics Inc. | 32,000 | 345,821 | ||||||
E.Sun Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 232,174 | 178,057 | ||||||
Eva Airways Corp. | 42,000 | 41,450 | ||||||
Evergreen Marine Corp. Taiwan Ltd. | 16,800 | 56,104 | ||||||
Far Eastern New Century Corp. | 48,000 | 42,372 | ||||||
Far EasTone Telecommunications Co. Ltd. | 25,000 | 55,451 | ||||||
First Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 175,456 | 144,807 | ||||||
Fubon Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 121,990 | 243,268 | ||||||
Hotai Motor Co. Ltd. | 5,100 | 108,480 | ||||||
Hua Nan Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. | 147,650 | 95,007 | ||||||
Lite-On Technology Corp. | 33,000 | 141,077 | ||||||
MediaTek Inc. | 25,000 | 551,336 | ||||||
Mega Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 186,984 | 210,436 | ||||||
momo.com Inc. | 1,320 | 21,530 | ||||||
Nan Ya Plastics Corp. | 79,000 | 163,955 | ||||||
President Chain Store Corp. | 10,000 | 83,856 | ||||||
SinoPac Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. | 175,820 | 94,371 | ||||||
Taishin Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 186,477 | 104,110 | ||||||
Taiwan Cement Corp. | 105,792 | 115,982 | ||||||
Taiwan Cooperative Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 167,724 | 138,219 | ||||||
Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. | 32,000 | 29,861 | ||||||
Taiwan Mobile Co. Ltd. | 28,000 | 81,916 | ||||||
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 154,000 | 2,646,174 | ||||||
Uni-President Enterprises Corp. | 80,000 | 177,377 | ||||||
United Microelectronics Corp. | 188,000 | 268,417 | ||||||
Voltronic Power Technology Corp. | 1,000 | 45,388 | ||||||
Wan Hai Lines Ltd. | 12,260 | 17,403 | ||||||
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. | 30,000 | 39,736 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,281,523 | ||||||||
Thailand — 3.0% | ||||||||
Advanced Info Service PCL, NVDR | 20,000 | 123,300 | ||||||
Airports of Thailand PCL, NVDR(b) | 72,700 | 150,456 | ||||||
Asset World Corp. PCL, NVDR | 152,000 | 18,910 | ||||||
B Grimm Power PCL, NVDR | 15,100 | 14,663 | ||||||
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services PCL, NVDR | 183,400 | 146,600 | ||||||
Berli Jucker PCL, NVDR | 20,200 | 19,458 | ||||||
BTS Group Holdings PCL, NVDR | 138,400 | 29,035 | ||||||
Bumrungrad Hospital PCL, NVDR | 9,900 | 73,186 | ||||||
Central Retail Corp. PCL, NVDR | 30,200 | 35,528 | ||||||
Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL, NVDR(c) | 66,500 | 39,306 | ||||||
CP ALL PCL, NVDR | 96,400 | 179,507 | ||||||
Delta Electronics Thailand PCL, NVDR | 51,700 | 160,003 | ||||||
Energy Absolute PCL, NVDR | 27,100 | 48,933 | ||||||
Home Product Center PCL, NVDR | 102,300 | 39,989 | ||||||
Indorama Ventures PCL, NVDR | 31,400 | 25,987 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Thailand (continued) | ||||||||
Intouch Holdings PCL, NVDR | 17,100 | $ | 35,508 | |||||
Kasikornbank PCL, NVDR | 9,900 | 36,879 | ||||||
Minor International PCL, NVDR | 57,900 | 54,937 | ||||||
Osotspa PCL, NVDR | 24,800 | 21,239 | ||||||
PTT Exploration & Production PCL, NVDR | 23,000 | 104,126 | ||||||
PTT Global Chemical PCL, NVDR | 39,700 | 42,187 | ||||||
PTT Oil & Retail Business PCL, NVDR | 53,100 | 30,920 | ||||||
SCG Packaging PCL, NVDR | 23,300 | 27,263 | ||||||
Siam Cement PCL (The), NVDR | 13,000 | 116,140 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,574,060 | ||||||||
Turkey — 0.6% | ||||||||
Haci Omer Sabanci Holding AS | 15,922 | 35,600 | ||||||
KOC Holding AS | 12,595 | 66,831 | ||||||
Turk Hava Yollari AO(b) | 9,137 | 83,702 | ||||||
Turkiye Is Bankasi AS, Class C | 57,886 | 45,571 | ||||||
Turkiye Sise ve Cam Fabrikalari AS | 23,272 | 44,582 | ||||||
Yapi ve Kredi Bankasi AS | 55,635 | 33,043 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
309,329 | ||||||||
United Arab Emirates — 2.3% | ||||||||
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC | 48,583 | 114,149 | ||||||
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC | 24,009 | 68,112 | ||||||
Aldar Properties PJSC | 63,744 | 91,242 | ||||||
Emaar Properties PJSC | 109,343 | 210,131 | ||||||
Emirates NBD Bank PJSC | 31,274 | 139,162 | ||||||
Emirates Telecommunications Group Co. PJSC | 57,364 | 309,856 | ||||||
First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC | 73,035 | 271,950 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,204,602 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 97.4% |
| 51,666,457 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Brazil — 1.6% | ||||||||
Banco Bradesco SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 87,897 | 265,357 | ||||||
Cia. Energetica de Minas Gerais, Preference Shares, NVS | 23,223 | 57,823 | ||||||
Gerdau SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 19,128 | 99,849 | ||||||
Itau Unibanco Holding SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 80,311 | 444,852 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
867,881 | ||||||||
Chile — 0.3% | ||||||||
Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA, Class B, | 2,345 | 145,227 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Colombia — 0.1% | ||||||||
Bancolombia SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 7,505 | 49,905 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
South Korea — 0.1% | ||||||||
LG Chem Ltd., Preference Shares, NVS | 128 | 33,036 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 2.1% | 1,096,049 | |||||||
|
|
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Rights | ||||||||
South Korea — 0.0% | ||||||||
SK Innovation Co. Ltd., (Expires 09/19/23, Strike Price KRW 139,600.00)(b) | 74 | $ | 2,119 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% |
| 2,119 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.5% |
| 52,764,625 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.8% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(e)(f)(g) | 419,846 | 419,971 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.8% |
| 419,971 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.3% |
| 53,184,596 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.3)% |
| (159,216 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 53,025,380 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(e) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(f) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(g) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 116,900 | $ | 303,183 | (a) | $ | — | $ | (101 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 419,971 | 419,846 | $ | 2,529 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(c) | — | 0 | (a) | — | — | — | — | — | 4,6171 | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (101 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 419,971 | $ | 7,146 | $ | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
(c) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 2 | 09/15/23 | $ | 98 | $ | 105 | ||||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 29 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 105 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $105 | |||||||||||||||
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(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (20,111 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (20,111 | ) | ||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,618 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,618 | ||||||||||||||
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|
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|
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Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 85,078 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 7,615,251 | $ | 44,051,168 | $ | 38 | $ | 51,666,457 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stocks | 1,063,013 | 33,036 | — | 1,096,049 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rights | 2,119 | — | — | 2,119 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 419,971 | — | — | 419,971 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 9,100,354 | $ | 44,084,204 | $ | 38 | $ | 53,184,596 | |||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | 105 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 105 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023
| iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Australia — 1.4% | ||||||||
CSL Ltd. | 23,287 | $ | 4,112,459 | |||||
IDP Education Ltd. | 25,031 | 398,089 | ||||||
Vicinity Ltd. | 563,267 | 679,441 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,189,989 | ||||||||
Austria — 0.4% | ||||||||
Verbund AG | 17,016 | 1,392,577 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Belgium — 4.3% | ||||||||
Elia Group SA/NV | 9,845 | 1,135,074 | ||||||
Umicore SA | 570,743 | 15,123,698 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
16,258,772 | ||||||||
Canada — 3.0% | ||||||||
Northland Power Inc. | 61,120 | 1,155,725 | ||||||
RioCan REIT | 24,729 | 353,402 | ||||||
Saputo Inc. | 200,528 | 4,334,978 | ||||||
West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. | 68,902 | 5,208,445 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
11,052,550 | ||||||||
Chile — 1.0% | ||||||||
Empresas CMPC SA | 1,988,436 | 3,610,398 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
China — 11.5% | ||||||||
3SBio Inc.(a) | 394,000 | 329,491 | ||||||
Anjoy Foods Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,400 | 61,098 | ||||||
BeiGene Ltd.(b) | 20,621 | 330,800 | ||||||
Beijing Easpring Material Technology Co. Ltd., Class A . | 17,600 | 107,181 | ||||||
Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd. | 4,874,000 | 1,122,916 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class A | 36,400 | 1,247,403 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class H | 211,500 | 6,628,970 | ||||||
CECEP Solar Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 85,300 | 70,615 | ||||||
CECEP Wind Power Corp, Class A | 95,100 | 43,889 | ||||||
China Conch Venture Holdings Ltd. | 760,500 | 747,219 | ||||||
China Everbright Environment Group Ltd. | 6,142,000 | 2,237,299 | ||||||
China Longyuan Power Group Corp. Ltd., Class H | 1,924,000 | 1,523,028 | ||||||
China Medical System Holdings Ltd. | 161,000 | 231,882 | ||||||
China Mengniu Dairy Co. Ltd. | 1,249,000 | 4,199,721 | ||||||
China Railway Signal & Communication Corp. Ltd., Class A | 175,136 | 135,096 | ||||||
China Three Gorges Renewables Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 270,400 | 182,843 | ||||||
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 97,120 | 3,154,754 | ||||||
CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 1,033,520 | 776,802 | ||||||
Farasis Energy Gan Zhou Co. Ltd., NVS | 29,849 | 83,055 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 17,400 | 73,802 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 26,000 | 64,569 | ||||||
Ginlong Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,400 | 55,681 | ||||||
Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 84,000 | 109,142 | ||||||
Hebei Yangyuan Zhihui Beverage Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,800 | 26,312 | ||||||
Henan Shuanghui Investment & Development Co. Ltd., Class A | 108,100 | 398,964 | ||||||
Hengan International Group Co. Ltd. | 317,000 | 1,175,866 | ||||||
Hengdian Group DMEGC Magnetics Co. Ltd. | 35,600 | 80,209 | ||||||
Innovent Biologics Inc.(a)(b) | 54,500 | 243,732 | ||||||
Jiangsu GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 2,672 | 50,866 | ||||||
Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.(a)(b) | 21,500 | 108,914 | ||||||
Li Auto Inc.(b) | 221,444 | 4,610,428 | ||||||
Ming Yang Smart Energy Group Ltd., Class A | 99,500 | 204,028 | ||||||
NIO Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 488,095 | 5,012,736 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
Nongfu Spring Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 58,600 | $ | 329,121 | |||||
Pylon Technologies Co. Ltd., NVS | 1,880 | 35,721 | ||||||
Riyue Heavy Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 13,300 | 29,539 | ||||||
Shijiazhuang Yiling Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,100 | 29,099 | ||||||
Shuangliang Eco-Energy Systems Co. Ltd. | 70,400 | 98,476 | ||||||
Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 28,200 | 386,573 | ||||||
Tingyi Cayman Islands Holding Corp. | 948,000 | 1,391,947 | ||||||
Titan Wind Energy Suzhou Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 28,200 | 50,326 | ||||||
Vinda International Holdings Ltd. | 237,000 | 548,383 | ||||||
Xinyi Solar Holdings Ltd. | 1,670,000 | 1,393,444 | ||||||
XPeng Inc.(b) | 239,632 | 2,153,683 | ||||||
Yadea Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 494,000 | 949,788 | ||||||
Yihai Kerry Arawana Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 51,500 | 252,332 | ||||||
Zai Lab Ltd.(b) | 31,650 | 82,420 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
43,160,163 | ||||||||
Denmark — 8.7% | ||||||||
Genmab A/S(b) | 2,480 | 950,175 | ||||||
Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B | 53,177 | 9,808,696 | ||||||
Orsted AS(a) | 79,253 | 5,084,451 | ||||||
Rockwool A/S, Class B | 7,066 | 1,803,383 | ||||||
Vestas Wind Systems A/S(b) | 644,042 | 14,880,657 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
32,527,362 | ||||||||
France — 1.5% | ||||||||
Covivio | 18,566 | 905,258 | ||||||
Gecina SA | 4,021 | 430,149 | ||||||
Ipsen SA | 3,723 | 482,293 | ||||||
Klepierre SA | 59,591 | 1,574,013 | ||||||
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, New(b) | 41,848 | 2,233,626 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,625,339 | ||||||||
Germany — 2.7% | ||||||||
LEG Immobilien SE(b) | 26,934 | 1,939,692 | ||||||
Vonovia SE | 338,319 | 8,117,383 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,057,075 | ||||||||
Hong Kong — 4.2% | ||||||||
Henderson Land Development Co. Ltd. | 310,000 | 851,304 | ||||||
Link REIT | 224,020 | 1,110,699 | ||||||
MTR Corp. Ltd. | 335,500 | 1,399,861 | ||||||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 168,400 | 351,917 | ||||||
WH Group Ltd.(a) | 22,989,500 | 11,839,477 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
15,553,258 | ||||||||
India — 0.5% | ||||||||
Adani Green Energy Ltd.(b) | 12,706 | 142,529 | ||||||
Colgate-Palmolive India Ltd. | 6,051 | 141,861 | ||||||
Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 34,979 | 1,058,109 | ||||||
Marico Ltd. | 31,255 | 215,068 | ||||||
Nestle India Ltd. | 1,298 | 344,560 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,902,127 | ||||||||
Indonesia — 0.2% | ||||||||
Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk PT | 674,900 | 496,315 | ||||||
Unilever Indonesia Tbk PT | 707,200 | 170,413 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
666,728 | ||||||||
Japan — 13.6% | ||||||||
Asahi Intecc Co. Ltd. | 9,000 | 182,569 | ||||||
Central Japan Railway Co. | 41,900 | 5,372,396 | ||||||
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 32,800 | 999,806 | ||||||
Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd. | 85,600 | 2,521,233 | ||||||
Daiwa House Industry Co. Ltd. | 547,400 | 15,204,457 | ||||||
Daiwa House REIT Investment Corp. | 176 | 333,990 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 31 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Japan (continued) | ||||||||
East Japan Railway Co. | 161,200 | $ | 9,114,111 | |||||
Eisai Co. Ltd. | 19,500 | 1,232,716 | ||||||
GLP J-Reit | 340 | 320,641 | ||||||
Japan Metropolitan Fund Invest | 743 | 498,918 | ||||||
Japan Real Estate Investment Corp. | 96 | 398,957 | ||||||
Kyowa Kirin Co. Ltd. | 23,900 | 436,935 | ||||||
Nippon Building Fund Inc. | 137 | 578,583 | ||||||
Nippon Prologis REIT Inc. | 206 | 414,303 | ||||||
Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd. | 17,600 | 1,537,049 | ||||||
Nomura Real Estate Master Fund Inc. | 367 | 431,444 | ||||||
Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 52,600 | 993,715 | ||||||
Open House Group Co. Ltd. | 78,800 | 2,661,918 | ||||||
Shionogi & Co. Ltd. | 24,700 | 1,084,807 | ||||||
Sysmex Corp. | 13,700 | 726,929 | ||||||
Terumo Corp. | 45,900 | 1,388,817 | ||||||
TOTO Ltd. | 86,700 | 2,377,646 | ||||||
Unicharm Corp. | 56,500 | 2,253,990 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
51,065,930 | ||||||||
Malaysia — 0.1% | ||||||||
PPB Group Bhd | 62,400 | 211,407 | ||||||
QL Resources Bhd | 221,300 | 257,547 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
468,954 | ||||||||
Mexico — 0.6% | ||||||||
Gruma SAB de CV, Class B | 78,218 | 1,305,720 | ||||||
Kimberly-Clark de Mexico SAB de CV, Class A | 492,738 | 1,108,556 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,414,276 | ||||||||
Netherlands — 0.4% | ||||||||
JDE Peet’s NV | 53,076 | 1,477,961 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Norway — 0.9% | ||||||||
Mowi ASA | 133,273 | 2,415,885 | ||||||
Salmar ASA | 20,089 | 980,730 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,396,615 | ||||||||
Saudi Arabia — 0.1% | ||||||||
ACWA Power Co. | 2,330 | 119,772 | ||||||
Almarai Co. JSC | 24,647 | 416,254 | ||||||
536,026 | ||||||||
Singapore — 0.9% | ||||||||
CapitaLand Ascendas REIT | 337,100 | 690,417 | ||||||
CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust | 826,140 | 1,166,996 | ||||||
City Developments Ltd. | 204,200 | 1,008,830 | ||||||
Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust | 337,100 | 378,931 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,245,174 | ||||||||
South Korea — 3.7% | ||||||||
LG Energy Solution(b) | 11,882 | 4,883,578 | ||||||
Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. | 19,131 | 8,872,981 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,756,559 | ||||||||
Spain — 0.4% | ||||||||
Corp. ACCIONA Energias Renovables SA | 26,990 | 802,040 | ||||||
EDP Renovaveis SA | 47,056 | 860,613 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,662,653 | ||||||||
Sweden — 2.6% | ||||||||
Essity AB, Class B | 321,041 | 7,495,081 | ||||||
Svenska Cellulosa AB SCA, Class B | 120,970 | 1,610,349 | ||||||
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB(b)(c) | 23,120 | 445,948 | ||||||
9,551,378 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Switzerland — 0.5% | ||||||||
Geberit AG, Registered | 3,719 | 1,924,738 | ||||||
|
|
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Taiwan — 1.6% | ||||||||
Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. | 476,000 | $ | 444,184 | |||||
Uni-President Enterprises Corp. | 2,525,000 | 5,598,470 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
6,042,654 | ||||||||
Thailand — 0.1% | ||||||||
BTS Group Holdings PCL, NVDR | 1,117,700 | 234,482 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
United Kingdom — 5.7% | ||||||||
Berkeley Group Holdings PLC | 34,276 | 1,760,969 | ||||||
Johnson Matthey PLC | 719,960 | 14,842,842 | ||||||
Land Securities Group PLC | 65,235 | 497,084 | ||||||
Pearson PLC | 393,675 | 4,172,446 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,273,341 | ||||||||
United States — 28.6% | ||||||||
Alexandria Real Estate Equities Inc. | 19,671 | 2,288,524 | ||||||
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc.(b) | 2,519 | 498,309 | ||||||
Amgen Inc. | 39,452 | 10,113,126 | ||||||
Baxter International Inc. | 96,699 | 3,925,979 | ||||||
BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.(b) | 12,545 | 1,146,362 | ||||||
Boston Properties Inc. | 37,133 | 2,479,370 | ||||||
Darling Ingredients Inc.(b)(c) | 82,668 | 5,105,576 | ||||||
Dexcom Inc.(b) | 15,337 | 1,548,730 | ||||||
Digital Realty Trust Inc. | 54,428 | 7,169,256 | ||||||
Edwards Lifesciences Corp.(b) | 31,824 | 2,433,581 | ||||||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 14,884 | 8,248,713 | ||||||
Enphase Energy Inc.(b) | 20,114 | 2,545,024 | ||||||
First Solar Inc.(b) | 14,563 | 2,754,155 | ||||||
Horizon Therapeutics PLC(b) | 15,259 | 1,720,300 | ||||||
Hormel Foods Corp. | 98,249 | 3,791,429 | ||||||
Incyte Corp.(b) | 24,052 | 1,552,076 | ||||||
Insulet Corp.(b) | 3,532 | 677,120 | ||||||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC(b) | 14,083 | 2,018,939 | ||||||
Kimberly-Clark Corp. | 98,352 | 12,670,688 | ||||||
Lucid Group Inc.(b)(c) | 48,881 | 306,973 | ||||||
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.(b) | 5,851 | 4,835,793 | ||||||
Rivian Automotive Inc., Class A(b)(c) | 72,577 | 1,649,675 | ||||||
Seagen Inc.(b) | 3,090 | 636,756 | ||||||
SolarEdge Technologies Inc.(b) | 17,916 | 2,912,604 | ||||||
Sun Communities Inc. | 16,386 | 2,005,974 | ||||||
United Therapeutics Corp.(b) | 4,542 | 1,019,043 | ||||||
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc.(b) | 13,879 | 4,834,611 | ||||||
VMware Inc., Class A(b) | 18,702 | 3,156,523 | ||||||
Weyerhaeuser Co. | 273,757 | 8,965,542 | ||||||
Xylem Inc./NY | 37,813 | 3,915,158 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
106,925,909 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 99.2% | 370,972,988 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Sweden — 0.0% | ||||||||
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB, (Expires 09/21/23, Strike Price SEK 142.00)(b)(c) | 19,323 | 17,455 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | 17,455 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.2% | 370,990,443 | |||||||
|
|
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 2.4% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 8,695,757 | $ | 8,698,366 | |||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(d)(e) | 310,000 | 310,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 2.4% | 9,008,366 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 101.6% | 379,998,809 | |||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.6)% |
| (5,916,746 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 374,082,063 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 7,678,485 | $ | 1,019,954 | (a) | $ | — | $ | 1,962 | $ | (2,035 | ) | $ | 8,698,366 | 8,695,757 | $ | 52,073 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 60,000 | 250,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 310,000 | 310,000 | 17,749 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 1,962 | $ | (2,035 | ) | $ | 9,008,366 | $ | 69,822 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI EAFE Index | 12 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,266 | $ | (20,820 | ) | |||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 16 | 09/15/23 | 783 | (23,718 | ) | |||||||||||
S&P 500 E-Mini Index | 3 | 09/15/23 | 677 | (856 | ) | |||||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||
$ | (45,394 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 33 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 45,394 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 45,394 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 145,688 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 145,688 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (2,371 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (2,371 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 1,999,309 |
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 131,684,683 | $ | 239,288,305 | $ | — | $ | 370,972,988 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Rights | 17,455 | — | — | 17,455 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 9,008,366 | — | — | 9,008,366 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 140,710,504 | $ | 239,288,305 | $ | — | $ | 379,998,809 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (45,394 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (45,394 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Beverages — 9.5% | ||||||||
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PLC | 1,120 | $ | 71,803 | |||||
Coca-Cola Femsa SAB de CV | 2,800 | 23,725 | ||||||
Diageo PLC | 7,644 | 313,044 | ||||||
Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV | 10,800 | 120,868 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
529,440 | ||||||||
Building Products — 8.3% | ||||||||
Geberit AG, Registered | 668 | 345,718 | ||||||
Genuit Group PLC | 11,332 | 45,727 | ||||||
Uponor OYJ | 2,368 | 74,779 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
466,224 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 4.9% | ||||||||
Ecolab Inc. | 1,373 | 252,371 | ||||||
Johnson Matthey PLC | 928 | 19,132 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
271,503 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.1% | ||||||||
China Everbright Environment Group Ltd. | 168,000 | 61,196 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Construction Materials — 2.4% | ||||||||
Wienerberger AG | 4,956 | 136,421 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electric Utilities — 0.5% | ||||||||
Verbund AG | 364 | 29,790 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 4.1% | ||||||||
Badger Meter Inc. | 1,376 | 228,526 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Financial Services — 0.7% | ||||||||
Metro Pacific Investments Corp. | 456,000 | 40,649 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Food Products — 10.5% | ||||||||
Ausnutria Dairy Corp. Ltd. | 5,000 | 2,083 | ||||||
Britannia Industries Ltd. | 576 | 31,081 | ||||||
General Mills Inc. | 3,248 | 219,760 | ||||||
Hershey Co. (The) | 814 | 174,896 | ||||||
Marico Ltd. | 2,696 | 18,551 | ||||||
McCormick & Co. Inc./MD, NVS | 1,384 | 113,599 | ||||||
Tata Consumer Products Ltd. | 2,948 | 29,690 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
589,660 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 9.2% | ||||||||
Fosun Tourism Group(a)(b) | 1,200 | 1,232 | ||||||
Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. | 1,480 | 220,002 | ||||||
Marriott International Inc./MD, Class A | 1,456 | 296,310 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
517,544 | ||||||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.2% | ||||||||
AES Brasil Energia SA | 4,592 | 10,237 | ||||||
Auren Energia SA | 3,176 | 8,729 | ||||||
Brookfield Renewable Corp., Class A | 772 | 21,551 | ||||||
Meridian Energy Ltd. | 7,656 | 24,490 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
65,007 | ||||||||
Machinery — 19.4% | ||||||||
Energy Recovery Inc.(b) | 2,308 | 62,731 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Machinery (continued) | ||||||||
Franklin Electric Co. Inc. | 1,841 | $ | 178,043 | |||||
Kurita Water Industries Ltd. | 4,900 | 190,881 | ||||||
METAWATER Co. Ltd. | 1,300 | 17,131 | ||||||
Organo Corp. | 1,200 | 33,305 | ||||||
Takuma Co. Ltd. | 2,700 | 29,882 | ||||||
Watts Water Technologies Inc., Class A | 1,284 | 242,381 | ||||||
Xylem Inc./NY | 3,224 | 333,813 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,088,167 | ||||||||
Metals & Mining — 0.0% | ||||||||
Shanxi Taigang Stainless Steel Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,000 | 2,166 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 0.5% | ||||||||
Swire Pacific Ltd., Class A | 3,000 | 24,736 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 12.4% | ||||||||
Macronix International Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 16,900 | ||||||
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 20,000 | 343,659 | ||||||
Texas Instruments Inc. | 1,994 | 335,112 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
695,671 | ||||||||
Water Utilities — 14.1% | ||||||||
AlKhorayef Water & Power Technologies Co. | 494 | 20,123 | ||||||
American States Water Co. | 1,728 | 145,515 | ||||||
American Water Works Co. Inc. | 2,383 | 330,617 | ||||||
Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd. | 184,000 | 42,392 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo | 16,016 | 187,326 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento de Minas Gerais-COPASA | 8,448 | 30,571 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento do Parana | 7,172 | 32,804 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
789,348 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 98.8% | 5,536,048 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Electric Utilities — 0.3% | ||||||||
Cia. Energetica de Minas Gerais, Preference Shares, NVS | 7,212 | 17,957 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Water Utilities — 0.4% | ||||||||
Cia. de Saneamento do Parana, Preference Shares, NVS | 23,328 | 21,481 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 0.7% | 39,438 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.5% | 5,575,486 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.5% | 26,460 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 5,601,946 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 35 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023
| iShares® MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the period ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | | Value at 09/20/22 | (a) | | Purchases at Cost | | | Proceeds from Sale |
| | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | | | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | | | Value at 08/31/23 | | | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | | Income | | Capital Gain Distributions from |
| |||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares(b) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (15 | )(c) | $ | 15 | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 12 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(b) | — | 0 | (c) | — | — | — | — | — | 115 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 15 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 127 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(c) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 3,631,053 | $ | 1,904,995 | $ | — | $ | 5,536,048 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stocks | 39,438 | — | — | 39,438 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 3,670,491 | $ | 1,904,995 | $ | — | $ | 5,575,486 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See notes to financial statements.
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares Food and ETF | iShares ESG Aware MSCI | iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF | iShares MSCI Global Goals ETF | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 5,848,302 | $ | 7,214,359,074 | $ | 52,764,625 | $ | 370,990,443 | ||||||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | — | 7,691,879 | 419,971 | 9,008,366 | ||||||||||||
Cash | 9,580 | 9,694 | 567,841 | 121,217 | ||||||||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 3,000 | — | 4,000 | 69,000 | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency collateral pledged for futures contracts(d) | — | 2,755,871 | — | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency, at value(e) | 11,231 | 18,467,771 | 207,284 | 794,925 | ||||||||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments sold | — | 355,542,438 | 1,141,445 | 50,227,335 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | — | 6,990 | 162 | 3,662 | ||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 11,496 | 17,264,045 | 41,870 | 742,537 | ||||||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 6 | 2,897 | 84 | 1,107 | ||||||||||||
Tax reclaims | 6,743 | 11,953,461 | 5,274 | 456,657 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total assets | 5,890,358 | 7,628,054,120 | 55,152,556 | 432,415,249 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||||
Bank borrowings | — | — | 361,064 | 58,010 | ||||||||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | — | 6,373,338 | 426,661 | 8,700,882 | ||||||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments purchased | — | 359,718,149 | 1,144,594 | 49,389,428 | ||||||||||||
Deferred foreign capital gain tax | — | — | 64,994 | 10,510 | ||||||||||||
Investment advisory fees | 2,360 | 1,231,906 | 7,313 | 159,755 | ||||||||||||
Due to custodian | — | — | 121,268 | — | ||||||||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 92 | 87,549 | 1,282 | 14,601 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total liabilities | 2,452 | 367,410,942 | 2,127,176 | 58,333,186 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,887,906 | $ | 7,260,643,178 | $ | 53,025,380 | $ | 374,082,063 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 7,105,162 | $ | 7,172,863,179 | $ | 54,552,860 | $ | 460,174,199 | ||||||||
Accumulated earnings (loss) | (1,217,256 | ) | 87,779,999 | (1,527,480 | ) | (86,092,136 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,887,906 | $ | 7,260,643,178 | $ | 53,025,380 | $ | 374,082,063 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 300,000 | 101,200,000 | 1,200,000 | 4,750,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value | $ | 19.63 | $ | 71.75 | $ | 44.19 | $ | 78.75 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Par value | None | None | None | None | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 6,840,021 | $ | 6,581,951,091 | $ | 51,864,819 | $ | 398,066,898 | ||||||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | — | $ | 5,998,010 | $ | 401,563 | $ | 8,235,043 | ||||||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | — | $ | 7,691,757 | $ | 419,971 | $ | 9,008,561 | ||||||||
(d) Foreign currency collateral pledged, at cost | $ | — | $ | 2,808,248 | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
(e) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 11,343 | $ | 18,584,712 | $ | 219,023 | $ | 800,067 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 37 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI Water ETF | ||||
| ||||
ASSETS | ||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a) | $ | 5,575,486 | ||
Cash | 3,126 | |||
Foreign currency, at value(b) | 10,276 | |||
Receivables: | ||||
Investments sold | 46,759 | |||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 5 | |||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 13,939 | |||
Tax reclaims | 2,482 | |||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 3 | |||
|
| |||
Total assets | 5,652,076 | |||
|
| |||
LIABILITIES | ||||
Payables: | ||||
Investments purchased | 47,768 | |||
Deferred foreign capital gain tax | 109 | |||
Investment advisory fees | 2,253 | |||
|
| |||
Total liabilities | 50,130 | |||
|
| |||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,601,946 | ||
|
| |||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 4,982,461 | ||
Accumulated earnings | 619,485 | |||
|
| |||
NET ASSETS | $ | 5,601,946 | ||
|
| |||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||
Shares outstanding | 200,000 | |||
|
| |||
Net asset value | $ | 28.01 | ||
|
| |||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | |||
|
| |||
Par value | None | |||
|
| |||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 5,121,662 | ||
(b) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 10,353 |
See notes to financial statements.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF | iShares ESG Aware MSCI | iShares ESG MSCI | iShares MSCI Global | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 166,358 | $ | 243,169,601 | $ | 1,526,916 | $ | 10,311,661 | ||||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 97 | 131,434 | 4,617 | 17,749 | ||||||||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 1,659 | 132,650 | 2,529 | 52,073 | ||||||||||||
Other income — unaffiliated | — | 382 | — | 9 | ||||||||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (11,834 | ) | (22,619,819 | ) | (183,649 | ) | (840,785 | ) | ||||||||
Foreign withholding tax claims | — | 150,432 | — | 3,811 | ||||||||||||
Other foreign taxes | — | — | (4,086 | ) | — | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total investment income | 156,280 | 220,964,680 | 1,346,327 | 9,544,518 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
Investment advisory | 27,537 | 13,908,919 | 84,092 | 2,025,742 | ||||||||||||
Commitment costs | — | — | 1,053 | 1,681 | ||||||||||||
Professional | — | 15,082 | — | 382 | ||||||||||||
Interest expense | — | — | 1,820 | 130 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total expenses | 27,537 | 13,924,001 | 86,965 | 2,027,935 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 128,743 | 207,040,679 | 1,259,362 | 7,516,583 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(a) | (238,732 | ) | (204,617,221 | ) | (863,103 | ) | (26,514,387 | ) | ||||||||
Investments — affiliated | 21 | 6,457 | (101 | ) | 1,962 | |||||||||||
Capital gain distributions from underlying funds — affiliated | — | — | 1 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency transactions | (763 | ) | (975,687 | ) | (21,707 | ) | (87,608 | ) | ||||||||
Futures contracts | 1,892 | 6,496,347 | (20,111 | ) | 145,688 | |||||||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(b) | — | 108,530,017 | 411,073 | 7,378,611 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(237,582 | ) | (90,560,087 | ) | (493,948 | ) | (19,075,734 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(c) | (213,558 | ) | 1,045,574,377 | (970,639 | ) | 21,328,788 | ||||||||||
Investments — affiliated | (6 | ) | (3,511 | ) | (11 | ) | (2,035 | ) | ||||||||
Foreign currency translations | 219 | 1,492,984 | (2,669 | ) | 53,064 | |||||||||||
Futures contracts | (269 | ) | 619,183 | 1,618 | (2,371 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(213,614 | ) | 1,047,683,033 | (971,701 | ) | 21,377,446 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (451,196 | ) | 957,122,946 | (1,465,649 | ) | 2,301,712 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | (322,453 | ) | $ | 1,164,163,625 | $ | (206,287 | ) | $ | 9,818,295 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
(a) Net of foreign capital gain tax and capital gain tax refund, if applicable of | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (54,132 | ) | $ | (13,845 | ) | ||||||
(b) See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. | ||||||||||||||||
(c) Net of reduction in deferred foreign capital gain tax of | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 3,242 | $ | 24,755 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 39 |
Statements of Operations (continued)
Year Ended August 31, 2023
| iShares MSCI Water |
| ||
|
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $124,310 | |||
Dividends — affiliated | 115 | |||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 12 | |||
Foreign taxes withheld | (8,805 | ) | ||
|
| |||
Total investment income | 115,632 | |||
|
| |||
EXPENSES | ||||
Investment advisory | 24,237 | |||
Interest expense | 96 | |||
Commitment costs | 23 | |||
|
| |||
Total expenses | 24,356 | |||
|
| |||
Net investment income | 91,276 | |||
|
| |||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 145,237 | |||
Investments — affiliated | 15 | |||
Foreign currency transactions | 2,446 | |||
Futures contracts | 289 | |||
|
| |||
147,987 | ||||
|
| |||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||
Investments — unaffiliated | 453,715 | |||
Foreign currency translations | (110 | ) | ||
|
| |||
453,605 | ||||
|
| |||
Net realized and unrealized gain | 601,592 | |||
|
| |||
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $692,868 | |||
|
| |||
(a) For the period from September 20, 2022 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2023. |
See notes to financial statements.
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF | iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Period From 04/25/22 to 08/31/22 | (a)
| | Year Ended 08/31/23 |
| | Year Ended 08/31/22 |
| |||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ 128,743 | $ 52,594 | $ | 207,040,679 | $ | 200,220,111 | ||||||||||
Net realized loss | (237,582 | ) | (10,583 | ) | (90,560,087 | ) | (240,509,355 | ) | ||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (213,614 | ) | (778,202 | ) | 1,047,683,033 | (1,579,348,818 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (322,453 | ) | (736,191 | ) | 1,164,163,625 | (1,619,638,062 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(b) | ||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (121,313 | ) | (37,299 | ) | (168,489,438 | ) | (246,221,801 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 1,066,423 | 6,038,739 | (111,292,713 | ) | 1,547,452,980 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | 622,657 | 5,265,249 | 884,381,474 | (318,406,883 | ) | |||||||||||
Beginning of period | 5,265,249 | — | 6,376,261,704 | 6,694,668,587 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
End of period | $5,887,906 | $5,265,249 | $ | 7,260,643,178 | $ | 6,376,261,704 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 41 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF | iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF | |||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||
|
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 1,259,362 | $ | 5,099,358 | $ 7,516,583 | $ 10,093,334 | ||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (493,948 | ) | 68,750,663 | (19,075,734 | ) | (18,394,084 | ) | |||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (971,701 | ) | (157,777,441 | ) | 21,377,446 | (104,450,604 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (206,287 | ) | (83,927,420 | ) | 9,818,295 | (112,751,354 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (2,612,115 | ) | (11,692,050 | ) | (7,206,217 | ) | (10,093,155 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||
Net decrease in net assets derived from capital share transactions | (4,550,261 | ) | (726,515,865 | ) | (44,320,664 | ) | (26,510,247 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||
Total decrease in net assets | (7,368,663 | ) | (822,135,335 | ) | (41,708,586 | ) | (149,354,756 | ) | ||||||||
Beginning of year | 60,394,043 | 882,529,378 | 415,790,649 | 565,145,405 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
End of year | $ | 53,025,380 | $ | 60,394,043 | $374,082,063 | $415,790,649 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (continued)
iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF | ||||
| Period From 09/20/22 to 08/31/23 | (a)
| ||
|
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||
OPERATIONS | ||||
Net investment income | $ 91,276 | |||
Net realized gain | 147,987 | |||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 453,605 | |||
|
| |||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | 692,868 | |||
|
| |||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(b) | ||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (73,383 | ) | ||
|
| |||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||
Net increase in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 4,982,461 | |||
|
| |||
NET ASSETS | ||||
Total increase in net assets | 5,601,946 | |||
Beginning of period | — | |||
|
| |||
End of period | $5,601,946 | |||
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 43 |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF | ||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Period From 04/25/22(a) to 08/31/22 | |||||||
|
Net asset value, beginning of period | $21.06 | $24.09 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 0.45 | 0.21 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized loss(c) | (1.48 | ) | (3.09 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net decrease from investment operations | (1.03 | ) | (2.88 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.40 | ) | (0.15 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $19.63 | $21.06 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (4.92 | )% | (12.00 | )%(f) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.47 | % | 0.47 | %(h) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.20 | % | 2.78 | %(h) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $5,888 | $5,265 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 18 | % | 1 | % | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ | 62.03 | $ | 80.85 | $ | 65.21 | $ | 62.01 | $ | 65.51 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 2.04 | 2.07 | 1.84 | 1.53 | 2.12 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 9.35 | (18.37 | ) | 15.47 | 2.85 | (3.92 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 11.39 | (16.30 | ) | 17.31 | 4.38 | (1.80 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.67 | ) | (2.52 | ) | (1.67 | ) | (1.18 | ) | (1.70 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ | 71.75 | $ | 62.03 | $ | 80.85 | $ | 65.21 | $ | 62.01 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 18.42 | % | (20.54 | )% | 26.69 | % | 7.12 | % | (2.68 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.20 | % | 0.20 | % | 0.20 | % | 0.20 | % | 0.20 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total expenses excluding professional fees for foreign withholding tax claims | 0.20 | % | 0.20 | % | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.98 | % | 2.84 | % | 2.45 | % | 2.47 | % | 3.39 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $ | 7,260,643 | $ | 6,376,262 | $ | 6,694,669 | $ | 3,025,519 | $ | 917,780 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 26 | % | 27 | % | 25 | % | 30 | % | 26 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 45 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF | ||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Year Ended 08/31/22 | | | Year Ended 08/31/21 | | | Period From 02/05/20 to 08/31/20 | (a)
| |||||
|
Net asset value, beginning of period | $ 46.46 | $ 63.49 | $ 51.84 | $ 51.43 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 1.07 | 0.96 | 1.01 | 0.79 | ||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | (1.30 | ) | (16.79 | ) | 11.67 | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | (0.23 | ) | (15.83 | ) | 12.68 | 0.76 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Distributions(d) | ||||||||||||||||
From net investment income | (0.62 | ) | (0.90 | ) | (1.03 | ) | (0.35 | ) | ||||||||
From net realized gain | (1.42 | ) | (0.30 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total distributions | (2.04 | ) | (1.20 | ) | (1.03 | ) | (0.35 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ 44.19 | $ 46.46 | $ 63.49 | $ 51.84 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (0.48 | )% | (25.25 | )%(f) | 24.68 | % | 1.54 | %(g) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(h) | ||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.17 | % | 0.16 | % | 0.16 | % | 0.16 | %(i) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income | 2.40 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.66 | % | 3.04 | %(i) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $53,025 | $60,394 | $882,529 | $647,969 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(j) | 37 | % | 17 | % | 34 | % | 19 | % | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Includes payments received from an affiliate, which impacted the Fund’s total return. Excluding payments, the Fund’s total return would have been -26.07%. |
(g) | Not annualized. |
(h) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(i) | Annualized. |
(j) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/21 | Year Ended 08/31/20 | Year Ended 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year | $ 78.45 | $ 100.03 | $ 81.68 | $ 57.03 | $58.35 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income(a) | 1.43 | 1.81 | 1.12 | 1.19 | 1.02 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(b) | 0.24 | (21.60 | ) | 18.09 | 24.32 | (1.29 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 1.67 | (19.79 | ) | 19.21 | 25.51 | (0.27 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(c) | (1.37 | ) | (1.79 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (0.86 | ) | (1.05 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year | $ 78.75 | $ 78.45 | $ 100.03 | $ 81.68 | $57.03 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total Return(d) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 2.08 | % | (19.93 | )% | 23.60 | % | 45.10 | % | (0.40 | )% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.49 | % | 0.49 | % | 0.49 | % | 0.49 | % | 0.49 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Total expenses excluding professional fees for foreign withholding tax claims | 0.49 | % | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Net investment income | 1.82 | % | 2.06 | % | 1.19 | % | 1.82 | % | 1.79 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of year (000) | $374,082 | $415,791 | $565,145 | $175,604 | $54,174 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(f) | 44 | % | 54 | % | 70 | % | 47 | % | 43 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(b) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(c) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(d) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(e) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(f) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 47 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Water | ||||
|
| |||
| Period From 09/20/22 to 08/31/23 | (a)
| ||
|
Net asset value, beginning of period | $24.91 | |||
|
| |||
Net investment income(b) | 0.46 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain(c) | 3.01 | |||
|
| |||
Net increase from investment operations | 3.47 | |||
|
| |||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.37 | ) | ||
|
| |||
Net asset value, end of period | $28.01 | |||
|
| |||
Total Return(e) | ||||
Based on net asset value | 13.91 | %(f) | ||
|
| |||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||
Total expenses | 0.47 | %(h) | ||
|
| |||
Net investment income | 1.77 | %(h) | ||
|
| |||
Supplemental Data | ||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $5,602 | |||
|
| |||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 51 | % | ||
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
48 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
1. ORGANIZATION
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | Non-diversified | |
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | Diversified | |
ESG MSCI EM Leaders(a) | Diversified | |
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | Diversified | |
MSCI Water Management Multisector(b) | Non-diversified |
(a) | The Fund’s classification changed from non-diversified to diversified during the reporting period. |
(b) | The Fund commenced operations on September 20, 2022. |
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 49 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
50 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
| ||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value | | | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | ||||||||||||||||
HSBC Bank PLC | $ | 1,818,019 | $ | (1,818,019 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
TD Prime Services LLC | 4,176,670 | (4,176,670 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Wells Fargo Bank N.A. | 3,321 | (3,289 | ) | — | 32 | (b) | ||||||||||
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| |||||||||
$ | 5,998,010 | $ | (5,997,978 | ) | $ | — | $ | 32 | ||||||||
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| |||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | ||||||||||||||||
HSBC BANK PLC | $ | 61,514 | $ | (61,514 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 175,642 | (175,642 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Jefferies LLC | 4,693 | (4,693 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 159,714 | (159,714 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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| |||||||||
$ | 401,563 | $ | (401,563 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
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MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Bank PLC | $ | 1,180,023 | $ | (1,180,023 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 368,621 | (368,621 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. | 533,979 | (533,979 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 1,012,864 | (1,012,864 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Jefferies LLC | 3,256 | (3,256 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 3,991,744 | (3,991,744 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS AG | 1,019,986 | (1,019,986 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS SECURITIES LLC | 124,570 | (124,570 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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$ | 8,235,043 | $ | (8,235,043 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
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(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
(b) | The market value of the loaned securities is determined as of August 31, 2023. Additional collateral is delivered to the Fund on the next business day in accordance with the MSLA. The net amount would be subject to the borrower default indemnity in the event of default by the counterparty. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 51 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
6. INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFAis entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | 0.47 | % | ||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 0.20 | |||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 0.16 | |||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 0.49 | |||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 0.47 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
52 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 347 | ||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 31,687 | |||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 678 | |||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 13,949 | |||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 5 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | $ 517,497,676 | $ 599,669,025 | $ (71,979,151 | ) | ||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 1,580,952 | 1,532,976 | (430,574 | ) | ||||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 51,843,445 | 66,705,011 | (5,468,852 | ) |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
7. PURCHASES AND SALES
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 1,059,509 | $ | 1,054,946 | ||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 1,909,735,840 | 1,769,695,222 | ||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 19,777,115 | 21,610,156 | ||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 178,240,354 | 181,250,930 | ||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 3,199,349 | 2,735,823 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 1,058,220 | $ | — | ||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 115,465,446 | 327,451,083 | ||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 1,785,070 | 5,825,585 | ||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 15,590,518 | 57,048,078 | ||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 4,512,913 | — |
8. INCOME TAX INFORMATION
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 53 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | $ | 107,924,953 | $ | (107,924,953 | ) | |||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 362,682 | (362,682 | ) | |||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 6,895,631 | (6,895,631 | ) |
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Period Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 121,313 | $ | 37,299 | ||||
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iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 168,489,438 | $ | 246,221,801 | ||||
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ESG MSCI EM Leaders | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 760,831 | $ | 8,797,807 | ||||
Long-term capital gains | 1,851,284 | 2,894,243 | ||||||
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$ | 2,612,115 | $ | 11,692,050 | |||||
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MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 7,206,217 | $ | 10,093,155 | ||||
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iShares ETF | Period Ended 08/31/23 | |||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | $ | 73,383 | ||
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|
As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
iShares ETF | Undistributed Ordinary Income | Undistributed Long-Term Capital Gains | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards(a) | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)(b) | Total | |||||||||||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 21,662 | $ | — | $ | (220,484 | ) | $ | (1,018,434 | ) | $ | (1,217,256 | ) | |||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 55,366,132 | — | (566,529,694 | ) | 598,943,561 | 87,779,999 | ||||||||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 829,566 | — | (2,182,392 | ) | (174,654 | ) | (1,527,480 | ) | ||||||||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 1,909,102 | — | (57,913,571 | ) | (30,087,667 | ) | (86,092,136 | ) | ||||||||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 166,467 | 173 | — | 452,845 | 619,485 |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain futures contracts, the timing and recognition of partnership income, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
54 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 6,866,630 | $ | 94,234 | $ | (1,112,562 | ) | $ | (1,018,328 | ) | ||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 6,623,520,901 | 957,504,115 | (358,491,941 | ) | 599,012,174 | |||||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 53,285,007 | 7,255,749 | (7,356,160 | ) | (100,411 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 410,071,979 | 27,279,111 | (57,352,281 | ) | (30,073,170 | ) | ||||||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 5,122,422 | 577,870 | (124,806 | ) | 453,064 |
9. LINE OF CREDIT
The iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF, iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF and iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, the maximum amount borrowed, the average daily borrowing and the weighted average interest rate, if any, under the Syndicated Credit Agreement were as follows:
iShares ETF | Maximum Amount Borrowed | Average Borrowing | Weighted Average Interest Rates | |||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | $ | 1,300,000 | $ | 29,373 | 5.94 | % | ||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 100,000 | 2,077 | 6.19 | |||||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 80,000 | 1,534 | 6.17 |
10. PRINCIPAL RISKS
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Market Risk: Investments in the securities of issuers domiciled in countries with emerging capital markets involve certain additional risks that do not generally apply to investments in securities of issuers in more developed capital markets, such as (i) low or nonexistent trading volume, resulting in a lack of liquidity and increased volatility in prices for such securities; (ii) uncertain national policies and social, political and economic instability, increasing the potential for expropriation of assets, confiscatory taxation, high rates of inflation or unfavorable diplomatic developments; (iii) lack of publicly available or reliable information about issuers as a result of not being subject to the same degree of regulatory requirements and accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards; and (iv) possible fluctuations in exchange rates, differing legal systems and the existence or possible imposition of exchange controls, custodial restrictions or other foreign or U.S. governmental laws or restrictions applicable to such investments.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 55 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
The price each Fund could receive upon the sale of any particular portfolio investment may differ from each Fund’s valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair valuation technique or a price provided by an independent pricing service. Changes to significant unobservable inputs and assumptions (i.e., publicly traded company multiples, growth rate, time to exit) due to the lack of observable inputs.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities. Investment percentages in specific countries are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in the United States. A decrease in imports or exports, changes in trade regulations, inflation and/or an economic recession in the United States may have a material adverse effect on the U.S. economy and the securities listed on U.S. exchanges. Proposed and adopted policy and legislative changes in the United States may also have a significant effect on U.S. markets generally, as well as on the value of certain securities. Governmental agencies project that the United States will continue to maintain elevated public debt levels for the foreseeable future which may constrain future economic growth. Circumstances could arise that could prevent the timely payment of interest or principal on U.S. government debt, such as reaching the legislative “debt ceiling.” Such non-payment would result in substantial negative consequences for the U.S. economy and the global financial system. If U.S. relations with certain countries deteriorate, it could adversely affect issuers that rely on the United States for trade. The United States has also experienced increased internal unrest and discord. If these trends were to continue, they may have an adverse impact on the U.S. economy and the issuers in which the the Funds invest.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries. The European financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns about economic downturns in, or rising government debt levels of, several European countries as well as acts of war in the region. These events may spread to other countries in Europe and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
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. The United Kingdom has withdrawn from the European Union, and one or more other countries may withdraw from the European Union and/or abandon the Euro, the common currency of the European Union. These events and actions have adversely affected, and may in the future adversely affect, the value and exchange rate of the Euro and may continue to significantly affect the economies of every country in Europe, including countries that do not use the Euro and non-European Union member states. The impact of these actions, especially if they occur in a
56 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
disorderly fashion, is not clear but could be significant and far reaching. In addition, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The extent and duration of the military action, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in the region are impossible to predict, but have been, and may continue to be significant and have a severe adverse effect on the region, including significant negative impacts on the economy and the markets for certain securities and commodities, such as oil and natural gas, as well as other sectors.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in China or with significant exposure to Chinese issuers. Investments in Chinese securities, including certain Hong Kong-listed securities, involve risks specific to China. China may be subject to considerable degrees of economic, political and social instability and demonstrates significantly higher volatility from time to time in comparison to developed markets. Chinese markets generally continue to experience inefficiency, volatility and pricing anomalies resulting from governmental influence, a lack of publicly available information and/or political and social instability. Internal social unrest or confrontations with other neighboring countries may disrupt economic development in China and result in a greater risk of currency fluctuations, currency non-convertibility, interest rate fluctuations and higher rates of inflation. Incidents involving China’s or the region’s security may cause uncertainty in Chinese markets and may adversely affect the Chinese economy and a fund’s investments. Reduction in spending on Chinese products and services, institution of tariffs or other trade barriers, or a downturn in any of the economies of China’s key trading partners may have an adverse impact on the Chinese economy. In addition, measures may be taken to limit the flow of capital and/or sanctions may be imposed, which could prohibit or restrict the ability to own or transfer fund assets and may also include retaliatory actions, such as seizure of fund assets.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Asia or with significant exposure to Asian issuers or countries. The Asian financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns in several Asian countries regarding monetary policy, government intervention in the markets, rising government debt levels or economic downturns. These events may spread to other countries in Asia and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Period Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector(a) | 50,000 | $ | 1,066,423 | 250,000 | $ | 6,038,739 | ||||||||||
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(a) | The Fund commenced operations on April 25, 2022. |
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 3,100,000 | $ | 217,263,238 | 20,900,000 | $ | 1,606,111,842 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (4,700,000 | ) | (328,555,951 | ) | (900,000 | ) | (58,658,862 | ) | ||||||||
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(1,600,000 | ) | $ | (111,292,713 | ) | 20,000,000 | $ | 1,547,452,980 | |||||||||
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ESG MSCI EM Leaders | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 200,000 | $ | 8,952,435 | 350,000 | $ | 25,549,181 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (300,000 | ) | (13,502,696 | ) | (12,950,000 | ) | (752,065,046 | ) | ||||||||
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(100,000 | ) | $ | (4,550,261 | ) | (12,600,000 | ) | $ | (726,515,865 | ) | |||||||
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MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 250,000 | $ | 18,922,112 | 600,000 | $ | 54,530,456 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (800,000 | ) | (63,242,776 | ) | (950,000 | ) | (81,040,703 | ) | ||||||||
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(550,000 | ) | $ | (44,320,664 | ) | (350,000 | ) | $ | (26,510,247 | ) | |||||||
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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 57 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Period Ended 08/31/23 | ||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | ||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector(a) | 200,000 | $ | 4,982,461 | |||||
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(a) | The Fund commenced operations on September 20, 2022. |
The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following item was noted:
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
58 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the five funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (five of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations and of changes in net assets for each of the periods indicated in the table below, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations and the changes in each of their net assets for the periods indicated in the table below, and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF(1)
iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF(2)
iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF(2)
iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF(2)
iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF(3)
(1) | Statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, and statement of changes in net assets for the year ended August 31, 2023 and the period April 25, 2022 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2022. |
(2) | Statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023 and statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023. |
(3) | Statement of operations and statement of changes in net assets for the period September 20, 2022 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2023. |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
R E P O R T O F I N D E P E N D E N T R E G I S T E R E D P U B L I C A C C O U N T I N G F I R M | 59 |
Important Tax Information (unaudited)
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | $ | 164,221 | ||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | 221,461,153 | |||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 730,754 | |||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 6,233,402 | |||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 104,408 |
The following amount, or maximum amount allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified business income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Business Income | |||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | $ | 91,689 |
The Fund hereby designates the following amount, or maximum amount allowable by law, as capital gain dividends, subject to a long-term capital gains tax rate as noted below, for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | 20% Rate Long-Term Capital Gain Dividends | |||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | $ | 1,851,284 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
ESG Aware MSCI EAFE | $ | 243,105,924 | $ | 21,267,335 | ||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | 1,683,542 | 249,268 | ||||||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 8,966,738 | 964,782 |
The following percentages, or maximum percentages allowable by law, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023 qualified for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders:
iShares ETF | Dividends-Received Deduction | |||
Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector | 62.96 | % | ||
MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals | 8.96 | % | ||
MSCI Water Management Multisector | 19.22 | % |
60 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF, iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF, iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF, iShares MSCI Water Management Multisector ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 61 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
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Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were within range of the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 63 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately
64 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 65 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ESG MSCI EM Leaders | $ | 0.611545 | $ | 1.424065 | $ | — | $ | 2.035610 | 30 | % | 70 | % | — | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI Water Management Multisector(a) | 0.362519 | — | 0.004397 | 0.366916 | 99 | — | 1 | 100 |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
Regulation under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive, and its United Kingdom (“UK”) equivalent, ( “AIFMD”) impose detailed and prescriptive obligations on fund managers established in the European Union (the “EU”) and the UK. These do not currently apply to managers established outside of the EU or UK, such as BFA (the “Company”). However, the Company is required to comply with certain disclosure, reporting and transparency obligations of AIFMD because the iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (the “Fund”) was registered to be marketed to investors in the EU and/or UK until December 29, 2022.
Report on Remuneration
The Company is required under AIFMD to make quantitative disclosures of remuneration. These disclosures are made in line with BlackRock’s interpretation of currently available regulatory guidance on quantitative remuneration disclosures. As market or regulatory practice develops BlackRock may consider it appropriate to make changes to the way in which quantitative remuneration disclosures are calculated. Where such changes are made, this may result in disclosures in relation to a fund not being comparable to the disclosures made in the prior year, or in relation to other BlackRock fund disclosures in that same year.
Disclosures are provided in relation to (a) the staff of the Company; (b) staff who are senior management; and (c) staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund.
All individuals included in the aggregated figures disclosed are rewarded in line with BlackRock’s remuneration policy for their responsibilities across the relevant BlackRock business area. As all individuals have a number of areas of responsibilities, only the portion of remuneration for those individuals’ services attributable to the Fund is included in the aggregate figures disclosed.
BlackRock has a clear and well-defined pay-for-performance philosophy, and compensation programs which support that philosophy.
BlackRock operates a total compensation model for remuneration which includes a base salary, which is contractual, and a discretionary bonus scheme. Although all employees are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, there is no contractual obligation to make a discretionary bonus award to any employees. For senior management and staff who have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of the Fund, a significant percentage of variable remuneration is deferred over time. All employees are subject to a clawback policy.
66 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Supplemental Information (unaudited) (continued)
Remuneration decisions for employees are made once annually in January following the end of the performance year, based on BlackRock’s full-year financial results and other non-financial goals and objectives. Alongside financial performance, individual total compensation is also based on strategic and operating results and other considerations such as management and leadership capabilities. No set formulas are established and no fixed benchmarks are used in determining annual incentive awards.
Annual incentive awards are paid from a bonus pool which is reviewed throughout the year by BlackRock’s independent compensation committee, taking into account both actual and projected financial information together with information provided by the Enterprise Risk and Regulatory Compliance departments in relation to any activities, incidents or events that warrant consideration in making compensation decisions. Individuals are not involved in setting their own remuneration.
Each of the control functions (Enterprise Risk, Legal & Compliance, and Internal Audit) each have their own organizational structures which are independent of the business units and therefore staff members in control functions are remunerated independently of the businesses they oversee. Functional bonus pools for those control functions are determined with reference to the performance of each individual function and the remuneration of the senior members of control functions is directly overseen by BlackRock’s independent remuneration committee.
Members of staff and senior management of the Company typically provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the Company and across the broader BlackRock group. Conversely, members of staff and senior management of the broader BlackRock group may provide both AIFMD and non-AIFMD related services in respect of multiple funds, clients and functions of the broader BlackRock group and of the Company. Therefore, the figures disclosed are a sum of individuals’ portion of remuneration attributable to the Company according to an objective apportionment methodology which acknowledges the multiple-service nature of the Company and the broader BlackRock group. Accordingly, the figures are not representative of any individual’s actual remuneration or their remuneration structure.
The amount of the total remuneration awarded to the Company’s staff in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022 was USD 4.12 million. This figure is comprised of fixed remuneration of USD 685 thousand and variable remuneration of USD 3.44 million. There was a total of 8 beneficiaries of the remuneration described above.
The amount of the aggregate remuneration awarded by the Company in respect of the Company’s financial year ending December 31, 2022, to its senior management was USD 2.96 million, and to other members of its staff whose actions potentially have a material impact on the risk profile of the Company or its funds was USD 970 thousand. These figures relate to the entire Company and not to the Fund.
Disclosures Under the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation
iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF
Until December 29, 2022, the iShares ESG MSCI EM Leaders ETF (the “Fund”) was registered under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (“AIFMD”) to be marketed to EU investors as noted above. As a result, the Fund was subject to the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (“SFDR”), which incorporates disclosures prescribed by the EU’s taxonomy for environmentally sustainable economic activities (“Taxonomy Regulation”). The Fund was categorized under the SFDR as an “Article 8” fund – i.e., a fund that promotes environmental or social characteristics.
Certain environmental and social characteristics are promoted by the Fund through its investments in a portfolio that primarily made up of the component securities of the Fund’s underlying index. The underlying index applies exclusionary screens based on certain environmental- and social-related characteristics and ratings. In addition, only securities of companies with an MSCI ESG Rating of “BB” or higher and an MSCI ESG Controversies Score of three or higher, both as determined by the index provider, are eligible for inclusion in the underlying index. Please refer to the Fund’s prospectus for additional information regarding the Fund’s investment strategy and the methodology of the underlying index. BFA or its affiliates carried out due diligence on index providers and engaged with them on an ongoing basis regarding index methodologies, including their assessment of good governance criteria set out by SFDR.
From September 1, 2022 to the deregistration of the Fund from AIFMD on December 29, 2022, 0% of the Fund’s investments met the applicable requirements to be considered aligned with the EU Taxonomy Regulation.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | 67 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) | Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
(b) | Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
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Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). |
Officers | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 69 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer.
70 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
GENERAL INFORMATION | 71 |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation
ADR | American Depositary Receipt | |
CPO | Certificates of Participation (Ordinary) | |
JSC | Joint Stock Company | |
NVDR | Non-Voting Depositary Receipt | |
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
PJSC | Public Joint Stock Company | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
72 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by Morningstar Inc. and MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-817-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
2023 Annual Report |
iShares Trust
· | iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF | TCHI | NASDAQ |
· | iShares MSCI Japan Value ETF | EWJV | NASDAQ |
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023
| ||||
6-Month | 12-Month | |||
U.S. large cap equities | 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities | 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities Far East Index) | 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities | 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills Treasury Bill Index) | 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities (ICE BofA 10-Year U.S. Treasury Index) | 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds (Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index) | 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds (Bloomberg Municipal Bond Index) | 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index) | 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index
|
2 | T H I S P A G E I S N O T P A R T O F Y O U R F U N D R E P O R T |
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Financial Statements | ||||
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
4 | T H I S P A G E I S N O T P A R T OF Y O U R F U N D R E P O R T |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of Chinese equities in technology and technology-related industries, as represented by the MSCI China Technology Sub-Industries Select Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception | 1 Year | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | (8.96 | )% | (17.81 | )% | (8.96 | )% | (26.93 | )% | ||||||||||||
Fund Market | (8.49 | ) | (17.49 | ) | (8.49 | ) | (26.49 | ) | ||||||||||||
Index | (8.98 | ) | (17.09 | ) | (8.98 | ) | (25.91 | ) |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was January 25, 2022. The first day of secondary market trading was January 27, 2022.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 946.50 | $ 2.89 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,022.20 | $ 3.01 | 0.59 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
F U N D S U M M A R Y | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Chinese equities in technology and technology-related industries declined during the reporting period, impacted by slowing economic growth and increased tensions between China and the U.S. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several coronavirus-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent economic performance disappointed. Significant outflows of foreign investment from Chinese equities and the advancement of an economic decoupling from other countries as the Chinese government aims for greater supply chain independence also weighed on Chinese markets.
The information technology sector was the largest detractor from the Index’s performance, as investor concerns about oversupply of solar panels and related technology pressured the semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industry. Within the industry, falling prices for polysilicon, a key component in the production of solar panels, weighed on the profits of semiconductor materials and equipment providers. Stocks of semiconductors companies declined after the U.S. government introduced new export controls, which limit the sale of semiconductors produced with U.S. technology and aim to curb the ability of Chinese firms to manufacture certain types of computer chips. The combination of falling prices for solar panels and greater supply as new semiconductor factories came online further pressured the industry.
Industrials stocks also weighed on the Index’s performance, with the electrical equipment industry detracting the most within the industrials sector. A slowdown in domestic demand for electric vehicles (“EVs”) resulted in price declines for lithium, a primary component of the batteries that power EVs, leading to lower profits for Chinese battery producers. The financials sector also detracted from the Index’s return, as China’s economic slowdown drove higher delinquency rates and reduced loan volumes for consumer finance companies.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |
Information Technology | 40.9% | |
Communication Services | 24.7 | |
Consumer Discretionary | 24.2 | |
Industrials | 8.1 | |
Financials | 2.1 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |
Pinduoduo Inc. | 4.8% | |
Baidu Inc. | 4.4 | |
Xiaomi Corp., Class B | 4.1 | |
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. | 4.0 | |
NetEase Inc. | 4.0 | |
Kuaishou Technology | 4.0 | |
JD.com Inc., Class A | 3.8 | |
Tencent Holdings Ltd. | 3.7 | |
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 3.3 | |
Lenovo Group Ltd. | 3.2 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares MSCI JapanValue ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization Japanese equities with value characteristics and relatively lower valuations, as represented by the MSCI Japan Value Index (USD) (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception | 1 Year | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 21.46 | % | 6.03 | % | 21.46 | % | 30.07 | % | ||||||||||||
Fund Market | 22.08 | 6.06 | 22.08 | 30.24 | ||||||||||||||||
Index | 20.76 | 6.00 | 20.76 | 29.87 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was March 5, 2019. The first day of secondary market trading was March 7, 2019.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual | Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23) |
| | Ending Account Value (08/31/23) |
| | Expenses Paid During the Period |
(a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio |
| ||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,138.40 | $ 0.81 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,024.40 | $ 0.77 | 0.15 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
F U N D S U M M A R Y | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Japanese value stocks advanced for the reporting period, as the economy grew at its fastest pace in three years. The Japanese economy, which has struggled with weak growth and deflation, or falling prices, in recent decades, returned to growth while logging its highest inflation rate in more than 30 years. Foreign demand for automotive products and tourism drove stronger economic growth. The lifting of coronavirus pandemic-related travel restrictions on foreign tourism unleashed pent-up demand, spurring strong growth in tourism. Automotive exports recovered from lingering supply chain disruptions related to prior pandemic-related policies. Domestic consumption trailed, however, as household spending contracted, and the country’s notoriously high savings rate remained elevated for the reporting period, leading to concerns about the sustainability of recent economic growth. Nevertheless, investor optimism that Japan would maintain accommodative monetary policy to stimulate growth and inflation, as well as other policy shifts, such as limiting government intervention in bond markets and corporate governance reforms, ultimately drove strong flows into the Japanese equity market.
The industrials sector, which comprised approximately 26% of the Index on average for the reporting period, contributed the most to the Index’s return. The trading companies and distributors industry, which acts as an intermediary for the trading of many Japanese exports, benefited from growth in exports, a recovery in Japanese auto sales, and relatively elevated commodities prices.
The financials sector, which represented approximately 20% of the Index on average for the reporting period, also contributed to the Index’s return. Japan’s diversified banks advanced with strong earnings growth, including gains on bond sales, higher fees, lower credit costs, and growth in overseas lending activity.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
Sector | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |
Industrials | 26.1% | |
Financials | 21.7 | |
Consumer Discretionary | 21.5 | |
Real Estate | 5.5 | |
Information Technology | 5.0 | |
Communication Services | 4.9 | |
Materials | 4.3 | |
Consumer Staples | 3.8 | |
Health Care | 3.6 | |
Utilities | 2.0 | |
Energy | 1.6 |
TEN LARGEST HOLDINGS
Security | Percent of Total Investments(a) | |
Toyota Motor Corp. | 10.0% | |
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. | 5.0 | |
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. | 3.1 | |
Mitsubishi Corp. | 3.1 | |
Honda Motor Co. Ltd. | 2.7 | |
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 2.6 | |
KDDI Corp. | 2.4 | |
Tokio Marine Holdings Inc. | 2.2 | |
Hitachi Ltd. | 2.2 | |
Mizuho Financial Group Inc. | 2.2 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
About Fund Performance |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
A B O U T F U N D P E R F O R M A N C E / D I S C L O S U R EO F E X P E N S E S | 9 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 14.7% | ||||||||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.(a) | 24,800 | $ | 287,832 | |||||
JD.com Inc., Class A | 16,400 | 272,373 | ||||||
Pinduoduo Inc., ADR(a) | 3,448 | 341,249 | ||||||
Vipshop Holdings Ltd., ADR(a) | 9,426 | 148,836 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,050,290 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 1.1% | ||||||||
East Money Information Co. Ltd., Class A | 26,352 | 57,532 | ||||||
Hithink RoyalFlush Information Network Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 18,410 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
75,942 | ||||||||
Communications Equipment — 3.6% | ||||||||
BYD Electronic International Co. Ltd. | 22,000 | 101,893 | ||||||
Guangzhou Haige Communications Group Inc. Co., Class A | 4,000 | 5,818 | ||||||
Hengtong Optic-Electric Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,400 | 8,546 | ||||||
Suzhou TFC Optical Communication Co. Ltd. | 800 | 9,284 | ||||||
Tianjin 712 Communication & Broadcasting Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 4,390 | ||||||
Yealink Network Technology Corp. Ltd., Class A | 2,240 | 11,392 | ||||||
Zhongji Innolight Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 18,900 | ||||||
ZTE Corp., Class A | 6,400 | 31,152 | ||||||
ZTE Corp., Class H | 20,800 | 66,943 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
258,318 | ||||||||
Consumer Finance — 1.1% | ||||||||
Lufax Holding Ltd., ADR | 19,204 | 23,237 | ||||||
Qifu Technology Inc. | 3,118 | 53,006 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
76,243 | ||||||||
Diversified Consumer Services — 5.2% | ||||||||
Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.(a)(b) | 11,000 | 55,723 | ||||||
New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc.(a) | 41,600 | 225,691 | ||||||
Offcn Education Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 10,000 | 5,863 | ||||||
TAL Education Group, ADR(a) | 12,044 | 84,910 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
372,187 | ||||||||
Electrical Equipment — 6.3% | ||||||||
Beijing Easpring Material Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 4,872 | ||||||
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,240 | 235,177 | ||||||
Eve Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 21,716 | ||||||
Fangda Carbon New Material Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 7,600 | 6,088 | ||||||
Farasis Energy Gan Zhou Co. Ltd., NVS | 2,400 | 6,678 | ||||||
Ginlong Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 600 | 6,187 | ||||||
Gongniu Group Co. Ltd. | 795 | 11,579 | ||||||
Gotion High-tech Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 2,800 | 9,314 | ||||||
Guangzhou Great Power Energy & Technology Co. Ltd.(a) | 800 | 3,936 | ||||||
Hongfa Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 880 | 4,249 | ||||||
Hoymiles Power Electronics Inc., NVS | 137 | 5,019 | ||||||
Jiangsu GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 280 | 5,330 | ||||||
Jiangsu Zhongtian Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,600 | 11,212 | ||||||
Jiangxi Special Electric Motor Co. Ltd., NVS(a) | 2,800 | 3,490 | ||||||
Ningbo Orient Wires & Cables Co. Ltd. | 1,192 | 6,058 | ||||||
Ningbo Ronbay New Energy Technology Co. Ltd. | 740 | 5,182 | ||||||
Pylon Technologies Co. Ltd., NVS | 284 | 5,396 | ||||||
Shanghai Moons’ Electric Co. Ltd. | 800 | 7,228 | ||||||
Shenzhen Kstar Science & Technology Co. Ltd. | 800 | 3,331 | ||||||
Sieyuan Electric Co. Ltd. | 1,200 | 8,435 | ||||||
Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 32,900 | ||||||
Sunwoda Electronic Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,800 | 6,092 | ||||||
Suzhou Maxwell Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 480 | 10,059 | ||||||
TBEA Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,600 | 17,375 | ||||||
Zhejiang Chint Electrics Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,600 | 12,253 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
449,156 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 9.8% | ||||||||
AAC Technologies Holdings Inc. | 20,000 | $ | 38,741 | |||||
Accelink Technologies Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 4,622 | ||||||
Avary Holding Shenzhen Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 9,389 | ||||||
BOE Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 62,000 | 34,144 | ||||||
Chaozhou Three-Circle Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 14,108 | ||||||
China Railway Signal & Communication Corp. Ltd., Class A | 12,000 | 9,256 | ||||||
China Zhenhua Group Science & Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 10,075 | ||||||
Eoptolink Technology Inc.Ltd. | 1,200 | 7,516 | ||||||
Everdisplay Optronics Shanghai Co. Ltd.(a) | 19,200 | 7,097 | ||||||
Foxconn Industrial Internet Co. Ltd., Class A | 16,400 | 49,300 | ||||||
GoerTek Inc., Class A | 6,000 | 12,612 | ||||||
Guangzhou Shiyuan Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 8,783 | ||||||
Hengdian Group DMEGC Magnetics Co. Ltd. | 2,722 | 6,133 | ||||||
Huagong Tech Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 6,891 | ||||||
Kingboard Holdings Ltd. | 18,000 | 40,846 | ||||||
Kingboard Laminates Holdings Ltd. | 26,000 | 21,608 | ||||||
Lens Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,600 | 14,524 | ||||||
Lingyi iTech Guangdong Co., Class A | 11,200 | 9,241 | ||||||
Luxshare Precision Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,000 | 54,365 | ||||||
Maxscend Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,040 | 17,715 | ||||||
Raytron Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 5,630 | ||||||
Shanghai Friendess Electronic Technology Corp. Ltd., Class A | 200 | 7,238 | ||||||
Shengyi Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,600 | 7,328 | ||||||
Shennan Circuits Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 7,273 | ||||||
Shenzhen Kaifa Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 5,879 | ||||||
Shenzhen SED Industry Co. Ltd., NVS | 1,974 | 7,436 | ||||||
Shenzhen Sunlord Electronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,200 | 4,414 | ||||||
Sunny Optical Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 19,600 | 160,038 | ||||||
Suzhou Dongshan Precision Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,800 | 7,226 | ||||||
TCL Technology Group Corp., Class A(a) | 32,480 | 18,284 | ||||||
Tianma Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 4,000 | 4,726 | ||||||
Unisplendour Corp. Ltd., Class A(a) | 4,800 | 17,757 | ||||||
Universal Scientific Industrial Shanghai Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 6,488 | ||||||
Westone Information Industry Inc., Class A | 1,600 | 5,493 | ||||||
Wingtech Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 2,000 | 12,676 | ||||||
Wuhan Guide Infrared Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,968 | 7,376 | ||||||
WUS Printed Circuit Kunshan Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 9,276 | ||||||
Xiamen Faratronic Co. Ltd. | 400 | 6,242 | ||||||
Zhejiang Dahua Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,600 | 16,614 | ||||||
Zhejiang Supcon Technology Co. Ltd. | 1,165 | 8,067 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
702,427 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 9.3% | ||||||||
37 Interactive Entertainment Network Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,600 | 12,202 | ||||||
Beijing Enlight Media Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,800 | 6,161 | ||||||
Bilibili Inc.(a) | 5,440 | 82,200 | ||||||
China Film Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 3,200 | 6,525 | ||||||
China Ruyi Holdings Ltd.(a) | 160,000 | 42,428 | ||||||
G-Bits Network Technology Xiamen Co. Ltd., Class A | 100 | 5,740 | ||||||
Giant Network Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,600 | 7,222 | ||||||
iQIYI Inc., ADR(a) | 12,248 | 61,730 | ||||||
Kingnet Network Co. Ltd.(a) | 3,600 | 7,489 | ||||||
Kingsoft Corp. Ltd. | 26,400 | 105,229 | ||||||
Kunlun Tech Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 2,000 | 9,918 | ||||||
Mango Excellent Media Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 12,997 | ||||||
NetEase Inc. | 13,600 | 281,757 | ||||||
Perfect World Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 6,073 |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Entertainment (continued) | ||||||||
Tencent Music Entertainment Group, ADR(a) | 696 | $ | 4,747 | |||||
Wanda Film Holding Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 3,600 | 6,660 | ||||||
Zhejiang Century Huatong Group Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 12,800 | 9,533 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
668,611 | ||||||||
Household Durables — 4.2% | ||||||||
Beijing Roborock Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 280 | 11,306 | ||||||
Ecovacs Robotics Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 5,833 | ||||||
Gree Electric Appliances Inc. of Zhuhai, Class A | 4,800 | 23,608 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class A | 10,000 | 32,297 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class H | 65,600 | 203,181 | ||||||
Hang Zhou Great Star Industrial Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,000 | 5,359 | ||||||
Hangzhou Robam Appliances Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 6,044 | ||||||
Hisense Visual Technology Co. Ltd. | 2,000 | 5,744 | ||||||
Zhejiang Supor Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 5,233 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
298,605 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 15.0% | ||||||||
Autohome Inc., ADR | 1,884 | 54,446 | ||||||
Baidu Inc.(a) | 17,400 | 310,751 | ||||||
JOYY Inc., ADR | 1,208 | 41,458 | ||||||
Kanzhun Ltd., ADR(a) | 6,052 | 89,570 | ||||||
Kuaishou Technology(a)(b) | 34,400 | 281,596 | ||||||
Tencent Holdings Ltd. | 6,400 | 265,218 | ||||||
Weibo Corp., ADR | 2,236 | 28,844 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,071,883 | ||||||||
IT Services — 1.3% | ||||||||
Chinasoft International Ltd. | 72,000 | 47,721 | ||||||
DHC Software Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,000 | 5,537 | ||||||
GDS Holdings Ltd., Class A(a) | 26,400 | 39,197 | ||||||
Isoftstone Information Technology Group Co. Ltd., NVS | 1,725 | 4,887 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
97,342 | ||||||||
Machinery — 1.7% | ||||||||
Haitian International Holdings Ltd. | 16,000 | 34,357 | ||||||
Jiangsu Hengli Hydraulic Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 20,508 | ||||||
Keda Industrial Group Co. Ltd. | 3,200 | 4,425 | ||||||
Ningbo Deye Technology Co. Ltd., NVS | 720 | 9,121 | ||||||
North Industries Group Red Arrow Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 5,031 | ||||||
Riyue Heavy Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 3,554 | ||||||
Shandong Himile Mechanical Science & Technology Co. Ltd. | 1,600 | 7,536 | ||||||
Shenzhen Inovance Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 22,534 | ||||||
Shuangliang Eco-Energy Systems Co. Ltd. | 3,200 | 4,480 | ||||||
Zhejiang Sanhua Intelligent Controls Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 13,055 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
124,601 | ||||||||
Media — 0.3% | ||||||||
China Literature Ltd.(a)(b) | 800 | 3,213 | ||||||
Jiangsu Phoenix Publishing & Media Corp. Ltd. | 4,400 | 6,608 | ||||||
People.cn Co. Ltd. | 2,000 | 11,405 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
21,226 | ||||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 12.8% | ||||||||
3peak Inc. | 156 | 3,937 | ||||||
Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc., Class A(a) | 1,000 | 20,989 | ||||||
Amlogic Shanghai Co. Ltd.(a) | 684 | 8,234 | ||||||
ASR Microelectronics Co. Ltd.(a) | 708 | 6,809 | ||||||
Cambricon Technologies Corp. Ltd.(a) | 668 | 14,616 | ||||||
China Resources Microelectronics Ltd. | 2,056 | 16,537 | ||||||
Daqo New Energy Corp., ADR(a) | 1,616 | 59,744 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,800 | 11,876 | ||||||
Flat Glass Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 12,000 | 29,801 | ||||||
GalaxyCore Inc., NVS | 2,864 | 5,972 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued) | ||||||||
GCL-Poly Energy Holdings Ltd. | 560,000 | $ | 96,995 | |||||
GigaDevice Semiconductor Inc., Class A | 1,200 | 15,483 | ||||||
Hangzhou Chang Chuan Technology Co. Ltd. | 1,175 | 6,031 | ||||||
Hangzhou First Applied Material Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,136 | 13,432 | ||||||
Hangzhou Lion Electronics Co. Ltd. | 1,200 | 5,438 | ||||||
Hangzhou Silan Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 8,351 | ||||||
Hoyuan Green Energy Co. Ltd., Class A | 782 | 4,475 | ||||||
Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd.(a)(b) | 16,000 | 41,708 | ||||||
Ingenic Semiconductor Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 8,110 | ||||||
JA Solar Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,488 | 20,980 | ||||||
JCET Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 14,325 | ||||||
Jiangsu Pacific Quartz Co. Ltd., NVS | 400 | 5,245 | ||||||
Jinko Solar Co. Ltd. | 10,792 | 15,993 | ||||||
LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,720 | 46,490 | ||||||
Montage Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 11,266 | ||||||
National Silicon Industry Group Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 4,800 | 13,419 | ||||||
NAURA Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 29,821 | ||||||
Piotech Inc., NVS | 209 | 10,518 | ||||||
Risen Energy Co. Ltd. | 2,000 | 5,518 | ||||||
Rockchip Electronics Co. Ltd. | 800 | 7,201 | ||||||
Sanan Optoelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,000 | 17,252 | ||||||
SG Micro Corp., Class A | 780 | 8,291 | ||||||
Shanghai Aiko Solar Energy Co. Ltd. | 3,163 | 9,649 | ||||||
Shanghai Fudan Microelectronics Group Co. Ltd. | 744 | 5,399 | ||||||
Shenzhen SC New Energy Technology Corp., Class A | 800 | 9,739 | ||||||
StarPower Semiconductor Ltd., Class A | 300 | 8,166 | ||||||
TCL Zhonghuan Renewable Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,500 | 22,871 | ||||||
Tianshui Huatian Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,000 | 7,405 | ||||||
TongFu Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 6,718 | ||||||
Tongwei Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,600 | 33,494 | ||||||
Trina Solar Co. Ltd. | 3,400 | 15,902 | ||||||
Unigroup Guoxin Microelectronics Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 1,619 | 20,606 | ||||||
Verisilicon Microelectronics Shanghai Co. Ltd.(a) | 806 | 7,401 | ||||||
Will Semiconductor Co. Ltd. Shanghai, Class A | 2,020 | 25,563 | ||||||
Wuxi Autowell Technology Co. Ltd. | 259 | 5,996 | ||||||
Xinjiang Daqo New Energy Co. Ltd. | 2,888 | 16,477 | ||||||
Xinyi Solar Holdings Ltd. | 136,000 | 113,478 | ||||||
Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. | 766 | 3,756 | ||||||
Zhejiang Jingsheng Mechanical & Electrical Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,000 | 15,483 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
912,960 | ||||||||
Software — 4.9% | ||||||||
360 Security Technology Inc., Class A(a) | 11,600 | 17,791 | ||||||
Beijing E-Hualu Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 1,200 | 4,973 | ||||||
Beijing Kingsoft Office Software Inc., Class A | 800 | 43,371 | ||||||
Beijing Shiji Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 3,640 | 6,783 | ||||||
China National Software & Service Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,549 | 9,185 | ||||||
Hundsun Technologies Inc., Class A | 3,120 | 15,436 | ||||||
Iflytek Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,600 | 27,090 | ||||||
Kingdee International Software Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 76,000 | 117,429 | ||||||
NavInfo Co. Ltd., Class A(a) | 4,000 | 5,664 | ||||||
Qi An Xin Technology Group Inc.(a) | 1,096 | 8,069 | ||||||
Sangfor Technologies Inc., Class A(a) | 800 | 12,004 | ||||||
Shanghai Baosight Software Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,040 | 20,046 | ||||||
Shanghai Baosight Software Co. Ltd., Class B | 16,944 | 38,491 | ||||||
Thunder Software Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 800 | 8,775 | ||||||
Yonyou Network Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,400 | 13,472 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
348,579 |
S C H E D U L E O F I N V E S T M E N T S | 11 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 8.2% | ||||||||
Anker Innovations Technology Co. Ltd. | 400 | $ | 4,600 | |||||
China Greatwall Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 5,600 | 8,374 | ||||||
GRG Banking Equipment Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,400 | 7,590 | ||||||
Inspur Electronic Information Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 12,904 | ||||||
Lenovo Group Ltd. | 200,000 | 226,067 | ||||||
Ninestar Corp., Class A | 2,400 | 9,226 | ||||||
Shenzhen Transsion Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,284 | 25,917 | ||||||
Xiaomi Corp., Class B(a)(b) | 187,200 | 295,105 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
589,783 | ||||||||
Total Investments — 99.5% |
| 7,118,153 | ||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.5% |
| 33,665 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% |
| $ | 7,151,818 | |||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, | $ | 47,181 | $ | — | $(47,219$) | (b) | $ | 57 | $ | (19 | ) | $ | — | — | $ | 693 | (c) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, | — | 0 | (b) | — | — | — | — | — | 59 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 57 | $ | (19 | ) | $ | — | $ | 752 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(c) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI China Index | 1 | 09/15/23 | $ | 23 | $ | 88 | ||||||||||
|
|
12 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 88 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 88 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 517 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 517 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 88 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 88 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 5,726 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 1,142,797 | $ | 5,975,356 | $ | — | $ | 7,118,153 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 88 | $ | — | $ | 88 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
S C H E D U L E O F I N V E S T M E N T S | 13 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.2% | ||||||||
Nippon Express Holdings Inc. | 8,000 | $ | 415,435 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Automobile Components — 2.1% | ||||||||
Aisin Corp. | 16,000 | 533,967 | ||||||
Bridgestone Corp. | 72,000 | 2,795,454 | ||||||
Koito Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 271,528 | ||||||
Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd. | 88,000 | 1,077,322 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,678,271 | ||||||||
Automobiles — 15.7% | ||||||||
Honda Motor Co. Ltd. | 185,900 | 6,007,615 | ||||||
Isuzu Motors Ltd. | 72,000 | 921,711 | ||||||
Mazda Motor Corp. | 72,000 | 750,162 | ||||||
Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. | 288,000 | 1,224,638 | ||||||
Subaru Corp. | 80,000 | 1,537,870 | ||||||
Suzuki Motor Corp. | 48,000 | 1,886,036 | ||||||
Toyota Motor Corp. | 1,304,000 | 22,466,750 | ||||||
Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 621,030 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
35,415,812 | ||||||||
Banks — 12.8% | ||||||||
Chiba Bank Ltd. (The) | 64,000 | 456,985 | ||||||
Concordia Financial Group Ltd. | 128,000 | 567,173 | ||||||
Japan Post Bank Co. Ltd. | 184,000 | 1,476,428 | ||||||
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. | 1,400,000 | 11,168,749 | ||||||
Mizuho Financial Group Inc. | 296,050 | 4,878,614 | ||||||
Resona Holdings Inc. | 264,000 | 1,398,546 | ||||||
Shizuoka Financial Group Inc., NVS | 56,000 | 455,065 | ||||||
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. | 154,000 | 7,040,335 | ||||||
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. | 40,000 | 1,498,352 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
28,940,247 | ||||||||
Beverages — 1.1% | ||||||||
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd. | 56,000 | 2,178,699 | ||||||
Suntory Beverage & Food Ltd. | 8,000 | 257,396 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,436,095 | ||||||||
Broadline Retail — 0.1% | ||||||||
Rakuten Group Inc. | 64,000 | 249,027 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Building Products — 0.7% | ||||||||
AGC Inc. | 24,000 | 842,001 | ||||||
Lixil Corp. | 40,000 | 501,026 | ||||||
TOTO Ltd. | 8,000 | 219,390 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,562,417 | ||||||||
Capital Markets — 1.2% | ||||||||
Daiwa Securities Group Inc. | 168,000 | 955,357 | ||||||
Nomura Holdings Inc. | 368,000 | 1,424,753 | ||||||
SBI Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 326,575 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,706,685 | ||||||||
Chemicals — 2.1% | ||||||||
Asahi Kasei Corp. | 152,000 | 981,144 | ||||||
JSR Corp. | 16,000 | 446,577 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corp. | 160,000 | 955,153 | ||||||
Mitsui Chemicals Inc. | 24,000 | 650,611 | ||||||
Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. | 112,000 | 310,052 | ||||||
Toray Industries Inc. | 168,100 | 906,340 | ||||||
Tosoh Corp. | 32,000 | 414,073 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,663,950 | ||||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.1% | ||||||||
Dai Nippon Printing Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 655,810 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Commercial Services & Supplies (continued) | ||||||||
Secom Co. Ltd. | 13,400 | $ | 937,836 | |||||
Toppan Inc. | 32,000 | 772,989 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,366,635 | ||||||||
Construction & Engineering — 1.3% | ||||||||
Kajima Corp. | 56,100 | 937,024 | ||||||
Obayashi Corp. | 80,000 | 724,539 | ||||||
Shimizu Corp. | 72,000 | 484,412 | ||||||
Taisei Corp. | 24,000 | 807,744 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,953,719 | ||||||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.4% | ||||||||
Aeon Co. Ltd. | 40,000 | 828,967 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Diversified REITs — 0.5% | ||||||||
Daiwa House REIT Investment Corp. | 320 | 607,253 | ||||||
Nomura Real Estate Master Fund Inc. | 480 | 564,287 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,171,540 | ||||||||
Electric Utilities — 1.4% | ||||||||
Chubu Electric Power Co. Inc. | 80,000 | 1,066,287 | ||||||
Kansai Electric Power Co. Inc. (The) | 88,000 | 1,248,529 | ||||||
Tokyo Electric Power Co. Holdings Inc.(a) | 192,000 | 841,149 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,155,965 | ||||||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.6% | ||||||||
Fuji Electric Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 376,964 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Electric Corp. | 240,000 | 3,126,737 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,503,701 | ||||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.2% | ||||||||
Kyocera Corp. | 40,000 | 2,051,588 | ||||||
Omron Corp. | 8,000 | 386,019 | ||||||
Yokogawa Electric Corp. | 16,000 | 316,815 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,754,422 | ||||||||
Entertainment — 0.1% | ||||||||
Toho Co. Ltd./Tokyo | 8,000 | 304,917 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Financial Services — 1.5% | ||||||||
Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc. | 112,000 | 727,648 | ||||||
ORIX Corp. | 144,000 | 2,684,834 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,412,482 | ||||||||
Food Products — 0.3% | ||||||||
MEIJI Holdings Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 601,802 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.6% | ||||||||
Osaka Gas Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 255,430 | ||||||
Tokyo Gas Co. Ltd. | 48,000 | 1,110,747 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,366,177 | ||||||||
Ground Transportation — 4.0% | ||||||||
Central Japan Railway Co. | 17,000 | 2,179,731 | ||||||
East Japan Railway Co. | 36,900 | 2,086,295 | ||||||
Hankyu Hanshin Holdings Inc. | 26,900 | 965,478 | ||||||
Keio Corp. | 8,000 | 276,805 | ||||||
Keisei Electric Railway Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 306,335 | ||||||
Kintetsu Group Holdings Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 759,661 | ||||||
Odakyu Electric Railway Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 356,870 | ||||||
Tobu Railway Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 438,628 | ||||||
Tokyu Corp. | 40,000 | 505,465 | ||||||
West Japan Railway Co. | 26,100 | 1,129,974 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,005,242 | ||||||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.0% | ||||||||
Oriental Land Co. Ltd./Japan | 64,000 | 2,305,357 | ||||||
|
|
14 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Household Durables — 2.4% | ||||||||
Iida Group Holdings Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | $ | 262,030 | |||||
Panasonic Holdings Corp. | 272,000 | 3,130,734 | ||||||
Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 245,398 | ||||||
Sekisui House Ltd. | 72,000 | 1,467,316 | ||||||
Sharp Corp./Japan(a) | 32,000 | 196,987 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,302,465 | ||||||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 2.2% | ||||||||
Hitachi Ltd. | 74,000 | 4,918,204 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Industrial REITs — 0.1% | ||||||||
Nippon Prologis REIT Inc. | 151 | 303,688 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Insurance — 6.1% | ||||||||
Dai-ichi Life Holdings Inc. | 120,000 | 2,230,272 | ||||||
Japan Post Holdings Co. Ltd. | 272,000 | 2,085,330 | ||||||
Japan Post Insurance Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 386,330 | ||||||
MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings Inc. | 52,700 | 1,892,542 | ||||||
Sompo Holdings Inc. | 38,600 | 1,679,775 | ||||||
T&D Holdings Inc. | 32,000 | 507,181 | ||||||
Tokio Marine Holdings Inc. | 224,000 | 4,943,342 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
13,724,772 | ||||||||
Interactive Media & Services — 0.4% | ||||||||
Z Holdings Corp. | 328,000 | 984,939 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
IT Services — 0.1% | ||||||||
Itochu Techno-Solutions Corp. | 8,000 | 237,532 | ||||||
Otsuka Corp. | 1,700 | 75,765 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
313,297 | ||||||||
Leisure Products — 0.1% | ||||||||
Yamaha Corp. | 8,000 | 246,754 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Machinery — 4.8% | ||||||||
FANUC Corp. | 56,000 | 1,592,716 | ||||||
Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 497,506 | ||||||
Komatsu Ltd. | 112,000 | 3,187,318 | ||||||
Kubota Corp. | 80,000 | 1,287,480 | ||||||
Makita Corp. | 16,000 | 438,592 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. | 40,000 | 2,265,285 | ||||||
NGK Insulators Ltd. | 32,000 | 424,519 | ||||||
Toyota Industries Corp. | 16,800 | 1,186,222 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
10,879,638 | ||||||||
Marine Transportation — 1.5% | ||||||||
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd. | 16,000 | 536,179 | ||||||
Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd. | 40,000 | 1,107,637 | ||||||
Nippon Yusen KK | 64,000 | 1,702,681 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,346,497 | ||||||||
Media — 0.1% | ||||||||
Hakuhodo DY Holdings Inc. | 32,000 | 303,596 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Metals & Mining — 2.0% | ||||||||
JFE Holdings Inc. | 64,000 | 1,011,079 | ||||||
Nippon Steel Corp. | 104,000 | 2,459,425 | ||||||
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 993,076 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,463,580 | ||||||||
Office REITs — 0.6% | ||||||||
Japan Real Estate Investment Corp. | 160 | 664,929 | ||||||
Nippon Building Fund Inc. | 163 | 688,387 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,353,316 | ||||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.6% | ||||||||
ENEOS Holdings Inc. | 352,000 | 1,321,807 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued) | ||||||||
Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd. | 24,092 | $ | 512,830 | |||||
Inpex Corp. | 120,000 | 1,680,459 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,515,096 | ||||||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.2% | ||||||||
Oji Holdings Corp. | 104,000 | 425,397 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.3% | ||||||||
ANA Holdings Inc.(a) | 24,000 | 541,803 | ||||||
Japan Airlines Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 164,750 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
706,553 | ||||||||
Personal Care Products — 0.7% | ||||||||
Kao Corp. | 40,000 | 1,545,105 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 3.6% | ||||||||
Astellas Pharma Inc. | 144,000 | 2,178,773 | ||||||
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 192,000 | 5,933,771 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,112,544 | ||||||||
Real Estate Management & Development — 3.9% | ||||||||
Daito Trust Construction Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 882,275 | ||||||
Daiwa House Industry Co. Ltd. | 72,000 | 1,999,855 | ||||||
Hulic Co. Ltd. | 48,000 | 430,745 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd. | 144,000 | 1,834,129 | ||||||
Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd. | 112,000 | 2,452,028 | ||||||
Nomura Real Estate Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 402,615 | ||||||
Sumitomo Realty & Development Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 818,026 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,819,673 | ||||||||
Retail REITs — 0.3% | ||||||||
Japan Metropolitan Fund Invest | 880 | 590,912 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 0.2% | ||||||||
SUMCO Corp. | 40,000 | 534,230 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Software — 0.2% | ||||||||
Trend Micro Inc./Japan | 8,000 | 339,533 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.1% | ||||||||
USS Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 139,698 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 3.2% | ||||||||
Brother Industries Ltd. | 32,000 | 541,554 | ||||||
Canon Inc. | 120,000 | 2,953,687 | ||||||
FUJIFILM Holdings Corp. | 45,900 | 2,712,526 | ||||||
Ricoh Co. Ltd. | 72,000 | 586,540 | ||||||
Seiko Epson Corp. | 32,000 | 501,069 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,295,376 | ||||||||
Tobacco — 1.4% | ||||||||
Japan Tobacco Inc. | 144,000 | 3,153,064 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 8.4% | ||||||||
ITOCHU Corp. | 51,000 | 1,913,995 | ||||||
Marubeni Corp. | 184,000 | 3,006,302 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Corp. | 142,000 | 7,004,137 | ||||||
Mitsui & Co. Ltd. | 80,000 | 2,979,625 | ||||||
Sumitomo Corp. | 128,000 | 2,632,500 | ||||||
Toyota Tsusho Corp. | 24,000 | 1,428,687 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
18,965,246 | ||||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 4.2% | ||||||||
KDDI Corp. | 184,000 | 5,469,844 |
S C H E D U L E O F I N V E S T M E N T S | 15 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services (continued) | ||||||||
SoftBank Corp. | 352,000 | $ | 4,036,984 | |||||
|
| |||||||
9,506,828 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.7% |
| 224,588,866 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.0% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, 5.31%(b)(c) | 60,000 | 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.0% |
| 60,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.7% |
| 224,648,866 | ||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.3% |
| 617,198 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% |
| $ | 225,266,064 | |||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(c) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares(a) | $ | — | $ | 260 | (b) | $— | $ | (260 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | — | $ | 6,266 | (c) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 20,000 | 40,000 | (b) | — | — | — | 60,000 | 60,000 | 5,254 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (260 | ) | $ | — | $ | 60,000 | $ | 11,520 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
(b) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(c) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
| ||||||||||||||||
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Mini TOPIX Index | 38 | 09/07/23 | $ | 607 | $ | 13,241 | ||||||||||
|
|
16 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® MSCI Japan Value ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,241 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,241 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 479,647 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 479,647 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,455 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 13,455 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 1,540,352 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | — | $ | 224,588,866 | $ | — | $ | 224,588,866 | ||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 60,000 | — | — | 60,000 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 60,000 | $ | 224,588,866 | $ | — | $ | 224,648,866 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 13,241 | $ | — | $ | 13,241 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
S C H E D U L E O F I N V E S T M E N T S | 17 |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF | iShares MSCI Japan | |||||||
| ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a) | $ | 7,118,153 | $ | 224,588,866 | ||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(b) | — | 60,000 | ||||||
Cash | 4,236 | 166 | ||||||
Foreign currency collateral pledged for futures contracts(c) | — | 33,005 | ||||||
Foreign currency, at value(d) | 10,485 | 505,136 | ||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||
Investments sold | 297,247 | 934,829 | ||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 33 | 68 | ||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 1,294 | 349,862 | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | — | 410 | ||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 90 | 7,808 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total assets | 7,431,538 | 226,480,150 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||
Payables: | ||||||||
Investments purchased | 276,120 | 1,186,760 | ||||||
Investment advisory fees | 3,600 | 27,326 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total liabilities | 279,720 | 1,214,086 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 7,151,818 | $ | 225,266,064 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 9,892,974 | $ | 223,135,640 | ||||
Accumulated earnings (loss) | (2,741,156 | ) | 2,130,424 | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 7,151,818 | $ | 225,266,064 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||
Shares outstanding | 400,000 | 8,000,000 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net asset value | $ | 17.88 | $ | 28.16 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Par value | None | None | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 9,115,763 | $ | 216,916,054 | ||||
(b) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | — | $ | 60,000 | ||||
(c) Foreign currency collateral pledged, at cost | $ | — | $ | 33,477 | ||||
(d) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 10,493 | $ | 509,605 |
See notes to financial statements.
18 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares MSCI China | iShares MSCI Japan | |||||||
| ||||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 73,555 | $ | 5,318,440 | ||||
Dividends — affiliated | 59 | 5,254 | ||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 693 | 6,266 | ||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (2,961 | ) | (531,718 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total investment income | 71,346 | 4,798,242 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||
Investment advisory | 43,291 | 242,026 | ||||||
Commitment costs | 90 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total expenses | 43,381 | 242,026 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net investment income | 27,965 | 4,556,216 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (437,378 | ) | (3,986,883 | ) | ||||
Investments — affiliated | 57 | (260 | ) | |||||
Foreign currency transactions | 374 | (154,420 | ) | |||||
Futures contracts | 517 | 479,647 | ||||||
In-kind redemptions — unaffiliated(a) | — | 7,409,056 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(436,430 | ) | 3,747,140 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated | (300,622 | ) | 19,015,295 | |||||
Investments — affiliated | (19 | ) | — | |||||
Foreign currency translations | 189 | (3,072 | ) | |||||
Futures contracts | 88 | 13,455 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(300,364 | ) | 19,025,678 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (736,794 | ) | 22,772,818 | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | (708,829 | ) | $ | 27,329,034 | |||
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements. |
See notes to financial statements.
F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S | 19 |
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF | iShares MSCI Japan Value ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Period From 01/25/22 to 08/31/22 | (a)
| | Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Year Ended 08/31/22 | | |||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 27,965 | $ | 45,984 | $ | 4,556,216 | $ | 2,218,537 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) | (436,430 | ) | (276,477 | ) | 3,747,140 | (1,114,202 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (300,364 | ) | (1,697,116 | ) | 19,025,678 | (12,976,420 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (708,829 | ) | (1,927,609 | ) | 27,329,034 | (11,872,085 | ) | |||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(b) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (83,031 | ) | (21,687 | ) | (3,996,856 | ) | (2,495,878 | ) | ||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase in net assets derived from capital share transactions | — | 9,892,974 | 121,081,814 | 50,859,340 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets | (791,860 | ) | 7,943,678 | 144,413,992 | 36,491,377 | |||||||||||||||
Beginning of period | 7,943,678 | — | 80,852,072 | 44,360,695 | ||||||||||||||||
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|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of period | $ | 7,151,818 | $ | 7,943,678 | $ | 225,266,064 | $ | 80,852,072 | ||||||||||||
|
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|
|
|
|
|
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(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
20 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF | ||||||||||||
|
Period From |
| ||||||||||
Year Ended |
| 01/25/22 | (a) | |||||||||
08/31/23 |
| to 08/31/22 |
| |||||||||
| ||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 19.86 | $ | 24.81 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 0.07 | 0.12 | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized loss(c) |
| (1.84 | ) | (5.02 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Net decrease from investment operations | (1.77 | ) | (4.90 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.21 | ) | (0.05 | ) | ||||||||
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|
|
| |||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ | 17.88 | $ | 19.86 | ||||||||
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|
|
| |||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | (8.96 | )% | (19.74 | )%(f) | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.59 | % | 0.59 | %(h) | ||||||||
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|
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| |||||||||
Net investment income | 0.38 | % | 0.93 | %(h) | ||||||||
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|
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| |||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $ | 7,152 | $ | 7,944 | ||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 23 | % | 17 | % | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
F I N A N C I A L H I G H L I G H T S | 21 |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares MSCI Japan Value ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Period From | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | Year Ended | 03/05/19(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
08/31/23 | 08/31/22 | 08/31/21 | 08/31/20 | to 08/31/19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | | | $ | 23.78 | $ | 27.73 | $ | 23.22 | $ | 23.70 | $ | 24.67 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 0.73 | 0.72 | 0.65 | 0.71 | 0.46 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | 4.31 | (3.88 | ) | 4.36 | (0.26 | ) | (0.97 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 5.04 | (3.16 | ) | 5.01 | 0.45 | (0.51 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.66 | ) | (0.79 | ) | (0.50 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (0.46 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ | 28.16 | $ | 23.78 | $ | 27.73 | $ | 23.22 | $ | 23.70 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 21.46 | % | (11.57 | )% | 21.62 | % | 1.71 | % | (2.10 | )%(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.15 | % | 0.15 | % | 0.15 | % | 0.15 | % | 0.15 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.82 | % | 2.74 | % | 2.39 | % | 2.98 | % | 3.83 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $ | 225,266 | $ | 80,852 | $ | 44,361 | $ | 6,965 | $ | 7,111 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 20 | %(f) | 24 | % | 24 | % | 35 | % | 9 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
22 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
1. | ORGANIZATION |
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
MSCI China Multisector Tech | Non-diversified | |
MSCI Japan Value | Diversified |
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
N O T E S T O F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S | 23 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. | INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
• | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
• | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
• | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
• | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
• | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
• | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. | SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS |
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. | DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
6. | INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES |
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
N O T E S T O F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S | 25 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFAis entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | 0.59% | |||
MSCI Japan Value | 0.15 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 180 | ||
MSCI Japan Value | 1,416 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||
MSCI Japan Value | $13,875,088 | $ | 11,752,443 | $ | (1,136,566) |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
26 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
7. | PURCHASES AND SALES |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 1,683,731 | $ | 1,741,457 | ||||
MSCI Japan Value | 35,789,645 | 32,151,597 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
MSCI Japan Value | $ | 213,732,713 | $ | 95,827,276 |
8. | INCOME TAX INFORMATION |
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023, inclusive of the open tax return years, and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. As of August 31, 2023, permanent differences attributable to realized gains (losses) from in-kind redemptions were reclassified to the following accounts:
iShares ETF | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Earnings (Loss) | ||||||
MSCI Japan Value | $ | 7,189,371 | $ | (7,189,371) |
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Period Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 83,031 | $ | 21,687 | ||||
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iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
MSCI Japan Value | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 3,996,856 | $ | 2,495,878 | ||||
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As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
Undistributed | | Non-expiring Capital Loss | | Net Unrealized | ||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Ordinary Income | Carryforwards | (a) | Gains (Losses) | (b) | Total | ||||||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 197,708 | $ | (672,995 | ) | $ | (2,265,869 | ) | $ | (2,741,156) | ||||||
MSCI Japan Value | 1,736,938 | (5,290,378 | ) | 5,683,864 | 2,130,424 |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain futures contracts, the timing and recognition of partnership income, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
N O T E S T O F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S | 27 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 9,384,064 | $ | 396,954 | $ | (2,662,865 | ) | $ | (2,265,911) | |||||||
MSCI Japan Value | 218,971,202 | 12,561,822 | (6,870,917 | ) | 5,690,905 |
9. | LINE OF CREDIT |
The Funds, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), are parties to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Fund did not borrow under the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
10. | PRINCIPAL RISKS |
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
28 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in China or with significant exposure to Chinese issuers. Investments in Chinese securities, including certain Hong Kong-listed securities, involve risks specific to China. China may be subject to considerable degrees of economic, political and social instability and demonstrates significantly higher volatility from time to time in comparison to developed markets. Chinese markets generally continue to experience inefficiency, volatility and pricing anomalies resulting from governmental influence, a lack of publicly available information and/or political and social instability. Internal social unrest or confrontations with other neighboring countries may disrupt economic development in China and result in a greater risk of currency fluctuations, currency non-convertibility, interest rate fluctuations and higher rates of inflation. Incidents involving China’s or the region’s security may cause uncertainty in Chinese markets and may adversely affect the Chinese economy and a fund’s investments. Reduction in spending on Chinese products and services, institution of tariffs or other trade barriers, or a downturn in any of the economies of China’s key trading partners may have an adverse impact on the Chinese economy. In addition, measures may be taken to limit the flow of capital and/or sanctions may be imposed, which could prohibit or restrict the ability to own or transfer fund assets and may also include retaliatory actions, such as seizure of fund assets.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Asia or with significant exposure to Asian issuers or countries. The Asian financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns in several Asian countries regarding monetary policy, government intervention in the markets, rising government debt levels or economic downturns. These events may spread to other countries in Asia and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
The Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. | CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
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Year Ended 08/31/23 | Period Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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MSCI China Multisector Tech | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | — | $ | — | 400,000 | $ | 9,892,974 | ||||||||||
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N O T E S T O F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S | 29 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
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Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
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MSCI Japan Value | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 8,300,000 | $ | 219,003,150 | 2,100,000 | $ | 58,305,017 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | (3,700,000 | ) | (97,921,336 | ) | (300,000 | ) | (7,445,677 | ) | ||||||||
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4,600,000 | $ | 121,081,814 | 1,800,000 | $ | 50,859,340 | |||||||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following item was noted:
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the two funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (two of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations and of changes in net assets for each of the periods indicated in the table below, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations and the changes in each of their net assets for the periods indicated in the table below, and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF(1) iShares MSCI Japan Value ETF(2) |
(1) | Statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023 and statement of changes in net assets for the year ended August 31, 2023 and the period January 25, 2022 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2022. |
(2) | Statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023 and statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023. |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
R E P O R T O F I N D E P E N D E N T R E G I S T E R E D P U B L I C A C C O U N T I N G F I R M | 31 |
Important Tax Information (unaudited)
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 33,255 | ||
MSCI Japan Value | 4,535,632 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech | $ | 90,871 | $ | 2,981 | ||||
MSCI Japan Value | 5,319,191 | 510,821 |
32 | 2 0 2 3 I S H A R E S A N N U A L R E P O R T T O S H A R E H O L D E R S |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares MSCI China Multisector Tech ETF, iShares MSCI Japan Value ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
B O A R D R E V I E W A N D A P P R O V A L OF I N V E S T M E N T A D V I S O R Y C O N T R A C T | 33 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
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Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Section 19(a) Notices
The amounts and sources of distributions reported are estimates and are being provided pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will inform them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
August 31, 2023
Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions for the Fiscal Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Capital Gains | Return of Capital | Total Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
MSCI China Multisector Tech(a) | $ | 0.117243 | $ | — | $ | 0.090335 | $ | 0.207578 | 56 | % | — | % | 44 | % | 100 | % |
(a) | The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Fund is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with “yield” or “income”. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. |
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N | 35 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fundis included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. | ||||||
(b) Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. | ||||||
Independent Trustees | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
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Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued) | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E. Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Officers | ||||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
T R U S T E E A N D O F F I C E R I N F O R M A T I O N | 37 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued) | ||||
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer.
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Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N | 39 |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation
ADR | American Depositary Receipt | |
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
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Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-819-0823
AUGUST 31, 2023 |
2023 Annual Report |
iShares Trust
· | iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF | DMXF | NASDAQ |
· | iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF | EMXF | NASDAQ |
Dear Shareholder,
Despite an uncertain economic landscape during the 12-month reporting period ended August 31, 2023, the resilience of the U.S. economy in the face of ever tighter financial conditions provided an encouraging backdrop for investors. While inflation was near multi-decade highs at the beginning of the period, it declined precipitously as commodity prices dropped. Labor shortages also moderated, although wages continued to grow and unemployment rates reached the lowest levels in decades. This robust labor market powered further growth in consumer spending, backstopping the economy.
Equity returns were solid, as the durability of consumer sentiment eased investors’ concerns about the economy’s trajectory. The U.S. economy resumed growth in the third quarter of 2022 and continued to expand thereafter. Most major classes of equities rose, as large-capitalization U.S. stocks and developed market equities advanced strongly. However, small-capitalization U.S. stocks and emerging market equities posted more modest gains.
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose during the reporting period, driving its price down, as investors reacted to elevated inflation and attempted to anticipate future interest rate changes. The corporate bond market also faced inflationary headwinds, although high-yield corporate bond prices fared significantly better than investment-grade bonds as demand from yield-seeking investors remained strong.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), acknowledging that inflation has been more persistent than expected, raised interest rates seven times during the 12-month period. Furthermore, the Fed wound down its bond-buying programs and incrementally reduced its balance sheet by not replacing securities that reach maturity. However, the Fed declined to raise interest rates at its June 2023 meeting, the first time it paused its tightening in the current cycle, before again raising rates in July 2023.
Supply constraints appear to have become an embedded feature of the new macroeconomic environment, making it difficult for developed economies to increase production without sparking higher inflation. Geopolitical fragmentation and an aging population risk further exacerbating these constraints, keeping the labor market tight and wage growth high. Although the Fed has decelerated the pace of interest rate hikes and recently opted for two pauses, we believe that the new economic regime means that the Fed will need to maintain high rates for an extended period to keep inflation under control. Furthermore, ongoing structural changes may mean that the Fed will be hesitant to cut interest rates in the event of faltering economic activity lest inflation accelerate again. We believe investors should expect a period of higher volatility as markets adjust to the new economic reality and policymakers attempt to adapt.
While we favor an overweight position to developed market equities in the long term, we prefer an underweight stance in the near term. Expectations for corporate earnings remain elevated, which seems inconsistent with macroeconomic constraints. Nevertheless, we are overweight on emerging market stocks in the near term as growth trends for emerging markets appear brighter. We also believe that stocks with an AI tilt should benefit from an investment cycle that is set to support revenues and margins. In credit, there are selective opportunities in the near term despite tightening credit and financial conditions. For fixed income investing with a six- to twelve-month horizon, we see the most attractive investments in short-term U.S. Treasuries, U.S. inflation-linked bonds, U.S. mortgage-backed securities, and hard-currency emerging market bonds.
Overall, our view is that investors need to think globally, position themselves to be prepared for a decarbonizing economy, and be nimble as market conditions change. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit iShares.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock, Inc.
Total Returns as of August 31, 2023
| ||||
6-Month
|
12-Month
| |||
U.S. large cap equities
| 14.50% | 15.94% | ||
U.S. small cap equities
| 0.99 | 4.65 | ||
International equities
| 4.75 | 17.92 | ||
Emerging market equities
| 3.62 | 1.25 | ||
3-month Treasury bills
| 2.47 | 4.25 | ||
U.S. Treasury securities
| 0.11 | (4.71) | ||
U.S. investment grade bonds
| 0.95 | (1.19) | ||
Tax-exempt municipal bonds
| 1.04 | 1.70 | ||
U.S. high yield bonds
| 4.55 | 7.19 | ||
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
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iShares Trust
Global Market Overview
Global equity markets advanced during the 12 months ended August 31, 2023 (“reporting period”), supported by continued economic growth and moderating inflation. The MSCI ACWI, a broad global equity index that includes both developed and emerging markets, returned 13.95% in U.S. dollar terms for the reporting period. Despite concerns about the impact of higher interest rates and rising prices, the global economy continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace than during the initial post-coronavirus pandemic recovery. Inflation began to subside in most regions of the world, and lower energy prices reduced pressure on consumers, leading consumer and business sentiment to improve. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to disrupt trade in Europe and elsewhere, market adaptation lessened the economic impact of the ongoing war. The prices of several key commodities, including oil, natural gas, and wheat, either stabilized or declined during the reporting period, easing pressure on the world’s economies.
The U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) tightened monetary policy rapidly, raising short-term interest rates seven times over the course of the reporting period. The pace of tightening decelerated as the Fed twice lowered the increment of increase before pausing entirely in June 2023, the first time it declined to take action since the tightening cycle began. However, the Fed then raised interest rates again at its July 2023 meeting and stated that it would continue to monitor economic data. The Fed also continued to decrease the size of its balance sheet by reducing the store of U.S. Treasuries it had accumulated to stabilize markets in the early phases of the pandemic.
Despite the tightening financial conditions, the U.S. economy demonstrated continued strength, and U.S. equities advanced. The economy returned to growth in the third quarter of 2022 and showed robust, if slightly slower, growth thereafter. Consumers powered the economy, increasing their spending in both nominal and inflation-adjusted terms. A strong labor market bolstered spending, as unemployment remained low, and the number of employed persons reached an all-time high. Tightness in the labor market drove higher wages, although wage growth slowed as the reporting period continued.
European stocks outpaced their counterparts in most other regions of the globe, advancing strongly for the reporting period despite modest economic growth. European stocks benefited from a solid recovery following the early phases of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict disrupted critical natural gas supplies, new sources were secured and prices declined, while a warm winter helped moderate consumption. The European Central Bank (“ECB”) responded to the highest inflation since the introduction of the euro by raising interest rates eight times and beginning to reduce the size of its debt holdings.
Stocks in the Asia-Pacific region gained, albeit at a slower pace than other regions of the world. Japan returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first half of 2023, as strong business investment and exports helped boost the economy and support Japanese equities. However, Chinese stocks were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. While investors were initially optimistic following China’s lifting of several pandemic-related lockdowns in December 2022, subsequent performance disappointed, and tensions with the U.S. increased. Emerging market stocks advanced modestly, as the resilient global economic environment reassured investors. The declining value of the U.S. dollar relative to many other currencies and the slowing pace of the Fed’s interest rate increases also supported emerging market stocks.
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Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization developed market companies excluding the U.S. and Canada that have a favorable environmental, social and governance rating while applying extensive screens for company involvement in controversial activities, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Choice ESG Screened Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||
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|
| |||||||||||||||||
1 Year | | Since Inception | | 1 Year | | Since Inception | | |||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 18.17 | % | 6.66 | % | 18.17 | % | 22.99 | % | ||||||||||||
Fund Market | 18.02 | 6.83 | 18.02 | 23.63 | ||||||||||||||||
Index | 17.64 | 6.72 | 17.64 | 23.19 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSETVALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was June 16, 2020. The first day of secondary market trading was June 18, 2020.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual
| Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,052.90 | $ 0.62 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,024.60 | $ 0.61 | 0.12 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 5 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Investor interest in the environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) attributes of companies was mixed during the reporting period. In Europe, ESG investments continued to attract net inflows, although the rate of net purchases slowed in the first half of 2023.
During the reporting period, the Index of international developed stocks with favorable ESG characteristics and screened for controversial activities advanced substantially. Japanese financials stocks gained the most, as the Bank of Japan modified its yield curve control policy, allowing banks to keep portions of their capital in higher-yielding investments. The semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industry in the information technology sector also gained amid efforts by the government to increase domestic semiconductor manufacturing with subsidies and incentives.
Stocks in Europe further contributed to the Index’s return, most notably France, Germany, and Switzerland. The French industrials sector benefited from rising demand for data center infrastructure, while the German information technology sector posted robust sales of cloud-based enterprise software. In Switzerland, the healthcare sector led the advance, as strong earnings enabled a significant stock buyback program.
In terms of relative performance, the Index was nearly in line with the broader market, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Index. The Index seeks companies that have a favorable environmental, social and governance rating while applying extensive screens for company involvement in Index held overweight positions in the information technology and industrials sectors and underweight positions in consumer staples and energy. Positioning in the information technology sector contributed to the Index’s relative performance, while the underweight position in energy and stock selection in industrials detracted.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Financials | 21.4 | % | ||
Industrials | 20.4 | |||
Information Technology | 14.5 | |||
Health Care | 12.3 | |||
Consumer Discretionary | 9.7 | |||
Materials | 7.8 | |||
Communication Services | 5.7 | |||
Real Estate | 4.2 | |||
Consumer Staples | 3.4 | |||
Utilities | 0.6 |
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Japan | 30.1 | % | ||
France | 9.7 | |||
Germany | 9.5 | |||
United Kingdom | 8.4 | |||
Switzerland | 7.4 | |||
Netherlands | 7.0 | |||
Denmark | 5.4 | |||
Australia | 5.0 | |||
Sweden | 4.8 | |||
Hong Kong | 3.1 | |||
Singapore | 1.9 | |||
Spain | 1.6 | |||
Italy | 1.2 | |||
Finland | 1.1 | |||
Ireland | 1.0 | |||
Belgium | 1.0 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 1.8 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds |
6 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF |
Investment Objective
The iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (the “Fund”) seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization emerging market companies that have a favorable environmental, social and governance rating while applying extensive screens for company involvement in controversial activities, as represented by the MSCI Emerging Markets Choice ESG Screened 5% Issuer Capped Index (the “Index”). The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index.
Performance
Average Annual Total Returns | Cumulative Total Returns | |||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||
1 Year | Since Inception | 1 Year | Since Inception | |||||||||||||||||
Fund NAV | 1.06 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.06 | % | 4.19 | % | ||||||||||||
Fund Market | 1.16 | 1.49 | 1.16 | 4.38 | ||||||||||||||||
Index | 0.69 | 1.72 | 0.69 | 5.08 |
GROWTH OF $10,000 INVESTMENT
(SINCE INCEPTION AT NET ASSET VALUE)
The inception date of the Fund was October 6, 2020. The first day of secondary market trading was October 8, 2020.
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. See “About Fund Performance” for more information.
Expense Example
Actual
| Hypothetical 5% Return | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Beginning Account Value (03/01/23 | ) | | Ending Account Value (08/31/23 | ) | | Expenses Paid During the Period | (a) | | Annualized Expense Ratio | | ||||||||||||||
$ 1,000.00 | $ 1,032.50 | $ 0.82 | $ 1,000.00 | $ 1,024.40 | $ 0.82 | 0.16 | % |
(a) | Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown). Other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, may be paid which are not reflected in the tables and examples above. See “Disclosure of Expenses” for more information. |
FUND SUMMARY | 7 |
Fund Summary as of August 31, 2023 (continued) | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF |
Portfolio Management Commentary
Investor interest in the environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) attributes of companies was mixed during the reporting period. Globally, fund flows to ESG-focused investments slowed in the first half of 2023, while remaining net positive.
During the reporting period, the Index of emerging market stocks with favorable ESG characteristics and screened for controversial activities posted a marginal advance. Taiwanese stocks contributed the most to the Index’s return, led by the information technology sector. Continued data center growth drove robust sales of high-end power units used in their construction, bolstering profits in the technology hardware, storage, and peripherals industry. The semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industry also posted gains, as increasing interest in artificial intelligence drove investments in additional capacity. The financials sector also contributed to the Index’s return. Mexican banks posted strong gains amid significantly higher interest rates.
On the downside, Chinese stocks detracted meaningfully from the Index’s return, as they were negatively impacted by slowing economic growth. The consumer discretionary sector declined as increased online competition from low-cost retailers pressured the broadline retail and the internet and direct marketing retail industries. The Chinese healthcare sector also declined, as life sciences tools and services stocks were pressured by a U.S. executive order introducing a national biotechnology and biomanufacturing initiative.
In terms of relative performance, the Index underperformed the broader market, as represented by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. Relative to the broader market, the Index seeks companies that have a favorable environmental, social and governance rating while applying extensive screens for company involvement in controversial activities. The Index held a significant overweight position in the financials sector and underweight positions in the energy and materials sectors, relative to the broader market. Stock selection in the consumer discretionary sector and materials sector detracted from the Index’s relative performance, while stock selection in the financials sector contributed to relative performance.
Portfolio Information
SECTOR ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Sector | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
Financials | 34.6 | % | ||
Consumer Discretionary | 18.4 | |||
Information Technology | 17.8 | |||
Communication Services | 7.9 | |||
Consumer Staples | 6.2 | |||
Materials | 4.4 | |||
Industrials | 4.3 | |||
Health Care | 3.9 | |||
Real Estate | 1.9 | |||
Utilities | 0.6 |
GEOGRAPHIC ALLOCATION
|
| |||
Country/Geographic Region | | Percent of Total Investments | (a) | |
China | 30.4 | % | ||
Taiwan | 16.6 | |||
India | 15.4 | |||
South Korea | 6.5 | |||
South Africa | 5.3 | |||
Brazil | 4.6 | |||
Saudi Arabia | 3.1 | |||
Thailand | 2.8 | |||
Indonesia | 2.7 | |||
Mexico | 2.2 | |||
Malaysia | 2.1 | |||
United Arab Emirates | 2.0 | |||
Poland | 1.2 | |||
Other (each representing less than 1%) | 5.1 |
(a) | Excludes money market funds. |
8 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Past performance is not an indication of future results. Financial markets have experienced extreme volatility and trading in many instruments has been disrupted. These circumstances may continue for an extended period of time and may continue to affect adversely the value and liquidity of each Fund’s investments. As a result, current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month-end is available at iShares.com. Performance results assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions and do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares. The investment return and principal value of shares will vary with changes in market conditions. Shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when they are redeemed or sold in the market. Performance for certain funds may reflect a waiver of a portion of investment advisory fees. Without such a waiver, performance would have been lower.
Net asset value or “NAV” is the value of one share of a fund as calculated in accordance with the standard formula for valuing mutual fund shares. Beginning August 10, 2020, the price used to calculate market return (“Market Price”) is the closing price. Prior to August 10, 2020, Market Price was determined using the midpoint between the highest bid and the lowest ask on the primary stock exchange on which shares of a fund are listed for trading, as of the time that such fund’s NAV is calculated. Since shares of a fund may not trade in the secondary market until after the fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the fund, the NAV of the fund is used as a proxy for the Market Price to calculate market returns. Market and NAV returns assume that dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested at Market Price and NAV, respectively.
An index is a statistical composite that tracks a specified financial market or sector. Unlike a fund, an index does not actually hold a portfolio of securities and therefore does not incur the expenses incurred by a fund. These expenses negatively impact fund performance. Also, market returns do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions. If brokerage commissions were included, market returns would be lower.
Shareholders of each Fund may incur the following charges: (1) transactional expenses, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of fund shares and (2) ongoing expenses, including management fees and other fund expenses. The expense examples shown (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the end of the period) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Fund and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other funds.
The expense examples provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. Annualized expense ratios reflect contractual and voluntary fee waivers, if any. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”
The expense examples also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Funds and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
The expenses shown in the expense examples are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as brokerage commissions and other fees paid on purchases and sales of fund shares. Therefore, the hypothetical examples are useful in comparing ongoing expenses only and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.
ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE / DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES | 9 |
August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Australia — 5.0% | ||||||||
ASX Ltd. | 11,920 | $ | 443,607 | |||||
Aurizon Holdings Ltd. | 98,725 | 232,690 | ||||||
BlueScope Steel Ltd. | 26,640 | 360,160 | ||||||
Brambles Ltd. | 80,480 | 779,366 | ||||||
Cochlear Ltd. | 3,840 | 674,014 | ||||||
Computershare Ltd. | 32,880 | 534,528 | ||||||
CSL Ltd. | 27,760 | 4,902,386 | ||||||
Dexus | 61,600 | 307,822 | ||||||
Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. | 97,920 | 1,348,103 | ||||||
Goodman Group | 98,160 | 1,479,001 | ||||||
GPT Group (The) | 114,808 | 310,855 | ||||||
IDP Education Ltd. | 14,320 | 227,743 | ||||||
IGO Ltd. | 38,560 | 344,120 | ||||||
Insurance Australia Group Ltd. | 141,360 | 533,078 | ||||||
James Hardie Industries PLC(a) | 25,520 | 767,061 | ||||||
Lendlease Corp. Ltd. | 38,960 | 196,184 | ||||||
Mineral Resources Ltd. | 10,160 | 466,364 | ||||||
Mirvac Group | 232,960 | 363,210 | ||||||
Newcrest Mining Ltd. | 50,960 | 849,332 | ||||||
Northern Star Resources Ltd. | 66,640 | 510,605 | ||||||
Orica Ltd. | 26,400 | 267,454 | ||||||
Pilbara Minerals Ltd. | 154,640 | 463,613 | ||||||
QBE Insurance Group Ltd. | 86,400 | 833,404 | ||||||
Ramsay Health Care Ltd. | 10,480 | 347,768 | ||||||
REA Group Ltd. | 2,960 | 315,589 | ||||||
Reece Ltd. | 12,720 | 167,335 | ||||||
Scentre Group | 297,440 | 527,230 | ||||||
SEEK Ltd. | 20,640 | 308,149 | ||||||
Sonic Healthcare Ltd. | 25,920 | 538,726 | ||||||
Stockland | 133,046 | 363,368 | ||||||
Suncorp Group Ltd. | 72,560 | 636,431 | ||||||
Telstra Corp. Ltd. | 231,680 | 601,005 | ||||||
Transurban Group | 176,480 | 1,510,983 | ||||||
Vicinity Ltd. | 226,884 | 273,679 | ||||||
WiseTech Global Ltd. | 9,920 | 444,999 | ||||||
Xero Ltd.(a) | 8,560 | 692,877 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
23,922,839 | ||||||||
Austria — 0.3% | ||||||||
Erste Group Bank AG | 19,440 | 693,500 | ||||||
Verbund AG | 3,920 | 321,349 | ||||||
voestalpine AG | 6,252 | 182,679 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,197,528 | ||||||||
Belgium — 1.0% | ||||||||
Ageas SA/NV | 9,120 | 362,705 | ||||||
Argenx SE(a) | 3,280 | 1,648,477 | ||||||
D’ieteren Group | 1,280 | 209,055 | ||||||
Elia Group SA/NV. | 1,680 | 193,695 | ||||||
Groupe Bruxelles Lambert NV | 5,600 | 450,931 | ||||||
KBC Group NV | 14,720 | 965,780 | ||||||
Sofina SA | 880 | 197,707 | ||||||
Umicore SA | 12,962 | 343,470 | ||||||
Warehouses De Pauw CVA | 9,600 | 274,335 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,646,155 | ||||||||
Denmark — 5.3% | ||||||||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class A | 162 | 289,507 | ||||||
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B, NVS | 320 | 580,916 | ||||||
Chr Hansen Holding A/S | 5,921 | 386,076 | ||||||
Demant A/S(a) | 5,840 | 238,413 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Denmark (continued) | ||||||||
DSV A/S | 10,720 | $ | 2,035,723 | |||||
Genmab A/S(a) | 3,840 | 1,471,239 | ||||||
Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B | 94,480 | 17,427,188 | ||||||
Novozymes A/S, Class B | 12,080 | 522,892 | ||||||
Pandora A/S | 4,880 | 505,364 | ||||||
Rockwool A/S, Class B | 566 | 144,454 | ||||||
Tryg A/S | 20,895 | 398,662 | ||||||
Vestas Wind Systems A/S(a) | 58,510 | 1,351,880 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
25,352,314 | ||||||||
Finland — 1.1% | ||||||||
Elisa OYJ | 8,165 | 400,828 | ||||||
Kesko OYJ, Class B | 16,000 | 312,325 | ||||||
Kone OYJ, Class B | 19,840 | 902,506 | ||||||
Metso OYJ | 39,040 | 448,395 | ||||||
Nokia OYJ | 313,440 | 1,253,468 | ||||||
Orion OYJ, Class B | 6,160 | 251,762 | ||||||
Sampo OYJ, Class A | 27,120 | 1,190,407 | ||||||
Wartsila OYJ Abp | 27,300 | 346,461 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,106,152 | ||||||||
France — 9.7% | ||||||||
Accor SA | 10,560 | 377,660 | ||||||
Aeroports de Paris | 1,600 | 210,572 | ||||||
Air Liquide SA | 30,320 | 5,478,102 | ||||||
Amundi SA(b) | 3,558 | 211,788 | ||||||
AXA SA | 106,240 | 3,191,969 | ||||||
BioMerieux | 2,402 | 248,078 | ||||||
BNP Paribas SA | 60,720 | 3,926,619 | ||||||
Bouygues SA | 11,040 | 381,210 | ||||||
Bureau Veritas SA | 17,040 | 456,470 | ||||||
Capgemini SE | 9,600 | 1,791,565 | ||||||
Carrefour SA | 34,240 | 654,454 | ||||||
Cie. Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA | 40,320 | 1,261,450 | ||||||
Covivio | 2,960 | 144,326 | ||||||
Credit Agricole SA | 69,360 | 874,302 | ||||||
Dassault Systemes SE | 38,800 | 1,537,664 | ||||||
Edenred | 14,320 | 912,518 | ||||||
Eiffage SA | 4,000 | 395,332 | ||||||
EssilorLuxottica SA | 17,040 | 3,213,208 | ||||||
Eurazeo SE | 2,411 | 142,061 | ||||||
Eurofins Scientific SE | 7,840 | 482,573 | ||||||
Euronext NV(b) | 5,120 | 369,616 | ||||||
Gecina SA | 2,885 | 308,625 | ||||||
Getlink SE | 20,480 | 342,782 | ||||||
Hermes International | 1,869 | 3,843,945 | ||||||
Ipsen SA | 2,174 | 281,629 | ||||||
Klepierre SA | 12,865 | 339,811 | ||||||
Legrand SA | 15,520 | 1,529,021 | ||||||
Publicis Groupe SA | 13,040 | 1,017,485 | ||||||
Sartorius Stedim Biotech | 1,600 | 453,778 | ||||||
Schneider Electric SE | 31,520 | 5,402,789 | ||||||
SEB SA | 1,374 | 150,818 | ||||||
Sodexo SA | 4,880 | 523,528 | ||||||
Teleperformance | 3,360 | 464,257 | ||||||
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, New(a) | 6,880 | 367,218 | ||||||
Valeo | 12,998 | 252,659 | ||||||
Vinci SA | 30,960 | 3,448,574 | ||||||
Vivendi SE | 41,040 | 373,787 | ||||||
Wendel SE | 1,520 | 138,885 |
10 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
France (continued) | ||||||||
Worldline SA/France(a)(b) | 13,920 | $ | 453,043 | |||||
|
| |||||||
45,954,171 | ||||||||
Germany — 8.9% | ||||||||
adidas AG | 9,360 | 1,867,975 | ||||||
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG | 17,680 | 1,859,567 | ||||||
Bechtle AG | 4,720 | 229,467 | ||||||
Beiersdorf AG | 5,840 | 764,661 | ||||||
Brenntag SE | 8,720 | 705,310 | ||||||
Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Bearer | 2,320 | 230,109 | ||||||
Commerzbank AG | 60,640 | 666,280 | ||||||
Continental AG | 6,320 | 468,806 | ||||||
Covestro AG(a)(b) | 11,120 | 590,520 | ||||||
Daimler Truck Holding AG | 28,560 | 1,004,930 | ||||||
Deutsche Boerse AG | 11,040 | 1,959,864 | ||||||
Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Registered(a) | 33,680 | 300,774 | ||||||
Deutsche Post AG, Registered | 57,440 | 2,678,602 | ||||||
Evonik Industries AG | 12,001 | 229,941 | ||||||
GEA Group AG | 8,880 | 350,168 | ||||||
Hannover Rueck SE | 3,524 | 749,479 | ||||||
HelloFresh SE(a) | 9,440 | 304,233 | ||||||
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA | 6,009 | 415,271 | ||||||
Infineon Technologies AG | 76,080 | 2,718,771 | ||||||
Knorr-Bremse AG | 3,930 | 268,421 | ||||||
LEG Immobilien SE(a) | 4,240 | 305,350 | ||||||
Merck KGaA | 7,318 | 1,313,765 | ||||||
Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG in Muenchen, Registered | 7,907 | 3,069,175 | ||||||
Nemetschek SE | 3,280 | 226,535 | ||||||
Rational AG | 286 | 217,860 | ||||||
SAP SE | 60,400 | 8,426,068 | ||||||
Scout24 SE(b) | 4,429 | 305,098 | ||||||
Siemens AG, Registered | 44,000 | 6,610,154 | ||||||
Siemens Healthineers AG(b) | 15,920 | 796,991 | ||||||
Symrise AG, Class A | 7,840 | 817,280 | ||||||
Talanx AG(a) | 3,600 | 242,004 | ||||||
Telefonica Deutschland Holding AG | 51,120 | 97,187 | ||||||
Vonovia SE | 42,480 | 1,019,235 | ||||||
Wacker Chemie AG | 1,040 | 153,182 | ||||||
Zalando SE(a)(b) | 13,120 | 407,842 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
42,370,875 | ||||||||
Hong Kong — 3.1% | ||||||||
AIA Group Ltd. | 672,000 | 6,080,425 | ||||||
BOC Hong Kong Holdings Ltd. | 203,500 | 565,382 | ||||||
ESR Group Ltd.(b) | 128,000 | 192,067 | ||||||
Futu Holdings Ltd., ADR(a)(c) | 3,120 | 185,952 | ||||||
Hang Lung Properties Ltd. | 160,000 | 213,098 | ||||||
Hang Seng Bank Ltd. | 48,000 | 611,718 | ||||||
Henderson Land Development Co. Ltd. | 80,000 | 219,691 | ||||||
HKT Trust & HKT Ltd., Class SS | 240,000 | 255,760 | ||||||
Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. | 65,200 | 2,527,034 | ||||||
Hongkong Land Holdings Ltd. | 64,000 | 227,044 | ||||||
Link REIT | 144,000 | 713,957 | ||||||
MTR Corp. Ltd. | 83,500 | 348,401 | ||||||
New World Development Co. Ltd. | 80,000 | 169,870 | ||||||
Sino Land Co. Ltd. | 184,000 | 210,768 | ||||||
Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd. | 80,000 | 900,533 | ||||||
Swire Pacific Ltd., Class A. | 40,000 | 329,815 | ||||||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 80,000 | 167,182 | ||||||
WH Group Ltd.(b) | 520,000 | 267,797 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Hong Kong (continued) | ||||||||
Wharf Real Estate Investment Co. Ltd. | 82,000 | $ | 341,742 | |||||
|
| |||||||
14,528,236 | ||||||||
Ireland — 1.0% | ||||||||
AIB Group PLC | 83,440 | 379,781 | ||||||
Bank of Ireland Group PLC | 61,360 | 611,009 | ||||||
CRH PLC | 42,000 | 2,416,413 | ||||||
Kerry Group PLC, Class A | 9,207 | 859,014 | ||||||
Smurfit Kappa Group PLC | 14,880 | 624,223 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4,890,440 | ||||||||
Israel — 0.5% | ||||||||
Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.(a)(c) | 5,520 | 742,937 | ||||||
CyberArk Software Ltd.(a) | 2,400 | 398,496 | ||||||
Monday.com Ltd.(a) | 1,280 | 227,123 | ||||||
Nice Ltd.(a) | 3,680 | 717,245 | ||||||
Wix.com Ltd.(a) | 3,200 | 316,064 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,401,865 | ||||||||
Italy — 1.2% | ||||||||
Amplifon SpA | 7,040 | 228,612 | ||||||
Assicurazioni Generali SpA | 60,400 | 1,251,064 | ||||||
DiaSorin SpA | 1,440 | 152,059 | ||||||
FinecoBank Banca Fineco SpA | 34,960 | 477,814 | ||||||
Infrastrutture Wireless Italiane SpA(b) | 20,246 | 250,491 | ||||||
Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA | 31,600 | 412,524 | ||||||
Moncler SpA | 11,840 | 802,215 | ||||||
Nexi SpA(a)(b) | 33,840 | 242,778 | ||||||
Poste Italiane SpA(b) | 28,582 | 317,287 | ||||||
Prysmian SpA | 15,200 | 621,019 | ||||||
Recordati Industria Chimica e Farmaceutica SpA | 5,612 | 281,318 | ||||||
Telecom Italia SpA/Milano(a) | 514,223 | 159,528 | ||||||
Terna - Rete Elettrica Nazionale | 88,240 | 727,677 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
5,924,386 | ||||||||
Japan — 30.0% | ||||||||
Advantest Corp. | 10,800 | 1,351,842 | ||||||
Aeon Co. Ltd. | 40,000 | 828,967 | ||||||
AGC Inc. | 8,000 | 280,667 | ||||||
Ajinomoto Co. Inc. | 24,000 | 1,016,708 | ||||||
ANA Holdings Inc.(a) | 8,100 | 182,859 | ||||||
Asahi Intecc Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 324,568 | ||||||
Asahi Kasei Corp. | 88,000 | 568,030 | ||||||
Astellas Pharma Inc. | 104,000 | 1,573,558 | ||||||
Azbil Corp. | 8,000 | 266,508 | ||||||
Bridgestone Corp. | 32,000 | 1,242,424 | ||||||
Brother Industries Ltd. | 16,000 | 270,777 | ||||||
Canon Inc. | 56,700 | 1,395,617 | ||||||
Capcom Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 337,466 | ||||||
Central Japan Railway Co. | 8,000 | 1,025,756 | ||||||
Chiba Bank Ltd. (The) | 32,000 | 228,493 | ||||||
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 40,000 | 1,219,276 | ||||||
Concordia Financial Group Ltd. | 64,000 | 283,586 | ||||||
CyberAgent Inc. | 24,000 | 152,714 | ||||||
Dai Nippon Printing Co. Ltd. | 12,200 | 333,370 | ||||||
Daifuku Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 295,289 | ||||||
Dai-ichi Life Holdings Inc. | 56,000 | 1,040,793 | ||||||
Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd. | 104,000 | 3,063,180 | ||||||
Daikin Industries Ltd. | 14,600 | 2,523,735 | ||||||
Daito Trust Construction Co. Ltd. | 3,400 | 374,967 | ||||||
Daiwa House Industry Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 888,825 | ||||||
Daiwa House REIT Investment Corp. | 160 | 303,627 | ||||||
Daiwa Securities Group Inc. | 88,000 | 500,425 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 11 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Japan (continued) | ||||||||
Denso Corp. | 24,000 | $ | 1,638,063 | |||||
Dentsu Group Inc. | 8,000 | 238,928 | ||||||
Disco Corp. | 5,000 | 988,222 | ||||||
East Japan Railway Co. | 16,000 | 904,626 | ||||||
Eisai Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 1,011,459 | ||||||
FANUC Corp. | 56,000 | 1,592,716 | ||||||
Fast Retailing Co. Ltd. | 9,700 | 2,225,289 | ||||||
FUJIFILM Holdings Corp. | 21,100 | 1,246,935 | ||||||
Fujitsu Ltd. | 9,900 | 1,237,419 | ||||||
GLP J-Reit | 240 | 226,482 | ||||||
GMO Payment Gateway Inc. | 1,100 | 69,655 | ||||||
Hakuhodo DY Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 151,798 | ||||||
Hamamatsu Photonics KK | 8,000 | 370,148 | ||||||
Hankyu Hanshin Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 574,262 | ||||||
Hikari Tsushin Inc. | 1,100 | 183,002 | ||||||
Hirose Electric Co. Ltd. | 1,700 | 205,827 | ||||||
Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 248,753 | ||||||
Hoshizaki Corp. | 8,000 | 307,027 | ||||||
Hoya Corp. | 19,500 | 2,163,543 | ||||||
Hulic Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 215,372 | ||||||
Ibiden Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 482,001 | ||||||
Isuzu Motors Ltd. | 40,000 | 512,062 | ||||||
Itochu Techno-Solutions Corp. | 8,000 | 237,532 | ||||||
Japan Airlines Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 164,750 | ||||||
Japan Exchange Group Inc. | 32,000 | 558,328 | ||||||
Japan Metropolitan Fund Invest | 402 | 269,939 | ||||||
Japan Post Bank Co. Ltd. | 91,600 | 735,004 | ||||||
Japan Post Insurance Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 129,077 | ||||||
Japan Real Estate Investment Corp. | 80 | 332,464 | ||||||
JFE Holdings Inc. | 32,000 | 505,539 | ||||||
JSR Corp. | 8,000 | 223,288 | ||||||
Kajima Corp. | 24,000 | 400,866 | ||||||
Kao Corp. | 24,600 | 950,240 | ||||||
KDDI Corp. | 88,000 | 2,616,013 | ||||||
Keio Corp. | 8,000 | 276,805 | ||||||
Keisei Electric Railway Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 306,335 | ||||||
Keyence Corp. | 10,900 | 4,525,369 | ||||||
Kikkoman Corp. | 8,000 | 462,128 | ||||||
Kintetsu Group Holdings Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 253,220 | ||||||
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 2,900 | 143,187 | ||||||
Kobe Bussan Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 199,314 | ||||||
Koei Tecmo Holdings Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 124,403 | ||||||
Koito Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 271,528 | ||||||
Komatsu Ltd. | 52,100 | 1,482,672 | ||||||
Konami Group Corp. | 2,500 | 145,073 | ||||||
Kubota Corp. | 56,700 | 912,502 | ||||||
Kurita Water Industries Ltd. | 8,000 | 311,642 | ||||||
Kyocera Corp. | 16,000 | 820,635 | ||||||
Kyowa Kirin Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 292,509 | ||||||
Lixil Corp. | 16,000 | 200,410 | ||||||
Makita Corp. | 12,300 | 337,168 | ||||||
MatsukiyoCocokara & Co. | 6,000 | 353,283 | ||||||
McDonald’s Holdings Co. Japan Ltd. | 4,600 | 183,058 | ||||||
MEIJI Holdings Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 401,201 | ||||||
MINEBEA MITSUMI Inc. | 24,000 | 406,935 | ||||||
MISUMI Group Inc. | 16,100 | 280,457 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corp. | 80,000 | 477,577 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Electric Corp. | 120,000 | 1,563,368 | ||||||
Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd. | 64,900 | 826,632 | ||||||
Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc. | 48,000 | 311,849 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Japan (continued) | ||||||||
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. | 664,000 | $ | 5,297,178 | |||||
Mitsui Chemicals Inc. | 8,000 | 216,870 | ||||||
Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd. | 51,500 | 1,127,495 | ||||||
Mizuho Financial Group Inc. | 136,000 | 2,241,147 | ||||||
MonotaRO Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 188,964 | ||||||
MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings Inc. | 24,000 | 861,879 | ||||||
Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 1,790,185 | ||||||
NEC Corp. | 13,200 | 695,783 | ||||||
NGK Insulators Ltd. | 16,000 | 212,259 | ||||||
Nidec Corp. | 24,000 | 1,248,827 | ||||||
Nintendo Co. Ltd. | 64,000 | 2,744,121 | ||||||
Nippon Building Fund Inc. | 80 | 337,859 | ||||||
Nippon Paint Holdings Co. Ltd. | 64,000 | 494,500 | ||||||
Nippon Prologis REIT Inc. | 152 | 305,699 | ||||||
Nippon Sanso Holdings Corp. | 8,000 | 192,897 | ||||||
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. | 1,800,000 | 2,078,344 | ||||||
Nippon Yusen KK | 32,000 | 851,340 | ||||||
Nissan Chemical Corp. | 8,000 | 342,641 | ||||||
Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd. | 3,500 | 305,663 | ||||||
Nitori Holdings Co. Ltd. | 3,900 | 443,929 | ||||||
Nitto Denko Corp. | 8,000 | 545,780 | ||||||
Nomura Real Estate Holdings Inc. | 8,000 | 201,308 | ||||||
Nomura Real Estate Master Fund Inc. | 240 | 282,143 | ||||||
Nomura Research Institute Ltd. | 24,000 | 689,739 | ||||||
NTT Data Group Corp. | 32,500 | 436,986 | ||||||
Obayashi Corp. | 48,000 | 434,724 | ||||||
Odakyu Electric Railway Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 237,913 | ||||||
Oji Holdings Corp. | 48,000 | 196,337 | ||||||
Omron Corp. | 8,000 | 386,020 | ||||||
Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 453,406 | ||||||
Open House Group Co. Ltd. | 4,200 | 141,879 | ||||||
Oracle Corp. Japan | 1,100 | 76,832 | ||||||
Oriental Land Co. Ltd./Japan | 64,000 | 2,305,357 | ||||||
Otsuka Corp. | 8,000 | 356,544 | ||||||
Otsuka Holdings Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 911,801 | ||||||
Pan Pacific International Holdings Corp. | 24,000 | 478,204 | ||||||
Panasonic Holdings Corp. | 128,000 | 1,477,549 | ||||||
Persol Holdings Co. Ltd. | 8,100 | 138,440 | ||||||
Rakuten Group Inc. | 80,000 | 311,283 | ||||||
Recruit Holdings Co. Ltd. | 80,000 | 2,849,797 | ||||||
Renesas Electronics Corp.(a) | 72,000 | 1,199,496 | ||||||
Resona Holdings Inc. | 136,000 | 720,463 | ||||||
Ricoh Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 260,685 | ||||||
Rohm Co. Ltd. | 4,200 | 350,312 | ||||||
SCSK Corp. | 8,000 | 138,675 | ||||||
Secom Co. Ltd. | 10,600 | 741,870 | ||||||
Seiko Epson Corp. | 16,000 | 250,534 | ||||||
Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 368,097 | ||||||
Sekisui House Ltd. | 32,500 | 662,330 | ||||||
SG Holdings Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 231,118 | ||||||
Sharp Corp./Japan(a) | 16,000 | 98,493 | ||||||
Shimadzu Corp. | 16,000 | 470,187 | ||||||
Shimizu Corp. | 32,000 | 215,294 | ||||||
Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. Ltd. | 104,000 | 3,314,870 | ||||||
Shionogi & Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 702,709 | ||||||
Shiseido Co. Ltd. | 24,000 | 973,901 | ||||||
Shizuoka Financial Group Inc., NVS | 24,200 | 196,653 | ||||||
SoftBank Corp. | 168,000 | 1,926,742 | ||||||
SoftBank Group Corp. | 56,000 | 2,509,721 | ||||||
Sompo Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 696,280 |
12 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Japan (continued) | ||||||||
Sony Group Corp. | 72,000 | $ | 5,989,855 | |||||
Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd. | 4,600 | 174,608 | ||||||
SUMCO Corp. | 24,000 | 320,538 | ||||||
Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. | 80,000 | 221,466 | ||||||
Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd. | 48,000 | 587,630 | ||||||
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 496,538 | ||||||
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. | 72,000 | 3,291,585 | ||||||
Sumitomo Realty & Development Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 409,013 | ||||||
Suntory Beverage & Food Ltd. | 8,000 | 257,395 | ||||||
Sysmex Corp. | 8,000 | 424,484 | ||||||
T&D Holdings Inc. | 32,000 | 507,181 | ||||||
Taisei Corp. | 8,000 | 269,248 | ||||||
TDK Corp. | 24,000 | 873,531 | ||||||
Terumo Corp. | 40,000 | 1,210,298 | ||||||
TIS Inc. | 12,200 | 287,632 | ||||||
Tobu Railway Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 438,628 | ||||||
Tokio Marine Holdings Inc. | 104,000 | 2,295,123 | ||||||
Tokyo Electron Ltd. | 27,200 | 4,039,897 | ||||||
Tokyu Corp. | 32,000 | 404,372 | ||||||
Toppan Inc. | 16,000 | 386,495 | ||||||
Toray Industries Inc. | 96,000 | 517,600 | ||||||
Tosoh Corp. | 16,000 | 207,037 | ||||||
TOTO Ltd. | 8,000 | 219,391 | ||||||
Toyota Industries Corp. | 8,200 | 578,989 | ||||||
Trend Micro Inc./Japan | 8,000 | 339,533 | ||||||
Unicharm Corp. | 24,000 | 957,447 | ||||||
USS Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 279,395 | ||||||
Welcia Holdings Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 147,178 | ||||||
West Japan Railway Co. | 12,200 | 528,187 | ||||||
Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 419,150 | ||||||
Yamaha Corp. | 8,000 | 246,754 | ||||||
Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 414,020 | ||||||
Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd. | 16,000 | 300,540 | ||||||
Yaskawa Electric Corp. | 16,000 | 627,316 | ||||||
Yokogawa Electric Corp. | 16,000 | 316,815 | ||||||
Z Holdings Corp. | 184,000 | 552,527 | ||||||
Zensho Holdings Co. Ltd. | 8,000 | 377,525 | ||||||
ZOZO Inc. | 8,000 | 159,768 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
142,652,657 | ||||||||
Netherlands — 6.9% | ||||||||
ABN AMRO Bank NV, CVA(b) | 23,062 | 339,240 | ||||||
Adyen NV(a)(b) | 1,280 | 1,068,827 | ||||||
AerCap Holdings NV(a) | 9,089 | 559,155 | ||||||
Akzo Nobel NV | 9,760 | 792,351 | ||||||
ASM International NV | 2,720 | 1,309,325 | ||||||
ASML Holding NV | 23,360 | 15,359,856 | ||||||
ASR Nederland NV | 9,280 | 406,234 | ||||||
BE Semiconductor Industries NV | 4,480 | 515,422 | ||||||
EXOR NV(c) | 6,240 | 552,221 | ||||||
Ferrovial SE | 30,160 | 956,592 | ||||||
IMCD NV | 3,216 | 442,947 | ||||||
ING Groep NV | 210,560 | 2,983,427 | ||||||
JDE Peet’s NV | 7,200 | 200,492 | ||||||
NN Group NV | 14,400 | 554,335 | ||||||
OCI NV | 6,080 | 153,771 | ||||||
Prosus NV | 40,640 | 2,803,119 | ||||||
QIAGEN NV(a) | 13,200 | 602,283 | ||||||
Randstad NV | 6,320 | 370,890 | ||||||
Universal Music Group NV | 47,840 | 1,186,106 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Netherlands (continued) | ||||||||
Wolters Kluwer NV | 14,960 | $ | 1,802,535 | |||||
|
| |||||||
32,959,128 | ||||||||
New Zealand — 0.4% | ||||||||
Auckland International Airport Ltd.(a) | 72,000 | 335,231 | ||||||
EBOS Group Ltd. | 8,880 | 200,933 | ||||||
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp. Ltd. | 33,200 | 448,390 | ||||||
Mercury NZ Ltd. | 42,885 | 158,707 | ||||||
Meridian Energy Ltd. | 72,800 | 232,874 | ||||||
Spark New Zealand Ltd. | 107,367 | 324,818 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,700,953 | ||||||||
Norway — 0.7% | ||||||||
Adevinta ASA(a) | 15,769 | 111,865 | ||||||
DNB Bank ASA | 53,600 | 1,059,487 | ||||||
Gjensidige Forsikring ASA | 12,932 | 200,803 | ||||||
Mowi ASA | 25,200 | 456,809 | ||||||
Orkla ASA | 41,345 | 315,645 | ||||||
Salmar ASA | 4,160 | 203,088 | ||||||
Telenor ASA | 38,810 | 415,514 | ||||||
Yara International ASA | 9,233 | 336,537 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,099,748 | ||||||||
Portugal — 0.1% | ||||||||
Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA | 16,720 | 426,226 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Singapore — 1.9% | ||||||||
CapitaLand Ascendas REIT | 216,099 | 442,594 | ||||||
CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust | 312,081 | 440,842 | ||||||
Capitaland Investment Ltd/Singapore | 160,000 | 383,282 | ||||||
City Developments Ltd. | 32,000 | 158,093 | ||||||
DBS Group Holdings Ltd. | 104,000 | 2,559,819 | ||||||
Grab Holdings Ltd., Class A(a) | 107,040 | 403,540 | ||||||
Mapletree Logistics Trust | 200,000 | 248,490 | ||||||
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. Ltd. | 192,000 | 1,781,435 | ||||||
Seatrium Ltd.(a) | 2,568,000 | 275,279 | ||||||
Singapore Airlines Ltd.(c) | 88,000 | 447,140 | ||||||
Singapore Exchange Ltd. | 42,500 | 302,553 | ||||||
United Overseas Bank Ltd. | 72,000 | 1,512,530 | ||||||
UOL Group Ltd. | 24,400 | 119,791 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,075,388 | ||||||||
Spain — 1.6% | ||||||||
Acciona SA | 1,440 | 205,803 | ||||||
ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA | 12,500 | 438,819 | ||||||
Aena SME SA(b) | 4,339 | 682,078 | ||||||
Amadeus IT Group SA | 26,320 | 1,805,906 | ||||||
CaixaBank SA | 241,840 | 979,510 | ||||||
Cellnex Telecom SA(b) | 32,800 | 1,254,451 | ||||||
Corp. ACCIONA Energias Renovables SA | 4,880 | 145,015 | ||||||
EDP Renovaveis SA | 19,445 | 355,632 | ||||||
Grifols SA(a) | 17,200 | 235,637 | ||||||
Redeia Corp. SA | 7,817 | 126,942 | ||||||
Telefonica SA | 299,680 | 1,241,775 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
7,471,568 | ||||||||
Sweden — 4.7% | ||||||||
Assa Abloy AB, Class B | 59,120 | 1,330,551 | ||||||
Atlas Copco AB, Class A | 156,160 | 2,064,624 | ||||||
Atlas Copco AB, Class B | 89,840 | 1,034,296 | ||||||
Beijer Ref AB, Class B | 22,000 | 252,168 | ||||||
Epiroc AB, Class A | 37,520 | 719,836 | ||||||
Epiroc AB, Class B | 22,050 | 360,925 | ||||||
EQT AB | 21,440 | 430,972 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 13 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Sweden (continued) | ||||||||
Essity AB, Class B | 34,160 | $ | 797,506 | |||||
Fastighets AB Balder, Class B(a) | 37,859 | 180,952 | ||||||
Getinge AB, Class B | 12,924 | 224,068 | ||||||
H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB, Class B | 37,360 | 570,412 | ||||||
Hexagon AB, Class B | 121,840 | 1,087,807 | ||||||
Holmen AB, Class B | 5,184 | 196,495 | ||||||
Husqvarna AB, Class B | 20,240 | 174,258 | ||||||
Industrivarden AB, Class A | 7,940 | 206,829 | ||||||
Industrivarden AB, Class C | 9,040 | 235,047 | ||||||
Indutrade AB | 15,130 | 290,369 | ||||||
Investment AB Latour, Class B | 8,480 | 154,087 | ||||||
Investor AB, Class A | 1,223 | 23,339 | ||||||
Investor AB, Class B | 99,120 | 1,907,844 | ||||||
Lifco AB, Class B | 13,200 | 241,381 | ||||||
Nibe Industrier AB, Class B | 88,640 | 663,477 | ||||||
Nordea Bank Abp | 186,560 | 2,043,812 | ||||||
Sagax AB, Class B | 11,280 | 234,593 | ||||||
Sandvik AB | 62,320 | 1,178,584 | ||||||
Securitas AB, Class B | 28,160 | 229,114 | ||||||
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Class A | 94,160 | 1,091,652 | ||||||
Skanska AB, Class B | 19,680 | 288,680 | ||||||
SKF AB, Class B | 19,520 | 316,055 | ||||||
Svenska Cellulosa AB SCA, Class B | 34,240 | 455,802 | ||||||
Svenska Handelsbanken AB, Class A | 87,280 | 728,269 | ||||||
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB(a)(c) | 9,040 | 174,367 | ||||||
Tele2 AB, Class B | 30,640 | 216,465 | ||||||
Telia Co. AB | 140,560 | 283,763 | ||||||
Volvo AB, Class A | 11,440 | 233,991 | ||||||
Volvo AB, Class B | 88,000 | 1,773,518 | ||||||
Volvo Car AB, Class B(a)(c) | 33,004 | 125,304 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
22,521,212 | ||||||||
Switzerland — 7.3% | ||||||||
ABB Ltd., Registered | 92,640 | 3,522,935 | ||||||
Adecco Group AG, Registered | 8,839 | 380,210 | ||||||
Alcon Inc. | 28,720 | 2,396,957 | ||||||
Bachem Holding AG, Class B | 1,780 | 165,668 | ||||||
Baloise Holding AG, Registered | 2,501 | 390,709 | ||||||
Banque Cantonale Vaudoise, Registered | 1,680 | 182,019 | ||||||
Coca-Cola HBC AG, Class DI | 12,640 | 364,119 | ||||||
DSM-Firmenich AG | 10,800 | 999,010 | ||||||
Geberit AG, Registered | 2,000 | 1,035,084 | ||||||
Givaudan SA, Registered | 519 | 1,728,805 | ||||||
Helvetia Holding AG, Registered | 2,000 | 304,149 | ||||||
Julius Baer Group Ltd. | 12,080 | 838,466 | ||||||
Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Registered | 3,120 | 937,388 | ||||||
Logitech International SA, Registered | 9,440 | 653,083 | ||||||
Lonza Group AG, Registered | 4,320 | 2,382,874 | ||||||
Partners Group Holding AG | 1,352 | 1,457,327 | ||||||
Schindler Holding AG, Participation Certificates, NVS | 2,320 | 516,661 | ||||||
Schindler Holding AG, Registered | 1,360 | 285,374 | ||||||
SGS SA | 8,800 | 799,241 | ||||||
SIG Group AG | 17,280 | 454,558 | ||||||
Sika AG, Registered | 8,480 | 2,396,297 | ||||||
Sonova Holding AG, Registered | 2,960 | 782,128 | ||||||
STMicroelectronics NV | 39,760 | 1,876,462 | ||||||
Straumann Holding AG | 6,480 | 979,708 | ||||||
Swiss Life Holding AG, Registered | 1,680 | 1,052,125 | ||||||
Swiss Prime Site AG, Registered | 4,400 | 422,505 | ||||||
Swiss Re AG | 17,640 | 1,712,978 | ||||||
Swisscom AG, Registered | 1,445 | 879,845 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Switzerland (continued) | ||||||||
Temenos AG, Registered | 3,680 | $ | 291,662 | |||||
VAT Group AG(b) | 1,520 | 607,463 | ||||||
Zurich Insurance Group AG | 8,820 | 4,135,636 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
34,931,446 | ||||||||
United Kingdom — 8.3% | ||||||||
3i Group PLC | 56,400 | 1,420,233 | ||||||
abrdn PLC | 114,720 | 239,314 | ||||||
Admiral Group PLC | 12,160 | 383,089 | ||||||
Anglo American PLC | 73,520 | 1,955,019 | ||||||
Antofagasta PLC | 22,800 | 417,557 | ||||||
Ashtead Group PLC | 25,360 | 1,769,070 | ||||||
Associated British Foods PLC | 20,160 | 508,858 | ||||||
Auto Trader Group PLC(b) | 53,600 | 411,029 | ||||||
Aviva PLC | 159,600 | 757,264 | ||||||
Barratt Developments PLC | 57,453 | 329,348 | ||||||
Berkeley Group Holdings PLC | 6,160 | 316,477 | ||||||
Bunzl PLC | 19,600 | 701,857 | ||||||
Burberry Group PLC | 21,680 | 598,577 | ||||||
CNH Industrial NV | 57,840 | 797,488 | ||||||
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PLC | 11,920 | 764,191 | ||||||
Compass Group PLC | 100,400 | 2,531,758 | ||||||
Croda International PLC | 8,320 | 581,051 | ||||||
Endeavour Mining PLC | 10,640 | 217,278 | ||||||
Halma PLC | 21,520 | 583,373 | ||||||
Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC | 9,440 | 260,762 | ||||||
Informa PLC | 81,040 | 748,769 | ||||||
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC | 9,440 | 710,033 | ||||||
Intertek Group PLC | 9,200 | 481,800 | ||||||
JD Sports Fashion PLC | 148,480 | 272,535 | ||||||
Johnson Matthey PLC | 10,320 | 212,759 | ||||||
Kingfisher PLC | 110,320 | 326,932 | ||||||
Land Securities Group PLC | 40,000 | 304,796 | ||||||
Legal & General Group PLC | 346,160 | 956,404 | ||||||
Lloyds Banking Group PLC | 3,754,960 | 2,006,134 | ||||||
London Stock Exchange Group PLC | 23,120 | 2,391,859 | ||||||
M&G PLC | 129,840 | 313,608 | ||||||
Mondi PLC | 27,440 | 455,801 | ||||||
Ocado Group PLC(a) | 33,120 | 364,821 | ||||||
Pearson PLC | 37,360 | 395,968 | ||||||
Persimmon PLC | 18,320 | 246,977 | ||||||
Phoenix Group Holdings PLC | 42,960 | 282,995 | ||||||
Prudential PLC | 159,440 | 1,941,829 | ||||||
RELX PLC | 109,680 | 3,574,990 | ||||||
Rentokil Initial PLC | 144,400 | 1,099,384 | ||||||
Sage Group PLC (The) | 59,360 | 729,451 | ||||||
Schroders PLC | 46,160 | 240,138 | ||||||
Segro PLC | 67,360 | 627,948 | ||||||
Severn Trent PLC | 14,491 | 440,061 | ||||||
Spirax-Sarco Engineering PLC | 4,240 | 543,340 | ||||||
St. James’s Place PLC | 31,440 | 351,557 | ||||||
Standard Chartered PLC | 137,360 | 1,235,925 | ||||||
Taylor Wimpey PLC | 204,560 | 295,630 | ||||||
Vodafone Group PLC | 1,331,600 | 1,234,463 | ||||||
Whitbread PLC | 11,120 | 483,647 | ||||||
Wise PLC, Class A(a) | 35,600 | 288,718 | ||||||
WPP PLC | 61,840 | 599,440 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
39,702,305 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 99.0% | ||||||||
(Cost: $481,060,980) | . | 470,835,592 | ||||||
|
|
14 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Germany — 0.5% | ||||||||
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 3,440 | $ | 330,520 | |||||
Dr Ing hc F Porsche AG, Preference Shares, NVS(b) | 6,880 | 758,794 | ||||||
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Preference Shares, NVS | 9,440 | 723,395 | ||||||
Sartorius AG, Preference Shares, NVS | 1,520 | 621,568 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,434,277 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 0.5% | ||||||||
(Cost: $2,557,179) | 2,434,277 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Sweden — 0.0% | ||||||||
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB, (Expires 09/21/23, Strike Price SEK 142.00)(a)(c) | 8,814 | 7,962 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | 7,962 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.5% | ||||||||
(Cost: $483,618,159) | 473,277,831 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.3% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(d)(e)(f) | 1,412,507 | 1,412,931 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Money Market Funds (continued) | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares, | 40,000 | $ | 40,000 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.3% | ||||||||
(Cost: $1,452,822) | 1,452,931 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 99.8% | ||||||||
(Cost: $485,070,981) | 474,730,762 | |||||||
Other Assets Less Liabilities — 0.2% | 1,145,007 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 475,875,769 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(e) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(f) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 1,631,126 | $ | — | $ | (223,813 | )(a) | $ | 6,114 | $ | (496 | ) | $ | 1,412,931 | 1,412,507 | $ | 22,079 | (b) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares | 30,000 | 10,000 | (a) | — | — | — | 40,000 | 40,000 | 6,255 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 6,114 | $ | (496 | ) | $ | 1,452,931 | $ | 28,334 | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
Mini TOPIX Index | 59 | 09/07/23 | $ | 943 | $ | 37,413 | ||||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 15 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF |
Futures Contracts (continued)
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Euro STOXX 50 Index | 33 | 09/15/23 | $ | 1,540 | $ | (1,755 | ) | |||||||||
|
| |||||||||||||||
$ | 35,658 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 37,413 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 37,413 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,755 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,755 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 505,008 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 505,008 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 48,787 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 48,787 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 2,391,327 | ||
|
For more information about the Fund’s investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 4,937,600 | $ | 465,897,992 | $ | — | $ | 470,835,592 | ||||||||
Preferred Stocks | — | 2,434,277 | — | 2,434,277 | ||||||||||||
Rights | 7,962 | — | — | 7,962 |
16 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF |
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End (continued)
| ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | $ | 1,452,931 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,452,931 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | 6,398,493 | $ | 468,332,269 | $ | — | $ | 474,730,762 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | — | $ | 37,413 | $ | — | $ | 37,413 | ||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | — | (1,755 | ) | — | (1,755 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||
$ | — | $ | 35,658 | $ | — | 35,658 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 17 |
Schedule of Investments August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Brazil — 2.9% | ||||||||
Atacadao SA | 11,072 | $ | 22,940 | |||||
B3 SA - Brasil, Bolsa, Balcao | 98,224 | 256,467 | ||||||
Banco Bradesco SA | 26,760 | 71,547 | ||||||
Banco do Brasil SA | 14,608 | 138,940 | ||||||
CCR SA | 16,768 | 42,190 | ||||||
Cia. de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo | 5,712 | 66,808 | ||||||
Energisa SA | 3,744 | 34,854 | ||||||
Equatorial Energia SA | 17,408 | 111,295 | ||||||
Hapvida Participacoes e Investimentos SA(a)(b) | 89,280 | 76,803 | ||||||
Localiza Rent a Car SA | 15,233 | 194,563 | ||||||
Lojas Renner SA | 16,672 | 53,968 | ||||||
Natura & Co. Holding SA(b) | 15,040 | 46,104 | ||||||
Raia Drogasil SA | 21,994 | 122,049 | ||||||
Rede D’Or Sao Luiz SA(a) | 9,984 | 57,782 | ||||||
Rumo SA | 21,824 | 98,498 | ||||||
Sendas Distribuidora SA | 23,296 | 54,617 | ||||||
Telefonica Brasil SA | 6,944 | 57,983 | ||||||
Tim SA | 14,032 | 40,832 | ||||||
TOTVS SA | 8,976 | 50,281 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,598,521 | ||||||||
Chile — 0.5% | ||||||||
Banco de Chile | 766,544 | 83,616 | ||||||
Banco de Credito e Inversiones SA | 1,137 | 32,710 | ||||||
Banco Santander Chile | 1,104,824 | 52,872 | ||||||
Cencosud SA | 21,584 | 46,203 | ||||||
Empresas CMPC SA | 19,552 | 35,500 | ||||||
Falabella SA | 14,464 | 35,629 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
286,530 | ||||||||
China — 30.3% | ||||||||
37 Interactive Entertainment Network Technology Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 10,846 | ||||||
3SBio Inc.(a) | 32,000 | 26,761 | ||||||
AAC Technologies Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 30,993 | ||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 88,000 | 41,826 | ||||||
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 496,000 | 170,006 | ||||||
AIMA Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 1,600 | 6,244 | ||||||
Air China Ltd., Class A(b) | 9,600 | 11,424 | ||||||
Air China Ltd., Class H(b) | 32,000 | 23,687 | ||||||
Akeso Inc.(a)(b) | 8,000 | 35,137 | ||||||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 249,600 | 2,896,891 | ||||||
Alibaba Health Information Technology Ltd.(b) | 96,000 | 56,678 | ||||||
BAIC BluePark New Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,000 | 5,650 | ||||||
Baidu Inc.(b) | 38,640 | 690,081 | ||||||
Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 36,800 | 18,957 | ||||||
Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 1,344,000 | 455,504 | ||||||
Bank of Communications Co. Ltd., Class A | 40,000 | 30,519 | ||||||
Bank of Communications Co. Ltd., Class H | 144,000 | 82,418 | ||||||
Bank of Hangzhou Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 9,860 | ||||||
Bank of Ningbo Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 23,007 | ||||||
Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd. | 64,000 | 14,745 | ||||||
Beijing Kingsoft Office Software Inc., Class A | 478 | 25,918 | ||||||
Beijing Shiji Information Technology Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 2,576 | 4,800 | ||||||
Beijing Tongrentang Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 12,363 | ||||||
Beiqi Foton Motor Co. Ltd.(b) | 14,400 | 7,084 | ||||||
BOC Aviation Ltd.(a) | 3,200 | 24,001 | ||||||
Bosideng International Holdings Ltd. | 64,000 | 25,114 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,800 | 61,736 | ||||||
BYD Co. Ltd., Class H | 17,000 | 533,981 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
By-health Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | $ | 4,248 | |||||
China CITIC Bank Corp. Ltd., Class H | 160,000 | 71,211 | ||||||
China Conch Venture Holdings Ltd. | 24,000 | 23,581 | ||||||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class A | 9,600 | 7,918 | ||||||
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H | 1,632,000 | �� 873,203 | ||||||
China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 49,600 | 20,515 | ||||||
China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd., Class H | 48,000 | 13,825 | ||||||
China Everbright Environment Group Ltd. | 64,000 | 23,313 | ||||||
China Feihe Ltd.(a) | 64,000 | 38,478 | ||||||
China International Capital Corp. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 8,578 | ||||||
China International Capital Corp. Ltd., Class H(a) | 25,600 | 49,168 | ||||||
China Jinmao Holdings Group Ltd. | 96,000 | 13,593 | ||||||
China Jushi Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,971 | 9,538 | ||||||
China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 15,692 | ||||||
China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Class H | 128,000 | 194,002 | ||||||
China Literature Ltd.(a)(b) | 6,400 | 25,702 | ||||||
China Medical System Holdings Ltd. | 32,000 | 46,088 | ||||||
China Mengniu Dairy Co. Ltd. | 55,000 | 184,936 | ||||||
China Minsheng Banking Corp. Ltd., Class A | 39,376 | 20,443 | ||||||
China Minsheng Banking Corp. Ltd., Class H | 112,000 | 35,973 | ||||||
China Overseas Land & Investment Ltd. | 64,000 | 134,918 | ||||||
China Railway Signal & Communication Corp. Ltd., Class A | 9,800 | 7,559 | ||||||
China Resources Land Ltd. | 54,000 | 228,242 | ||||||
China Resources Mixc Lifestyle Services Ltd.(a) | 12,800 | 55,311 | ||||||
China Resources Pharmaceutical Group Ltd.(a) | 24,000 | 16,021 | ||||||
China Ruyi Holdings Ltd.(b) | 128,000 | 33,943 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 13,700 | 11,917 | ||||||
China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd., Class H(b) | 32,000 | 16,999 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd.(a) | 1,600 | 21,487 | ||||||
China Tourism Group Duty Free Corp. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 23,987 | ||||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class A | 11,200 | 21,003 | ||||||
China Vanke Co. Ltd., Class H | 36,800 | 42,928 | ||||||
China Zheshang Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 22,820 | 8,066 | ||||||
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Ltd.(c) | 35,200 | 53,376 | ||||||
CITIC Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,800 | 39,115 | ||||||
CITIC Securities Co. Ltd., Class H | 32,000 | 62,484 | ||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class A | 30,400 | 23,908 | ||||||
CMOC Group Ltd., Class H | 48,000 | 28,635 | ||||||
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,380 | 142,276 | ||||||
Country Garden Services Holdings Co. Ltd. | 39,000 | 45,312 | ||||||
CSC Financial Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,800 | 17,018 | ||||||
CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. | 160,000 | 120,257 | ||||||
Dongfeng Motor Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 32,000 | 11,738 | ||||||
Far East Horizon Ltd. | 16,000 | 10,931 | ||||||
Foxconn Industrial Internet Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,600 | 28,859 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd., Class H(a)(c) | 6,400 | 30,570 | ||||||
Ganfeng Lithium Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 10,429 | ||||||
GDS Holdings Ltd., Class A(b) | 16,000 | 23,756 | ||||||
Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. | 96,000 | 119,172 | ||||||
GEM Co. Ltd., Class A | 7,200 | 6,193 | ||||||
Genscript Biotech Corp.(b) | 18,000 | 42,015 | ||||||
Great Wall Motor Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 11,495 | ||||||
Great Wall Motor Co. Ltd., Class H | 40,000 | 47,392 | ||||||
Greentown China Holdings Ltd. | 16,000 | 19,001 | ||||||
Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,624 | 6,902 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 20,670 | ||||||
Haier Smart Home Co. Ltd., Class H | 41,600 | 128,847 | ||||||
Haitong Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 12,800 | 17,302 |
18 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
Haitong Securities Co. Ltd., Class H | 38,400 | $ | 23,826 | |||||
Hangzhou Robam Appliances Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 6,044 | ||||||
Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd.(a) | 32,000 | 41,578 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,000 | 17,486 | ||||||
Huatai Securities Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 19,200 | 25,263 | ||||||
Huaxia Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 14,400 | 10,962 | ||||||
Hundsun Technologies Inc., Class A | 1,978 | 9,786 | ||||||
Hygeia Healthcare Holdings Co. Ltd.(a) | 6,400 | 32,392 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class A | 67,200 | 42,657 | ||||||
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Class H | 1,104,000 | 506,159 | ||||||
Industrial Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 22,400 | 48,689 | ||||||
Industrial Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 9,660 | 8,517 | ||||||
Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 22,883 | ||||||
JD Health International Inc.(a)(b) | 19,200 | 103,561 | ||||||
JD.com Inc., Class A | 40,000 | 664,324 | ||||||
Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co. Ltd., Class A | 6,400 | 36,794 | ||||||
Jiumaojiu International Holdings Ltd.(a) | 16,000 | 25,662 | ||||||
Joincare Pharmaceutical Group Industry Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 5,018 | ||||||
Kanzhun Ltd., ADR(b) | 3,680 | 54,464 | ||||||
Kingboard Holdings Ltd. | 8,000 | 18,154 | ||||||
Kingdee International Software Group Co. Ltd.(b) | 48,000 | 74,165 | ||||||
Kingsoft Corp. Ltd. | 16,000 | 63,775 | ||||||
Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 8,000 | 40,526 | ||||||
Kuaishou Technology(a)(b) | 40,000 | 327,437 | ||||||
Li Auto Inc.(b) | 18,338 | 381,794 | ||||||
Longfor Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 32,000 | 67,539 | ||||||
Meituan, Class B(a)(b) | 86,400 | 1,429,847 | ||||||
Microport Scientific Corp.(b) | 14,400 | 24,659 | ||||||
Ming Yang Smart Energy Group Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 6,562 | ||||||
MINISO Group Holding Ltd.(b) | 1,552 | 40,197 | ||||||
NavInfo Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 3,200 | 4,529 | ||||||
NetEase Inc. | 32,075 | 664,512 | ||||||
NIO Inc., ADR(b)(c) | 23,472 | 241,057 | ||||||
Nongfu Spring Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 28,800 | 161,752 | ||||||
Orient Securities Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,400 | 11,518 | ||||||
People’s Insurance Co. Group of China Ltd. (The), Class A | 9,600 | 7,714 | ||||||
People’s Insurance Co. Group of China Ltd. (The), Class H | 144,000 | 49,015 | ||||||
Pharmaron Beijing Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,400 | 9,811 | ||||||
Ping An Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 20,800 | 31,810 | ||||||
Ping An Healthcare and Technology Co. Ltd.(a)(b)(c) | 9,600 | 23,963 | ||||||
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class A | 11,200 | 75,197 | ||||||
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class H | 112,000 | 670,560 | ||||||
Pop Mart International Group Ltd.(a) | 9,600 | 31,225 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class A | 33,600 | 22,446 | ||||||
Postal Savings Bank of China Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 128,000 | 63,133 | ||||||
SF Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 4,800 | 28,666 | ||||||
Shandong Weigao Group Medical Polymer Co. Ltd., Class H | 44,800 | 44,607 | ||||||
Shanghai Electric Group Co. Ltd., Class A(b) | 14,883 | 9,133 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 12,272 | ||||||
Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 8,000 | 18,782 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 7,857 | ||||||
Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd., Class H | 12,800 | 21,045 | ||||||
Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Co. Ltd., Class A | 30,400 | 29,179 | ||||||
Shanghai Putailai New Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,230 | 10,029 | ||||||
Shanghai Rural Commercial Bank Co. Ltd. | 9,399 | 7,519 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
China (continued) | ||||||||
Shenzhen Inovance Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,650 | $ | 15,492 | |||||
Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 59,360 | ||||||
Sino Biopharmaceutical Ltd. | 176,000 | 66,808 | ||||||
Sinopharm Group Co. Ltd., Class H | 25,600 | 74,289 | ||||||
Sungrow Power Supply Co. Ltd., Class A | 1,600 | 21,933 | ||||||
Sunny Optical Technology Group Co. Ltd. | 12,800 | 104,514 | ||||||
TCL Technology Group Corp., Class A(b) | 19,760 | 11,123 | ||||||
Tongcheng Travel Holdings Ltd.(b) | 19,200 | 43,028 | ||||||
Topsports International Holdings Ltd.(a) | 32,000 | 26,060 | ||||||
Unisplendour Corp. Ltd., Class A(b) | 3,200 | 11,838 | ||||||
Vipshop Holdings Ltd., ADR(b) | 5,744 | 90,698 | ||||||
Want Want China Holdings Ltd. | 80,000 | 52,911 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,260 | 36,596 | ||||||
WuXi AppTec Co. Ltd., Class H(a) | 6,440 | 70,571 | ||||||
Wuxi Biologics Cayman Inc.(a)(b) | 64,000 | 360,806 | ||||||
Xinyi Solar Holdings Ltd. | 96,000 | 80,102 | ||||||
XPeng Inc.(b) | 18,136 | 162,997 | ||||||
Xtep International Holdings Ltd. | 24,000 | 23,779 | ||||||
Yadea Group Holdings Ltd.(a) | 20,000 | 38,453 | ||||||
Yonyou Network Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 3,200 | 7,983 | ||||||
Yum China Holdings Inc. | 7,024 | 377,119 | ||||||
Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,140 | 16,073 | ||||||
Yunnan Chihong Zinc&Germanium Co. Ltd. | 4,800 | 3,463 | ||||||
Zai Lab Ltd.(b) | 16,140 | 42,030 | ||||||
Zhejiang Expressway Co. Ltd., Class H | 32,000 | 23,895 | ||||||
Zhejiang Weixing New Building Materials Co. Ltd., Class A | 2,300 | 6,386 | ||||||
Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Class A | 8,000 | 7,106 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
16,959,734 | ||||||||
Colombia — 0.1% | ||||||||
Bancolombia SA | 4,240 | 30,164 | ||||||
Interconexion Electrica SA ESP | 8,032 | 29,414 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
59,578 | ||||||||
Czech Republic — 0.1% | ||||||||
Komercni Banka AS | 1,297 | 40,501 | ||||||
Moneta Money Bank AS(a) | 5,648 | 21,069 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
61,570 | ||||||||
Egypt — 0.1% | ||||||||
Commercial International Bank Egypt SAE | 32,770 | 45,535 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Greece — 0.6% | ||||||||
Alpha Services and Holdings SA(b) | 37,199 | 62,537 | ||||||
Eurobank Ergasias Services and Holdings SA, Class A(b) | 43,528 | 75,459 | ||||||
Hellenic Telecommunications Organization SA | 3,302 | 49,346 | ||||||
JUMBO SA | 1,996 | 61,728 | ||||||
National Bank of Greece SA(b) | 9,487 | 64,414 | ||||||
Piraeus Financial Holdings SA(b) | 11,280 | 39,043 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
352,527 | ||||||||
Hungary — 0.4% | ||||||||
OTP Bank Nyrt | 4,112 | 167,677 | ||||||
Richter Gedeon Nyrt | 2,380 | 59,730 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
227,407 | ||||||||
India — 15.4% | ||||||||
ABB India Ltd. | 912 | 48,234 | ||||||
Adani Green Energy Ltd.(b) | 5,344 | 59,946 | ||||||
Ashok Leyland Ltd. | 23,680 | 52,588 | ||||||
Asian Paints Ltd. | 6,512 | 256,023 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 19 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
India (continued) | ||||||||
Astral Ltd. | 2,016 | $ | 47,585 | |||||
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.(a) | 3,008 | 26,258 | ||||||
Axis Bank Ltd. | 38,588 | 453,355 | ||||||
Bajaj Auto Ltd. | 1,168 | 65,038 | ||||||
Bajaj Finance Ltd. | 4,624 | 399,682 | ||||||
Bandhan Bank Ltd.(a) | 12,397 | 34,344 | ||||||
Bank of Baroda | 17,456 | 39,417 | ||||||
Berger Paints India Ltd. | 4,249 | 36,863 | ||||||
Bharti Airtel Ltd. | 37,792 | 390,733 | ||||||
Britannia Industries Ltd. | 1,840 | 99,286 | ||||||
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Co. Ltd. | 6,992 | 94,682 | ||||||
Colgate-Palmolive India Ltd. | 2,032 | 47,639 | ||||||
Cummins India Ltd. | 2,368 | 48,848 | ||||||
DLF Ltd. | 10,496 | 63,856 | ||||||
Eicher Motors Ltd. | 2,304 | 92,811 | ||||||
Grasim Industries Ltd. | 4,528 | 97,878 | ||||||
Havells India Ltd. | 4,352 | 72,726 | ||||||
HCL Technologies Ltd. | 16,160 | 228,610 | ||||||
HDFC Bank Ltd. | 47,205 | 893,872 | ||||||
HDFC Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 16,144 | 125,621 | ||||||
Hero MotoCorp Ltd. | 1,888 | 66,461 | ||||||
Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 13,968 | 422,530 | ||||||
ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 4,178 | 66,247 | ||||||
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd.(a) | 5,882 | 40,039 | ||||||
IDFC First Bank Ltd.(b) | 50,996 | 57,503 | ||||||
Indian Hotels Co. Ltd. (The), Class A | 14,288 | 72,578 | ||||||
Info Edge India Ltd. | 1,185 | 61,922 | ||||||
Infosys Ltd. | 56,256 | 974,869 | ||||||
Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. | 18,464 | 391,804 | ||||||
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. | 15,936 | 303,001 | ||||||
Marico Ltd. | 8,784 | 60,443 | ||||||
Mphasis Ltd. | 1,264 | 37,043 | ||||||
Nestle India Ltd. | 576 | 152,902 | ||||||
PI Industries Ltd. | 1,392 | 60,984 | ||||||
SBI Cards & Payment Services Ltd. | 4,816 | 47,472 | ||||||
Shriram Transport Finance Co. Ltd. | 4,832 | 112,465 | ||||||
Siemens Ltd. | 1,536 | 72,727 | ||||||
Sona Blw Precision Forgings Ltd.(a) | 6,880 | 49,498 | ||||||
State Bank of India | 30,064 | 203,609 | ||||||
Supreme Industries Ltd. | 955 | 51,423 | ||||||
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. | 15,520 | 628,620 | ||||||
Tata Consumer Products Ltd. | 8,992 | 90,625 | ||||||
Tata Elxsi Ltd. | 577 | 50,460 | ||||||
Tech Mahindra Ltd. | 9,152 | 132,700 | ||||||
Titan Co. Ltd. | 6,032 | 226,026 | ||||||
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 1,792 | 39,888 | ||||||
Trent Ltd. | 3,088 | 76,384 | ||||||
TVS Motor Co. Ltd. | 4,160 | 71,286 | ||||||
Wipro Ltd. | 22,224 | 109,471 | ||||||
Zomato Ltd.(b) | 73,107 | 86,025 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
8,592,900 | ||||||||
Indonesia — 2.7% | ||||||||
Bank Central Asia Tbk PT | 944,000 | 568,293 | ||||||
Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 129,600 | 78,046 | ||||||
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 1,156,847 | 421,435 | ||||||
Barito Pacific Tbk PT | 492,862 | 34,623 | ||||||
Kalbe Farma Tbk PT | 350,400 | 41,688 | ||||||
Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk PT(b) | 209,600 | 46,458 | ||||||
Sarana Menara Nusantara Tbk PT | 337,600 | 22,829 | ||||||
Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk PT | 280,000 | 53,316 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Indonesia (continued) | ||||||||
Telkom Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 833,600 | $ | 203,764 | |||||
Unilever Indonesia Tbk PT | 132,800 | 32,000 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,502,452 | ||||||||
Kuwait — 0.6% | ||||||||
Gulf Bank KSCP | 31,145 | 25,455 | ||||||
Kuwait Finance House KSCP | 138,665 | 335,015 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
360,470 | ||||||||
Malaysia — 2.1% | ||||||||
AMMB Holdings Bhd | 28,900 | 23,249 | ||||||
Axiata Group Bhd | 51,200 | 26,055 | ||||||
CIMB Group Holdings Bhd | 108,800 | 131,890 | ||||||
DiGi.Com Bhd(c) | 62,400 | 58,924 | ||||||
Gamuda Bhd | 28,800 | 27,960 | ||||||
Hong Leong Bank Bhd | 11,200 | 48,191 | ||||||
Hong Leong Financial Group Bhd | 3,200 | 12,566 | ||||||
IHH Healthcare Bhd | 36,800 | 47,020 | ||||||
Inari Amertron Bhd | 48,000 | 32,652 | ||||||
Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd(c) | 8,000 | 37,153 | ||||||
Malayan Banking Bhd | 92,800 | 182,164 | ||||||
Maxis Bhd(c) | 36,800 | 31,814 | ||||||
MR DIY Group M Bhd(a)(c) | 54,400 | 18,173 | ||||||
Nestle Malaysia Bhd | 1,600 | 45,000 | ||||||
PPB Group Bhd | 11,200 | 37,945 | ||||||
Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd | 60,800 | 63,555 | ||||||
Public Bank Bhd | 246,200 | 224,419 | ||||||
RHB Bank Bhd | 24,000 | 29,011 | ||||||
Sime Darby Bhd | 46,400 | 22,971 | ||||||
Sime Darby Plantation Bhd | 32,000 | 30,367 | ||||||
Telekom Malaysia Bhd | 17,600 | 19,358 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,150,437 | ||||||||
Mexico — 2.1% | ||||||||
Arca Continental SAB de CV | 8,500 | 82,754 | ||||||
Banco del Bajio SA(a) | 12,800 | 40,373 | ||||||
Gruma SAB de CV, Class B | 3,280 | 54,754 | ||||||
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico SAB de CV, Class B | 6,400 | 117,584 | ||||||
Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste SAB de CV, Class B | 3,200 | 87,191 | ||||||
Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV, Class O | 44,800 | 379,462 | ||||||
Grupo Televisa SAB, CPO | 36,800 | 32,655 | ||||||
Kimberly-Clark de Mexico SAB de CV, Class A | 25,600 | 57,595 | ||||||
Wal-Mart de Mexico SAB de CV | 89,600 | 352,977 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,205,345 | ||||||||
Netherlands — 0.1% | ||||||||
NEPI Rockcastle NV | 8,144 | 48,877 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Peru — 0.3% | ||||||||
Credicorp Ltd. | 1,136 | 160,664 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Philippines — 0.4% | ||||||||
BDO Unibank Inc. | 39,768 | 97,773 | ||||||
PLDT Inc. | 1,360 | 27,600 | ||||||
SM Prime Holdings Inc. | 179,200 | 92,403 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
217,776 | ||||||||
Poland — 1.2% | ||||||||
Allegro.eu SA (a)(b) | 8,289 | 66,300 | ||||||
Bank Polska Kasa Opieki SA | 3,044 | 79,467 | ||||||
Budimex SA | 208 | 22,687 | ||||||
CD Projekt SA | 1,128 | 40,263 | ||||||
KGHM Polska Miedz SA | 2,320 | 63,975 | ||||||
LPP SA | 19 | 63,918 |
20 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Poland (continued) | ||||||||
mBank SA(b) | 256 | $ | 26,587 | |||||
Powszechna Kasa Oszczednosci Bank Polski SA | 14,784 | 133,511 | ||||||
Powszechny Zaklad Ubezpieczen SA | 10,272 | 102,872 | ||||||
Santander Bank Polska SA(b) | 608 | 54,701 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
654,281 | ||||||||
Qatar — 0.8% | ||||||||
Commercial Bank PSQC (The) | 55,200 | 85,982 | ||||||
Ooredoo QPSC | 13,552 | 40,149 | ||||||
Qatar National Bank QPSC | 78,320 | 335,008 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
461,139 | ||||||||
Russia — 0.0% | ||||||||
Magnit PJSC(b)(d) | 693 | — | ||||||
Moscow Exchange MICEX-RTS PJSC(b)(d) | 12,190 | 1 | ||||||
Novolipetsk Steel PJSC(b)(d) | 15,750 | 2 | ||||||
PhosAgro PJSC(b)(d) | 563 | — | ||||||
PhosAgro PJSC, New(b)(d) | 11 | — | ||||||
Polymetal International PLC(b)(d) | 3,451 | 1 | ||||||
Polyus PJSC(b)(d) | 329 | — | ||||||
TCS Group Holding PLC, GDR(b)(d)(e) | 1,183 | — | ||||||
VK Co. Ltd.(b)(d) | 1,337 | — | ||||||
|
| |||||||
4 | ||||||||
Saudi Arabia — 3.1% | ||||||||
Al Rajhi Bank | 33,248 | 639,169 | ||||||
Alinma Bank | 16,736 | 164,435 | ||||||
Bank AlBilad | 8,227 | 93,951 | ||||||
Banque Saudi Fransi | 9,648 | 98,650 | ||||||
Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group Co. | 1,488 | 96,267 | ||||||
Etihad Etisalat Co. | 6,240 | 75,117 | ||||||
Jarir Marketing Co. | 9,648 | 37,968 | ||||||
Mobile Telecommunications Co. | 7,360 | 26,491 | ||||||
Sahara International Petrochemical Co. | 6,112 | 59,331 | ||||||
Saudi Basic Industries Corp. | 15,312 | 360,615 | ||||||
Saudi Investment Bank (The) | 8,528 | 37,709 | ||||||
Savola Group (The) | 4,560 | 46,012 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,735,715 | ||||||||
South Africa — 5.3% | ||||||||
Absa Group Ltd. | 14,280 | 137,681 | ||||||
Anglo American Platinum Ltd. | 1,152 | 40,175 | ||||||
Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Ltd. | 6,256 | 57,044 | ||||||
Bid Corp. Ltd. | 5,756 | 129,485 | ||||||
Bidvest Group Ltd. (The) | 4,816 | 72,667 | ||||||
Capitec Bank Holdings Ltd. | 1,472 | 123,520 | ||||||
Clicks Group Ltd. | 4,208 | 60,942 | ||||||
Discovery Ltd.(b) | 9,136 | 70,984 | ||||||
FirstRand Ltd. | 85,536 | 332,343 | ||||||
Gold Fields Ltd. | 15,184 | 194,259 | ||||||
Growthpoint Properties Ltd. | 58,752 | 36,741 | ||||||
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. | 14,464 | 74,463 | ||||||
Kumba Iron Ore Ltd. | 1,120 | 24,635 | ||||||
MTN Group Ltd. | 28,840 | 183,745 | ||||||
Naspers Ltd., Class N | 3,328 | 566,913 | ||||||
Nedbank Group Ltd. | 7,312 | 83,559 | ||||||
Northam Platinum Holdings Ltd.(b) | 6,096 | 40,188 | ||||||
Old Mutual Ltd. | 81,584 | 54,821 | ||||||
Pepkor Holdings Ltd.(a) | 35,334 | 30,497 | ||||||
Remgro Ltd. | 9,040 | 75,656 | ||||||
Sanlam Ltd. | 29,888 | 107,856 | ||||||
Shoprite Holdings Ltd. | 8,560 | 119,586 | ||||||
Standard Bank Group Ltd. | 22,752 | 232,773 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
South Africa (continued) | ||||||||
Vodacom Group Ltd. | 10,400 | $ | 59,399 | |||||
Woolworths Holdings Ltd. | 15,968 | 62,722 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
2,972,654 | ||||||||
South Korea — 6.5% | ||||||||
Amorepacific Corp. | 496 | 50,166 | ||||||
BGF retail Co. Ltd. | 144 | 17,027 | ||||||
Celltrion Healthcare Co. Ltd. | 1,776 | 86,936 | ||||||
CJ CheilJedang Corp. | 144 | 32,540 | ||||||
Coway Co. Ltd. | 912 | 29,780 | ||||||
DB Insurance Co. Ltd. | 784 | 48,418 | ||||||
Hana Financial Group Inc. | 5,024 | 150,130 | ||||||
Hanon Systems | 3,344 | 23,024 | ||||||
HYBE Co. Ltd.(b) | 320 | 61,101 | ||||||
Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. | 1,264 | 33,903 | ||||||
Industrial Bank of Korea | 4,528 | 36,861 | ||||||
JYP Entertainment Corp. | 480 | 40,746 | ||||||
KakaoBank Corp. | 2,816 | 56,015 | ||||||
KB Financial Group Inc. | 6,496 | 264,622 | ||||||
Korean Air Lines Co. Ltd. | 3,056 | 52,627 | ||||||
KT Corp. | 1,056 | 26,365 | ||||||
LG Display Co. Ltd.(b) | 3,872 | 39,173 | ||||||
LG Electronics Inc. | 1,808 | 134,554 | ||||||
LG H&H Co. Ltd. | 160 | 56,147 | ||||||
Lotte Chemical Corp. | 328 | 33,851 | ||||||
Mirae Asset Securities Co. Ltd. | 4,496 | 22,630 | ||||||
NCSoft Corp. | 240 | 45,597 | ||||||
Netmarble Corp.(a)(b) | 320 | 10,361 | ||||||
NH Investment & Securities Co. Ltd. | 2,224 | 17,316 | ||||||
POSCO Future M Co. Ltd. | 528 | 179,205 | ||||||
Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co. Ltd. | 944 | 96,536 | ||||||
Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co. Ltd. | 528 | 98,356 | ||||||
Samsung Life Insurance Co. Ltd. | 1,312 | 67,058 | ||||||
Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. | 928 | 430,408 | ||||||
Samsung SDS Co. Ltd. | 675 | 72,440 | ||||||
Samsung Securities Co. Ltd. | 1,136 | 32,062 | ||||||
Shinhan Financial Group Co. Ltd. | 7,536 | 202,429 | ||||||
SK Biopharmaceuticals Co. Ltd.(b) | 576 | 37,296 | ||||||
SK Bioscience Co. Ltd.(b) | 464 | 25,792 | ||||||
SK Hynix Inc. | 9,248 | 850,355 | ||||||
SK IE Technology Co. Ltd.(a)(b) | 448 | 30,548 | ||||||
SKC Co. Ltd. | 288 | 19,902 | ||||||
Woori Financial Group Inc. | 10,220 | 91,945 | ||||||
Yuhan Corp. | 886 | 48,771 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
3,652,993 | ||||||||
Taiwan — 16.6% | ||||||||
Accton Technology Corp. | 9,000 | 134,229 | ||||||
Acer Inc. | 48,000 | 55,036 | ||||||
Advantech Co. Ltd. | 7,599 | 81,775 | ||||||
ASE Technology Holding Co. Ltd. | 51,000 | 188,765 | ||||||
Asustek Computer Inc. | 12,000 | 151,188 | ||||||
AUO Corp. | 112,000 | 62,542 | ||||||
Cathay Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 160,080 | 228,888 | ||||||
Chailease Holding Co. Ltd. | 25,821 | 143,937 | ||||||
Chang Hwa Commercial Bank Ltd. | 99,015 | 53,735 | ||||||
China Airlines Ltd. | 48,000 | 34,021 | ||||||
China Development Financial Holding Corp.(b) | 272,000 | 101,055 | ||||||
China Steel Corp. | 192,000 | 159,696 | ||||||
Chunghwa Telecom Co. Ltd. | 64,000 | 233,334 | ||||||
Compal Electronics Inc. | 64,000 | 63,901 |
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Taiwan (continued) | ||||||||
CTBC Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 304,000 | $ | 227,217 | |||||
Delta Electronics Inc. | 33,000 | 356,627 | ||||||
E Ink Holdings Inc. | 16,000 | 91,453 | ||||||
E.Sun Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 241,895 | 185,512 | ||||||
Eclat Textile Co. Ltd. | 3,000 | 47,795 | ||||||
Eva Airways Corp. | 48,000 | 47,371 | ||||||
Evergreen Marine Corp. Taiwan Ltd. | 18,000 | 60,112 | ||||||
Far Eastern New Century Corp. | 48,000 | 42,372 | ||||||
Far EasTone Telecommunications Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 70,977 | ||||||
First Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 181,340 | 149,664 | ||||||
Fubon Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 131,650 | 262,531 | ||||||
Hotai Motor Co. Ltd. | 5,100 | 108,480 | ||||||
Hua Nan Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. | 144,037 | 92,683 | ||||||
Innolux Corp. | 152,570 | 69,111 | ||||||
Inventec Corp. | 48,000 | 84,559 | ||||||
Lite-On Technology Corp. | 34,000 | 145,352 | ||||||
MediaTek Inc. | 26,000 | 573,390 | ||||||
Mega Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 193,788 | 218,093 | ||||||
momo.com Inc. | 1,100 | 17,942 | ||||||
Nan Ya Plastics Corp. | 80,000 | 166,031 | ||||||
Nien Made Enterprise Co. Ltd. | 3,000 | 28,116 | ||||||
President Chain Store Corp. | 9,000 | 75,470 | ||||||
Shanghai Commercial & Savings Bank Ltd. (The) | 67,225 | 89,913 | ||||||
Shin Kong Financial Holding Co. Ltd.(b) | 224,000 | 66,528 | ||||||
SinoPac Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. | 180,383 | 96,820 | ||||||
Taishin Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 192,372 | 107,401 | ||||||
Taiwan Business Bank | 98,688 | 41,295 | ||||||
Taiwan Cement Corp. | 112,994 | 123,877 | ||||||
Taiwan Cooperative Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 169,973 | 140,073 | ||||||
Taiwan Mobile Co. Ltd. | 32,000 | 93,619 | ||||||
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. | 161,000 | 2,766,455 | ||||||
Unimicron Technology Corp. | 23,000 | 133,084 | ||||||
United Microelectronics Corp. | 192,000 | 274,128 | ||||||
Voltronic Power Technology Corp. | 1,000 | 45,388 | ||||||
Wistron Corp. | 48,000 | 175,481 | ||||||
Wiwynn Corp. | 1,000 | 48,735 | ||||||
WPG Holdings Ltd. | 32,000 | 55,067 | ||||||
Yageo Corp. | 4,775 | 72,538 | ||||||
Yuanta Financial Holding Co. Ltd. | 179,249 | 137,157 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
9,280,519 | ||||||||
Thailand — 2.7% | ||||||||
Advanced Info Service PCL, NVDR | 19,900 | 122,683 | ||||||
Airports of Thailand PCL, NVDR(b) | 73,600 | 152,319 | ||||||
Asset World Corp. PCL, NVDR | 145,300 | 18,077 | ||||||
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services PCL, NVDR | 190,400 | 152,195 | ||||||
Berli Jucker PCL, NVDR | 18,500 | 17,820 | ||||||
BTS Group Holdings PCL, NVDR | 143,200 | 30,042 | ||||||
Bumrungrad Hospital PCL, NVDR | 9,600 | 70,968 | ||||||
Central Pattana PCL, NVDR | 38,400 | 75,333 | ||||||
Central Retail Corp. PCL, NVDR | 32,000 | 37,645 | ||||||
Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL, NVDR | 73,300 | 43,325 | ||||||
CP ALL PCL, NVDR | 102,400 | 190,680 | ||||||
Delta Electronics Thailand PCL, NVDR | 56,000 | 173,311 | ||||||
Home Product Center PCL, NVDR | 104,100 | 40,693 | ||||||
Indorama Ventures PCL, NVDR | 30,400 | 25,160 | ||||||
Intouch Holdings PCL, NVDR | 16,000 | 33,224 | ||||||
Kasikornbank PCL, NVDR | 11,500 | 42,839 | ||||||
Krung Thai Bank PCL, NVDR | 64,000 | 35,256 | ||||||
Krungthai Card PCL, NVDR(c) | 16,400 | 22,702 | ||||||
Minor International PCL, NVDR | 56,000 | 53,134 |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Thailand (continued) | ||||||||
SCB X PCL, NVS | 14,400 | $ | 48,497 | |||||
SCG Packaging PCL, NVDR | 22,800 | 26,678 | ||||||
Siam Cement PCL (The), NVDR | 14,400 | 128,647 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,541,228 | ||||||||
Turkey — 0.7% | ||||||||
Akbank TAS | 52,112 | 56,059 | ||||||
Haci Omer Sabanci Holding AS | 17,568 | 39,280 | ||||||
Pegasus Hava Tasimaciligi AS(b) | 784 | 25,648 | ||||||
Turk Hava Yollari AO(b) | 9,296 | 85,159 | ||||||
Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS | 20,032 | 41,775 | ||||||
Turkiye Is Bankasi AS, Class C | 60,992 | 48,016 | ||||||
Turkiye Sise ve Cam Fabrikalari AS | 22,992 | 44,046 | ||||||
Yapi ve Kredi Bankasi AS | 58,176 | 34,552 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
374,535 | ||||||||
United Arab Emirates — 2.0% | ||||||||
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC | 49,730 | 116,845 | ||||||
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC | 24,784 | 70,310 | ||||||
Aldar Properties PJSC | 64,960 | 92,983 | ||||||
Dubai Islamic Bank PJSC | 50,000 | 76,762 | ||||||
Emirates NBD Bank PJSC | 32,672 | 145,383 | ||||||
Emirates Telecommunications Group Co. PJSC | 58,736 | 317,267 | ||||||
First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC | 74,656 | 277,985 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
1,097,535 | ||||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Common Stocks — 97.6% | 54,600,926 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
Brazil — 1.7% | ||||||||
Banco Bradesco SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 89,856 | 271,271 | ||||||
Gerdau SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 19,280 | 100,643 | ||||||
Itau Unibanco Holding SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 82,000 | 454,208 | ||||||
Itausa SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 86,055 | 160,569 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
986,691 | ||||||||
Chile — 0.3% | ||||||||
Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA, Class B, Preference Shares | 2,416 | 149,625 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Colombia — 0.1% | ||||||||
Bancolombia SA, Preference Shares, NVS | 7,600 | 50,536 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Preferred Stocks — 2.1% | 1,186,852 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Rights | ||||||||
Brazil — 0.0% | ||||||||
Itausa SA, (Expires 09/29/23, Strike Price BRL 6.50)(b) | 1,213 | 679 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Rights — 0.0% | 679 | |||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Long-Term Investments — 99.7% | 55,788,457 | |||||||
|
|
22 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Security | Shares | Value | ||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||
Money Market Funds — 0.7% | ||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares, 5.52%(f)(g)(h) | 393,721 | $ | 393,840 | |||||
|
| |||||||
Total Short-Term Securities — 0.7% |
| 393,840 | ||||||
|
| |||||||
Total Investments — 100.4% |
| 56,182,297 | ||||||
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.4)% |
| (227,371 | ) | |||||
|
| |||||||
Net Assets — 100.0% | $ | 55,954,926 | ||||||
|
|
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | Non-income producing security. |
(c) | All or a portion of this security is on loan. |
(d) | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. |
(e) | This security may be resold to qualified foreign investors and foreign institutional buyers under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933. |
(f) | Affiliate of the Fund. |
(g) | Annualized 7-day yield as of period end. |
(h) | All or a portion of this security was purchased with the cash collateral from loaned securities. |
Affiliates
Investments in issuers considered to be affiliate(s) of the Fund during the year ended August 31, 2023 for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:
Affiliated Issuer | Value at 08/31/22 | Purchases at Cost | Proceeds from Sale | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value at 08/31/23 | Shares Held at 08/31/23 | Income | Capital Gain Distributions from Underlying Funds | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional, SL Agency Shares | $ | 288,657 | $ | 105,286 | (a) | $ | — | $ | (49 | ) | $ | (54 | ) | $ | 393,840 | 393,721 | $ | 2,831 | (b) | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, SL Agency Shares(c) | 50,000 | — | (50,000 | )(a) | — | — | — | — | 3,199 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | (49 | ) | $ | (54 | ) | $ | 393,840 | $ | 6,030 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Represents net amount purchased (sold). |
(b) | All or a portion represents securities lending income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral from loaned securities, net of fees and collateral investment expenses, and other payments to and from borrowers of securities. |
(c) | As of period end, the entity is no longer held. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End
Futures Contracts
Description | Number of Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount (000) | Value/ Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
Long Contracts | ||||||||||||||||
MSCI Emerging Markets Index | 3 | 09/15/23 | $ | 147 | $ | (5,879 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | 23 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) August 31, 2023 | iShares® ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities — Derivative Financial Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts(a) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5,879 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 5,879 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts are reported in the Schedule of Investments. In the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, only current day’s variation margin is reported in receivables or payables and the net cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in accumulated earnings (loss). |
For the period ended August 31, 2023, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Commodity Contracts | Credit Contracts | Equity Contracts | Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Contracts | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9,386 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 9,386 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Futures contracts | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,376 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,376 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments
| ||||
Futures contracts: | ||||
Average notional value of contracts — long | $ | 97,074 | ||
|
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. For a description of the input levels and information about the Fund’s policy regarding valuation of financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the Fund’s financial instruments categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The breakdown of the Fund’s financial instruments into major categories is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments above.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 7,408,427 | $ | 47,192,495 | $ | 4 | $ | 54,600,926 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stocks | 1,186,852 | — | — | 1,186,852 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rights | 679 | — | — | 679 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds | 393,840 | — | — | 393,840 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 8,989,798 | $ | 47,192,495 | $ | 4 | $ | 56,182,297 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Contracts | $ | (5,879 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (5,879 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Derivative financial instruments are futures contracts. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
See notes to financial statements.
24 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
August 31, 2023
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF | iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF | |||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Investments, at value — unaffiliated(a)(b) | $ | 473,277,831 | $ | 55,788,457 | ||||
Investments, at value — affiliated(c) | 1,452,931 | 393,840 | ||||||
Cash | 9,296 | 578,159 | ||||||
Cash pledged for futures contracts | 145,000 | 5,000 | ||||||
Foreign currency, at value(d) | 1,285,726 | 157,149 | ||||||
Receivables: | ||||||||
Investments sold | 15,801,983 | 1,339,221 | ||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated | 438 | 485 | ||||||
Capital shares sold | 710,505 | — | ||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | 612,900 | 39,113 | ||||||
Dividends — affiliated | 64 | 371 | ||||||
Tax reclaims | 643,658 | 740 | ||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | 995 | — | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total assets | 493,941,327 | 58,302,535 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||
Bank borrowings | — | 452,080 | ||||||
Collateral on securities loaned, at value | 1,407,441 | 393,945 | ||||||
Payables: | ||||||||
Investments purchased | 16,610,861 | 1,446,330 | ||||||
Deferred foreign capital gain tax | — | 45,581 | ||||||
Investment advisory fees | 47,256 | 7,704 | ||||||
Variation margin on futures contracts | — | 1,969 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total liabilities | 18,065,558 | 2,347,609 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Commitments and contingent liabilities | ||||||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 475,875,769 | $ | 55,954,926 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF | ||||||||
Paid-in capital | $ | 503,764,925 | $ | 61,754,429 | ||||
Accumulated loss | (27,889,156 | ) | (5,799,503 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSETS | $ | 475,875,769 | $ | 55,954,926 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET ASSET VALUE | ||||||||
Shares outstanding | 8,000,000 | 1,600,000 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net asset value | $ | 59.48 | $ | 34.97 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Shares authorized | Unlimited | Unlimited | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Par value | None | None | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(a) Investments, at cost — unaffiliated | $ | 483,618,159 | $ | 58,015,396 | ||||
(b) Securities loaned, at value | $ | 1,363,214 | $ | 370,384 | ||||
(c) Investments, at cost — affiliated | $ | 1,452,822 | $ | 393,872 | ||||
(d) Foreign currency, at cost | $ | 1,301,603 | $ | 157,531 |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 25 |
Year Ended August 31, 2023
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF | iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF | |||||||
INVESTMENT INCOME | ||||||||
Dividends — unaffiliated | $ | 11,834,299 | $ | 1,440,424 | ||||
Dividends — affiliated | 6,255 | 3,199 | ||||||
Securities lending income — affiliated — net | 22,079 | 2,831 | ||||||
Foreign taxes withheld | (1,249,424 | ) | (181,419 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total investment income | 10,613,209 | 1,265,035 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
EXPENSES | ||||||||
Investment advisory | 503,234 | 72,928 | ||||||
Commitment costs | — | 896 | ||||||
Interest expense | — | 725 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Total expenses | 503,234 | 74,549 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net investment income | 10,109,975 | 1,190,486 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | ||||||||
Net realized gain (loss) from: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(a) | (5,033,455 | ) | (2,284,798 | ) | ||||
Investments — affiliated | 6,114 | (49 | ) | |||||
Foreign currency transactions | (47,041 | ) | (21,978 | ) | ||||
Futures contracts | 505,008 | 9,386 | ||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(4,569,374 | ) | (2,297,439 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||||||||
Investments — unaffiliated(b) | 63,355,802 | 1,962,769 | ||||||
Investments — affiliated | (496 | ) | (54 | ) | ||||
Foreign currency translations | 45,154 | 1,299 | ||||||
Futures contracts | 48,787 | (5,376 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
63,449,247 | 1,958,638 | |||||||
|
|
|
| |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 58,879,873 | (338,801 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
| |||||
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS | $ | 68,989,848 | $ | 851,685 | ||||
|
|
|
| |||||
(a) Net of foreign capital gain tax and capital gain tax refund, if applicable of | $ | — | $ | (20,094 | ) | |||
(b) Net of increase in deferred foreign capital gain tax of | $ | — | $ | (34,990 | ) |
See notes to financial statements.
26 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF | iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF | |||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||||
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS |
| |||||||||||||||||||
OPERATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 10,109,975 | $ | 9,021,180 | $ | 1,190,486 | $ | 840,274 | ||||||||||||
Net realized loss | (4,569,374 | ) | (13,145,851 | ) | (2,297,439 | ) | (1,585,361 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 63,449,247 | (94,638,332 | ) | 1,958,638 | (6,761,697 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 68,989,848 | (98,763,003 | ) | 851,685 | (7,506,784 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS(a) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders | (8,971,067 | ) | (9,431,637 | ) | (1,013,727 | ) | (523,636 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase in net assets derived from capital share transactions | 61,424,524 | 216,781,420 | 20,649,127 | 29,948,355 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
NET ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total increase in net assets | 121,443,305 | 108,586,780 | 20,487,085 | 21,917,935 | ||||||||||||||||
Beginning of year | 354,432,464 | 245,845,684 | 35,467,841 | 13,549,906 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||
End of year | $ | 475,875,769 | $ | 354,432,464 | $ | 55,954,926 | $ | 35,467,841 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 27 |
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Year Ended 08/31/22 | | | Year Ended 08/31/21 | | | Period From 06/16/20 to 08/31/20 | (a)
| |||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 51.37 | $ | 70.24 | $ | 55.79 | $ | 51.37 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 1.37 | 1.65 | 1.36 | 0.18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | 7.93 | (18.86 | ) | 13.91 | 4.24 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 9.30 | (17.21 | ) | 15.27 | 4.42 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (1.19 | ) | (1.66 | ) | (0.82 | ) | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ | 59.48 | $ | 51.37 | $ | 70.24 | $ | 55.79 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 18.17 | % | (24.82 | )% | 27.47 | % | 8.60 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.41 | % | 2.73 | % | 2.06 | % | 1.64 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $ | 475,876 | $ | 354,432 | $ | 245,846 | $ | 11,158 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 16 | % | 18 | % | 28 | % | 6 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
28 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Financial Highlights (continued)
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended 08/31/23 | | | Year Ended 08/31/22 | | | Period From 10/06/20 to 08/31/21 | (a)
| ||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 35.47 | $ | 45.17 | $ | 35.39 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net investment income(b) | 0.91 | 1.08 | 0.71 | |||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)(c) | (0.55 | ) | (9.94 | ) | 9.42 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | 0.36 | (8.86 | ) | 10.13 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Distributions from net investment income(d) | (0.86 | ) | (0.84 | ) | (0.35 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of period | $ | 34.97 | $ | 35.47 | $ | 45.17 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Total Return(e) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Based on net asset value | 1.06 | % | (19.91 | )% | 28.74 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Ratios to Average Net Assets(g) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 0.16 | % | 0.16 | % | 0.16 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 2.61 | % | 2.72 | % | 1.83 | %(h) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets, end of period (000) | $ | 55,955 | $ | 35,468 | $ | 13,550 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate(i) | 24 | % | 31 | % | 51 | %(f) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Commencement of operations. |
(b) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(c) | The amounts reported for a share outstanding may not accord with the change in aggregate gains and losses in securities for the fiscal period due to the timing of capital share transactions in relation to the fluctuating market values of the Fund’s underlying securities. |
(d) | Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations. |
(e) | Where applicable, assumes the reinvestment of distributions. |
(f) | Not annualized. |
(g) | Excludes fees and expenses incurred indirectly as a result of investments in underlying funds. |
(h) | Annualized. |
(i) | Portfolio turnover rate excludes in-kind transactions. |
See notes to financial statements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 29 |
1. ORGANIZATION
iShares Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and is authorized to have multiple series or portfolios.
These financial statements relate only to the following funds (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”):
iShares ETF | Diversification Classification | |
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | Diversified(a) | |
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | Diversified(a) |
(a) | The Fund’s classification changed from non-diversified to diversified during the reporting period. |
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. Below is a summary of significant accounting policies:
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are executed. Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined using the specific identification method. Dividend income and capital gain distributions, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date at fair value. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Funds are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers or as estimated by management, a portion of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain.
Foreign Currency Translation: Each Fund’s books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using prevailing market rates as quoted by one or more data service providers. Purchases and sales of investments are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the investments denominated in that currency will lose value; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.
Each Fund does not isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of investments for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments, but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. Each Fund reports realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Foreign Taxes: The Funds may be subject to foreign taxes (a portion of which may be reclaimable) on income, stock dividends, capital gains on investments, or certain foreign currency transactions. All foreign taxes are recorded in accordance with the applicable foreign tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign jurisdictions in which each Fund invests. These foreign taxes, if any, are paid by each Fund and are reflected in its Statements of Operations as follows: foreign taxes withheld at source are presented as a reduction of income, foreign taxes on securities lending income are presented as a reduction of securities lending income, foreign taxes on stock dividends are presented as “Other foreign taxes”, and foreign taxes on capital gains from sales of investments and foreign taxes on foreign currency transactions are included in their respective net realized gain (loss) categories. Foreign taxes payable or deferred as of August 31, 2023, if any, are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
The Funds file withholding tax reclaims in certain jurisdictions to recover a portion of amounts previously withheld. The Funds may record a reclaim receivable based on collectability, which includes factors such as the jurisdiction’s applicable laws, payment history and market convention. The Statements of Operations includes tax reclaims recorded as well as professional and other fees, if any, associated with recovery of foreign withholding taxes.
Collateralization: If required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Funds may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments.
In-kind Redemptions: For financial reporting purposes, in-kind redemptions are treated as sales of securities resulting in realized capital gains or losses to the Funds. Because such gains or losses are not taxable to the Funds and are not distributed to existing Fund shareholders, the gains or losses are reclassified from accumulated net realized gain (loss) to paid-in capital at the end of the Funds’ tax year. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value (“NAV”) per share.
Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by each Fund are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions are determined on a tax basis and may differ from net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes. Dividends and distributions are paid in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Funds.
30 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Indemnifications: In the normal course of business, each Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnification. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown because it involves future potential claims against the Funds, which cannot be predicted with any certainty.
3. INVESTMENT VALUATION AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Investment Valuation Policies: Each Fund’s investments are valued at fair value (also referred to as “market value” within the financial statements) each day that the Fund’s listing exchange is open and, for financial reporting purposes, as of the report date. U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price a fund would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) of each Fund has approved the designation of BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), the Funds’ investment adviser, as the valuation designee for each Fund. Each Fund determines the fair values of its financial instruments using various independent dealers or pricing services under BFA’s policies. If a security’s market price is not readily available or does not otherwise accurately represent the fair value of the security, the security will be valued in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value. BFA has formed a committee (the “Valuation Committee”) to develop pricing policies and procedures and to oversee the pricing function for all financial instruments, with assistance from other BlackRock pricing committees.
Fair Value Inputs and Methodologies: The following methods and inputs are used to establish the fair value of each Fund’s assets and liabilities:
· | Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at that day’s official closing price, as applicable, on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last traded price. |
· | Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds (including money market funds) are valued at that day’s published NAV. |
· | Futures contracts are valued based on that day’s last reported settlement or trade price on the exchange where the contract is traded. |
Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Each business day, the Funds use current market factors supplied by independent pricing services to value certain foreign instruments (“Systematic Fair Value Price”). The Systematic Fair Value Price is designed to value such foreign securities at fair value as of the close of trading on the NYSE, which follows the close of the local markets.
If events (e.g., market volatility, company announcement or a natural disaster) occur that are expected to materially affect the value of such investment, or in the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Valuation Committee, in accordance with BFA’s policies and procedures as reflecting fair value (“Fair Valued Investments”). The fair valuation approaches that may be used by the Valuation Committee include market approach, income approach and cost approach. Valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow, use of market comparables and matrix pricing are types of valuation approaches and are typically used in determining fair value. When determining the price for Fair Valued Investments, the Valuation Committee seeks to determine the price that each Fund might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Valuation Committee deems relevant and consistent with the principles of fair value measurement.
Fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a fund’s NAV and the prices used by the fund’s underlying index, which in turn could result in a difference between the fund’s performance and the performance of the fund’s underlying index.
Fair Value Hierarchy: Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a fair value hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial reporting purposes as follows:
· | Level 1 – Unadjusted price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that each Fund has the ability to access; |
· | Level 2 – Other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs); and |
· | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available, (including the Valuation Committee’s assumptions used in determining the fair value of financial instruments). |
The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments classified within Level 3 have significant unobservable inputs used by the Valuation Committee in determining the price for Fair Valued Investments. Level 3 investments include equity or debt issued by privately held companies or funds that may not have a secondary market and/or may have a limited number of investors. The categorization of a value determined for financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the financial instruments and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 31 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS
Securities Lending: Each Fund may lend its securities to approved borrowers, such as brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. The borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an approved bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government. The initial collateral received by each Fund is required to have a value of at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities. The collateral is maintained thereafter at a value equal to at least 100% of the current value of the securities on loan. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of each business day of the Fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Fund or excess collateral is returned by the Fund, on the next business day. During the term of the loan, each Fund is entitled to all distributions made on or in respect of the loaned securities but does not receive interest income on securities received as collateral. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions.
As of period end, any securities on loan were collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Government obligations. Cash collateral invested in money market funds managed by BFA, or its affiliates is disclosed in the Schedule of Investments. Any non-cash collateral received cannot be sold, re-invested or pledged by the Fund, except in the event of borrower default. The securities on loan, if any, are also disclosed in each Fund’s Schedule of Investments. The market value of any securities on loan and the value of any related cash collateral are disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under Master Securities Lending Agreements (each, an “MSLA”) which provide the right, in the event of default (including bankruptcy or insolvency) for the non-defaulting party to liquidate the collateral and calculate a net exposure to the defaulting party or request additional collateral. In the event that a borrower defaults, the Funds, as lender, would offset the market value of the collateral received against the market value of the securities loaned. When the value of the collateral is greater than that of the market value of the securities loaned, the lender is left with a net amount payable to the defaulting party. However, bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of an MSLA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Under the MSLA, absent an event of default, the borrower can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities, and the Funds can reinvest cash collateral received in connection with loaned securities. Upon an event of default, the parties’ obligations to return the securities or collateral to the other party are extinguished, and the parties can resell or re-pledge the loaned securities or the collateral received in connection with the loaned securities in order to satisfy the defaulting party’s net payment obligation for all transactions under the MSLA. The defaulting party remains liable for any deficiency.
As of period end, the following table is a summary of the securities on loan by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MSLA:
iShares ETF and Counterparty | | Securities Loaned at Value | | | Cash Collateral Received | (a) | | Non-Cash Collateral Received, at Fair Value | (a) | Net Amount | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | ||||||||||||||||
Barclays Capital, Inc. | $ | 2,035 | $ | (2,035 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC | 179,456 | (179,456 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 168,292 | (168,292 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Morgan Stanley | 377,089 | (377,089 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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RBC Capital Markets LLC | 636,342 | (636,342 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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ESG Advanced MSCI EM | $ | 1,363,214 | $ | (1,363,214 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
BofA Securities, Inc. | $ | 7,219 | $ | (7,219 | ) | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||
GOLDMAN SACHS & CO. | 21,456 | (21,456 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
HSBC BANK PLC | 22,993 | (22,993 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC | 7,800 | (7,717 | ) | — | 83 | (b) | ||||||||||
Jefferies LLC | 203,993 | (203,993 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
Macquarie Bank Limited | 57,125 | (57,125 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
UBS AG | 49,798 | (49,798 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||
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$ | 370,384 | $ | (370,301 | ) | $ | — | $ | 83 | ||||||||
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(a) | Collateral received, if any, in excess of the market value of securities on loan is not presented in this table. The total cash collateral received by each Fund is disclosed in the Fund’s Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
(b) | The market value of the loaned securities is determined as of August 31, 2023. Additional collateral is delivered to the Fund on the next business day in accordance with the MSLA. The net amount would be subject to the borrower default indemnity in the event of default by the counterparty. |
The risks of securities lending include the risk that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or may not return the securities when due. To mitigate these risks, each Fund benefits from a borrower default indemnity provided by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BlackRock’s indemnity allows for full replacement of the securities loaned to the extent the collateral received does not cover the value of the securities loaned in the event of borrower default. Each Fund could incur a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of the loaned securities or if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the value of the original cash collateral received. Such losses are borne entirely by each Fund.
5. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Futures Contracts: Futures contracts are purchased or sold to gain exposure to, or manage exposure to, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) and changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk) or foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk).
32 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Futures contracts are exchange-traded agreements between the Funds and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and on a specified date. Depending on the terms of a contract, it is settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash amount on the settlement date. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Amounts pledged, which are considered restricted, are included in cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Securities deposited as initial margin are designated in the Schedule of Investments and cash deposited, if any, are shown as cash pledged for futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Funds agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in market value of the contract (“variation margin”). Variation margin is recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and, if any, shown as variation margin receivable (or payable) on futures contracts in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, a realized gain or loss is recorded in the Statements of Operations equal to the difference between the notional amount of the contract at the time it was opened and the notional amount at the time it was closed. The use of futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts and interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or underlying assets.
6. INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Advisory Fees: Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, BFA manages the investment of each Fund’s assets. BFA is a California corporation indirectly owned by BlackRock. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, BFA is responsible for substantially all expenses of the Funds, except (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio transactions; (iii) distribution fees; (iv) the advisory fee payable to BFA; and (v) litigation expenses and any extraordinary expenses (in each case as determined by a majority of the independent trustees).
For its investment advisory services to each of the following Funds, BFAis entitled to an annual investment advisory fee, accrued daily and paid monthly by the Funds, based on the average daily net assets of each Fund as follows:
iShares ETF | Investment Advisory Fees | |||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | 0.12 | % | ||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 0.16 |
Distributor: BlackRock Investments, LLC, an affiliate of BFA, is the distributor for each Fund. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, BFA is responsible for any fees or expenses for distribution services provided to the Funds.
Securities Lending: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has issued an exemptive order which permits BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. (“BTC”), an affiliate of BFA, to serve as securities lending agent for the Funds, subject to applicable conditions. As securities lending agent, BTC bears all operational costs directly related to securities lending, including any custodial costs. Each Fund is responsible for fees in connection with the investment of cash collateral received for securities on loan (the “collateral investment fees”). The cash collateral is invested in a money market fund, BlackRock Cash Funds: Institutional or BlackRock Cash Funds: Treasury, managed by BFA, or its affiliates. However, BTC has agreed to reduce the amount of securities lending income it receives in order to effectively limit the collateral investment fees each Fund bears to an annual rate of 0.04%. The SL Agency Shares of such money market fund will not be subject to a sales load, distribution fee or service fee. The money market fund in which the cash collateral has been invested may, under certain circumstances, impose a liquidity fee of up to 2% of the value redeemed or temporarily restrict redemptions for up to 10 business days during a 90 day period, in the event that the money market fund’s weekly liquid assets fall below certain thresholds.
Securities lending income is equal to the total of income earned from the reinvestment of cash collateral, net of fees and other payments to and from borrowers of securities, and less the collateral investment fees. Each Fund retains a portion of securities lending income and remits the remaining portion to BTC as compensation for its services as securities lending agent.
Pursuant to the current securities lending agreement, each Fund retains 82% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
In addition, commencing the business day following the date that the aggregate securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees generated across all 1940 Act iShares exchange-traded funds (the “iShares ETF Complex”) in that calendar year exceeds a specified threshold, each Fund, pursuant to the securities lending agreement, will retain for the remainder of that calendar year 85% of securities lending income (which excludes collateral investment fees), and the amount retained can never be less than 70% of the total of securities lending income plus the collateral investment fees.
The share of securities lending income earned by each Fund is shown as securities lending income – affiliated – net in its Statements of Operations. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Funds paid BTC the following amounts for securities lending agent services:
iShares ETF | Amounts | |||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 6,103 | ||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 739 |
Officers and Trustees: Certain officers and/or trustees of the Trust are officers and/or trustees of BlackRock or its affiliates.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 33 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Other Transactions: Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which BFA (or an affiliate) serves as investment adviser. At its regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most recent calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, transactions executed by the Funds pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | Net Realized Gain (Loss) | |||||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 28,291,555 | $ | 27,682,775 | $ | (271,958 | ) | |||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 461,526 | 1,116,644 | (331,972 | ) |
Each Fund may invest its positive cash balances in certain money market funds managed by BFA or an affiliate. The income earned on these temporary cash investments is shown as dividends – affiliated in the Statements of Operations.
A fund, in order to improve its portfolio liquidity and its ability to track its underlying index, may invest in shares of other iShares funds that invest in securities in the fund’s underlying index.
7. PURCHASES AND SALES
For the year ended August 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:
iShares ETF | Purchases | Sales | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 70,897,533 | $ | 65,882,338 | ||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 27,712,434 | 10,793,733 |
For the year ended August 31, 2023, in-kind transactions were as follows:
iShares ETF | In-kind Purchases | In-kind Sales | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 57,342,061 | $ | — | ||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 3,848,937 | — |
8. INCOME TAX INFORMATION
Each Fund is treated as an entity separate from the Trust’s other funds for federal income tax purposes. It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no U.S. federal income tax provision is required.
Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Funds as of August 31, 2023 and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability in the Funds’ financial statements.
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
iShares ETF | Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 8,971,067 | $ | 9,431,637 | ||||
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ESG Advanced MSCI EM | ||||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 1,013,727 | $ | 523,636 | ||||
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As of August 31, 2023, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:
iShares ETF | | Undistributed Ordinary Income | | | Non-expiring Capital Loss Carryforwards | (a) | | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) | (b) | Total | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 2,938,022 | $ | (15,791,410 | ) | $ | (15,035,768 | ) | $ | (27,889,156 | ) | |||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 778,678 | (3,339,116 | ) | (3,239,065 | ) | (5,799,503 | ) |
(a) | Amounts available to offset future realized capital gains. |
(b) | The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain futures contracts, the timing and recognition of partnership income, the characterization of corporate actions and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies. |
34 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
A fund may own shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to, under U.S. tax law, as “passive foreign investment companies.” Such fund may elect to mark-to-market annually the shares of each passive foreign investment company and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such marked-to-market gains.
As of August 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost of investments (including short positions and derivatives, if any) for U.S. federal income tax purposes were as follows:
iShares ETF | Tax Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation | Gross Unrealized Depreciation | Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 489,798,754 | $ | 36,515,845 | $ | (51,546,285 | ) | $ | (15,030,440 | ) | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 59,375,744 | 3,431,629 | (6,625,076 | ) | (3,193,447 | ) |
9. LINE OF CREDIT
The iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF, along with certain other iShares funds (“Participating Funds”), is a party to a $800 million credit agreement (“Syndicated Credit Agreement”) with a group of lenders, which expires on August 9, 2024. The line of credit may be used for temporary or emergency purposes, including redemptions, settlement of trades and rebalancing of portfolio holdings in certain target markets. The Funds may borrow up to the aggregate commitment amount subject to asset coverage and other limitations as specified in the Syndicated Credit Agreement. The Syndicated Credit Agreement has the following terms: a commitment fee of 0.15% per annum on the unused portion of the credit agreement and interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 0.10% and 1.00% per annum or (b) the U.S. Federal Funds rate plus 1.00% per annum on amounts borrowed. The commitment fee is generally allocated to each Participating Fund based on the lesser of a Participating Fund’s relative exposure to certain target markets or a Participating Fund’s maximum borrowing amount as set forth by the terms of the Syndicated Credit Agreement.
For the year ended August 31, 2023, the maximum amount borrowed, the average daily borrowing and the weighted average interest rate, if any, under the Syndicated Credit Agreement were as follows:
iShares ETF | Maximum Amount Borrowed | Average Borrowing | Weighted Average Interest Rates | |||||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | $ | 452,000 | $ | 12,373 | 5.19 | % |
10. PRINCIPAL RISKS
In the normal course of business, each Fund invests in securities or other instruments and may enter into certain transactions, and such activities subject the Fund to various risks, including, among others, fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of an issuer to meet all of its obligations. The value of securities or other instruments may also be affected by various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the general economy; (ii) the overall market as well as local, regional or global political and/or social instability; (iii) regulation, taxation or international tax treaties between various countries; or (iv) currency, interest rate or price fluctuations. Local, regional or global events such as war, acts of terrorism, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, recessions, or other events could have a significant impact on the Funds and their investments. Each Fund’s prospectus provides details of the risks to which the Fund is subject.
BFA uses a “passive” or index approach to try to achieve each Fund’s investment objective following the securities included in its underlying index during upturns as well as downturns. BFA does not take steps to reduce market exposure or to lessen the effects of a declining market. Divergence from the underlying index and the composition of the portfolio is monitored by BFA.
The Funds may be exposed to additional risks when reinvesting cash collateral in money market funds that do not seek to maintain a stable NAV per share of $1.00, which may be subject to redemption gates or liquidity fees under certain circumstances.
Market Risk: Investments in the securities of issuers domiciled in countries with emerging capital markets involve certain additional risks that do not generally apply to investments in securities of issuers in more developed capital markets, such as (i) low or nonexistent trading volume, resulting in a lack of liquidity and increased volatility in prices for such securities; (ii) uncertain national policies and social, political and economic instability, increasing the potential for expropriation of assets, confiscatory taxation, high rates of inflation or unfavorable diplomatic developments; (iii) lack of publicly available or reliable information about issuers as a result of not being subject to the same degree of regulatory requirements and accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards; and (iv) possible fluctuations in exchange rates, differing legal systems and the existence or possible imposition of exchange controls, custodial restrictions or other foreign or U.S. governmental laws or restrictions applicable to such investments.
Infectious Illness Risk: An outbreak of an infectious illness, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may adversely impact the economies of many nations and the global economy, and may impact individual issuers and capital markets in ways that cannot be foreseen. An infectious illness outbreak may result in, among other things, closed international borders, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, market volatility or disruptions and other significant economic, social and political impacts.
Valuation Risk: The market values of equities, such as common stocks and preferred securities or equity related investments, such as futures and options, may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company. They may also decline due to factors which affect a particular industry or industries. A fund may invest in illiquid investments. An illiquid investment is any investment that a fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 35 |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. A fund may experience difficulty in selling illiquid investments in a timely manner at the price that it believes the investments are worth. Prices may fluctuate widely over short or extended periods in response to company, market or economic news. Markets also tend to move in cycles, with periods of rising and falling prices. This volatility may cause a fund’s NAV to experience significant increases or decreases over short periods of time. If there is a general decline in the securities and other markets, the NAV of a fund may lose value, regardless of the individual results of the securities and other instruments in which a fund invests.
The price each Fund could receive upon the sale of any particular portfolio investment may differ from each Fund’s valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair valuation technique or a price provided by an independent pricing service. Changes to significant unobservable inputs and assumptions (i.e., publicly traded company multiples, growth rate, time to exit) due to the lack of observable inputs.
Counterparty Credit Risk: The Funds may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments related to unsettled or open transactions, including making timely interest and/or principal payments or otherwise honoring its obligations. The Funds manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that BFA believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Funds to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Funds’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is approximately their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Funds.
A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
With exchange-traded futures, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Funds since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a fund does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency). Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Funds.
Geographic/Asset Class Risk: A diversified portfolio, where this is appropriate and consistent with a fund’s objectives, minimizes the risk that a price change of a particular investment will have a material impact on the NAV of a fund. The investment concentrations within each Fund’s portfolio are disclosed in its Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in issuers located in a single country or a limited number of countries. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions in that country or those countries may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the Fund’s portfolio. Unanticipated or sudden political or social developments may cause uncertainty in the markets and as a result adversely affect the Fund’s investments. Foreign issuers may not be subject to the same uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as used in the United States. Foreign securities markets may also be more volatile and less liquid than U.S. securities and may be less subject to governmental supervision not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities. Investment percentages in specific countries are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries. The European financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns about economic downturns in, or rising government debt levels of, several European countries as well as acts of war in the region. These events may spread to other countries in Europe and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
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. The United Kingdom has withdrawn from the European Union, and one or more other countries may withdraw from the European Union and/or abandon the Euro, the common currency of the European Union. These events and actions have adversely affected, and may in the future adversely affect, the value and exchange rate of the Euro and may continue to significantly affect the economies of every country in Europe, including countries that do not use the Euro and non-European Union member states. The impact of these actions, especially if they occur in a disorderly fashion, is not clear but could be significant and far reaching. In addition, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The extent and duration of the military action, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in the region are impossible to predict, but have been, and may continue to be significant and have a severe adverse effect on the region, including significant negative impacts on the economy and the markets for certain securities and commodities, such as oil and natural gas, as well as other sectors.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in China or with significant exposure to Chinese issuers. Investments in Chinese securities, including certain Hong Kong-listed securities, involve risks specific to China. China may be subject to considerable degrees of economic, political and social instability and demonstrates significantly higher volatility from time to time in comparison to developed markets. Chinese markets generally continue to experience inefficiency, volatility and pricing anomalies resulting from governmental influence, a lack of publicly available information and/or political and social instability. Internal social unrest or confrontations with other neighboring countries may disrupt economic development in China and result in a greater risk of currency fluctuations, currency non-convertibility, interest rate fluctuations and higher rates of inflation. Incidents involving China’s or the region’s security may cause uncertainty in Chinese markets and may adversely affect the Chinese economy and a fund’s investments. Reduction in spending on Chinese products and services, institution of tariffs or other trade barriers,
36 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
or a downturn in any of the economies of China’s key trading partners may have an adverse impact on the Chinese economy. In addition, measures may be taken to limit the flow of capital and/or sanctions may be imposed, which could prohibit or restrict the ability to own or transfer fund assets and may also include retaliatory actions, such as seizure of fund assets.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities of issuers located in Asia or with significant exposure to Asian issuers or countries. The Asian financial markets have recently experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns in several Asian countries regarding monetary policy, government intervention in the markets, rising government debt levels or economic downturns. These events may spread to other countries in Asia and may affect the value and liquidity of certain of the Funds’ investments.
Certain Funds invest a significant portion of their assets in securities within a single or limited number of market sectors. When a fund concentrates its investments in this manner, it assumes the risk that economic, regulatory, political and social conditions affecting such sectors may have a significant impact on the fund and could affect the income from, or the value or liquidity of, the fund’s portfolio. Investment percentages in specific sectors are presented in the Schedule of Investments.
Significant Shareholder Redemption Risk: Certain shareholders may own or manage a substantial amount of fund shares and/or hold their fund investments for a limited period of time. Large redemptions of fund shares by these shareholders may force a fund to sell portfolio securities, which may negatively impact the fund’s NAV, increase the fund’s brokerage costs, and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income/gains and cause the fund to make additional taxable distributions to shareholders.
11. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
Capital shares are issued and redeemed by each Fund only in aggregations of a specified number of shares or multiples thereof (“Creation Units”) at NAV. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares of each Fund are not redeemable.
Transactions in capital shares were as follows:
Year Ended 08/31/23 | Year Ended 08/31/22 | |||||||||||||||
iShares ETF | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | ||||||||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 1,100,000 | $ | 61,424,524 | 3,500,000 | $ | 223,468,417 | ||||||||||
Shares redeemed | — | — | (100,000 | ) | (6,686,997 | ) | ||||||||||
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1,100,000 | $ | 61,424,524 | 3,400,000 | $ | 216,781,420 | |||||||||||
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ESG Advanced MSCI EM | ||||||||||||||||
Shares sold | 600,000 | $ | 20,649,127 | 700,000 | $ | 29,948,355 | ||||||||||
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The consideration for the purchase of Creation Units of a fund in the Trust generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of securities and a specified amount of cash. Certain funds in the Trust may be offered in Creation Units solely or partially for cash in U.S. dollars. Investors purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay a purchase transaction fee and a redemption transaction fee directly to State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Trust’s administrator, to offset transfer and other transaction costs associated with the issuance and redemption of Creation Units, including Creation Units for cash. Investors transacting in Creation Units for cash may also pay an additional variable charge to compensate the relevant fund for certain transaction costs (i.e., stamp taxes, taxes on currency or other financial transactions, and brokerage costs) and market impact expenses relating to investing in portfolio securities. Such variable charges, if any, are included in shares sold in the table above.
From time to time, settlement of securities related to in-kind contributions or in-kind redemptions may be delayed. In such cases, securities related to in-kind transactions are reflected as a receivable or a payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued and the following item was noted:
Effective October 18, 2023, the Syndicated Credit Agreement to which the Participating Funds are party was amended to extend the maturity date to October 2024 under the same terms.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 37 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of
iShares Trust and Shareholders of each of the two funds listed in the table below
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of each of the funds listed in the table below (two of the funds constituting iShares Trust, hereafter collectively referred to as the “Funds”) as of August 31, 2023, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2023, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2023 and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF |
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2023 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 23, 2023
We have served as the auditor of one or more BlackRock investment companies since 2000.
38 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Important Tax Information (unaudited)
The following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, are hereby designated as qualified dividend income for individuals for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Qualified Dividend Income | |||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 10,391,233 | ||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 719,754 |
The Funds intend to pass through to their shareholders the following amounts, or maximum amounts allowable by law, of foreign source income earned and foreign taxes paid for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023:
iShares ETF | Foreign Source Income Earned | Foreign Taxes Paid | ||||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE | $ | 11,829,452 | $ | 1,139,160 | ||||
ESG Advanced MSCI EM | 1,439,829 | 204,920 |
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION | 39 |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF, iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (each the “Fund”)
Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of Board Members who are not “interested persons” of the Trust (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) (the “Independent Board Members”), is required annually to consider the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and BFA (the “Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund. The Board’s consideration entails a year-long process whereby the Board and its committees (composed solely of Independent Board Members) assess BlackRock’s services to the Fund, including investment management; fund accounting; administrative and shareholder services; oversight of the Fund’s service providers; risk management and oversight; legal and compliance services; and ability to meet applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members requested, and BFA provided, such information as the Independent Board Members, with advice from independent counsel, deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Advisory Agreement. At meetings on May 2, 2023 and May 15, 2023, a committee composed of all of the Independent Board Members (the “15(c) Committee”), with independent counsel, met with management and reviewed and discussed information provided in response to initial requests of the 15(c) Committee and/or its independent counsel, and requested certain additional information, which management agreed to provide. At a meeting held on June 7-8, 2023, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the additional information provided by management in response to these requests.
After extensive discussions and deliberations, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, based on a review of qualitative and quantitative information provided by BFA and their cumulative experience as Board Members. The Board noted its satisfaction with the extent and quality of information provided and its frequent interactions with management, as well as the detailed responses and other information provided by BFA. The Independent Board Members were advised by their independent counsel throughout the process, including about the legal standards applicable to their review. In approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the Fund, the Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered various factors, including: (i) the expenses and performance of the Fund; (ii) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BFA; (iii) the costs of services provided to the Fund and profits realized by BFA and its affiliates; (iv) potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits; (v) the fees and services provided for other comparable funds/accounts managed by BFA and its affiliates; and (vi) other benefits to BFA and/or its affiliates. The material factors, none of which was controlling, and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board, including the Independent Board Members, to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement are discussed below.
Expenses and Performance of the Fund: The Board reviewed statistical information prepared by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of investment company data, regarding the expense ratio components, including gross and net total expenses, fees and expenses of other fund(s) in which the Fund invests (if applicable), and waivers/reimbursements (if applicable) of the Fund in comparison with the same information for other ETFs, objectively selected by Broadridge as comprising the Fund’s applicable expense peer group pursuant to Broadridge’s proprietary ETF methodology (the “Peer Group”). The Board was provided with a detailed description of the proprietary ETF methodology used by Broadridge to determine the Fund’s Peer Group. The Board noted that, due to the limitations in providing comparable funds in the Peer Group, the statistical information provided in Broadridge’s report may or may not provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund in all instances. The Board also noted that the investment advisory fee rate and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) for the Fund were lower than the median of the investment advisory fee rates and overall expenses (net of any waivers and reimbursements) of the funds in its Peer Group, excluding iShares funds.
In addition, to the extent that any of the comparison funds included in the Peer Group, excluding iShares funds, track the same index as the Fund, Broadridge also provided, and the Board reviewed, a comparison of the Fund’s performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year, ten-year, and since inception periods, as applicable, and for the quarter ended December 31, 2022, to that of such relevant comparison fund(s) for the same periods. The Board noted that the Fund seeks to track its specified underlying index and that, during the year, the Board received periodic reports on the Fund’s short- and longer-term performance in comparison with its underlying index. Such periodic comparative performance information, including additional detailed information as requested by the Board, was also considered. The Board noted that the Fund generally performed in line with its underlying index over the relevant periods.
Based on this review, the other factors considered at the meeting, and their general knowledge of ETF pricing, the Board concluded that the investment advisory fee rate and expense level and the historical performance of the Fund supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided: Based on management’s representations, including information about ongoing enhancements and initiatives with respect to the iShares business, including with respect to capital markets support and analysis, technology, portfolio management, product design and quality, compliance and risk management, global public policy and other services, the Board expected that there would be no diminution in the scope of services required of or provided by BFA under the Advisory Agreement for the coming year as compared with the scope of services provided by BFA during prior years. In reviewing the scope of these services, the Board considered BFA’s investment philosophy and experience, noting that BFA and its affiliates have committed significant resources over time, including during the past year, to support the iShares funds and their shareholders and have made significant investments into the iShares business. The Board also considered BFA’s compliance program and its compliance record with respect to the Fund, including related programs implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. In that regard, the Board noted that BFA reports to the Board about portfolio management and compliance matters on a periodic basis in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board, and on other occasions as necessary and appropriate, and has provided information and made relevant officers and other employees of BFA (and its affiliates) available as needed to provide further assistance with these matters. The Board also reviewed the background and experience of the persons responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, as well as the resources available to them in managing the Fund. In addition to the above considerations, the Board reviewed and considered detailed presentations regarding BFA’s investment performance, investment and risk management processes and strategies provided at the May 2, 2023 meeting and throughout the year, and matters related to BFA’s portfolio compliance program and other compliance programs and services.
Based on review of this information, and the performance information discussed above, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Costs of Services Provided to the Fund and Profits Realized by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board reviewed information about the estimated profitability to BlackRock in managing the Fund, based on the fees payable to BFA and its affiliates (including fees under the Advisory Agreement), and other sources of revenue and expense to BFA
40 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Board Review and Approval of Investment Advisory Contract (continued)
and its affiliates from the Fund’s operations for the last calendar year. The Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology for calculating estimated profitability of the iShares funds, noting that the 15(c) Committee and the Board had focused on the methodology and profitability presentation. The Board recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors, including, among other things, fee waivers by BFA, the types of funds managed, expense allocations and business mix. The Board thus recognized that calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is challenging. The Board discussed with management the sources of direct and ancillary revenue, including the revenues to BTC, a BlackRock affiliate, from securities lending by the Fund. The Board also discussed BFA’s estimated profit margin as reflected in the Fund’s profitability analysis and reviewed information regarding potential economies of scale (as discussed below).
Based on this review, the Board concluded that the information considered with respect to the profits realized by BFA and its affiliates under the Advisory Agreement and from other relationships between the Fund and BFA and/or its affiliates, if any, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Economies of Scale: The Board reviewed information and considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of the Fund increase, noting that the issue of potential economies of scale had been focused on by the 15(c) Committee and the Board during their meetings and addressed by management. The 15(c) Committee and the Board received information regarding BlackRock’s historical estimated profitability (as discussed above), including BFA’s and its affiliates’ estimated costs in providing services. The estimated cost information distinguished, among other things, between fixed and variable costs, and showed how the level and nature of fixed and variable costs may impact the existence or size of scale benefits, with the Board recognizing that potential economies of scale are difficult to measure. The 15(c) Committee and the Board reviewed information provided by BFA regarding the sharing of scale benefits with the iShares funds through various means, including, as applicable, through relatively low fee rates established at inception, breakpoints, waivers, or other fee reductions, as well as through additional investment in the iShares business and the provision of improved or additional infrastructure and services to the iShares funds and their shareholders. The Board noted that the Advisory Agreement for the Fund did not provide for breakpoints in the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate as the assets of the Fund increase. However, the Board noted that it would continue to assess the appropriateness of adding breakpoints in the future.
The Board concluded that this review of potential economies of scale and the sharing of related benefits, as well as the other factors considered at the meeting, supported the Board’s approval of the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Fees and Services Provided for Other Comparable Funds/Accounts Managed by BFA and its Affiliates: The Board received and considered information regarding the investment advisory/management fee rates for other funds/accounts in the U.S. for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory/management services, including open-end funds registered under the 1940 Act (including sub-advised funds), collective trust funds and institutional separate accounts (collectively, the “Other Accounts”). The Board acknowledged BFA’s representation that the iShares funds are fundamentally different investment vehicles from the Other Accounts.
The Board received detailed information regarding how the Other Accounts generally differ from the Fund, including in terms of the types of services and generally more extensive services provided to the Fund, as well as other significant differences. In that regard, the Board considered that the pricing of services to institutional clients is typically based on a number of factors beyond the nature and extent of the specific services to be provided and often depends on the overall relationship between the client and its affiliates and the adviser and its affiliates. In addition, the Board considered the relative complexity and inherent risks and challenges of managing and providing other services to the Fund, as a publicly traded investment vehicle, as compared to the Other Accounts, particularly those that are institutional clients, in light of differing regulatory requirements and client-imposed mandates. The Board noted that BFA and its affiliates do not manage Other Accounts with substantially the same investment objective and strategy as the Fund and that track the same index as the Fund. The Board also acknowledged management’s assertion that, for certain iShares funds, and for client segmentation purposes, BlackRock has launched an iShares fund that may provide a similar investment exposure at a lower investment advisory fee rate.
The Board considered the “all-inclusive” nature of the Fund’s advisory fee structure, and the Fund’s expenses borne by BFA under this arrangement and noted that the investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement for the Fund was generally higher than the investment advisory/management fee rates for certain of the Other Accounts (particularly institutional clients) and concluded that the differences appeared to be consistent with the factors discussed.
Other Benefits to BFA and/or its Affiliates: The Board reviewed other benefits or ancillary revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates in connection with the services provided to the Fund by BFA, both direct and indirect, including, but not limited to, payment of revenue to BTC, the Fund’s securities lending agent, for loaning portfolio securities, as applicable (which was included in the profit margins reviewed by the Board pursuant to BFA’s estimated profitability methodology), payment of advisory fees or other fees to BFA (or its affiliates) in connection with any investments by the Fund in other funds for which BFA (or its affiliates) provides investment advisory services or other services, and BlackRock’s profile in the investment community. The Board further considered other direct benefits that might accrue to BFA, including the potential for reduction in the Fund’s expenses that are borne by BFA under the “all-inclusive” management fee arrangement, due in part to the size and scope of BFA’s investment operations servicing the Fund (and other funds in the iShares complex) as well as in response to a changing market environment. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided by BFA concerning authorized participant primary market order processing services that are provided by BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BRIL”), an affiliate of BFA, and paid for by authorized participants under the ETF Servicing Platform. The Board also noted the revenue received by BFA and/or its affiliates pursuant to an agreement that permits a service provider to use certain portions of BlackRock’s technology platform to service accounts managed by BFA and/or its affiliates, including the iShares funds. The Board noted that BFA generally does not use soft dollars or consider the value of research or other services that may be provided to BFA (including its affiliates) in selecting brokers for portfolio transactions for the Fund. The Board concluded that any such ancillary benefits would not be disadvantageous to the Fund and thus would not alter the Board’s conclusion with respect to the appropriateness of approving the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
Conclusion: Based on a review of the factors described above, as well as such other factors as deemed appropriate by the Board, the Board, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s investment advisory fee rate under the Advisory Agreement does not constitute a fee that is so disproportionately large as to bear no reasonable relationship to the services rendered and that could not have been the product of arm’s-length bargaining, and concluded to approve the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for the coming year.
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT | 41 |
Supplemental Information (unaudited)
Tailored Shareholder Reports for Open-End Mutual Funds and ETFs
Effective January 24, 2023, the SEC adopted rule and form amendments to require open-end mutual funds and ETFs to transmit concise and visually engaging streamlined annual and semiannual reports to shareholders that highlight key information. Other information, including financial statements, will no longer appear in a streamlined shareholder report but must be available online, delivered free of charge upon request, and filed on a semiannual basis on Form N-CSR. The rule and form amendments have a compliance date of July 24, 2024. At this time, management is evaluating the impact of these amendments on the shareholder reports for the Funds.
Premium/Discount Information
Information on the Fund’s net asset value, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads can be found at iShares.com.
42 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited)
The Board of Trustees has responsibility for the overall management and operations of the Funds, including general supervision of the duties performed by BFA and other service providers. Each Trustee serves until he or she resigns, is removed, dies, retires or becomes incapacitated. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, resignation or removal. Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust are referred to as independent trustees (“Independent Trustees”).
The registered investment companies advised by BFA or its affiliates (the “BlackRock-advised Funds”) are organized into one complex of open-end equity, multi-asset, index and money market funds and ETFs (the “BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex”), one complex of closed-end funds and open-end non-index fixed-income funds (including ETFs) (the “BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex”) and one complex of ETFs (“Exchange-Traded Fund Complex”) (each, a “BlackRock Fund Complex”). Each Fund is included in the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex. Each Trustee also serves as a Director of iShares, Inc. and a Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust and, as a result, oversees all of the funds within the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex, which consists of 387 funds as of August 31, 2023. With the exception of Robert S. Kapito, Salim Ramji and Aaron Wasserman, the address of each Trustee and officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 400 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. The address of Mr. Kapito, Mr. Ramji and Mr. Wasserman is c/o BlackRock, Inc., 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. The Board has designated John E. Kerrigan as its Independent Board Chair. Additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and officers may be found in the Funds’ combined Statement of Additional Information, which is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1-800-iShares (1-800-474-2737).
Interested Trustees
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Robert S. Kapito(a) (1957) | Trustee (since 2009). | President, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. and Head of BlackRock’s Portfolio Management Group (since its formation in 1998) and BlackRock, Inc.’s predecessor entities (since 1988); Trustee, University of Pennsylvania (since 2009); President of Board of Directors, Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund (since 2002). | Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2006); Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2009); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Salim Ramji(b) (1970) | Trustee (since 2019). | Senior Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2014); Global Head of BlackRock’s ETF and Index Investments Business (since 2019); Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory Business (2015-2019); Global Head of Corporate Strategy, BlackRock, Inc. (2014-2015); Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company (2010-2014). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2019); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2019). |
(a) | Robert S. Kapito is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
(b) | Salim Ramji is deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust due to his affiliations with BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates. |
Independent Trustees
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
John E. Kerrigan (1955) | Trustee (since 2005); Independent Board Chair (since 2022). | Chief Investment Officer, Santa Clara University (since 2002). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011); Independent Board Chair of iShares, Inc. and iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2022). | |||
Jane D. Carlin (1956) | Trustee (since 2015); Risk Committee Chair (since 2016). | Consultant (since 2012); Member of the Audit Committee (2012-2018), Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee (2017-2018) and Director of PHH Corporation (mortgage solutions) (2012-2018); Managing Director and Global Head of Financial Holding Company Governance & Assurance and the Global Head of Operational Risk Management of Morgan Stanley (2006-2012). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2015); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2015); Member of the Audit Committee (since 2016), Chair of the Audit Committee (since 2020) and Director of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (since 2016). | |||
Richard L. Fagnani (1954) | Trustee (since 2017); Audit Committee Chair (since 2019). | Partner, KPMG LLP (2002-2016); Director of One Generation Away (since 2021). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017). |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 43 |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Independent Trustees (continued)
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Other Directorships Held by Trustee | |||
Cecilia H. Herbert (1949) | Trustee (since 2005); Nominating and Governance and Equity Plus Committee Chairs (since 2022). | Chair of the Finance Committee (since 2019) and Trustee and Member of the Finance, Audit and Quality Committees of Stanford Health Care (since 2016); Trustee of WNET, New York’s public media company (since 2011) and Member of the Audit Committee (since 2018), Investment Committee (since 2011) and Personnel Committee (since 2022); Member of the Wyoming State Investment Funds Committee (since 2022); Director of the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts (since 2021); Trustee of Forward Funds (14 portfolios) (2009-2018); Trustee of Salient MF Trust (4 portfolios) (2015-2018). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2005); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Drew E. Lawton (1959) | Trustee (since 2017); 15(c) Committee Chair (since 2017). | Senior Managing Director of New York Life Insurance Company (2010-2015). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2017); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2017); Director of Jackson Financial Inc. (since 2021). | |||
John E . Martinez (1961) | Trustee (since 2003); Securities Lending Committee Chair (since 2019). | Director of Real Estate Equity Exchange, Inc. (since 2005); Director of Cloudera Foundation (2017-2020); and Director of Reading Partners (2012-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2003); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). | |||
Madhav V. Rajan (1964) | Trustee (since 2011); Fixed-Income Plus Committee Chair (since 2019). | Dean, and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting, University of Chicago Booth School of Business (since 2017); Advisory Board Member (since 2016) and Director (since 2020) of C.M. Capital Corporation; Chair of the Board for the Center for Research in Security Prices, LLC (since 2020); Robert K. Jaedicke Professor of Accounting, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2001-2017); Professor of Law (by courtesy), Stanford Law School (2005-2017); Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Head of MBA Program, Stanford University Graduate School of Business (2010-2016). | Director of iShares, Inc. (since 2011); Trustee of iShares U.S. ETF Trust (since 2011). |
Officers
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
Dominik Rohé (1973) | President (since 2023). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2005); Head of Americas ETF and Index Investments (since 2023); Head of Latin America (2019-2023). | ||
Trent Walker (1974) | Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (since 2020). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since September 2019); Chief Financial Officer of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC, BlackRock Funds, BlackRock Funds II, BlackRock Funds IV, BlackRock Funds V and BlackRock Funds VI (since 2021); Executive Vice President of PIMCO (2016-2019); Senior Vice President of PIMCO (2008-2015); Treasurer (2013-2019) and Assistant Treasurer (2007-2017) of PIMCO Funds, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series VIT, PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust, 2 PIMCO-sponsored interval funds and 21 PIMCO-sponsored closed-end funds. | ||
Aaron Wasserman (1974) | Chief Compliance Officer (iShares, Inc. and iShares Trust, since 2023; iShares U.S. ETF Trust, since 2023). | Managing Director of BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Chief Compliance Officer of the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (since 2023); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for the BlackRock Multi-Asset Complex, the BlackRock Fixed-Income Complex and the Exchange-Traded Fund Complex (2014-2023). | ||
Marisa Rolland (1980) | Secretary (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2023); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2018-2022); Vice President, BlackRock, Inc. (2010-2017). | ||
Rachel Aguirre (1982) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2018); Director, BlackRock, Inc. (2009-2018); Head of U.S. iShares Product (since 2022); Head of EII U.S. Product Engineering (since 2021); Co-Head of EII’s Americas Portfolio Engineering (2020-2021); Head of Developed Markets Portfolio Engineering (2016-2019). | ||
Jennifer Hsui (1976) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2009); Co-Head of Index Equity (since 2022). |
44 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Trustee and Officer Information (unaudited) (continued)
Officers (continued)
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | ||
James Mauro (1970) | Executive Vice President (since 2022). | Managing Director, BlackRock, Inc. (since 2010); Head of Fixed Income Index Investments in the Americas and Head of San Francisco Core Portfolio Management (since 2020). |
Effective March 30, 2023, Dominik Rohé replaced Armando Senra as President.
Effective July 1, 2023, Aaron Wasserman replaced Charles Park as Chief Compliance Officer. |
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INFORMATION | 45 |
Electronic Delivery
Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications announcing that the shareholder report or prospectus has been posted on the iShares website at iShares.com. Once you have enrolled, you will no longer receive prospectuses and shareholder reports in the mail.
To enroll in electronic delivery:
• | Go to icsdelivery.com. |
• | If your brokerage firm is not listed, electronic delivery may not be available. Please contact your broker-dealer or financial advisor. |
Householding
Householding is an option available to certain fund investors. Householding is a method of delivery, based on the preference of the individual investor, in which a single copy of certain shareholder documents and Rule 30e-3 notices can be delivered to investors who share the same address, even if their accounts are registered under different names. Please contact your broker-dealer if you are interested in enrolling in householding and receiving a single copy of prospectuses and other shareholder documents, or if you are currently enrolled in householding and wish to change your householding status.
Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments
The Funds file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to their reports on Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Additionally, each Fund makes its portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year available at iShares.com/fundreports.
Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Proxy Voting Records
A description of the policies and procedures that the iShares Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information about how the iShares Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ending June 30 is available without charge, upon request (1) by calling toll-free 1-800-474-2737; (2) on the iShares website at iShares.com; and (3) on the SEC website at sec.gov.
A description of the Trust’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund’s portfolio securities is available in the Fund Prospectus. The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings daily and provides information regarding its top holdings in Fund fact sheets at iShares.com.
46 | 2 0 2 3 I SHARES ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS |
Glossary of Terms Used in this Report
Portfolio Abbreviation
| ||
ADR | American Depositary Receipt | |
CPO | Certificates of Participation (Ordinary) | |
GDR | Global Depositary Receipt | |
NVDR | Non-Voting Depositary Receipt | |
NVS | Non-Voting Shares | |
PJSC | Public Joint Stock Company | |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust |
GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT | 47 |
Want to know more?
iShares.com | 1-800-474-2737
This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
The iShares Funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC (together with its affiliates, “BlackRock”).
The iShares Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc., nor does this company make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in the iShares Funds. BlackRock is not affiliated with the company listed above.
©2023 BlackRock, Inc. All rights reserved. iSHARES and BLACKROCK are registered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
iS-AR-820-0823
(b) Not Applicable
Item 2. | Code of Ethics. |
The registrant has adopted a code of ethics, as of the end of the period covered by this report, applicable to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. During the period covered by this report, the registrant has not amended the code of ethics and there have been no waivers granted under the code of ethics. The registrant undertakes to provide a copy of the code of ethics to any person upon request, without charge, by calling 1-800-474-2737.
Item 3. | Audit Committee Financial Expert. |
The registrant’s Board of Trustees has determined that the registrant has more than one audit committee financial expert, as that term is defined under Item 3(b) and 3(c), serving on its audit committee. The audit committee financial experts serving on the registrant’s audit committee are Richard L. Fagnani and Madhav V. Rajan, all of whom are independent, as that term is defined under Item 3(a)(2).
Item 4. | Principal Accountant Fees and Services. |
The principal accountant fees disclosed in items 4(a), 4(b), 4(c), 4(d) and 4(g) are for the thirty-five series of the registrant for which the fiscal year-end is August 31, 2023 (the “Funds”), and whose annual financial statements are reported in Item 1.
(a) | Audit Fees – The aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the Funds’ annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years were $517,500 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022 and $562,000 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023. |
(b) | Audit-Related Fees – There were no fees billed for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2022 and August 31, 2023 for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that were reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the Fund’s financial statements and are not reported under (a) of this Item. |
(c) | Tax Fees – The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning for the Funds were $339,500 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022 and $339,500 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023. These services related to the review of the Funds’ tax returns and excise tax calculations. |
(d) | All Other Fees – There were no other fees billed in each of the fiscal years ended August 31, 2022 and August 31, 2023 for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported in (a) through (c) of this Item. |
(e) | (1) The registrant’s audit committee charter, as amended, provides that the audit committee is responsible for the approval, prior to appointment, of the engagement of the principal accountant to annually audit and provide their opinion on the registrant’s financial statements. The audit committee must also approve, prior to appointment, the engagement of the principal accountant to provide non-audit services to the registrant or to any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the registrant’s investment adviser (“Adviser Affiliate”) that provides ongoing services to the registrant, if the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the registrant. |
(2) There were no services described in (b) through (d) above that were approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
(f) | Not Applicable |
(g) | The aggregate non-audit fees billed by the registrant’s principal accountant for services rendered to the Funds, and rendered to the registrant’s investment adviser, and any Adviser Affiliate that provides ongoing services to the registrant for the last two fiscal years were $339,500 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022 and $339,500 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023. |
(h) | The registrant’s audit committee has considered whether the provision of non-audit services rendered to the registrant’s investment adviser and any Adviser Affiliate that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, if any, is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence, and has determined that the provision of these services, if any, does not compromise the principal accountant’s independence. |
(i) | Not Applicable |
(j) | Not Applicable |
Item 5. | Audit Committee of Listed Registrants. |
(a) The registrant is a listed issuer as defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act of 1934 and has a separately-designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act of 1934. The registrant’s audit committee members are Richard L. Fagnani, Cecilia H. Herbert and Madhav V. Rajan.
(b) Not applicable.
Item 6. | Investments. |
(a) Schedules of investments are included as part of the reports to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.
(b) Not applicable.
Item 7. | Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable to the registrant.
Item 8. | Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable to the registrant.
Item 9. | Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers. |
Not applicable to the registrant.
Item 10. | Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. |
There were no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s Board of Trustees.
Item 11. | Controls and Procedures. |
(a) The President (the registrant’s Principal Executive Officer) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (the registrant’s Principal Financial Officer) have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) are effective as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act of 1934.
(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 12. | Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable to the registrant.
Item 13. | Exhibits. |
(a) (1) Code of Ethics is not filed as an exhibit; please refer to Item 2.
(a) (2) Section 302 Certifications are attached.
(a) (3) Any written solicitation to purchase securities under Rule 23c-1 – Not Applicable.
(a) (4) Change in Registrant’s independent public accountant – Not Applicable.
(b) Section 906 Certifications are attached.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
iShares Trust | ||
By: /s/ Dominik Rohe | ||
Dominik Rohe, President (Principal Executive Officer) |
Date: October 23, 2023 |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
By: /s/ Dominik Rohe | ||
Dominik Rohe, President (Principal Executive Officer) |
Date: October 23, 2023 |
By: /s/ Trent Walker | ||
Trent Walker, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
Date: October 23, 2023 |