UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_________________________
FORM 10-Q
_________________________
(Mark One)
x | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009
or
¨ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from _____ to
Commission file number: 000-52192
_________________________
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES)
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
_________________________
| | |
Delaware | | 03-0607985 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
| |
c/o ALPHAMETRIX, LLC 181 West Madison 34th Floor Chicago, Illinois 60602 |
(Address of principal executive offices) |
(312)267-8400
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes ý No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T(§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes ýNo o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o | (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | | Smaller reporting company ý |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).Yes o No ý
ALPHAMETRIX FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES)
QUARTERLY REPORT FOR PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 ON FORM 10-Q
Table of Contents
| Page |
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION | |
| | |
Item 1. | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (unaudited) Condensed Consolidated Schedules of Investments (unaudited) Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Members’ Capital (unaudited) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) | 1 |
Item 2. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS | 16 |
Item 3. | QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK | 26 |
Item 4T. | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES | 26 |
| | |
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION | |
| | |
Item 1. | LEGAL PROCEEDINGS | 26 |
Item 1A. | RISK FACTORS | 26 |
Item 2. | UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS | 26 |
Item 3. | DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES | 27 |
Item 4. | SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS | 27 |
Item 5. | OTHER INFORMATION | 27 |
Item 6. | EXHIBITS | 28 |
| | |
| | |
SIGNATURES | 29 |
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1: Financial Statements
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES) |
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition |
| | | | | | | |
| | | September 30, 2009 | | | December 31, 2008 | |
| | | (Unaudited) | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Equity in commodity trading account at clearing broker: | | | | | | |
| Cash | | $ | 59,526,987 | | | $ | 71,677,315 | |
| Unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on open contracts, net | | | 2,598,173 | | | | 2,715,317 | |
| Net payable related to settled, unexpired contracts | | | - | | | | (9,090 | ) |
| | | | 62,125,160 | | | | 74,383,542 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Cash at bank | | | 4,708,668 | | | | 314,724 | |
Interest receivable, net | | | - | | | | 1,933 | |
Total assets | | $ | 66,833,828 | | | $ | 74,700,199 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Liabilities and Members' Capital | | | | | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | | |
Accrued brokerage commissions | | $ | 5,006 | | | $ | 5,627 | |
Accrued sales commission | | | 109,379 | | | | 121,422 | |
Accrued sponsor's fee | | | 13,672 | | | | 15,178 | |
Accrued management fees | | | 109,565 | | | | 124,314 | |
Accrued performance fees | | | - | | | | 1,613,251 | |
Accrued operating costs and administrative fees | | | 249,443 | | | | 183,724 | |
Interest payable, net | | | 2,653 | | | | - | |
Subscriptions received in advance | | | 1,001,158 | | | | 131,000 | |
Redemptions payable | | | 57,598 | | | | 1,500,154 | |
Total liabilities | | | 1,548,474 | | | | 3,694,670 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Members’ Capital | | | | | | | | |
Members (55,789.43 and 52,994.33 units outstanding at September 30, 2009 and | | | | | |
December 31, 2008, respectively, unlimited units authorized) | | | 65,275,853 | | | | 70,994,651 | |
Sponsor (8.12 units outstanding at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, | | | | | |
unlimited units authorized) | | | 9,501 | | | | 10,878 | |
Total members’ capital | | | 65,285,354 | | | | 71,005,529 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and members’ capital | | $ | 66,833,828 | | | $ | 74,700,199 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES) |
Condensed Consolidated Schedules of Investments (Unaudited) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | As of September 30, 2009 | | | As of December 31, 2008 | |
| | | % of Members’ Capital | | | Net Unrealized Appreciation / (Depreciation) on Open Contracts | | | % of Members’ Capital | | | Net Unrealized Appreciation / (Depreciation) on Open Contracts | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
FUTURES CONTRACTS: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Long Contracts | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Domestic | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Agriculture | | | 0.35 | % | | $ | 228,600 | | | | 0.00 | % | | $ | 3,500 | |
| Energy | | | -0.01 | % | | | (4,633 | ) | | | 0.03 | % | | | 20,050 | |
| Interest Rates | | | 0.56 | % | | | 366,120 | | | | 1.21 | % | | | 862,652 | |
| Metals | | | 0.68 | % | | | 441,523 | | | | 0.01 | % | | | 4,490 | |
| Indices | | | 0.14 | % | | | 89,905 | | | | 0.00 | % | | | 1,193 | |
Foreign | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Agriculture | | | 0.23 | % | | | 150,073 | | | | 0.10 | % | | | 69,860 | |
| Interest Rates | | | 1.39 | % | | | 907,801 | | | | 2.82 | % | | | 2,003,119 | |
| Indices | | | 0.12 | % | | | 76,709 | | | | 0.00 | % | | | - | |
| | | | 3.46 | % | | | 2,256,098 | | | | 4.17 | % | | | 2,964,864 | |
Short Contracts | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Domestic | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Agriculture | | | 0.05 | % | | | 32,527 | | | | -0.26 | % | | | (187,016 | ) |
| Energy | | | -0.42 | % | | | (271,113 | ) | | | 0.29 | % | | | 210,104 | |
| Metals | | | -0.06 | % | | | (40,943 | ) | | | 0.01 | % | | | 6,868 | |
| Indices | | | 0.00 | % | | | - | | | | 0.00 | % | | | (2,880 | ) |
Foreign | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Agriculture | | | 0.05 | % | | | 34,627 | | | | 0.00 | % | | | 2,548 | |
| Interest Rates | | | 0.06 | % | | | 36,585 | | | | 0.00 | % | | | - | |
| Metals | | | 0.00 | % | | | - | | | | -0.20 | % | | | (145,257 | ) |
| Indices | | | 0.00 | % | | | - | | | | -0.06 | % | | | (44,689 | ) |
| | | | -0.32 | % | | | (208,317 | ) | | | -0.22 | % | | | (160,322 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total futures contracts | | | | 3.14 | % | | | 2,047,781 | | | | 3.95 | % | | | 2,804,542 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
FORWARD CURRENCY CONTRACTS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total forward currency contracts long | | | | 0.26 | % | | | 166,626 | | | | 0.44 | % | | | 313,524 | |
Total forward currency contracts short | | | | 0.59 | % | | | 383,766 | | | | -0.57 | % | | | (402,749 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total forward currency contracts | | | | 0.85 | % | | | 550,392 | | | | -0.13 | % | | | (89,225 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net unrealized appreciation / (depreciation) on open contracts | | | | 3.99 | % | | $ | 2,598,173 | | | | 3.82 | % | | $ | 2,715,317 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. | | | | | | | |
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES) |
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | July 1, 2009 | | | July 1, 2008 | | | January 1, 2009 | | | January 1, 2008 | |
| | through | | | through | | | through | | | through | |
| | September 30, 2009 | | | September 30, 2008 | | | September 30, 2009 | | | September 30, 2008 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Trading gains (losses): | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | $ | 777,822 | | | $ | (3,921,118 | ) | | $ | (4,573,414 | ) | | $ | 843,802 | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(depreciation) on open contracts | | | 3,040,248 | | | | (1,613,488 | ) | | | (86,293 | ) | | | 54,933 | |
Brokerage commissions | | | (136,937 | ) | | | (104,909 | ) | | | (324,106 | ) | | | (186,833 | ) |
Net trading gains (losses) | | | 3,681,133 | | | | (5,639,515 | ) | | | (4,983,813 | ) | | | 711,902 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest income | | $ | 344 | | | $ | 187,062 | | | $ | 3,478 | | | $ | 475,418 | |
Total investment income | | | 344 | | | | 187,062 | | | | 3,478 | | | | 475,418 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Sales commissions | | $ | 298,505 | | | $ | 284,455 | | | $ | 923,693 | | | $ | 593,590 | |
Sponsor’s fee | | | 37,313 | | | | 35,556 | | | | 115,462 | | | | 74,198 | |
Management fees | | | 299,015 | | | | 284,619 | | | | 925,286 | | | | 596,940 | |
Performance fees | | | - | | | | - | | | | 10,840 | | | | 1,182,885 | |
Interest expense | | | 7,199 | | | | - | | | | 24,021 | | | | - | |
Operating costs and administrative fees | | | 106,014 | | | | 105,000 | | | | 322,774 | | | | 325,998 | |
Total expenses | | | 748,046 | | | | 709,630 | | | | 2,322,076 | | | | 2,773,611 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | (747,702 | ) | | | (522,568 | ) | | | (2,318,598 | ) | | | (2,298,193 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) | | $ | 2,933,431 | | | $ | (6,162,083 | ) | | $ | (7,302,411 | ) | | $ | (1,586,291 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) per unit: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average number of units outstanding | | | 49,903.26 | | | | 48,110.95 | | | | 48,736.86 | | | | 32,166.92 | |
Net income (loss) per weighted average unit | | $ | 58.782 | | | $ | (128.081 | ) | | $ | (149.833 | ) | | $ | (49.314 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES) |
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Members’ Capital |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 |
(Unaudited) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Members | | | Sponsor | | | Total | |
| | Amount | | | Units | | | Amount | | | Units | | | Amount | | | Units | |
Members’ capital at January 1, 2009 | | $ | 70,994,651 | | | | 52,994.33 | | | $ | 10,878 | | | | 8.12 | | | $ | 71,005,529 | | | | 53,002.45 | |
Members’ subscriptions | | | 22,134,629 | | | | 19,000.87 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 22,134,629 | | | | 19,000.87 | |
Members’ redemptions | | | (20,552,393 | ) | | | (16,205.77 | ) | | | - | | | | - | | | | (20,552,393 | ) | | | (16,205.77 | ) |
Net income (loss) | | | (7,301,034 | ) | | | - | | | | (1,377 | ) | | | - | | | | (7,302,411 | ) | | | - | |
Members’ capital at September 30, 2009 | | $ | 65,275,853 | | | | 55,789.43 | | | $ | 9,501 | | | | 8.12 | | | $ | 65,285,354 | | | | 55,797.55 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value per unit at December 31, 2008 | | $ | 1,339.665 | | | | | | | $ | 1,339.665 | | | | | | | $ | 1,339.665 | | | | | |
Change in net asset value per unit | | | (169.625 | ) | | | | | | | (169.625 | ) | | | | | | | (169.625 | ) | | | | |
Net asset value per unit at September 30, 2009 | | $ | 1,170.040 | | | | | | | $ | 1,170.040 | | | | | | | $ | 1,170.040 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2009 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Members | | | Sponsor | | | Total | |
| | Amount | | | Units | | | Amount | | | Units | | | Amount | | | Units | |
Members’ capital at January 1, 2008 | | $ | 15,747,164 | | | | 14,690.08 | | | $ | 10,657 | | | | 9.94 | | | $ | 15,757,821 | | | | 14,700.02 | |
Members’ subscriptions | | | 45,734,822 | | | | 38,731.15 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 45,734,822 | | | | 38,731.15 | |
Members’ redemptions | | | (1,120,232 | ) | | | (967.40 | ) | | | - | | | | - | | | | (1,120,232 | ) | | | (967.40 | ) |
Net income (loss) | | | (1,586,775 | ) | | | - | | | | 483 | | | | - | | | | (1,586,291 | ) | | | - | |
Members’ capital at September 30, 2008 | | $ | 58,774,979 | | | | 52,453.83 | | | $ | 11,140 | | | | 9.94 | | | $ | 58,786,119 | | | | 52,463.77 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value per unit at December 31, 2007 | | $ | 1,071.959 | | | | | | | $ | 1,071.959 | | | | | | | $ | 1,071.959 | | | | | |
Change in net asset value per unit | | | 48.550 | | | | | | | | 48.550 | | | | | | | | 48.550 | | | | | |
Net asset value per unit at September 30, 2008 | | $ | 1,120.509 | | | | | | | $ | 1,120.509 | | | | | | | $ | 1,120.509 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2009
(1) Organization
As of November 1, 2008, AlphaMetrix, LLC (the “Sponsor”) is the sponsor of AlphaMetrix Managed Futures LLC (the “Platform”). The Sponsor is registered with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) as a commodity pool operator and commodity trading advisor and is a member of the National Futures Association (“NFA”). The Platform was formed on July 25, 2006 as a Delaware series limited liability company pursuant to the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act. AlphaMetrix Managed Futures LLC (Aspect Series) (the “Aspect Series”) is a “segregated series” of the Platform. On November 1, 2008, the Sponsor was assigned sponsorship in the Platform and managerial interest in the Aspect Series from the former sponsor of the Platform, UBS Managed Fund Services, Inc. (“UBS MFS” or the “former sponsor”) and the name of the Aspect Series was changed from UBS Managed Futures LLC (Aspect Series) to AlphaMetrix Managed Futures LLC (Aspect Series), while the name of the Platform was changed from UBS Managed Futures LLC to AlphaMetrix Managed Futures LLC. The Aspect Series invests all or substantially all of its assets in AlphaMetrix Managed Futures (Aspect) LLC, previously UBS Managed Futures (Aspect) LLC (the “Trading Fund”). The Trading Fund then invests substantially all of its assets in AlphaMetrix Aspect Fund – MT001 (the “Master Fund”) which is advised by Aspect Capital Limited (the “Trading Advisor”). On August 30, 2009, the Trading Fund ceased operations. As of September 1, 2009, the Series invested directly in the Master Fund. The Aspect Series, the Trading Fund and the Master Fund are consolidated in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation (“ASC 810”) (formerly, Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51 Consolidated Financial Statements) and collectively referred to herein as the “Series.” The Series engages in the speculative trading of bonds, currencies, interest rates, equities, equity indices, debt securities and selected physical commodities and derivatives. Until October 1, 2009, UBS Securities LLC is the Series’ futures clearing broker (the “Clearing Broker”) and until October 13, 2009, UBS AG was the foreign exchange clearing broker of the Series, although the Series may execute foreign exchange trades through another foreign exchange clearing broker at any time. On and after October 1, 2009 for general futures clearing brokerage, excluding foreign currency, and on and after October 13, 2009 including foreign currency, Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC acts as the Series’ clearing broker (reference to the “Clearing Broker” shall be UBS Securities LLC if involving matters prior to October 1, 2009 and to Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC for matters on or after October 1, 2009. The Sponsor, over time, intends to offer investors a selection of different trading advisors, each managing a different segregated series of the Platform. There can be no assurance, however, that any series other than the Series will be offered or that the Series will continue to be offered. The Series was organized on October 26, 2006 and commenced trading on March 16, 2007. The Series filed a Form 10, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) to register the units of limited liability company interest (“Units”), and such registration became effective October 17, 2006.
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the Series’ financial condition at September 30, 2009 (unaudited) and December 31, 2008 and the results of its operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 (unaudited). These consolidated financial statements present the results of interim periods and do not include all disclosures normally provided in annual consolidated financial statements. It is suggested that these unaudited consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited financial consolidated statements and notes included in the Series’ annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the year ended December 31, 2008. The December 31, 2008 information has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2008.
On March 16, 2007, the Series issued 5,000.00 Units to the Trading Advisor for $5,000,000 (the “Trading Advisor Investment”) and issued 2,760.62 Units for $2,760,620 to third parties. On April 1, 2007, the Series issued 9.94 Units to the former sponsor, UBS MFS, for $10,000. On December 31, 2007, the Trading Advisor redeemed the full value of the Trading Advisor Investment. On October 31, 2008, UBS MFS redeemed the full value of their Units in conjunction with the assignment of the Sponsor and on November 1, 2008, the Series issued 8.12 Units to the Sponsor for $10,000.
At the sole discretion of the Sponsor, the Series may terminate for any reason (for the avoidance of doubt, the Sponsor shall be entitled, without any violation of any contractual or fiduciary obligation to any investor in the Series (a “Member”), to dissolve the Series at any time).
(2) | Summary of Significant Accounting Policies |
Basis of Presentation
The Series includes the accounts of the Aspect Series, the Trading Fund, and the Master Fund. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
Commodity futures and forward contract transactions are recorded on the trade date and open contracts are reflected in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on open contracts in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as the difference between the original contract value and the fair value (as determined by exchange settlement prices for futures contracts and cash dealer prices at a predetermined time for forward contracts and physical commodities) as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the consolidated financial statements. The change in unrealized profit (loss) on open contracts from one period to the next is reflected in the net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on open contracts in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Realized gains and losses on futures and forward contracts are recognized when contracts are closed. Interest income is recognized on an accrual basis.
Foreign Currency Transactions
The Series’ functional currency is the U.S. Dollar; however, it transacts business in the U.S. Dollar and in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar. Trading accounts in non-U.S. currency denominations are susceptible to both movements in the underlying contract markets as well as fluctuations in currency rates. Assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar are translated into U.S. Dollars at the rates in effect at the date of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. Income and expense items denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar are translated into U.S. Dollars at the rates in effect during the period. Gains and losses resulting from the translation into U.S. Dollars are included with the net realized and change in unrealized gain or loss on investments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Cash at the Clearing Broker
The Series holds various currencies at the Clearing Broker, of which approximately $54.5 million is held in U.S. Dollars. The non-U.S. currencies fluctuate in value on a daily basis relative to the U.S. Dollar. On September 30, 2009, the Series held positive amounts of Canadian Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, Hong Kong Dollars, Singapore Dollars, and U.S. Dollars, and negative amounts of Australian Dollars, Swiss Francs, Japanese Yen, Swedish Krona, and South African Rand. A portion of this cash is restricted cash required to meet maintenance margin requirements. Included in cash deposits with the Clearing Broker as of September 30, 2009, was restricted cash for margin requirements of $7,845,301. This cash becomes unrestricted if the underlying positions it supports are liquidated.
Fair Value of Investments
Effective January 1, 2008, the Series adopted ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”) (formerly, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157 Fair Value Measurements). ASC 820 establishes a common definition for fair value under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure requirements about such fair value measurements. ACS 820 is applicable in conjunction with other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, but does not expand the use of fair value to any new circumstances. More specifically, ASC 820 emphasizes that fair value is a market based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and sets out a fair value hierarchy with the highest priority given to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The Series’ adoption of ASC 820 did not have a material impact on its Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition or results of operations.
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of the Series’ investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
· | Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical investments |
· | Level 2 – significant other observable inputs |
· | Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing investments are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The following table provides the fair value measurements of applicable Series’ assets and liabilities by level within the fair value hierarchy as of September 30, 2009. These assets are measured on a recurring basis.
| | | | | Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |
Description | | Fair Value at September 30, 2009 | | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Investments (Level 1) | | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | |
Futures contracts | | $ | 2,047,781 | | | $ | 2,047,781 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
Forward currency contracts | | $ | 550,392 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 550,392 | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net unrealized appreciation/ (depreciation) on open contracts | | $ | 2,598,173 | | | $ | 2,047,781 | | | $ | 550,392 | | | $ | - | |
Derivative Instruments
In March 2008, the FASB issued ASC 815, Derivative and Hedging (“ASC 815”) (formerly, SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivatives and Hedging Activities-an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133), which requires qualitative disclosure about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of and gains and losses on derivative instruments and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. The Series adopted the provisions of ASC 815 on January 1, 2009. As a result of the adoption, the Series has expanded its disclosures regarding derivative instruments.
The Series engages in the speculative trading of U.S. and foreign futures contracts and forward contracts (collectively “derivatives”). These derivatives include both financial and non-financial contracts held as part of a diversified trading strategy. The Series is exposed to both market risk, the risk arising from changes in the market value of the contracts, and credit risk with the clearing brokers, the risk of failure by another party to perform according to the terms of a contract. Also, see discussions in notes 1 and 6.
The Series deploys multiple trading strategies that seek to identify and exploit directional moves in market behavior of a broad range of global financial futures, commodity futures and OTC derivative contracts including (but not limited to) bonds, currencies, interest rates, equities, equity indices, debt securities and selected physical commodities. During the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the Series had net trading gain/(loss), including both realized and unrealized gains/(losses) in the following sectors:
Energy- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held one long energy contract with a notional value of $73,567, and 152 short contracts with a notional value of $9,350,917. The Series had exposure to the crude and heating oil, gasoline, and natural gas markets.
Agriculture- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held 292 long agriculture contracts with a notional value of $9,341,526, and 372 short contracts with a notional value of $7,577,054. The Series held long positions within the cocoa, soybean, palm oil, cotton, and sugar markets. Short exposures were seen in the livestock, canola oil, coffee, and corn markets. Finally, the agricultural sector exposure was rounded out with small short positions in orange juice and timber.
Interest Rates- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held 2,470 long interest rate contracts with a notional value of $603,940,937, and 152 short contracts with a notional value of $102,151,823. The Series had its largest exposure in the short-term interest rate markets. This exposure was concentrated primarily in the North American and European markets, and smaller allocations of the contracts held by the Series were in the Australian and Japanese interest rate markets.
Indices- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held 467 long index contracts with a notional value of $23,520,740. The Series held positions on exchanges in the U.S., Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Japan, and Europe.
Metals- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held 152 long metals contracts with a notional value of $11,985,610. Within industrial metals, the Series held long positions in copper, nickel, lead, zinc, and aluminum. Within the precious metal market, there were small long exposures to the gold, silver, and platinum markets.
Forward Currency Contracts- As of September 30, 2009, the Series held forwards in Australian Dollars, Euros, Swedish Krona, British Pounds, New Zealand Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Mexican Pesos, Hungarian Forint, Swiss Francs, South African Rand, Japanese Yen, Polish Zloty, Czek Koruna, and Singapore Dollars. The notional value of the long forward contracts is $53,251,233, while the notional value of the short contracts is $52,700,841.
The following table presents the fair value of open futures and forward currency contracts as an asset derivative if in a gain position and a liability derivative if in a loss position. Fair value is presented on a gross basis in the table below even though the futures and forward currency contracts are subject to master netting agreements and qualify for net presentation in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition in accordance with ASC 815, Derivative and Hedging (“ASC 815”) (formerly, FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 39, Offsetting of Amounts Related to Certain Contracts - an interpretation of APB Opinion No. 10 and FASB Statements No. 105).
| | Asset Derivatives Fair Value* | | | Liabilitiy Derivatives Fair Value* | |
| | | | | | |
Agriculture contracts | | $ | 690,679 | | | $ | (244,852 | ) |
Energy contracts | | | 65,894 | | | | (341,640 | ) |
Indices contracts | | | 268,490 | | | | (101,876 | ) |
Forward currency contracts | | | 639,004 | | | | (88,612 | ) |
Interest Rate contracts | | | 1,368,549 | | | | (58,043 | ) |
Metals contracts | | | 491,974 | | | | (91,394 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Total derivatives not designated as | | | | | | | | |
hedging instruments under ASC 815 | | $ | 3,524,590 | | | $ | (926,417 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
*Located in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on open contracts, net in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
The effect of trading futures and forward currency contracts on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 is detailed below:
| | | Net Trading Gain/(Loss)* three months ended 9/30/09 | | | Net Trading Gain/(Loss)* nine months ended 9/30/09 | |
| | | | | | | |
Futures contracts: | | | | (705,257 | ) | | | (1,849,852 | ) |
| Agriculture | | | 560,915 | | | | 342,077 | |
| Interest Rates | | | 2,015,400 | | | | (671,926 | ) |
| Indices | | | 679,292 | | | | 327,736 | |
| Metals | | | 607,842 | | | | (1,053,221 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
Total Futures contracts: | | | | 3,158,192 | | | | (2,905,186 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
Translation Gain/Loss) on foreign currencies held at Clearing Broker | | | | | | | |
| | $ | (37,967 | ) | | | (65,931 | ) |
Forward currency contracts: | | 697,845 | | | $ | (1,688,590 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
Total Net Trading Gain/(Loss) | $ | 3,818,070 | | | $ | (4,659,707 | ) |
* Includes both realized and unrealized gains/(losses) and is located in net trading gains/(losses) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
Income Taxes
No provision has been made in the accompanying Financial Statements for U.S. federal or state income taxes as each Member is individually responsible for reporting income or loss based on such Member’s share of the Series’ income and expenses as reported for income tax purposes. ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”) (formerly, FIN No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109) sets forth a minimum threshold for financial statement recognition of the benefit of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Management has concluded there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the Series’ consolidated financial statements.
Distributions
The Sponsor does not currently intend to make any distributions. Consequently, in order to pay the taxes attributable to their investment in the Series, Members must either redeem Units or pay such taxes from other sources.
Subscriptions
Units are purchased generally at the beginning of each calendar month based on the net asset value per Unit for all other purposes (see Note 3) calculated for the prior month-end. The subscription request must be submitted at least seven calendar days prior to the first day of any month in which a Member intends to invest.
Redemptions
Units may be redeemed as of the end of any calendar month (each, a “Redemption Date”) at the net asset value per Unit for all other purposes (see Note 3) as of such Redemption Date. Redemption requests must be submitted on or prior to the 15th day of the calendar month of such Redemption Date or the following business day, if the 15th is not a business day. The Sponsor may permit redemptions at other times and on shorter notice.
Indemnifications
In the normal course of business, the Series enters into contracts and agreements that contain a variety of representations and warranties and which would provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Series that have not yet occurred. The Series expects the risk of any future obligation under these indemnifications to be remote.
(3) Related Party Transactions
2009
The Series incurred brokerage commissions, and a portion of these brokerage commissions were paid to Dekla Financial, LLC, (“Dekla”), a registered introducing broker with the CFTC and an affiliate of the Sponsor. Dekla began acting as the introducing broker for the Series’ commodity futures and forward contract transactions effective November 1, 2008. Dekla received a portion of the brokerage commissions paid by the Series to the Clearing Broker, which amounted to $84,893 and $204,090 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009. As of October 1, 2009, Dekla no longer receives any fees from the Series.
The Series pays a fee to the Sponsor of 0.25% per annum on the Series’ month-end net asset value for all other purposes (see below) and reserves the right to waive or reduce the fee at its sole discretion. The Series incurred Sponsor’s fees of $37,313 and $115,462 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively, of which $13,672 was owed to the Sponsor at September 30, 2009. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Series incurred Sponsor’s fees of $35,556 and $74,198. As of October 1, 2009, the Series will pay the Sponsor a 0.50% per annum fee based on the Series’ month end net asset value.
The former sponsor paid all expenses incurred in connection with the organizational and initial offering of the Units at the Series level. As described in the Series’ current Confidential Disclosure Document (including Parts One, Two and Three, the “Disclosure Document”), the Series reimbursed the former sponsor for these costs. For
financial reporting purposes in conformity with U.S. GAAP, the Series expensed the total organizational costs of $208,820 when incurred and deducted the initial offering costs of $119,732 from Members’ capital as of March 16, 2007 (the date of commencement of operations of the Series) (“net asset value for financial reporting” or the “net asset value per Unit for financial reporting”). For all other purposes, including determining the net asset value per Unit for subscription and redemption purposes, the Series amortizes organizational and initial offering costs over a 60 month period (“net asset value for all other purposes” or the “net asset value per Unit for all other purposes”).
2008
The Series’ assets are maintained at the Clearing Broker. On assets held in U.S. Dollars, the Clearing Broker credits the Series with interest at the prevailing Federal Funds Rate less 0.50% per annum. In the case of non-U.S. Dollar instruments, the Clearing Broker lends to the Series all required non-U.S. currencies at a local short-term interest rate plus a spread of up to 1.00% per annum (at current rates). For deposits held in local currency, the Clearing Broker credits the local short-term interest rate less a spread of up to 2.00% per annum (at current rates).
The Series incurred brokerage commissions of $104,909 and $186,833 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 of which $6,386 was owed to the Clearing Broker at September 30, 2008.
Each Member or Member-related account is subject to an upfront, waivable placement fee of 0%-2% of the subscription price of the Units, which will be paid once by the relevant Member (not by the Series or by the Sponsor) on such Member’s initial subscription to the Series during any twelve month period. For instance, if a Member first subscribes for Units on January 1, redeems completely on June 1 and subscribes again for Units on December 1, such Member will pay the Placement Fee only on the subscription price of the Units purchased on January 1. Upfront placement fees of $617,428 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 were deducted from proceeds received by the Members.
Members are subject to an ongoing sales commission paid to UBS Financial Services Inc. (the “Selling Agent”), an affiliate of the former Sponsor, equal to 2.0% per annum of the month-end net asset value for all other purposes (see below). The Series incurred sales commissions of $284,455 and $593,590 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, and accrued $98,670 owed to UBS Financial Services Inc. at September 30, 2008. UBS Financial Services Inc., in consultation with the former Sponsor, may waive or reduce the sales commission for certain Members without entitling any other Member to such waiver or reduction. Additionally, effective January 1, 2008, 0.50% of the 2.0% management fee is shared by the Trading Advisor with the Selling Agent (refer to Note (4) Advisory Agreement).
The former sponsor paid all expenses incurred in connection with the organizational and initial offering of the Units at the Series level. As described in the Series’ current Confidential Disclosure Document (including Parts One and Two, the “Disclosure Document”), the Series reimbursed the former sponsor for these costs. For financial reporting purposes in conformity with U.S. GAAP, the Series expensed the total organizational costs of $208,820 when incurred and deducted the initial offering costs of $119,732 from Members’ capital as of March 16, 2007 (the date of commencement of operations of the Series) (“net asset value for financial reporting” or the “net asset value per Unit for financial reporting”). For all other purposes, including determining the net asset value per Unit for subscription and redemption purposes, the Series amortizes organizational and initial offering costs over a 60 month period (“net asset value for all other purposes” or the “net asset value per Unit for all other purposes”).
Net Asset Value
The quarterly net asset value and net asset value per Unit since commencement of operations are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value | | | | Net Asset Value per Unit |
| All Other Purposes | | Financial Reporting | | Number of Units | | All Other Purposes | | Financial Reporting | |
Price at Commencement* | | | | | | 1,000.000 | | 1,000.000 | |
March 31, 2007 | 7,805,411 | | 7,479,686 | | 7,760.62 | | 1,005.772 | | 963.801 | |
June 30, 2007 | 13,409,546 | | 13,100,248 | | 11,988.08 | | 1,118.573 | | 1,092.773 | |
September 30, 2007 | 18,932,687 | | 18,639,817 | | 18,241.85 | | 1,037.871 | | 1,021.816 | |
December 31, 2007 | 16,034,264 | | 15,757,821 | | 14,700.02 | | 1,090.765 | | 1,071.959 | |
March 31, 2008 | 20,507,363 | | 20,247,348 | | 17,025.49 | | 1,204.509 | | 1,189.237 | |
June 30, 2008 | 50,168,558 | | 49,924,971 | | 40,063.82 | | 1,252.216 | | 1,246.136 | |
September 30, 2008 | 59,013,279 | | 58,786,119 | | 52,463.77 | | 1,124.839 | | 1,120.509 | |
December 31, 2008 | 71,216,262 | | 71,005,529 | | 53,002.45 | | 1,343.641 | | 1,339.665 | |
March 31, 2009 | 66,062,490 | | 65,868,185 | | 50,663.64 | | 1,303.950 | | 1,300.108 | |
June 30, 2009 | 48,597,098 | | 48,419,221 | | 43,344.69 | | 1,121.182 | | 1,117.074 | |
September 30, 2009 | 65,446,804 | | 65,285,354 | | 55,797.55 | | 1,172.933 | | 1,170.040 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total return after performance fee, from the commencement of operations through the period ended September 30, 2009 |
| | | | | | | 17.29% | | 17.00 | % |
* Commencement of operations of the Series was March 16, 2007 | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
(4) Advisory Agreement
Under a signed agreement, the Trading Advisor receives a monthly management fee at the rate of 0.167% (a 2% annual rate) of the Series’ month-end net asset value for all other purposes (see Note 3) calculated before reduction for any management fees, performance fees, Sponsor’s fees, sales commission or extraordinary fees accrued (including performance fees accrued in a prior month) as of such month-end and before giving effect to any capital contributions made as of the beginning of the month immediately following such month-end and before any distributions or redemptions accrued during or as of such month-end, but after all expenses as of such month-end. The Series incurred management fees of $299,015 and $925,286 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively, of which $109,565 was owed to the Trading Advisor at September 30, 2009. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Series incurred management fees of $284,619 and $596,940.
Also, under a signed agreement the Series pays to the Trading Advisor a quarterly performance fee equal to 20% of the new net trading profits of the Series calculated before deducting the administrative fee, the Sponsor’s fee and sales commission but after deducting the management fee. The Series incurred performance fees of $0 and $10,840 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively, of which $0 was owed to the Trading Advisor at September 30, 2009. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Series incurred performance fees of $0 and $1,182,885.
(5) Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2009, the FASB issued ASC 855, Subsequent Events (“ASC 855”) (formerly, SFAS No. 165, Subsequent Events), which is effective for all interim or annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009. The objective of ASC 855 is to establish general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. In particular, this Statement sets
forth: (i) the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity shall evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements, (ii) the circumstances under which an entity shall recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements, and (iii) the disclosures that an entity shall make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. The Series adopted the provisions of ASC 855 on June 1, 2009. As a result of the adoption, the Series has expanded its disclosures regarding subsequent events. The Series’ adoption of ASC 855 did not have a material impact on its Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition or results of operations.
In June 2009, the FASB issued ASC 105, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“ASC 105”) (formerly, SFAS No. 168, The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles – a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162) which became the source of authoritative GAAP recognized by the FASB, applied by nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the SEC under authority of federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. On the effective date of ASC 105, the Codification superseded all existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards. All other non-grandfathered, non-SEC accounting literature, not included in the Codification became non-authoritative. The Series adopted ASC 105 on September 15, 2009. The Series’ adoption of ASC 105 did not have a material impact on its Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition or results of operations.
(6) Trading Activities and Related Market and Credit Risk
The Series engages in the speculative trading of U.S. and foreign futures contracts and forward contracts (collectively “derivatives”). These derivatives include both financial and non-financial contracts held as part of a diversified trading strategy. The Series is exposed to both market risk, the risk arising from changes in the market value of the contracts, and credit risk with the Clearing Broker, the risk of failure by another party to perform according to the terms of a contract.
The purchase and sale of futures are executed on an exchange and requires margin deposits with a Futures Commission Merchant (“FCM”). Additional deposits may be necessary for any loss on contract value. The U.S. Commodity Exchange Act requires an FCM to segregate all customer transactions and assets from the FCM’s proprietary activities. A customer’s cash and other property, such as U.S. Treasury Bills, deposited with an FCM are considered commingled with all other customer funds subject to the FCM’s segregation requirements. In the event of an FCM’s insolvency, recovery may be limited to a pro rata share of segregated funds available. It is possible that the recovered amount could be less than the total of cash and other property deposited. The Clearing Broker is an FCM.
Due to forward contracts being traded in unregulated markets between principals, the Series also assumes a credit risk and the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance with respect to its currency trading. Additionally, the Series is exposed to the creditworthiness of the Clearing Broker on these trades facilitated by the Clearing Broker. In the event of the Clearing Broker’s bankruptcy, the Series could lose all or substantially all of its assets not located in segregated funds.
In order to evaluate and monitor counterparty risk, the AlphaMetrix Risk Department initially evaluates the credit ratings from the major agencies: Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings. Credit ratings and outlooks are monitored daily for downgrades whereby an investigation is initiated upon an adverse occurrence. Further, any large decline in the daily stock price also triggers an investigation. Lastly, information on earnings and future outlooks from counterparties are monitored by the AlphaMetrix Risk Department for unfavorable results.
For derivatives, risks arise from changes in the market value of the contracts. Theoretically, the Series is exposed to a market risk equal to the value of futures and forward contracts purchased and unlimited liability on such contracts sold short.
The Series is designed to take on market risk on a systematic basis across a broad portfolio of liquid markets and to monitor and minimize exposure to all other risks, such as credit and liquidity risks. The trading systems used include various proprietary systems that are designed to control the risk taken at the individual position level as well
as at the overall portfolio level. The Trading Advisor monitors and controls market risk within limits at both sector and portfolio levels.
Net trading results from derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2008 are reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and equal the trading gains (losses) less brokerage commissions. Such trading results reflect the net gain or (loss) arising from the Series’ speculative trading of futures contracts and forward contracts.
The Members bear the risk of loss only to the extent of the fair value of their respective investment in the Series.
(7) Financial Highlights
The following financial highlights show the Series’ financial performance for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. All performance returns noted are calculated based on the net asset value per Unit for financial reporting, with organizational costs incurred prior to issuance of Units being expensed at the commencement of the operations of the Series. Total return is calculated as the change in a theoretical Member’s investment over the entire period - a percentage change in the Member’s capital value for the period. Financial highlights of the Series for the period ended September 30, 2009, are presented in the table below. The information has been derived from information presented in the consolidated financial statements.
Regarding the information shown in the table below:
· | Per share operating performance is computed based upon the weighted-average net shares for the period ended September 30, 2009. Total return is calculated as the change in the net asset value per share for the period ended September 30, 2009 and is not annualized. |
· | The net investment loss and total expense ratios are computed based upon the weighted average net assets for the period ended September 30, 2009. Such ratios have been annualized, with the exception of the performance fee, and include brokerage commissions. |
An individual unitholder’s total return and ratios may vary from those below based on the timing of capital transactions.
| Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 | | Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 |
| | | | | |
Members’ capital per Unit at beginning of period | $ 1,339.665 | | $ | 1,071.959 | |
| | | | | |
Income from operations: | | | | | |
Net trading gain/(loss) | (122.051) | | | 119.996 | |
Net investment loss | (47.574) | | | (71.446) | |
Net change in Members’ capital per Unit from operations | (169.625) | | | 48.550 | |
| | | | | |
Members’ capital per Unit at end of period | $ 1,170.040 | | $ | 1,120.509 | |
| | | | | |
Total return: | | | | | |
Total return before performance fee | (12.65%) | | | 6.63% | |
Performance fee | (0.02%) | | | (2.10%) | |
Total return after performance fee | (12.67%) | | | 4.53% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average Members’ capital | | | | | |
Net investment loss | (5.84%) | | | (5.83%) | |
| | | | | |
Expenses: | | | | | |
Expenses | 5.83% | | | 4.03% | |
Performance fee | 0.02% | | | 3.00% | |
Total expenses | 5.85% | | | 7.03% | |
| | | | | |
(8) Subsequent Events
Member Subscriptions and Redemptions
Subsequent to September 30, 2009, Members subscribed approximately $2,941,463 and redeemed approximately $5,215,059 through the issue date of the financial statements on November 10, 2009.
As of October 1, 2009, Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC will act as the Clearing Broker for the Series. The Sponsor believes that the Clearing Broker will offer lower overall commission and execution fees for the Series.
As of October 1, 2009, Dekla Financial, LLC (the “Introducing Broker”) will no longer retain a portion of the brokerage commissions or forward currency trading bid-ask spreads paid by AlphaMetrix Aspect Fund – MT0001 (the “Master Fund”) or retain a portion of the interest earned on the assets of the Master Fund held as margin. While the Introducing Broker will no longer retain any of such amounts, the Master Fund will continue to pay execution and clearing brokerage commissions at cost and forward and other over-the-counter trading spreads paid to the Clearing Broker.
Also effective as of October 1, 2009, AlphaMetrix will charge 0.50% per annum as the Sponsor’s Fee for the Series. AlphaMetrix has resolved to make such a change due to a variety of factors, including the elimination of the Introducing Broker’s retention of brokerage commissions and interest amounts as described above and the lower commissions and fees paid to the Clearing Broker as compared with the previous Clearing Broker.
Item 2: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Reference is made to Item 1 “Financial Statements.” The information contained therein is essential to, and should be read in connection with, the following analysis.
All figures and performance returns noted in this Item 2 are based on the net asset value and/or the net asset value per Unit for all other purposes, which complies with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, except with respect to organizational and initial offering costs (which are being amortized over 60 months) as described in the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – (3) Related Party Transactions.” All figures and performance returns communicated to investors are based on the net asset value and/or the net asset value per Unit for all other purposes.
Operational Overview
This performance summary describes the manner in which the Series has performed in the past and is not an indication of future performance. While certain market movements are attributable to various market factors, such factors may or may not have caused such movements but they may have simply occurred at or about the same time.
The Series is unlikely to be profitable in markets in which trends do not occur. Static or erratic prices are likely to result in losses. Similarly, sharp trend reversals, which can be caused by many unexpected events, can lead to major short-term losses, as well as gains.
While there is no assurance the Series will profit in any market condition, markets having substantial and sustainable price movements offer the best profit potential for the Series.
Liquidity
Virtually all of the Series’ capital is held in cash or cash equivalents at the Clearing Broker and is used to margin the Series’ futures and forward currency positions and is withdrawn, as necessary, to pay redemptions and expenses. The Series does not maintain any sources of financing other than that made available by the Clearing Broker to fund foreign currency settlements for those instruments transacted and settled in foreign currencies. The Series pays prevailing market rates for such borrowings.
Other than potential market-imposed limitations on liquidity, due, for example, to limited open interest in certain futures markets or to daily price fluctuation limits, which are inherent in the Series’ futures and forward trading, the Series’ assets are highly liquid and are expected to remain so. Accordingly, the Series expects to be able to liquidate all of its open positions or holdings quickly and at prevailing market prices, except in unusual circumstances. This generally permits the Trading Advisor to enter and exit markets, leverage and deleverage in accordance with its strategy. From its commencement of operations on March 16, 2007 through September 30, 2009, the Series experienced no meaningful periods of illiquidity in any of the markets in which it trades. For this period, the Series processed redemptions on a monthly basis. The Series incurred redemptions of $20,552,393 (16,205.77 units) and $1,120,232 (967.40 units) for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, of which $57,598 from redemptions in 2009 remained unpaid and is included in redemptions payable to investors in the Series (“Members”) at September 30, 2009.
Capital Resources
The Series’ Units may be offered for sale as of the beginning, and may be redeemed as of the end, of each month.
The amount of capital raised for the Series is not expected to have a significant impact on its operations, as the Series has no significant capital expenditure or working capital requirements other than for monies to pay trading losses, brokerage commissions and charges. Within broad ranges of capitalization, the Series’ trading positions should increase or decrease in approximate proportion to the size of the Series.
The Series raises additional capital only through the sale of Units and capital is increased through trading profits (if any). The Series does not maintain any sources of financing other than that made available by the Clearing Broker to fund foreign currency settlements for those instruments transacted and settled in foreign currencies.
The Series may trade a variety of futures-related instruments, including (but not limited to) instruments related to bonds, currencies, interest rates, equities, equity indices, debt securities and selected physical commodities and derivatives. Risk arises from changes in the value of these contracts (market risk) and the potential inability of counterparties or brokers to perform under the terms of their contracts (credit risk). Market risk is generally to be measured by the notional amount of the futures positions acquired and the volatility of the markets traded. The credit risk from counterparty non-performance associated with these instruments is the net unrealized gain, if any, on these positions plus the value of the margin or collateral held by the counterparty. The risks associated with exchange-traded contracts are generally perceived to be less than those associated with over-the-counter transactions, because exchanges typically (but not universally) provide clearinghouse arrangements in which the collective credit (in some cases limited in amount, in some cases not) of the members of the exchange is pledged to support the financial integrity of the exchange. In over-the-counter transactions, on the other hand, traders must rely solely on the credit of their respective individual counterparties. Margins that may be subject to loss in the event of a default are generally required in exchange trading, and counterparties may require margin or collateral in the over-the-counter markets.
The Trading Advisor attempts to control risk in all aspects of the investment process, although there can be no assurance that it will, in fact, succeed in doing so. The Series is designed to take market risk on a systematic basis across a broad portfolio of liquid markets and to monitor and minimize exposure to all other risks, such as credit and liquidity risks. The trading systems used include various proprietary systems that are designed to control the risk taken at the individual position level as well as at the overall portfolio level. The Trading Advisor monitors and controls market risk within limits at both sector and portfolio levels.
The financial instruments traded by the Series contain varying degrees of off-balance sheet risk whereby changes in the market values of the futures and forward contracts or the Series’ satisfaction of the obligations may exceed the amount recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition of the Series.
Due to the nature of the Series’ business, substantially all its assets are represented by cash and U.S. government obligations, while the Series maintains its market exposure through open futures and forward contract positions.
The Series’ futures contracts are settled by offset and are generally cleared by the exchange clearinghouse function. Open futures positions are marked to market each trading day and the Series’ trading accounts are debited or credited accordingly. The Series’ spot and forward currency transactions conducted in the interbank market are settled by netting offsetting positions or payment obligations and by cash payments.
The value of the Series’ cash and financial instruments is not materially affected by inflation. Changes in interest rates, which are often associated with inflation, could cause the value of certain of the Series’ debt securities to decline, but only to a limited extent. More importantly, changes in interest rates could cause periods of strong up or down market price trends, during which the Series’ profit potential generally increases. However, inflation can also give rise to markets which have numerous short price trends followed by rapid reversals, in which the Series is likely to suffer losses.
Results of Operations
General
The Trading Advisor manages the assets of the Series pursuant to its Aspect Diversified Program (the “Program”). The Program is a broadly diversified global trading system that deploys multiple trading strategies that seek to identify and exploit directional moves in market behavior of a broad range of global financial instruments including but not limited to bonds, currencies, interest rates, equities, equity indices, debt securities and selected physical commodities and derivatives. By maintaining comparatively small exposure to any individual market, the aim is to achieve real diversification. The Program seeks to maintain positions in a variety of markets. Market concentration varies according to the strength of signals, volatility and liquidity, among other factors.
The Program employs a fully automated system to collect, process and analyze market data (including current and historical price data) and identify and exploit directional moves, or “trends”, in market behavior, trading across a variety of frequencies to exploit trends over a range of timescales. Positions are taken according to the aggregate signal and are adjusted to control risk.
The investment objective of the Program is to generate significant medium term capital growth independent of overall movements in traditional stock and bond markets within a rigorous risk management framework. This investment objective is intended to be achieved via the investment policy for the Program, which is to trade relevant asset classes applying the Program.
The core objectives of the Program are:
(i) to produce strong medium-term capital appreciation (“medium-term” generally referring to a three- to five-year time period);
(ii) to seek and exploit profit opportunities in both rising and falling markets using a disciplined quantitative investment process;
(iii) to seek non-correlation with the broad bond and stock markets and thereby play a valuable role in enhancing the risk/return profile of traditional investment portfolios; and
(iv) to minimize risk by operating in a diverse range of markets and sectors using a consistent investment process that adheres to pre-defined and monitored risk limits and determines market exposure in accordance with factors including (but not limited to) market correlation, volatility, liquidity and the cost of market access.
The Series’ account traded pursuant to the Program may experience returns that differ from other Trading Advisor accounts traded pursuant to the same Program due to, among other factors: (a) regulatory constraints on the ability of the Series to have exposure to certain contracts; (b) the Series’ selection of the Clearing Broker, which affects access to markets; (c) the effect of intra-month adjustments to the trading level of the account; (d) the manner in which the account’s cash reserves are invested; (e) the size of the Series’ account; (f) the Series’ functional currency, the U.S. Dollar; and (g) the particular futures contracts traded by the Series’ account. Additionally, certain markets may not be liquid enough to be traded for the Series’ account.
The investment approach that underpins the Program is proprietary. The Trading Advisor’s investment philosophy has remained consistent and involves a scientific approach to investment driven by the Trading Advisor’s belief that market behavior is not random but rather contains statistically measurable and predictable price movements and anomalies which, through sophisticated quantitative research and a disciplined approach, can be successfully identified and exploited for profit.
The Program is proprietary and highly confidential to the Trading Advisor. Accordingly, the description of the Program as contained herein is general only and is not intended to be exhaustive or absolute.
The Trading Advisor was established in 1997 by Anthony Todd, Dr. Eugene Lambert, Martin Lueck and Michael Adam, all of whom were involved in the development of AHL (Adam, Harding and Lueck), now part of Man Group plc, where they advanced the application of systematic quantitative techniques in managed futures investment. The Trading Advisor has grown to a team of over 100 employees and manages approximately $4.3 billion as of December 31, 2008. The Trading Advisor is a limited liability company registered in England and Wales, which is regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Services Authority. Since October 1999, the Trading Advisor has been a member of NFA and has been registered with the CFTC as a commodity trading advisor and commodity pool operator. The Trading Advisor has also been registered with NFA as a principal of its commodity trading advisor subsidiary Aspect Capital Inc. since August 2004. The Trading Advisor has also been registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser since October 2003.
The Series commenced trading activities March 16, 2007 with an initial capitalization of $7,760,620, of which $5,000,000 was contributed by the Trading Advisor as seed capital. On December 31, 2007 the Trading Advisor redeemed the full value of its seed capital. As of September 30, 2009, the Series had a capitalization of $65,446,804 based on the net asset value for all other purposes, as defined.
Performance Summary
Quarter ending September 30, 2009
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending September 30, 2009, and not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply may have occurred at or about the same time. The Series’ past results are not necessarily indicative of future results.
The Series ended September 30, 2009 with a year-to-date negative return of 12.70%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes (see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – (3) Related Party Transactions”).
July 1, 2009 to September 30, 2009
The Series posted a 2.69% return for the month ending September 30, 2009, a gain of 4.62% and a loss of 12.70% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and an overall gain of 17.29% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 (not annualized).
September performance was driven by the financials and metals sectors as the Series posted a 2.69% return. Global stock markets started the month on the decline following some poor economic data from the U.S. and the UK. Sentiment later recovered and stock markets rallied following more positive economic releases, increased merger activity and comments by the European Central Bank (“ECB”) indicating that the worst of the recession is over. However, the ECB also cautioned that it was too early to unwind monetary stimuli, which resulted in fixed income markets, particularly short-term rates, rallying as the likelihood of interest rate hikes was discounted. The currencies sector was the best performer as the U.S. Dollar sold off and the Dollar Index hit its lowest levels since September 2008. In commodities, the price of natural gas provided most of the volatility within the sector. Front month natural gas contracts eventually rallied by over 30% from 7-year lows following bullish inventory data and short covering. Consequently, the Series’ short position in this sector was its worst performer. The contribution from the metals sector was also volatile over the course of the month but finished positively. Precious metals drove strong gains within this sector with strong gains on long positions in gold and silver, which both rallied on the back of U.S. Dollar weakness.
The Series posted a 3.64% return for the month ending August 31, 2009, a 15.00% loss for the year to date as of August 31, 2009 and an overall gain of 14.22% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to August 31, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series posted a 3.64% return for the month ending August 31, 2009, with all sectors contributing positively. Performance in August was led by commodities, with agriculturals finishing as the best sector. The long positions in sugar provided much of the profit, as global supplies and crop forecasts declined due to adverse weather conditions in Brazil and India, pushing prices to 28-year highs. In contrast, natural gas profits came on the short side as inventory build-ups pushed prices down to 7-year lows, making it the Series’ second best market this month. Positions elsewhere in the energies sector were less successful however, as the oil price became more range-bound. In metals, the continued rally in copper provided profit opportunities. In financial markets, the recovery of risk appetite continued with global stock markets finishing higher for another month. The Series’ long stock indices exposure was able to take advantage of this strengthening trend. Furthermore, major central bankers reiterated that interest rate increases are unlikely in the near-term, causing the prices of short-term interest rate futures to rise and to result in positive performance from the Series’ positions in that sector. In particular, the Bank of England’s bearish tones on the UK economy boosted the short sterling strip.
The Series posted a 1.70% loss for the month ending July 31, 2009, a 17.98% loss for the year to date as of July 31, 2009 and an overall gain of 10.21% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to July 31, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series’ 1.70% loss in July was driven by a sell-off in the global equity markets at the start of the month in response to poor economic data in the U.S. In addition, the ECB announced that it would keep interest rates on hold at their current levels resulting in a rally in fixed income markets. This benefited the Series’ long exposure to
European bonds and short-term rates. However, investor sentiment changed mid-month as corporate earnings announcements across a broad range of industries exceeded analysts’ forecasts and drove stock markets higher. Increased risk appetite in turn resulted in commodities markets rallying, the U.S. Dollar weakening and fixed income markets selling off. Consequently, the Series saw a reduction of the previous gains made in fixed income and its net short U.S. Dollar exposure also saw losses. The agricultural sector was the worst performer in July; the Series’ long positions in the soy complex suffered as grains sold off early in the month due to favorable weather conditions in the U.S. In energies, short positions in natural gas continued to be profitable as mild weather and inventory build-ups pushed prices downwards. However, these gains were more than offset by losses on short positions across most of the other energy markets.
Quarter ending June 30, 2009
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending June 30, 2009, and not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply may have occurred at or about the same time.
The Series ended June 30, 2009 with a year-to-date negative return of 16.56%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes (see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – (3) Related Party Transactions”).
April 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009
The Series posted an 8.30% loss for the month ending June 30, 2009, a 14.02% loss for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and an overall gain of 12.12% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 (not annualized).
June was a difficult month for the Series, which posted an 8.03% loss for the month. The majority of the losses occurred early in the month and were driven by positions in the interest rates and metals sectors. Rallying equity and commodities markets continued to boost investor optimism and also increased speculation that central banks would need to increase short-term rates to counteract inflationary pressures. Consequently, the U.S. Dollar, which had been weakening since the Fed announced its quantitative easing policies in March, regained some of its strength and the recent trend in short-term interest rates reversed. Eurodollar, Short Sterling and Euribor all saw their most aggressive selling since October 2008. These sharp moves resulted in losses on the Series’ long positions in these contracts. In response, the Series reduced its positions as volatility increased. Performance in other sectors also reflected the difficult market environment for medium-term trend-following strategies. The bonds sector saw some losses with the Series’ short exposure to Japanese Government bonds suffering from the weak outlook for the Japanese economy. In currencies, the losses in U.S. Dollar positions were compounded by losses in the Swiss Franc and Japanese Yen; these were partially offset by gains on the Series’ short Euro exposure. Commodities markets meanwhile rallied during the month. This benefited the Series’ long positions in agriculturals such as sugar and soymeal but resulted in losses on short positions in metals including aluminium.
The Series posted a 3.07% loss for the month of May 2009, a 9.00% loss for the year to date as of May 31, 2009 and an overall gain of 22.27% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to May 31, 2009 (not annualized).
In May, the Series posted a 3.07% loss. Performance was dominated by the energy sector, which saw sharp price movements against the Series' net short position. Positive economic releases continued to boost investor optimism and risk appetite, consequently global stock indices finished the month positively. The Series managed to capture this equity market strength, producing positive returns from most of the positions. Rallying equity markets were accompanied by a sell-off in fixed income markets. This benefited the Series’ short positions in several bond contracts, most notably Japanese and Australian government bonds. The interest rates sector also contributed positively to performance; increased liquidity within the financial sector helped short-term interest rate contracts to rally, particularly Euribor which was the second best contract for the month. Short Sterling also rallied following the latest UK inflation report however increased risk appetite resulted in a sell-off in the U.S. Dollar, which hit 2009 lows towards the end of the month and inflicted losses in the currencies sector. This weakening in the U.S. Dollar
coupled with the improving global outlook prompted most commodity markets to rally. Prices of energies were further boosted by bullish inventory data, particularly in natural gas.
The Series posted a 3.26% loss for the month of April 2009, a 6.12% loss for the year to date as of April 30, 2009 and an overall gain of 26.14% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to April 30, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series posted a loss of 3.26% in April. Performance suffered early in the month as the trend reversals seen in late March continued, most notably in currencies, and also in interest rate markets following the ECB’s surprise decision to only reduce rates by 25 basis points. The interest rates sector recovered well to finish the month flat, but the currencies sector was unable to match this: both the Sterling and the Canadian Dollar recovered following recent weakness and the resulting losses outweighed the profits seen from the strengthening South African Rand. In commodities, the Series’ positions in the energies and agriculturals sectors recorded small profits driven by short positions in natural gas, which reached multi-year lows, and in lean hogs following concerns over swine flu. Metals markets were less successful however; the Series’ short positions in aluminium and nickel suffered as markets anticipated increased demand as equities rallied following the G20 summit. Most equity index positions also suffered from this rally continuing in early April, but positions responded and small profits were seen in the MSCI Taiwan Index and in European sector indices.
Quarter ending March 31, 2009
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending March 31, 2009, and these results are not necessarily indicative of future results. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply may have occurred at or about the same time.
The Series ended March 31, 2009 with a year-to-date loss of 2.95%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes (see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – (3) Related Party Transactions”).
January 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009
The Series posted a 3.62% loss for the month ending March 31, 2009, a 2.95% loss for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and an overall gain of 30.40% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to March 31, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series experienced challenging market conditions in March, posting a 3.62% loss for the month. Although most global stock markets remain in negative territory year to date, many saw a strong rally during March, to the detriment of the Series’ short positions. Investor risk appetite appeared to return following some positive corporate earnings news and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s revamped toxic asset repurchase and quantitative easing plans. The S&P 500 had its strongest monthly rally since October 2002, recovering from a 12-year low on March 9, 2009.�� The Federal Reserve’s plan to repurchase debt caused U.S. fixed income markets to rally. U.S. interest rate markets and European fixed income markets followed and the Series’ long positions performed positively in fixed income sectors. In currencies, the announcement of the Treasury’s new plans resulted in the U.S. Dollar weakening against major currencies and consequently a give-back of some of the profits the Series had generated on the back of U.S. Dollar strength since the third quarter of 2008. U.S. Dollar weakness and revised inflationary expectations caused commodities markets to rally to the detriment of the Series’ short positions. This was seen particularly in metals, where strategic buying by China caused the prices of base metals to rally. Precious metals on the other hand declined as investors sold out of safe haven assets, contrary to the Series’ long positioning. Energy markets followed stock markets' direction, with crude oil prices rising over 10% this month, despite OPEC announcing that it would not cut output.
The Series posted a 0.50% gain for the month of February 2009, a 0.70% gain for the year to date as of February 28, 2009 and an overall gain of 35.30% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to February 28, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series performed positively during February 2009, posting an monthly return of 0.50%. In comparison with prior months, returns were relatively muted overall. The Series however still made profits in the majority of sectors. The currencies sector had an eventful month and provided the most volatility; profits were seen from weakness in the Swedish Krona and Canadian Dollar which offset losses in the Yen against the U.S. Dollar. The Swedish Krona fell to a record low against the Euro after an unexpectedly large rate-cut and the worst Swedish GDP figures since 1940. The best performing sectors overall were stock indices and energies. Global equity markets continued their poor start to the year amid further weak economic data and problems for financial companies, which benefited the Series’ small short exposure. In energies, it was short positions in natural gas and products of crude oil which drove performance in a choppy month for crude itself. Agricultural commodities were also profitable, despite some losses from a sharp reversal in cocoa markets. Fixed income markets were more mixed. The longer end of the curve was generally profitable, with the exception of Australian bonds, however performance was dragged down by losses in shorter-dated Australian bills and especially in short Sterling, as quantitative easing started to seem more likely than further rate-cuts in the UK.
The Series posted a 0.20% gain for the month of January 2009 and an overall gain of 34.63% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to January 31, 2009 (not annualized).
The Series performed positively during January 2009, posting a monthly return of 0.20%. The muted contributions from several sectors reflect the systematic reduction in exposures resulting from the increased market volatility experienced in the 4th quarter of 2008. Stock markets started 2009 with renewed investor optimism in response to President Obama’s stimulus plan. The optimism was short-lived however, and stock markets declined as economic and earnings data continued to show a negative outlook. Bonds also sold off and yields rose as governments continued to develop rescue plans and packages to boost growth. This was particularly seen in European bond markets with UK Gilts and Bunds being two of the worst contracts this month. Conversely, the Series’ long positions in interest rates benefitted from the rate cut decisions of the Bank of England and the ECB. In currencies, the U.S. Dollar continued strengthening as a result of risk aversion and the increasingly negative outlook for Europe, which continues to deal with crises in the financial sector; this effect continued to be particularly seen in the weakness of Sterling to the benefit of the Series’ short exposure. The energies sector was the best performer this month, driven by gains from crude oil and natural gas, whose prices declined on the back of bearish inventory data. Similarly, industrial metals also declined due to stock build-ups, benefiting the Series’ short positions.
Quarter ending September 30, 2008
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending September 30, 2008, not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply occurred at or about the same time. The Series’ past performance is not necessarily indicative of how it will perform in the future.
The Series ended September 30, 2008 with a year-to-date positive return of 3.12%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes
July 1, 2008 to September 30, 2008
The Series posted a 3.58% gain for the month ended September 30, 2008, a 3.12% gain for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, and a 12.48% for the Series gain from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to September 30, 2008 (not annualized).
The Series posted a 3.58% gain in September. Global markets were particularly volatile as a number of unexpected events had dramatic effects on overall market sentiment. Increasing risk aversion through the course of the year was reflected in the Series’ positioning of long bonds and short stock indices for the whole of the month and was the main performance driver. However, as volatility of markets increased, position sizes in many markets were reduced substantially. The Series’ positioning generated profits at the beginning of the month but then reversed somewhat on the 19th as market participants returned to riskier assets as expectation of a U.S. government-led recovery increased. Continued uncertainty through the end of the month, particularly with regard to the likely nature of government action, resulted in further profit generation toward the end of the month. In currencies, there were two main themes:
the U.S. Dollar continued to strengthen as demand for Dollar funding increased amid the reduced liquidity in money markets, and emerging markets currencies declined as a result of risk aversion. In metals, recessionary concerns and stock build-ups continued to place downward pressure on industrial metals, especially aluminum, the second best contract this month.
The Series posted a 4.45% loss for the month ended August 31, 2008, a 0.44% loss for the year to date as of August 31, 2008, and an 8.60% gain for the Series from the period from inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to August 31, 2008 (not annualized).
The currencies sector was the worst performer as a result of losses from the Series’ short U.S. Dollar exposure, which had generated profits up until July of this year, and the Series overall posted a 4.45% loss in August. The relative strength of the U.S. Dollar was driven by positive economic news in the U.S. and a change in interest rate expectations in Australia and Europe. The latter resulted in the largest daily decline in the Euro against the U.S. Dollar in almost 8 years. However, the Series’ long U.S. Dollar position against the British pound profited from the U.S. Dollar’s rally and was the best performing instrument. The portfolio’s long positioning in the bonds sector capitalized on these changing interest rate expectations; profits were seen in U.S. and Australian bond positions and particularly in Japanese positions following the Bank of Japan’s surprise decision to hold rates. In the commodities sector, energy prices continued to fall on the back of a strengthening U.S. Dollar, despite a brief rally due to concerns that hurricanes in the U.S. would disrupt supply. The metals sector also contributed negatively, driven by falling precious metal prices. Short positions in base metals offset some of these losses as prices continued to fall due to negative industrial outlook and rising metal stocks. In agriculturals, grain prices continued to recede from recent highs and the Series further reduced long positions.
The Series posted a 9.23% loss for the month ended July 31, 2008, a 4.20% gain for the year to date as of July 31, 2008, and a 13.66% gain for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to July 31, 2008 (not annualized).
Sharp reversals occurred across a number of markets resulting in a give-back of some of the profits made earlier in the year, as the Series posted a 9.23% loss in July. The largest reversals were seen in energy and agricultural commodity prices: following strong rises in June, during the course of July natural gas prices fell by over 30% and corn prices fell by 18%. Energies and agriculturals were the Series’ two worst performing sectors. Within the financials sectors, the Series’ fixed income positions were undermined as more stable equity markets and stronger than expected inflation data put downward pressure on U.S. bond prices where the Series maintained long exposure. Losses were also seen in European bond markets following the European Central Bank’s announcement that rates are likely to be maintained at current levels. The returns from the Series’ other sectors were muted. In currencies, the Series’ performance was mildly positive owing to a lack of overall direction in the foreign exchange markets during the month. The metals sector had a slightly negative impact on the Series’ return.
Quarter ending June 30, 2008
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending June 30, 2008, and these results are not necessarily indicative of future results. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply may have occurred at or about the same time.
The Series ended June 30, 2008 with a year-to-date positive return of 14.80%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes (see “Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – (4) Related Party Transactions”).
April 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008
The Series posted a 6.76% gain for the month of June 2008, a 14.80% gain for the six months ended June 30, 2008, and an overall gain of 25.22% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to June 30, 2008 (not annualized).
There were positive contributions overall from each sector within the Series, but performance was particularly driven by the agriculturals, energies and stock indices sectors. As the U.S. economy showed further signs of
weakening, global stock markets fell steadily to the benefit of the Series’ predominantly short stock indices positions. The fixed income sectors also started the month strong; short positions in British and European markets made profits following suggestions of rate increases at the European Central Bank press conference. However, this performance was not matched elsewhere in fixed income: the outlook for U.S. markets remained uncertain, and the Bank of Canada’s decision not to reduce interest rates made the Canadian Bankers’ Acceptance futures the Series’ worst performing market. Finally, commodities continued to be a strong area for the Series. Grain prices rocketed to record levels after poor weather affected U.S. crop forecasts, and the long position in natural gas was the best performer as energy prices continued to rally.
The Series posted a 3.51% gain for the month of May 2008, a 7.53% gain for the year to date as of May 31, 2008 and an overall gain of 17.29% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to May 31, 2008 (not annualized).
The energies sector was the main driver of performance throughout the month, as the oil complex continued its surge to all-time highs. Important influences included supply disruptions, bullish inventory data, long-term analyst forecasts and a weakening U.S. Dollar. The Series’ established long positions took advantage of these moves, with the largest profits coming from the reformulated gasoline contract. In other sectors the month started quietly, with small losses accumulating in the agriculturals and stock index sectors: many crop markets retreated from their recent highs causing some profit give-back, and global stock indices remained largely range-bound. However, through the middle of the month good profits were seen in currencies and short-term interest rates, as emerging market currencies made gains against the major currencies and interest-rate expectations became more hawkish in Europe and the United Kingdom. Finally, bonds and metals sectors both finished close to flat for the month, with each sector experiencing a mix of small, offsetting returns.
The Series posted a 5.92% loss for the month of April 2008, a 3.89% gain for the year to date as of April 30, 2008 and an overall gain of 13.32% for the Series from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to April 30, 2008 (not annualized).
Conditions in global equity and fixed income markets remained challenging for the Series throughout much of April 2008. Amid a mixture of robust U.S. economic data releases and earnings reports in non-financials stocks, global equity markets pushed higher during the month. Fixed income prices dropped in tandem with the equity market gains, with particularly sharp falls seen in Japanese government bonds and the Eurodollar in late April. These movements continued to go against the recent strong trends seen within some of these markets, hurting performance across the Series’ long exposure to fixed income and short positions in stock indices. Bonds incurred the most significant losses during the month. Elsewhere, currencies finished on a loss overall after the U.S. Dollar strengthened late in the month, particularly against the Euro and Swiss Franc. Compared to recent months, performance in commodities was relatively subdued: metals and agriculturals finished with marginal losses after key prices came off their recent highs; however, the long positions in energies finished strongly after crude oil advanced to reach new highs.
Quarter ending March 31, 2008
This performance description is a brief summary of how the Series performed during the quarter ending March 31, 2008, and these results are not necessarily indicative of future results. In addition, the general causes to which certain price movements are attributed may or may not in fact have caused such movements, but simply may have occurred at or about the same time.
The Series ended March 31, 2008 with a year-to-date positive return of 10.43%, based on the net asset value for all other purposes (see “Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – (4) Related Party Transactions”).
January 1, 2008 to March 31, 2008
The Series posted a 2.09% loss for the month of March 2008, a 10.43% gain for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and an overall gain of 20.45% from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to March 31, 2008 (not annualized).
After starting the month positive as trends in equities and commodities continued, the Series struggled in the final weeks of March with losses from positions in precious metals and agriculturals. Amid high volatility, these markets reversed sharply, causing long positions to give back some of their gains made earlier in the year. Short positions in stock indices took advantage of further market weakness, especially in Japan. Central bank action and improved conditions within the financials sector subsequently helped global equity markets to rally later in the month, but the Series’ short positions in stock indices still finished as the most profitable sector for the Series. Results in fixed income were mixed: bonds finished profitably overall with strong performance from the long exposure to Japanese government bonds; short-term interest rates finished down, however, with losses from the long positions in the Euro Interbank Offered Rate and short sterling. The currencies sector finished profitably as positions benefited from the continued depreciation of the U.S. Dollar against the Euro and Swiss Franc. The energies sector saw more mixed results, but strong performance in gas oil and heating oil ensured a net profit.
The Series posted a 7.85% gain for the month of February 2008, a 12.78% gain for the year to date as of February 29, 2008 and an overall gain of 23.02% from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to February 29, 2008 (not annualized).
Conditions within the equity and fixed income markets remained volatile as negative sentiment continued. Weak economic data pushed the U.S. equity markets lower in the month, while conditions in the credit markets offered little reprieve as credit spreads widened to record levels. Fixed income markets continued their recent rally; this was also true in many commodity markets. The agriculturals sector was the best performing sector, aided by robust gains from the Series’ long positions in soybeans, coffee and wheat. Long positions in oils and precious metals accounted for much of the gains seen in the energies and metals sectors. In fixed income, the most profitable contracts were the long positions in Eurodollar and the short positions in Australian Bills. Elsewhere, the short positions in stock indices finished positively; however, the mixed positions in stock sectors finished the month with a small aggregate loss. In currencies, the Euro/U.S. Dollar and U.S. Dollar/Swiss Franc pairs were the most profitable positions after the U.S. Dollar finished the month near record lows against several of the major currencies.
The Series posted a 4.57% gain for the month of January 2008 and an overall gain of 14.06% from the inception of trading on March 16, 2007 to January 31, 2008 (not annualized).
The Series performed well in January 2008. Data gathered early in the month suggesting a weak economy and the increasing likelihood of a U.S. recession was reflected in an increased level of risk aversion by many investors. This prompted the U.S. Federal Reserve to cut interest rates by a total of 1.25% during the month. The reduction in interest rates created some positive market sentiment, though this appeared short-lived as many equity markets posted their worst January performance since 1990. The Series was well placed to respond to this heightened risk aversion. Short positions in many equity indices and long positions in short-term interest rates were particularly profitable as were the long positions in bonds. After recent months which have witnessed higher volatility in foreign exchange markets, global currency markets were relatively subdued in January 2008. A small loss in the currency sector was compounded by a larger negative contribution from energies as the strength in oil prices seen at the end of last year reversed. However, the strong performance from agriculturals continued with gains being driven by long positions in corn and soybean.
Variables Affecting Performance
The principal variables that determine the net performance of the Series are gross profitability from the Series’ trading activity and interest income.
The Series’ assets are maintained at the Clearing Broker. On assets held in U.S. Dollars, the Clearing Broker credits the Series with interest at the prevailing Federal Funds Rate less 50 basis points per annum. In the case of non-U.S. Dollar instruments, the Clearing Broker lends to the Series all required non-U.S. currencies at a local short-term interest rate plus a spread of up to 100 basis points per annum (at current rates). For deposits held in non-U.S. currencies, the Clearing Broker credits the local short-term interest rate less a spread of up to 200 basis points per annum (at current rates).
The Series’ management, Sponsor’s and administrative fees and the sales commissions are a constant percentage of the Series’ net asset value for all other purposes. Brokerage commissions, which are not based on a percentage of
the Series’ net assets, are based on the volume of trades executed and cleared on behalf of the Series. Brokerage commissions are based on the actual number of contracts traded. The performance fees payable to the Trading Advisor are based on the new net trading profits, if any, generated by the Series, excluding interest income and after reduction for brokerage commissions and certain other fees and expenses.
Most of the instruments traded on behalf of the Series are highly liquid and can generally be closed out immediately, so that unrealized profits can generally be realized quickly if the relevant positions are closed out.
Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
The Series has no applicable off-balance sheet arrangements of the type described in Items 3.03(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.
Item 3: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Not applicable; the Series is a smaller reporting company.
Item 4T: Controls and Procedures
The Sponsor, with the participation of the Sponsor’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures with respect to the Series as of the end of the fiscal quarter for which this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is being filed, and, based on their evaluation, have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective. The Series changed administrators on January 1, 2009, which resulted in changes to the Sponsor’s internal control over financial reporting with respect to the Series. None of these changes had a material impact on the internal controls of the Series.
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1: Legal Proceedings
The Sponsor is not aware of any pending legal proceedings to which either the Series is a party or to which any of its assets are subject. In addition there are no pending material legal proceedings involving the Sponsor.
There are no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Series’ most recent Form 10-K filed on March 31, 2009.
Item 2: Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
(a) Not applicable; previously filed on Forms 8-K
(b) Not applicable.
(c) | Pursuant to the Platform’s Limited Liability Company Agreement and the Series’ Separate Series Agreement, Members may redeem their Units at the end of each calendar month at the then current month-end net asset value per Unit for all other purposes (i.e. including the amortization of organizational and initial offering costs). The redemption of Units has no impact on the value of Units that remain outstanding, and Units are not reissued once redeemed. The following table summarizes the redemptions by Members during the third quarter of 2009: |
Month | Units Redeemed | Redemption Date Net Asset Value per Unit for |
| | | All Other Purposes |
| | | |
July 31, 2009 | 18.94 | | 1,102.085 |
August 31, 2009 | 362.30 | | 1,142.154 |
September 30, 2009 | 49.11 | | 1,172.933 |
| | | |
Total | 430.35 | | |
| | | |
Item 3: Defaults Upon Senior Securities
(a) None.
(b) None.
Item 4: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
None.
Item 5: Other Information
(a) None.
(b) Not applicable.
The following exhibits are included herewith.
Exhibit Number | Description of Document |
**1.1 | Selling Agreement. |
*3.1 | Certificate of Formation of AlphaMetrix Managed Futures LLC. |
****4.1 | Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement |
****4.2 | Amended and Restated Separate Series Agreement for the Series. |
****10.1 | Advisory Agreement. |
****10.2 | Representation Letter. |
*10.4 | Form of Customer Agreement. |
**10.5 | Form of Subscription Agreement. |
***10.6 | Assignment Agreement |
****10.7 | General Assignment and Assumption Agreement |
*****21.1 | List of Subsidiaries |
31.1 | Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
31.2 | Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
32.1 | Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.2 | Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
* Incorporated by reference to the Series’ Form 10/A previously filed on November 2, 2006.
** Incorporated by reference to the Series’ Form 10/A previously filed on January 30, 2007.
*** Incorporated by reference to the Series’ Form 8-K previously filed on October 1, 2008.
**** Incorporated by reference to the Series’ Form 8-K previously filed on November 6, 2008.
***** Incorporated by reference to the Series’ Form 10-K previously filed on March 31, 2009.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on the 10th day of November, 2009.
Dated: November 10, 2009
ALPHAMETRIX MANAGED FUTURES LLC (ASPECT SERIES)
By: AlphaMetrix, LLC.
Sponsor
Name: Aleks Kins
Title: President and Chief Executive Officer