As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28 , 2019 |
| File No.: 333-230063 |
| File No.: 811-03599 |
U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION |
|
Washington, DC 20549 |
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| FORM N-14 |
| |
| REGISTRATION STATEMENT |
UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ☐ |
Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 ☒ |
Post-Effective Amendment No. ☐ |
(Check appropriate box or boxes) |
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| The Royce Fund |
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter) |
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| (212) 508-4500 |
(Area Code and Telephone Number) |
| 745 Fifth Avenue |
New York, New York 10151 |
Address of Principal Executive Offices: |
(Number, Street, City, State, Zip Code) |
| John E. Denneen, Esq. |
Secretary, The Royce Fund |
745 Fifth Avenue |
New York, New York 10151 |
Name and Address of Agent for Service: |
(Number and Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) |
| Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering: |
As soon as practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective |
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. |
| |
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
Title of the securities being registered: Shares of beneficial interest of (i) Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund; (ii) Royce Micro-Cap Fund; and (iii) Royce Opportunity Fund.
No filing fee is due because Registrant is relying on Section 24(f) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
April 1 , 2019
Dear Shareholders of:
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund
We are sending this information to you because you are a shareholder of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (“Small-Cap Leaders”) and/or Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (“Small/Mid-Cap Premier”). Shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders are being invited to vote on the proposed reorganization of that Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (“Pennsylvania Mutual”). Likewise, Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders are being invited to vote on a separate proposed reorganization of Small/Mid-Cap Premier into Pennsylvania Mutual. Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual is a series of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”).
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | each of Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier as a “Target Fund” |
| • | each proposed transaction as a “Reorganization” and |
| • | the fund resulting from either or both of the Reorganizations as the “Combined Fund.” |
A special meeting of the shareholders of each Target Fund is scheduled for May 28, 2019 (each, a “Meeting”) to consider and approve the proposed Reorganization for that Target Fund. If a Reorganization receives the required approval of the shareholders of the applicable Target Fund and is completed, shareholders of that Target Fund will become shareholders of Pennsylvania Mutual and will cease to own shares of that Target Fund and that Target Fund will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust. Please note that the Reorganizations are separate transactions. Only shareholders of the particular Target Fund will vote on the Reorganization involving that Target Fund. Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. Likewise, completion of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect, completion of the other Reorganization. This package contains information about each proposal and includes materials you will need to vote.
Proposed Reorganization of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund
In order to help Small-Cap Leaders shareholders vote on the proposed Reorganization, below is a short summary of the similarities and differences between those Funds and certain other factors to be considered by Small-Cap Leaders shareholders when voting on the Reorganization.
Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have the same investment objective; |
| • | use a bottom-up, small-cap core investment approach; |
| • | invest primarily in small-cap equity securities; |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in U.S. issuers; |
| • | have the same benchmark index; and |
| • | are subject to substantially similar investment policies and restrictions. |
Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are, however, different from one another in that Small-Cap Leaders normally invests in a limited number (generally up to 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders had 78 portfolio holdings while Pennsylvania Mutual had 269 portfolio holdings. In addition, the portfolio turnover rate for Small-Cap Leaders was significantly higher than that of Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 62% for Small-Cap Leaders and 35% for Pennsylvania Mutual).
Overall, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to substantially similar principal investment risks due to their common investment approaches and their focus on U.S. small-cap equity securities. However, Small-Cap Leaders’ investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk than Pennsylvania Mutual because Small-Cap Leaders may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small-Cap Leaders' higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
We note that Pennsylvania Mutual is subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee than Small-Cap Leaders and that Pennsylvania Mutual was much larger than Small-Cap Leaders in terms of net assets as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $1.58 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual versus approximate net assets of $55.2 million for Small-Cap Leaders). We further note, as set forth in more detail in the fee tables under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund Shareholders,” that both the annualized operating expense ratio of Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratio of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization were lower than the annualized expense ratio of Small-Cap Leaders.
Performance comparisons presented to the Board of Trustees of the Trust in connection with its consideration and approval of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization at a meeting held on December 13, 2018 illustrated that Pennsylvania Mutual had generally outperformed Small-Cap Leaders during various periods ended September 30, 2018. Detailed information regarding the investment performance of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the accompanying Joint Proxy Statement and Prospectus under the heading “Comparison of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Lauren A. Romeo serves as the sole portfolio manager for Small-Cap Leaders. Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager, with Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo managing the Fund with him. Messrs. Royce and Kaplan and Ms. Romeo are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen in managing Pennsylvania Mutual. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
We believe that completion of this Reorganization would give Small-Cap Leaders shareholders the opportunity to participate in a fund that: (i) has the same investment objective; (ii) uses a small-cap core investment approach; (iii) is subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee; and (iv) has a significantly larger asset base over which expenses may be spread. The Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved the Reorganization and recommends that Small-Cap Leaders shareholders vote “FOR” the related proposal. Although the Trustees have determined that the Reorganization is in the best interests of Small-Cap Leaders and its shareholders, the final decision rests with those shareholders.
Proposed Reorganization of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund
In order to help Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders vote on the proposed Reorganization, below is a short summary of the similarities and differences between those Funds and certain other factors to be considered by Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders when voting on the Reorganization.
Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have the same investment objective; |
| • | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; and |
| • | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions. |
Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual, however, differ from one another in certain ways. For example, these Funds focus on overlapping yet distinct market capitalization segments within the equity securities market. Pursuant to its investment policies, Small/Mid-Cap Premier must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in small- and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion. Pennsylvania Mutual, on the other hand, must normally invest at least 65% of its net assets in small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, these Funds have different benchmark indexes (i.e., the Russell 2500 Index is the primary benchmark index for Small/Mid-Cap Premier while the Russell 2000 Index is the benchmark index for Pennsylvania Mutual) and had meaningfully different geometric average market capitalizations as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximately $4.1 billion for Small/Mid-Cap Premier versus approximately $1.72 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual). Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.
Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are also different from one another in that Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Small/Mid-Cap Premier had 66 portfolio holdings while Pennsylvania Mutual had 269 portfolio holdings. In addition, the portfolio turnover rate for Small/Mid-Cap Premier was significantly higher than that of Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 69% for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and 35% for Pennsylvania Mutual). Finally, Pennsylvania Mutual invested a significantly higher percentage of its net assets in foreign securities than did Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., 10.7% for Pennsylvania Mutual and 2.8% for Small/Mid-Cap Premier).
Overall, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their bottom-up, core investment approaches and their focus on U.S. equity securities. However, the prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. As a result, an investment in Pennsylvania Mutual may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Small/Mid-Cap Premier because, relative to one another, Pennsylvania Mutual generally invests a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion while Small/Mid-Cap Premier generally invests a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s investment in a limited number of issuers may, however, involve more risk than Pennsylvania Mutual because Small/Mid-Cap Premier may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small/Mid-Cap Premier's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account. Finally, Pennsylvania Mutual may be more subject to foreign securities risk than Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the extent Pennsylvania Mutual invests, relative to Small/Mid-Cap Premier, a greater portion of its assets in foreign securities.
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We note that Pennsylvania Mutual was much larger than Small/Mid-Cap Premier in terms of net assets as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $1.58 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual versus approximate net assets of $155.1 million for Small/Mid-Cap Premier). The contractual investment advisory fee rates and asset breakpoint levels at which those fee rates are applied are different for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. A comparison of such rates and asset breakpoint levels illustrates that Small/Mid-Cap Premier is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on the first $100 million in average net assets, Pennsylvania Mutual is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on the next $3.9 billion in average net assets, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on additional average net assets over $4 billion. Accordingly, we note, based on the December 31, 2018 asset levels for Small/Mid-Cap Premier (i.e., approximate net assets of $155.1 million) and Pennsylvania Mutual (i.e., approximate net assets of $1.58 billion), that: (i) Pennsylvania Mutual would be subject to a lower effective investment advisory fee rate than Small/Mid-Cap Premier and (ii) the Combined Fund, assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, would be subject to a lower effective investment advisory fee rate than Small/Mid-Cap Premier. Detailed information regarding the contractual investment advisory fee rates and asset breakpoints for Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Investment Advisory Fee Rates for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.” We further note, as set forth in more detail in the fee tables under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund Shareholders,” that the annualized operating expense ratio of Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratio of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization are lower than the annualized expense ratio of Small/Mid-Cap Premier.
Performance comparisons presented to the Board of Trustees of the Trust in connection with its consideration and approval of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization at a meeting held on December 13, 2018 illustrated that Pennsylvania Mutual had generally outperformed Small/Mid-Cap Premier during various periods ended September 30, 2018. Detailed information regarding the investment performance of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the accompanying Joint Proxy Statement and Prospectus under the heading “Comparison of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Steven G. McBoyle serves as Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s sole portfolio manager. Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager, with Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo managing the Fund with him. Messrs. Royce and Kaplan and Ms. Romeo are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen in managing Pennsylvania Mutual. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. It is further expected that Mr. McBoyle will join the portfolio management group for Pennsylvania Mutual assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
We believe that completion of this Reorganization would give Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders the opportunity to participate in a fund that: (i) has the same investment objective; (ii) uses a bottom-up, core investment approach; (iii) is subject to a lower effective investment advisory fee at current asset levels; and (iv) has a significantly larger asset base over which expenses may be spread. The Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved the Reorganization and recommends that Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders vote “FOR” the related proposal. Although the Trustees have determined that the Reorganization is in the best interests of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and its shareholders, the final decision rests with those shareholders.
Conclusion
The enclosed materials explain these proposals in more detail and we encourage you to review them carefully. We hope that you will respond today to ensure that your shares will be represented at the relevant Meeting. You may authorize a proxy to vote your shares by using one of the methods below by following the instructions on your proxy card:
| • | By touch-tone telephone; |
| • | By internet; or |
| • | By completing and returning the enclosed proxy card in the postage-paid envelope. |
You may also vote in person at the relevant Meeting.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about either Reorganization.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our work. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.
| Sincerely, |
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| CHRISTOPHER D. CLARK |
| President of The Royce Fund |
Please vote now. Your vote is important. |
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, we urge you to indicate your voting instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it and return it promptly in the envelope provided, or record your voting instructions by touch-tone telephone or via the internet, no matter how large or small your holdings may be. If you submit a properly executed proxy but do not indicate how you wish your shares to be voted, your shares will be voted “FOR” the relevant proposal. |
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THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON MAY 28, 2019
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Special Meetings of Shareholders (each, a “Meeting” and together, the “Meetings”) of the following funds (each, a “Target Fund” and together, the “Target Funds”), will be held at the offices of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”), 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at the times indicated below:
Legal Name of Target Fund | Referred to Herein As | Meeting Time |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Small-Cap Leaders | 11:00 a.m. Eastern time |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Small/Mid-Cap Premier | 10:00 a.m. Eastern time |
Each Meeting will be held for the following purposes:
| 1. To approve a Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”), on behalf of each Target Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (“Pennsylvania Mutual”). As described in more detail in the accompanying Joint Proxy Statement and Prospectus, the Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the relevant Target Fund to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of that Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance to that Target Fund of shares of beneficial interest of Pennsylvania Mutual (the “Pennsylvania Mutual Shares”). The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by a Target Fund in a reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of that Target Fund that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by a Target Fund, on a pro rata basis, of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of the relevant Target Fund. Shareholders of a Target Fund would receive the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as they held in the relevant Target Fund immediately prior to such reorganization. A vote in favor of the Plan by shareholders of a Target Fund will constitute a vote in favor of the liquidation and termination of that Target Fund as a separate series of the Trust. |
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| 2. To transact such other business as may come before the relevant Meeting or any adjournment thereof. |
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has fixed the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those Target Fund shareholders entitled to vote at the relevant Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of a Target Fund at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the relevant Meeting or any adjournment thereof. A complete list of the Target Fund shareholders entitled to vote at the relevant Meeting will be available and open to the examination of any shareholder of that Target Fund for any purpose relevant to such Meeting during ordinary business hours from and after May 14, 2019, at the offices of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual is a separate series of the Trust. The reorganization transaction involving Small-Cap Leaders is separate from the transaction involving Small/Mid-Cap Premier. Only shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders will vote in connection with the reorganization transaction involving that Target Fund. Likewise, only shareholders of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will vote in connection with the reorganization transaction involving that Target Fund. Under the Plan, shareholder approval of one reorganization transaction is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other reorganization transaction. In addition, the consummation of one reorganization transaction is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other reorganization transaction. Target Fund shareholders should consider each proposal independently of the other proposal.
If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the reorganization transaction in respect of the Target Fund in which you own shares is completed, you will become a shareholder of Pennsylvania Mutual, you will no longer own shares of your Target Fund, and your Target Fund will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the reorganization transaction in respect of the Target Fund in which you own shares is otherwise not completed, the relevant Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of the Target Fund in which you own shares.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about either reorganization transaction. If you need assistance voting, please call Computershare, the proxy solicitor, toll-free at 1-866-209-8568.
IMPORTANT
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, please mark your instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it, and return it in the enclosed envelope (which requires no postage if mailed in the United States), even if you expect to be present at the relevant Meeting. You may also authorize a proxy to vote your shares via touch-tone telephone or the Internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient proxy authorization options. The accompanying proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, is revocable, and will not affect your right to vote in person in the event that you attend the relevant Meeting.
| By Order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
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| John E. Denneen |
| Secretary |
April 1 , 2019
JOINT PROXY STATEMENT
for
ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND
and
ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND,
EACH A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
and
PROSPECTUS
for
ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND,
A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
745 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York 10151
1-800-221-4268
Reorganization of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund
and
Reorganization of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund
This Joint Proxy Statement and Prospectus (this “Prospectus/Proxy Statement”) is furnished in connection with the Special Meetings of Shareholders (each, a “Meeting” and together, the “Meetings”) of the funds listed below (each, a “Target Fund” and together, the “Target Funds”). Each Target Fund is a separate series of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”). Shareholders of the relevant Target Fund will be asked at the Meeting to approve the Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”) in respect of that Target Fund. The proposal for Target Fund shareholders to consider and approve the Plan at the relevant Meeting is generically referred to as "Proposal No. 1" in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. As described in more detail herein, the Plan provides for the reorganization of each Target Fund into the acquiring fund listed below, which is also a series of the Trust.
Target Fund | Acquiring Fund | Name of Reorganization |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization |
The Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the relevant Target Fund to Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (“Pennsylvania Mutual”) in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of that Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance to that Target Fund of shares of beneficial interest of Pennsylvania Mutual (the “Pennsylvania Mutual Shares”). The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by a Target Fund in a reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of that Target Fund that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by a Target Fund, on a pro rata basis, of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of the relevant Target Fund. Target Fund shareholders would receive the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as they held in the relevant Target Fund immediately prior to such reorganization.
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement will first be sent to shareholders of the Target Funds on or about April 1 , 2019.
The Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is separate from the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. Only shareholders of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (“Small-Cap Leaders”) will vote in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. Likewise, only shareholders of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (“Small/Mid-Cap Premier”) will vote in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. Target Fund shareholders should consider each proposal independently of the other proposal.
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | each acquisition of substantially all of a Target Fund’s assets by Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the Target Fund’s liabilities and the issuance and distribution of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to the Target Fund and its shareholders individually as a “Reorganization” and together as the “Reorganizations;” |
| • | the fund resulting from either Reorganization or both of the Reorganizations as the “Combined Fund;” and |
| • | Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual individually as a “Fund” and collectively as the “Funds”. |
Under the Plan, shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization.
If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the corresponding Reorganization in respect of a Target Fund in which you own shares is completed, you will become a shareholder of Pennsylvania Mutual, you will no longer own shares of your Target Fund, and your Target Fund will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust. The Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Pennsylvania Mutual’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Pennsylvania Mutual’s investment advisory agreement upon completion of one or both of the Reorganizations. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the corresponding Reorganization in respect of a Target Fund in which you own shares is not otherwise completed, such Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of the Target Fund in which you own shares.
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the Reorganizations and has determined that each Reorganization is in the best interest of the applicable Target Fund and its shareholders. The Board has fixed the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those Target Fund shareholders entitled to vote at the relevant Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of a Target Fund at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the relevant Meeting or any adjournment thereof.
The Meetings will be held at the offices of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at the times indicated below:
Target Fund | Meeting Time |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | 11:00 a.m. Eastern time |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | 10:00 a.m. Eastern time |
Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), the investment adviser to each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual, has retained Computershare Fund Services, 250 Royall Street, Canton, MA 02021 (the “Solicitor”), to solicit proxies for the Meetings. If you need assistance voting, please call the Solicitor toll-free at 1-866-209-8568. The Solicitor is responsible for printing proxy cards, mailing proxy materials to Target Fund shareholders, soliciting broker-dealer firms, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, tabulating the returned proxies, and performing other proxy solicitation services. The estimated cost for these solicitation services is approximately $46,000. Such costs and all other fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganizations, including, without limitation, printing this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to a Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after a Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
In addition to solicitation through the mail, proxies may be solicited by representatives of the Trust and Royce Fund Services, LLC, each Fund’s distributor (“RFS”), without cost to the Funds. Such solicitation may be made by telephone, facsimile, or otherwise. It is anticipated that banks, broker-dealers, custodians, nominees, fiduciaries, and other financial institutions will be requested to forward proxy materials to beneficial owners and to obtain approval for the execution of proxies. Upon request, Royce will reimburse brokers, custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries for the reasonable expenses incurred by them in connection with forwarding solicitation material to the beneficial owners of Fund shares held of record by such persons.
This Prospectus/Proxy Statement is both a Prospectus for Pennsylvania Mutual and a Joint Proxy Statement for Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement sets forth concisely the information about each Reorganization and Pennsylvania Mutual that you should know before voting. You should review it carefully and retain it for future reference. The Funds are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and in accordance therewith, file reports and other information, including proxy materials and charter documents, with the SEC.
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The following document has been filed with the SEC, and is incorporated herein by reference into (legally forms a part of) this Prospectus/Proxy Statement:
| • | The Statement of Additional Information relating to this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and certain potential reorganization transactions involving other series of the Trust, dated April 1 , 2019 (the “Reorganization SAI”) (File Number 333-230063 ). |
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The following documents relating to the Funds have also been filed with the SEC: |
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| • | The Prospectus relating to each series of the Trust, including Pennsylvania Mutual, Small-Cap Leaders, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date; |
| • | The Statement of Additional Information relating to each series of the Trust, including Pennsylvania Mutual, Small-Cap Leaders, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date (the “SAI”); and |
| • | The Annual Report to Shareholders of each series of the Trust, including Pennsylvania Mutual, Small-Cap Leaders, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (the “Annual Report”). |
The documents listed above are available free of charge by calling Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268, or by writing to the Funds at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151. You also may view or obtain copies (at prescribed rates) of these documents from the SEC:
| In Person: By Mail: | | At the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549 Public Reference Section Office of Consumer Affairs and Information Services Securities and Exchange Commission 100 F Street, N.E. Washington, DC 20549 (duplicating fee required) |
| By E-mail: By Internet: | | publicinfo@sec.gov (duplicating fee required) www.sec.gov |
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank, and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other U.S. government agency. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the possible loss of principal.
——————————
The SEC has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense
——————————
The date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement is April 1 , 2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS | |
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FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND SHAREHOLDERS | 5 |
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PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND | 8 |
| |
SUMMARY OF SMALL-CAP LEADERS REORGANIZATION | 9 |
| |
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND SHAREHOLDERS | 13 |
| |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND | 19 |
| |
SUMMARY OF SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER REORGANIZATION | 20 |
| |
INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATIONS | 25 |
| |
COMPARISON OF ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND | 36 |
| |
COMPARISON OF ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND | 42 |
| |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS | 48 |
| |
ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION | 54 |
| |
RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES | 55 |
| |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS | 57 |
| |
OTHER BUSINESS | 62 |
| |
APPENDIX A – FORM OF PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND | A-1 |
| |
4
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND SHAREHOLDERS (INVESTMENT CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Investment Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations. The annualized expense ratios below for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that one or both of the Reorganizations, as applicable, occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Investment Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small- Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
|
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
Investment Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small- Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Management fees | 1.00% | 0.76% | 0.76% | 0.76% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Other expenses | 0.27% | 0.16% | 0.16% | 0.16% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.27% | 0.92% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.03)%** | (0.00)% | (0.00)% | (0.00)% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24%** | 0.92% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
| | | | |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
** Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Investment Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.24% through December 31, 2019. |
5
Investment Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Investment Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders, Pennsylvania Mutual, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
1 Year | $126 | $94 | $94 | $94 |
3 Years | $400 | $293 | $293 | $293 |
5 Years | $694 | $509 | $509 | $509 |
10 Years | $1,531 | $1,131 | $1,131 | $1,131 |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
6
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND SHAREHOLDERS (SERVICE CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations. The annualized expense ratios below for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Service Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that one or both of the Reorganizations, as applicable, occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Service Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small- Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
| | | | |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
Service Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small- Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Management fees | 1.00% | 0.76% | 0.76% | 0.76% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Other expenses | 0.37% | 0.29% | 0.28% | 0.22% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.62% | 1.30% | 1.29% | 1.23% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.13)%** | (0.00)% | (0.00)% | (0.00)% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.49%** | 1.30% | 1.29% | 1.23% |
| | | | |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
** Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Service Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.49% through December 31, 2019. |
7
Service Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders, Pennsylvania Mutual, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
1 Year | $152 | $132 | $131 | $125 |
3 Years | $498 | $412 | $409 | $390 |
5 Years | $869 | $713 | $708 | $676 |
10 Years | $1,911 | $1,568 | $1,556 | $1,489 |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR
ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND
Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in the fee tables or expense examples of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual set forth above, affect the performance of these Funds. The portfolio turnover rates for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 are shown below.
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
62% of the average value of its portfolio | 35% of the average value of its portfolio |
8
SUMMARY OF SMALL-CAP LEADERS REORGANIZATION
The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement relating to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization, including the form of Plan, a copy of which is attached as Appendix A hereto. You should read the more complete information in the rest of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
General Information Regarding Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the SEC as an open-end management investment company. Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual is organized as a separate series of the Trust. Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are “diversified” investment companies within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”). A “diversified” fund is a mutual fund that, with respect to 75% of the value of its total assets, may not: (i) have more than 5% of the value of its total assets invested in the securities of any one issuer and (ii) own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer.
Lauren A. Romeo serves as the sole portfolio manager for Small-Cap Leaders. Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager. Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo manage Pennsylvania Mutual with him. They are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
Upon completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization, the Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Pennsylvania Mutual’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Pennsylvania Mutual’s legal agreements.
Key Features of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) approved the Plan in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization and unanimously recommends that Small-Cap Leaders shareholders vote to approve the Plan. The Plan provides, among other things, for:
| • | the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Small-Cap Leaders to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance to Small-Cap Leaders of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares; |
| • | the pro rata distribution of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares by Small-Cap Leaders to its shareholders; |
| • | the liquidation of Small-Cap Leaders and its termination as a series of the Trust. |
The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares issued by Pennsylvania Mutual to Small-Cap Leaders as part of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the Small-Cap Leaders shares that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders will, in turn, distribute those Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by each Small-Cap Leaders shareholder as part of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization will be of the same class and will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Small-Cap Leaders shares immediately prior to such Reorganization. Please see “Information About the Reorganizations–Summary of the Terms of the Plan” for more detailed information regarding the Plan.
Completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is subject to the approval of Small-Cap Leaders shareholders as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Additional Voting Information–Required Vote” and the satisfaction of certain other conditions. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is completed, Small-Cap Leaders shareholders will become shareholders of Pennsylvania Mutual and will no longer own Small-Cap Leaders shares, and Small-Cap Leaders will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is not otherwise completed, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and Small-Cap Leaders shareholders will remain shareholders of that Fund.
Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
The Trustees unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. Please see “Information About the Reorganizations–Reasons for the Proposed Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization” for detailed information about the factors considered by the Board in approving the Plan with respect to Small-Cap Leaders and certain other information supporting approval of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
9
Summary of Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, and Benchmarks for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund
This section summarizes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and benchmarks for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual.
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Investment Objective | Long-term growth of capital | Long-term growth of capital |
Primary Investments | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion at the time of investment. | Normally, the Fund at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion. |
Investment Approach | The Fund generally invests in a limited number (generally up to 100) of issuers. Royce selects securities of “leading” companies—those that in its view are trading at attractive valuations that also have excellent business strengths, strong balance sheets, and/or improved prospects for growth, as well as those with the potential for improvement in cash flow levels and internal rates of return. | The Fund uses multiple investment disciplines in an effort to provide exposure to approaches that have historically tended to perform well in different market environments. These disciplines include investing in a “High Quality” approach—companies that Royce believes have competitive advantages and high returns on capital; a “Traditional Value” approach—companies that are currently out of favor, selling at what Royce deems to be low valuations; and a “Special Situations” approach—companies with complex structures that do not lend themselves to traditional valuation metrics, as well as other Royce approaches such as “Growth at a Reasonable Price” and “Deep Value.” The Fund’s portfolio managers generally focus on one or more of these approaches in managing segments of the Fund’s assets, while the Lead Portfolio Manager oversees investments across all segments. |
Number of Holdings | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 78 holdings. | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 269 holdings. |
Foreign Investments | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 11% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 10.7% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. |
Benchmark Index | Russell 2000 Index | Russell 2000 Index |
10
Overall, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have the same investment objective; |
| | |
| • | use a bottom-up, small-cap core investment approach; |
| | |
| • | invest primarily in small-cap equity securities; |
| | |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in U.S. issuers; |
| | |
| • | have the same benchmark index; |
| | |
| • | are subject to the same restrictions on their respective investments in foreign securities; and |
| | |
| • | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their |
| | foreign security holdings. |
| | |
However, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual differ from one another in that Small-Cap Leaders invested in a limited number of issuers as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., 78 holdings) while Pennsylvania Mutual had a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings as of such date (i.e., 269 holdings). In addition, the portfolio turnover rate for Small-Cap Leaders was significantly higher than that of Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 62% for Small-Cap Leaders and 35% for Pennsylvania Mutual).
Summary of Principal Investment Risks for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual
The principal investment risks associated with an investment in Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are identified in the table below. For detailed descriptions of these risks, please see “Comparison of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Overall, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to substantially similar principal investment risks due to their common investment approaches and their focus on U.S. small-cap equity securities. However, Small-Cap Leaders’ investment in a limited number of issuers may involve considerably more risk to investors than Pennsylvania Mutual’s more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because Small-Cap Leaders’ portfolio may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small-Cap Leaders' higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risk | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Market Risk | Yes | Yes |
Risk of Investing in Small-Cap Securities | Yes | Yes |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk | Yes | Yes |
No assurance can be given that shares of the Combined Fund will not lose value. As with any Fund, the value of the Combined Fund’s investments, and, therefore, the value of the Combined Fund’s shares, may fluctuate.
Primary U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization
The Reorganization is intended to qualify for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). It is expected that Small-Cap Leaders shareholders will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the exchange of all of their Small-Cap Leaders shares solely for shares of Pennsylvania Mutual, as described herein and in the Plan. In addition, in general, it is expected that Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the transactions contemplated by the Reorganization, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the taxable year of Small-Cap Leaders due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of certain assets, and any tax on any such gain would be borne by Small-Cap Leaders shareholders. Small-Cap Leaders does not expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. If Small-Cap Leaders were to sell investments in anticipation of the Reorganization, Small-Cap Leaders could generate capital gains for its shareholders, which would be taxable.
11
Purchase and Redemption Procedures, Fee Structures, and Exchange Rights
Investment Class and Service Class shares of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to identical purchase and redemption procedures and have identical exchange rights. Investment Class and Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders are, however, subject to a higher contractual investment advisory fee rate than the corresponding shares of Pennsylvania Mutual. Shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
Shareholder Voting for Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization
Only shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders will vote in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. The Board has set the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for determining those Small-Cap Leaders shareholders entitled to vote at the Small-Cap Leaders Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of Small-Cap Leaders shares at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at such Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders on the Record Date will be entitled one vote for each full Small-Cap Leaders share and a fractional vote for each Small-Cap Leaders fractional share that they hold, with no shares having cumulative voting rights.
Approval of the Plan in respect of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Small-Cap Leaders, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Small-Cap Leaders present at the relevant Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Small-Cap Leaders are present or represented by proxy at such Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Small-Cap Leaders.
All properly executed proxy cards received prior to the Small-Cap Leaders Meeting will be voted at such Meeting in accordance with the instructions marked thereon or otherwise as provided therein. Unless instructions to the contrary are marked, proxy cards will be voted “FOR” Proposal No. 1. You may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised by sending written instructions to the Secretary of the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 or by submitting a new proxy card with a later date. In addition, any shareholder attending the Small-Cap Leaders Meeting may vote in person, whether or not he or she has previously submitted a proxy card. The Board knows of no business other than that mentioned in Proposal No. 1 of the Notice of Special Meeting that will be presented for consideration at the Small-Cap Leaders Meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the Small-Cap Leaders Meeting or any adjournment thereof, it is the intention of the persons named on the enclosed proxy card to vote in accordance with their best judgment.
Shareholder approval of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should consider the proposal relating to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization independently of the proposal relating to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
12
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND SHAREHOLDERS (INVESTMENT CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Investment Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations. The annualized expense ratios below for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that one or both of the Reorganizations, as applicable, occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Investment Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Annual Trustee’s Fee–applies only to GiftShare Accounts | $50** | N/A** | $50** | $50** |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
|
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Investment Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier may be held in GiftShare Accounts. Pennsylvania Mutual, however, does not offer GiftShare Accounts as of the date hereof. Each GiftShare Account that holds Investment Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will receive the relevant number of Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund upon completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as contemplated under the Plan. In addition, the Trust Agreement governing such GiftShare Accounts will be amended, effective as of the completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, to provide for the investment of trust assets in the relevant shares of Pennsylvania Mutual rather than Small-Mid-Cap Premier. |
Investment Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Management fees | 0.85% | 0.76% | 0.76% | 0.76% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Other expenses | 0.17% | 0.16% | 0.16% | 0.16% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses | 1.02% | 0.92% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
|
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
13
Investment Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Investment Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
1 Year | $104** | $94 | $94** | $94** |
3 Years | $325** | $293 | $293** | $293** |
5 Years | $563** | $509 | $509** | $509** |
10 Years | $1,248** | $1,131 | $1,131** | $1,131** |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Exclusive of $50 Annual Trustee’s Fee for GiftShare Accounts. |
14
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND SHAREHOLDERS (SERVICE CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Service Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations. The annualized expense ratios below for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Service Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that one or both of the Reorganizations, as applicable, occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Service Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Annual Trustee’s Fee-applies only to GiftShare Accounts | $50** | N/A** | $50** | $50** |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
| | | | |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Service Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier may be held in GiftShare Accounts. Pennsylvania Mutual, however, does not offer GiftShare Accounts as of the date hereof. Each GiftShare Account that holds Service Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will receive the relevant number of Service Class shares of the Combined Fund upon completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as contemplated under the Plan. In addition, the Trust Agreement governing such GiftShare Accounts will be amended, effective as of the completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, to provide for the investment of trust assets in the relevant shares of Pennsylvania Mutual rather than Small-Mid-Cap Premier. |
Service Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Management fees | 0.85% | 0.76% | 0.76% | 0.76% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Other expenses | 0.21% | 0.29% | 0.21% | 0.22% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses | 1.31% | 1.30% | 1.22% | 1.23% |
| | | | |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
15
Service Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Service Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
1 Year | $133** | $132 | $124** | $125** |
3 Years | $415** | $412 | $387** | $390** |
5 Years | $718** | $713 | $670** | $676** |
10 Years | $1,579** | $1,568 | $1,477** | $1,489** |
* Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Exclusive of $50 Annual Trustee’s Fee for GiftShare Accounts. |
16
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND SHAREHOLDERS (CONSULTANT CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations. The annualized expense ratios below for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Consultant Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that one or both of the Reorganizations, as applicable, occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Consultant Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge on purchases held for less than 365 days (as a percentage of net asset value at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is less) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Annual Trustee’s Fee-applies only to GiftShare Accounts | $50** | N/A** | $50** | $50** |
| | | | |
* Small-Cap Leaders does not offer Consultant Class shares. Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier may be held in GiftShare Accounts. Pennsylvania Mutual, however, does not offer GiftShare Accounts as of the date hereof. Each GiftShare Account that holds Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will receive the relevant number of Consultant Class shares of the Combined Fund upon completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as contemplated under the Plan. In addition, the Trust Agreement governing such GiftShare Accounts will be amended, effective as of the completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, to provide for the investment of trust assets in the relevant shares of Pennsylvania Mutual rather than Small-Mid-Cap Premier. |
17
Consultant Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
Management fees | 0.85% | 0.76% | 0.76% | 0.76% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Other expenses | 0.39% | 0.17% | 0.17% | 0.17% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 2.24% | 1.93% | 1.93% | 1.93% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.15)%** | (0.00)% | (0.00)% | (0.00)% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 2.09%** | 1.93% | 1.93% | 1.93% |
| | | | |
* Small-Cap Leaders does not offer Consultant Class shares. Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Consultant Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 2.09% through December 31, 2019. |
Consultant Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to one or both of the Reorganizations based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations* |
1 Year | $212** | $196 | $196** | $196** |
3 Years | $686** | $606 | $606** | $606** |
5 Years | $1,186** | $1,042 | $1,042** | $1,042** |
10 Years | $2,563** | $2,254 | $2,254** | $2,254** |
* Small-Cap Leaders does not offer Consultant Class shares. Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** Exclusive of $50 Annual Trustee’s Fee for GiftShare Accounts. |
18
INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE RATES FOR
ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND
Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The annual contractual rates of these fees are set forth in the table below.
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
0.85% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.80% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.75% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.70% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $50,000,000 0.875% of the next $50,000,000 0.75% of any additional average net assets |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR
ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND
Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in the fee tables or expense examples of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual set forth above, affect the performance of these Funds. The portfolio turnover rates for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 are shown below.
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
69% of the average value of its portfolio | 35% of the average value of its portfolio |
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SUMMARY OF SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER REORGANIZATION
The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement relating to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, including the form of Plan, a copy of which is attached as Appendix A hereto. You should read the more complete information in the rest of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
General Information Regarding Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
As noted above, the Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the SEC as an open-end management investment company. Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual is organized as a separate series of the Trust. Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are “diversified” investment companies within the meaning of the 1940 Act. A “diversified” fund is a mutual fund that, with respect to 75% of the value of its total assets, may not: (i) have more than 5% of the value of its total assets invested in the securities of any one issuer and (ii) own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer.
Steven G. McBoyle serves as Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s sole portfolio manager. Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager. Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo manage Pennsylvania Mutual with him. They are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. It is further expected that Mr. McBoyle will join the portfolio management group for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
Upon completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, the Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Pennsylvania Mutual’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Pennsylvania Mutual’s legal agreements. In addition, the Trust Agreement governing such GiftShare Accounts will be amended, effective as of the completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, to provide for the investment of trust assets in the relevant shares of Pennsylvania Mutual rather than Small-Mid-Cap Premier.
Key Features of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization
The Board approved the Plan in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization and unanimously recommends that Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders vote to approve the Plan. The Plan provides, among other things, for:
| • | the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Small/Mid-Cap Premier to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance to Small/Mid-Cap Premier of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares; |
| • | the pro rata distribution of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares by Small/Mid-Cap Premier to its shareholders; |
| • | the liquidation of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and its termination as a series of the Trust. |
The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares issued by Pennsylvania Mutual to Small/Mid-Cap Premier as part of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier will, in turn, distribute those Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by each Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholder as part of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will be of the same class and will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares immediately prior to such Reorganization. Please see “Information About the Reorganizations-Summary of the Terms of the Plan” for more detailed information regarding the Plan.
Completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is subject to the approval of Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Additional Voting Information-Required Vote” and the satisfaction of certain other conditions. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is completed, Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders will become shareholders of Pennsylvania Mutual and will no longer own Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is not otherwise completed, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders will remain shareholders of that Fund.
Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the other Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the other Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
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The Trustees unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of Small/Mid-Cap Premier would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. Please see “Information About the Reorganizations-Reasons for the Proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization” for detailed information about the factors considered by the Board in approving the Plan with respect to Small/Mid-Cap Premier and certain other information supporting approval of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
Summary of Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, and Benchmarks for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
This section summarizes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and benchmarks for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual.
| Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Investment Objective | Long-term growth of capital | | Long-term growth of capital |
Primary Investments | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion. | | Normally, the Fund at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion. |
Investment Approach | The Fund generally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers. Royce looks for companies that it considers “premier”—those that it believes have sustainable, moat-like franchises, discernible competitive advantages, a history of prudent capital allocation, and opportunities to profitably reinvest excess cash flow. | | The Fund uses multiple investment disciplines in an effort to provide exposure to approaches that have historically tended to perform well in different market environments. These disciplines include investing in a “High Quality” approach—companies that Royce believes have competitive advantages and high returns on capital; a “Traditional Value” approach—companies that are currently out of favor, selling at what Royce deems to be low valuations; and a “Special Situations” approach—companies with complex structures that do not lend themselves to traditional valuation metrics, as well as other Royce approaches such as “Growth at a Reasonable Price” and “Deep Value.” The Fund’s portfolio managers generally focus on one or more of these approaches in managing segments of the Fund’s assets, while the Lead Portfolio Manager oversees investments across all segments. |
Number of Holdings | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 66 holdings. | | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 269 holdings. |
Foreign Investments | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 2.8% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. | | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 10.7% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. |
Benchmark Index(es) | Russell 2500 Index (Primary) Russell 2000 Index (Secondary) | | Russell 2000 Index |
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Overall, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have the same investment objective; |
| | |
| • | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| | |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
| | |
| • | are subject to the same restrictions on their respective investments in foreign securities; and |
| | |
| • | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are, however, different from one another in that:
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in small-cap and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion while Pennsylvania Mutual normally invests at least 65% of its nets assets in small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion; | | | |
| | | | | |
| • | The primary benchmark index for Small/Mid-Cap Premier is the Russell 2500 Index while the benchmark index for Pennsylvania Mutual is the Russell 2000 Index; | | | |
| | | | | |
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier had a significantly higher geometric average market capitalization than Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximately $4.1 billion for Small/Mid-Cap Premier compared to approximately $1.72 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual) (Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.) ; | | | |
| | | | | |
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings (e.g., Small/Mid-Cap Premier had 66 portfolio holdings as of December 31, 2018 while Pennsylvania Mutual had 269 portfolio holdings as of such date) ; | | | |
| | | | | |
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier had a significantly higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 69% for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and 35% for Pennsylvania Mutual); and | | | |
| | | | | |
| • | Pennsylvania Mutual invested a significantly higher percentage of its net assets in foreign securities than did Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., 10.7% for Pennsylvania Mutual and 2.8% for Small/Mid-Cap Premier). | | | |
Summary of Principal Investment Risks for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
The principal investment risks associated with an investment in Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are identified in the table below. For detailed descriptions of these risks, please see “Comparison of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Overall, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their similar investment strategies and their focus on U.S. equity securities. However, Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve considerably more risk to investors than Pennsylvania Mutual’s more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s portfolio may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small/Mid-Cap Premier's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risk | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Market Risk | Yes | Yes |
Risk of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk | Yes ** | Yes ** |
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. As a result, an investment in Pennsylvania Mutual may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the extent Pennsylvania Mutual invests, relative to Small/Mid-Cap Premier, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion while Small/Mid-Cap Premier invests, relative to Pennsylvania Mutual, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. |
** Foreign securities may involve political, economic, currency, and other risks not encountered in U.S. investments. Pennsylvania Mutual may be more subject to foreign securities risk than Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the extent Pennsylvania Mutual invests, relative to Small/Mid-Cap Premier, a greater portion of its assets in foreign securities. |
No assurance can be given that shares of the Combined Fund will not lose value. As with any Fund, the value of the Combined Fund’s investments, and, therefore, the value of the Combined Fund’s shares, may fluctuate.
22
Primary U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization
The Reorganization is intended to qualify for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under the Code. It is expected that Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the exchange of all of their Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares solely for shares of Pennsylvania Mutual, as described herein and in the Plan. In addition, in general, it is expected that Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the transactions contemplated by the Reorganization, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the taxable year of Small/Mid-Cap Premier due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of certain assets, and any tax on any such gain would be borne by Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders. Small/Mid-Cap Premier does not expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. If Small/Mid-Cap Premier were to sell investments in anticipation of the Reorganization, Small/Mid-Cap Premier could generate capital gains for its shareholders, which would be taxable.
Purchase and Redemption Procedures, Fee Structures, and Exchange Rights
Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to identical purchase and redemption procedures and have identical exchange rights. Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier are, however, subject to a higher effective investment advisory fee rate than the corresponding shares of Pennsylvania Mutual as of the date hereof. GiftShare Accounts which hold Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier immediately prior to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization and receive the corresponding shares of the Combined Fund upon completion of such Reorganization will remain subject to the same terms and conditions. Shareholders of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
As noted above, Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual held for less than 365 days generally are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% (the “CDSC”). For purposes of determining whether any CDSC is payable in connection with any disposition of the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that are issued as part of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, the holding period for the currently outstanding Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will be “tacked” to the holding period of such new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual. For example, assume an investor purchases Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier six months prior to the Closing Date for the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization and then redeems the Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual received as part of such Reorganization seven months after such Closing Date. Even though the investor held the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual for less than 365 days prior to redeeming them, no CDSC would be payable in connection with this redemption because the investor would be deemed to have held such new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual for more than 365 days due to the “tacking” of the six-month holding period of the Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the seven-month holding period of the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual.
Shareholder Voting for Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization
Only shareholders of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will vote in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The Board has set the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for determining those Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders entitled to vote at the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at such Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders on the Record Date will be entitled one vote for each full Small/Mid-Cap Premier share and a fractional vote for each Small/Mid-Cap Premier fractional share that they hold, with no shares having cumulative voting rights.
Approval of the Plan in respect of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Small/Mid-Cap Premier, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier present at the relevant Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier are present or represented by proxy at such Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier.
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All properly executed proxy cards received prior to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Meeting will be voted at such Meeting in accordance with the instructions marked thereon or otherwise as provided therein. Unless instructions to the contrary are marked, proxy cards will be voted “FOR” Proposal No. 1 . You may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised by sending written instructions to the Secretary of the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 or by submitting a new proxy card with a later date. In addition, any shareholder attending the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Meeting may vote in person, whether or not he or she has previously submitted a proxy card. The Board knows of no business other than that mentioned in Proposal No. 1 of the Notice of Special Meeting that will be presented for consideration at the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Meeting or any adjournment thereof, it is the intention of the persons named on the enclosed proxy card to vote in accordance with their best judgment.
Shareholder approval of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, shareholder approval of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. In addition, the consummation of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect in any way, the consummation of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should consider the proposal relating to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization independently of the proposal relating to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATIONS
To the extent any of the discussion below under this heading refers only to a single Reorganization, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall in all respects apply separately to each Reorganization and to Pennsylvania Mutual and the relevant Target Fund, as applicable.
General
As described in more detail below in this section under the sub-heading “Summary of the Terms of the Plan,” the Target Fund will transfer substantially all of its assets to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund and the issuance of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to the Target Fund. The date on which these transactions occur in connection with a Reorganization is referred to as the “Closing Date” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares issued to the Target Fund will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the outstanding shares of the Target Fund as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (referred to as the “Valuation Time”).
The distribution of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to Target Fund shareholders will be accomplished by opening new accounts on the books of Pennsylvania Mutual in the names of Target Fund shareholders and transferring to those shareholder accounts the relevant Pennsylvania Mutual Shares. Accordingly, as a result of a Reorganization, each Target Fund shareholder will receive shares of the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual that they hold for their Target Fund having an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Target Fund shares as of the Valuation Time. No sales charge, redemption fee, or other fee will be assessed to Target Fund shareholders in connection with their receipt of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as part of a Reorganization. The stock transfer books of the Target Fund will be permanently closed on the Closing Date. Upon the distribution of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares by the Target Fund to its shareholders, the Target Fund will be liquidated and terminated as a series of the Trust.
Each Reorganization is structured so that Pennsylvania Mutual will be the legal survivor in the relevant Reorganization, which means that the management and operation of the Combined Fund will be governed by Pennsylvania Mutual’s investment objective, principal investment policies and strategies, and legal agreements upon completion of such Reorganization. In addition, Pennsylvania Mutual will be the accounting survivor in each Reorganization, which means that the Combined Fund will carry on the performance and financial history of Pennsylvania Mutual upon completion of the relevant Reorganization.
Summary of the Terms of the Plan
Pursuant to the Plan, the Target Fund will, on the Closing Date, transfer substantially all of its assets to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange solely for Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to the Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund. The net asset value of the shares issued by Pennsylvania Mutual to the Target Fund will be equal, as of the Valuation Time, to the value of the assets of the Target Fund that were transferred to Pennsylvania Mutual, as determined in accordance with the Trust’s valuation procedures, net of the Target Fund liabilities assumed by Pennsylvania Mutual. In order to minimize any potential for undesirable U.S. federal income and excise tax consequences in connection with each Reorganization, the Target Fund will distribute to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains as of such date. The Target Fund expects to distribute the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders promptly after the Closing Date in connection with its liquidation. Thereafter, the Target Fund will be terminated as a separate series of the Trust.
Certain customary representations and warranties have been made in the Plan in respect of the capitalization, status, and conduct of business of each of the Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual. Unless waived in accordance with the Plan, the obligations of the parties to the Plan are conditioned upon, among other things:
| • | the approval of the Plan by the shareholders of the Target Fund in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act; |
| • | the absence of any rule, regulation, order, injunction or proceeding preventing or seeking to prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Plan; |
| • | the receipt of all necessary approvals, consents, registrations, and exemptions under federal, state and local laws; |
| • | the truth in all material respects, as of the Closing Date, of the representations and warranties of the parties and performance and compliance in all material respects with the parties’ agreements, obligations and covenants required by the Plan; |
| • | the effectiveness under applicable law of Pennsylvania Mutual’s registration statement on Form N-14, of which this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part and the absence of any related stop orders under the Securities Act of 1933; |
| • | the declaration of a dividend by the Target Fund to distribute to its shareholders all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains; |
| • | the receipt of an opinion of special Delaware counsel to the Trust regarding the issuance of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares under Delaware law; and |
| • | the receipt of an opinion of special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust relating to the tax-free nature of the Reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes (such opinion of counsel is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) or any court). |
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The Plan may be terminated or amended by the mutual consent of the parties before approval thereof by the shareholders of the Target Fund.
The Board recommends that Small-Cap Leaders shareholders should vote to approve the Plan, as it believes the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is in the best interests of Small-Cap Leaders as more fully described below under the sub-heading “Reasons for the Proposed Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.”
The Board also recommends that Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders should vote to approve the Plan, as it believes the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is in the best interests of Small/Mid-Cap Premier as more fully described below under the sub-heading “Reasons for the Proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.”
Estimated Fees and Expenses of the Reorganizations
Fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganizations are estimated to range from approximately $172,300 to $185,500 . However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to a Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders. Likewise, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after a Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
Legal Matters
Certain legal matters concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of each Reorganization will be passed on by Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust. Certain legal matters regarding the Plan and the issuance of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as part of each Reorganization under Delaware law will be passed on by Richards, Layton & Finger, special Delaware counsel to the Trust.
Reasons for the Proposed Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization
The Trustees of the Trust, including all of the Trustees of the Trust who are not “interested persons” of the Trust in respect of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual (collectively, the “Independent Trustees”), have unanimously determined that the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization would be in the best interests of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. The Board also concluded that the interests of the existing shareholders of each of these Funds would not be diluted as a result of consummation of the Plan.
At a Board meeting held on December 13, 2018, Royce noted to the Trustees that Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual:
| • | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | |
| • | are subject to substantially similar investment policies and restrictions; |
| | |
| • | employ substantially similar investment strategies in that both Funds: (i) utilize a bottom-up, small-cap core investment approach and (ii) invest primarily in the equity securities of U.S. companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion; |
| | |
| • | have the same benchmark index (i.e., the Russell 2000 Index); |
| | |
| • | had comparable geometric average market capitalizations as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximately $1.75 billion for Small-Cap Leaders and approximately $2.13 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual) (Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.) ; |
| | |
| • | held some of the same portfolio securities as of September 30, 2018; and |
| | |
| • | are subject to substantially similar principal investment risks. |
As a result of these similarities, the Board took note of Royce’s expectation that the securities held by Small-Cap Leaders will not be sold in significant amounts other than in the ordinary course of business prior to, or immediately after, the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. However, to the extent dispositions of securities held by Small-Cap Leaders are made, such dispositions will result in taxable gains or losses and transaction costs to Small-Cap Leaders (if the dispositions are made prior to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization) or to the Combined Fund (if the dispositions are made after the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization). Please see “Comparison of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement for more detailed information regarding the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and principal investment risks of these Funds.
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Royce also noted to the Trustees at such Board meeting that Small-Cap Leaders normally invests in a limited number (generally up to 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of September 30, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders had 77 portfolio holdings while Pennsylvania Mutual had 286 portfolio holdings. Royce also provided the Trustees with information indicating that Pennsylvania Mutual experienced lower volatility than Small-Cap Leaders as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended September 30, 2018 (i.e., second-lowest quintile ranking for Pennsylvania Mutual versus middle quintile ranking for Small-Cap Leaders compared to a universe of small-cap funds). Such trend of lower volatility for Pennsylvania Mutual compared to Small-Cap Leaders continued as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended December 31, 2018.
Royce further noted to the Trustees that Pennsylvania Mutual was much larger than Small-Cap Leaders in terms of net assets as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $2.11 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual versus approximate net assets of $78.8 million for Small-Cap Leaders). Accordingly, by reorganizing Small-Cap Leaders into Pennsylvania Mutual, it was noted by the Trustees that, as shareholders of the Combined Fund, former Small-Cap Leaders shareholders would enjoy a significantly larger asset base over which fund expenses could be spread and might benefit from any operating efficiencies or economies of scale that may be achieved by the Combined Fund. As of December 31, 2018, the approximate net assets of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small-Cap Leaders were $1.58 billion and $55.3 million, respectively.
Royce noted to the Trustees that Pennsylvania Mutual is subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee than Small-Cap Leaders. Information regarding the annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund Shareholders.” Such annualized expense ratios for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. Such pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund further assume that the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization became effective on December 31, 2018. Such information, which is summarized below for your reference, illustrates that the annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were lower than the corresponding annualized operating expense ratios of Small-Cap Leaders.
Summary Information Regarding Annual Fund Operating Expenses* |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund (Assumes Completion of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization) |
Investment Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.27% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
Service Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.62% | 1.30% | 1.29% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.49% | 1.30% | 1.29% |
* The summary information above is consistent with annual fund operating expense information provided by Royce to the Board at its December 13, 2018 meeting. The annualized expense ratios for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual provided by Royce to the Board were based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund provided by Royce to the Board further assumed that the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization became effective on September 30, 2018. |
Royce also provided the Trustees with information regarding the average annual total returns achieved by Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual for the three-month, nine-month, one-, three-, five-, ten-, and fifteen-year periods ended September 30, 2018. Such information illustrated that Pennsylvania Mutual outperformed Small-Cap Leaders during all of these periods. Detailed information regarding the investment performance achieved by each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Comparison of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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Royce also noted to the Trustees that fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). Royce further noted to the Trustees that neither Small-Cap Leaders nor Pennsylvania Mutual had any capital loss carryforwards as of September 30, 2018. Finally, Royce noted to the Trustees that it is a condition to the closing of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization that Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual receive an opinion of special tax counsel to the Trust substantially to the effect that the exchange of shares pursuant to the Plan would not result in a taxable gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes for Small-Cap Leaders or its shareholders.
The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, after considering the foregoing matters, unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. The determinations were made on the basis of each Trustee’s business judgment after consideration of all of the relevant factors taken as a whole, though individual Trustees may have placed different weight on various factors and assigned different degrees of materiality to various conclusions.
FOR THE REASONS DISCUSSED ABOVE, THE BOARD, ON BEHALF OF SMALL-CAP LEADERS,
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE PLAN
IN RESPECT OF THE SMALL-CAP LEADERS REORGANIZATION.
Reasons for the Proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization
The Trustees of the Trust, including all of the Trustees of the Trust who are not “interested persons” of the Trust in respect of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual (collectively, the “Independent Trustees”), have unanimously determined that the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization would be in the best interests of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The Board also concluded that the interests of the existing shareholders of each of these Funds would not be diluted as a result of consummation of the Plan.
At a Board meeting held on December 13, 2018, Royce noted to the Trustees that Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual:
| • | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | |
| • | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions; |
| | |
| • | employ similar investment strategies in that both Funds: (i) utilize a bottom-up, core investment approach and (ii) invest primarily in the equity securities of U.S. companies; |
| | |
| • | experienced similar volatility as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended September 30, 2018 (i.e., second-lowest quintile ranking for both Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier compared to a universe of small-cap funds); |
| | |
| • | held some of the same portfolio securities as of September 30, 2018; and |
| | |
| • | are subject to similar principal investment risks. |
Royce also noted to the Trustees at such Board meeting that:
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in small-cap and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion while Pennsylvania Mutual normally invests at least 65% of its nets assets in small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion; |
| | |
| • | The primary benchmark index for Small/Mid-Cap Premier is the Russell 2500 Index while the benchmark index for Pennsylvania Mutual is the Russell 2000 Index; |
| | |
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier had a significantly higher geometric average market capitalization than Pennsylvania Mutual as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximately $5.36 billion for Small/Mid-Cap Premier compared to approximately $ 2.13 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual) (Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.) ; |
| | |
| • | Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings (e.g., Small/Mid-Cap Premier had 67 portfolio holdings as of September 30, 2018 while Pennsylvania Mutual had 286 portfolio holdings as of such date) ; and |
| | |
| • | Pennsylvania Mutual invested a significantly higher percentage of its net assets in foreign securities than did Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., 9.8% for Pennsylvania Mutual and 3.6% for Small/Mid-Cap Premier). |
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Notwithstanding these differences, the Board took note of Royce’s expectation that the securities held by Small/Mid-Cap Premier will not be sold in significant amounts other than in the ordinary course of business prior to, or immediately after, the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. However, to the extent dispositions of securities held by Small/Mid-Cap Premier are made, such dispositions will result in taxable gains or losses and transaction costs to Small/Mid-Cap Premier (if the dispositions are made prior to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization) or to the Combined Fund (if the dispositions are made after the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization). Please see “Comparison of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement for more detailed information regarding the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and principal investment risks of these Funds.
Royce further noted to the Trustees that Pennsylvania Mutual was much larger than Small/Mid-Cap Premier in terms of net assets as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $2.11 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual versus approximate net assets of $190 million for Small/Mid-Cap Premier). Accordingly, by reorganizing Small/Mid-Cap Premier into Pennsylvania Mutual, it was noted by the Trustees that, as shareholders of the Combined Fund, former Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders would enjoy a significantly larger asset base over which fund expenses could be spread and might benefit from any operating efficiencies or economies of scale that may be achieved by the Combined Fund. As of December 31, 2018, the approximate net assets of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier were $1.58 billion and $155.1 million, respectively.
The contractual investment advisory fee rates and asset breakpoint levels at which those fee rates are applied are different for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The Trustees’ comparison of such rates and asset breakpoint levels illustrated that Small/Mid-Cap Premier is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on the first $100 million in average net assets, Pennsylvania Mutual is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on the next $3.9 billion in average net assets, and Small/Mid-Cap Premier is subject to lower investment advisory fee rates on additional average net assets over $4 billion. Accordingly, the Trustees noted, based on the September 30, 2018 asset levels for Small/Mid-Cap Premier (i.e., approximate net assets of $190 million) and Pennsylvania Mutual (i.e., approximate net assets of $2.11 billion), that: (i) Pennsylvania Mutual would be subject to a lower effective investment advisory fee rate than Small/Mid-Cap Premier and (ii) the Combined Fund, assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, would be subject to a lower effective investment advisory fee rate than Small/Mid-Cap Premier. Detailed information regarding the contractual investment advisory fee rates and asset breakpoints for Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Investment Advisory Fee Rates for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.”
Information regarding the annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund Shareholders.” Such annualized expense ratios for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. Such pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund further assume that the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization became effective on December 31, 2018. Such information, which is summarized below for your reference, illustrates that the annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of Pennsylvania Mutual and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were lower than the corresponding annualized operating expense ratios of Small/Mid-Cap Premier.
Summary Information Regarding Annual Fund Operating Expenses* |
| Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund (Assumes Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization) |
Investment Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses | 1.02% | 0.92% | 0.92% |
Service Class | | | |
Total annual Fund operating expenses | 1.31% | 1.30% | 1.22% |
Consultant Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 2.24% | 1.93% | 1.93% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 2.09% | 1.93% | 1.93% |
* The summary information above is consistent with annual fund operating expense information provided by Royce to the Board at its December 13, 2018 meeting. The annualized expense ratios for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual provided by Royce to the Board were based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund provided by Royce to the Board further assumed that the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization became effective on September 30, 2018. |
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Royce also provided the Trustees with information regarding the average annual total returns achieved by Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual for the three-month, nine-month, one-, three-, five-, ten-, fifteen-year, and twenty-year periods ended September 30, 2018. Such information illustrated that Pennsylvania Mutual outperformed Small/Mid-Cap Premier during all of these periods except the twenty-year period. Detailed information regarding the investment performance achieved by each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Comparison of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Royce also noted to the Trustees that fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). Royce further noted to the Trustees that neither Small/Mid-Cap Premier nor Pennsylvania Mutual had any capital loss carryforwards as of September 30, 2018. Finally, Royce noted to the Trustees that it is a condition to the closing of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization that Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual receive an opinion of special tax counsel to the Trust substantially to the effect that the exchange of shares pursuant to the Plan would not result in a taxable gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes for Small/Mid-Cap Premier or its shareholders.
The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, after considering the foregoing matters, unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The determinations were made on the basis of each Trustee’s business judgment after consideration of all of the relevant factors taken as a whole, though individual Trustees may have placed different weight on various factors and assigned different degrees of materiality to various conclusions.
FOR THE REASONS DISCUSSED ABOVE, THE BOARD, ON BEHALF OF SMALL/MID-CAP
PREMIER, UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE PLAN
IN RESPECT OF THE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER REORGANIZATION.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of each Reorganization
The following is a general summary of the material anticipated U.S. federal income tax consequences of each Reorganization. The discussion is based upon the Code, Treasury regulations, court decisions, published positions of the IRS and other applicable authorities, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations (possibly with retroactive effect). The discussion is limited to U.S. persons who hold Target Fund shares of as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary does not address all of the U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to a particular shareholder or to shareholders who may be subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws. No ruling has been or will be obtained from the IRS regarding any matter relating to either Reorganization. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax aspects described below. Shareholders must consult their own tax advisers as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of each Reorganization, as well as to the effects of state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
It is a condition to closing each Reorganization that the Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual receive an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust, dated as of the Closing Date, that the Reorganization will be a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that each of the Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual will be a “party to a reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code. As such a reorganization, the U.S. federal income tax consequences of each Reorganization can be summarized as follows:
| • | No gain or loss will be recognized by the Target Fund upon (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for the assumption by Pennsylvania Mutual of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund and shares of Pennsylvania Mutual or (ii) the distribution of Pennsylvania Mutual shares by the Target Fund to its shareholders in exchange for their Target Fund shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code; |
| • | No gain or loss will be recognized by Pennsylvania Mutual upon the receipt of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund solely in exchange for the issuance of Pennsylvania Mutual shares to the Target Fund and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund by Pennsylvania Mutual, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of the Target Fund; |
| • | The tax basis of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by Pennsylvania Mutual will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of the Target Fund immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of the Target Fund; |
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| • | The tax holding period of the assets of the Target Fund in the hands of Pennsylvania Mutual will include the Target Fund’s tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of the Target Fund’s taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to Pennsylvania Mutual; |
| • | Target Fund shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Target Fund shares solely for Pennsylvania Mutual shares as part of the Reorganization; |
| • | The tax basis of Pennsylvania Mutual shares received by Target Fund shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange; and |
| • | The tax holding period of Pennsylvania Mutual shares that Target Fund shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Target Fund shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange. |
The opinion of Sidley Austin LLP will be based on U.S. federal income tax law in effect on the Closing Date. In rendering its opinion, Sidley Austin LLP will also rely upon certain representations of the management of Pennsylvania Mutual and the Target Fund and assume, among other things, that the Reorganization will be consummated in accordance with the operative documents. An opinion of counsel is not binding on the IRS or any court.
The Trust intends that Pennsylvania Mutual continue to be taxed under the rules applicable to regulated investment companies as defined in Section 851 of the Code, which are the same rules currently applicable to Pennsylvania Mutual, Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and their respective shareholders.
Target Fund shareholders should note that, if necessary, in accordance with the Fund’s policy of distributing its investment company taxable income and net capital gains for each taxable year in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment as a regulated investment company and avoid federal income and excise tax at the fund level, the Target Fund will declare and pay a distribution of any such previously undistributed income and gains to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization. Such distribution will be taxable to Target Fund shareholders.
Neither Target Fund currently expects to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the relevant Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. The tax consequences of any Target Fund sales of portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will depend on the difference between the price at which such securities are sold and the basis of the Target Fund in such securities. Any capital gains recognized in these sales on a net basis will be distributed to Target Fund shareholders prior to the Reorganization as capital gain dividends (to the extent of net realized long-term capital gains) and/or ordinary dividends (to the extent of net realized short-term capital gains). Such distributions will be taxable to Target Fund shareholders.
Target Fund shareholders may redeem their shares at any time prior to the closing of either Reorganization. Generally, these are taxable transactions. Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisers regarding potential transactions.
Rights of Shareholders of each Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual
Because the Funds are organized as separate series of the same Delaware statutory trust (i.e., The Royce Fund), the substantive legal and voting rights of Target Fund shareholders under the Trust Instrument of the Trust are identical to those of Pennsylvania Mutual shareholders. GiftShare Accounts which hold Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier immediately prior to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization and receive the corresponding shares of the Combined Fund upon completion of such Reorganization will remain subject to the same terms and conditions. No sales charges, redemption fees, or other fees will be assessed to Target Fund shareholders in connection with their receipt of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as part of a Reorganization.
Holders of Investment Class and Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of their Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of a Reorganization. As noted above, Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual held for less than 365 days generally are subject to a CDSC of 1.00%. For purposes of determining whether any CDSC is payable in connection with any disposition of the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that are issued as part of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, the holding period for the currently outstanding Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier will be “tacked” to the holding period of such new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual. For example, assume an investor purchases Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier six months prior to the Closing Date for the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization and then redeems the Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual received as part of such Reorganization seven months after such Closing Date. Even though the investor held the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual for less than 365 days prior to redeeming them, no CDSC would be payable in connection with this redemption because the investor would be deemed to have held such new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual for more than 365 days due to the “tacking” of the six-month holding period of the Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the seven-month holding period of the new Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual.
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Pro Forma Capitalization for Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization
The following tables set forth: (i) the capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders as of December 31, 2018; (ii) the capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018; and (iii) the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization on December 31, 2018.
The pro forma capitalization information below is unaudited and for informational purposes only. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by Small-Cap Leaders shareholders in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. The pro forma capitalization information should not be relied upon to reflect the number of shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that actually will be received by Small-Cap Leaders shareholders in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
Investment Class |
| Royce Small- Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $28,041,820 | $1,203,966,585 | (56,521)(2) | $1,231,951,884 |
Total shares outstanding | 5,946,340 | 155,276,838 | 3,618,299 (3) | 158,895,137 |
Net asset value per share | $4.72 | $7.75 | – | $7.75 |
|
(1) Assumes the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small-Cap Leaders shareholders as if the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
Service Class |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $27,194,073 | $32,191,197 | (41,475)(2) | $59,343,795 |
Total shares outstanding | 5,828,474 | 4,144,325 | 3,499,881 (3) | 7,644,206 |
Net asset value per share | $4.67 | $7.77 | – | $7.76 |
|
(1) Assumes the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small-Cap Leaders shareholders as if the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
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Pro Forma Capitalization for Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization
The following tables set forth: (i) the capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of December 31, 2018; (ii) the capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018; and (iii) the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization on December 31, 2018.
The pro forma capitalization information below is unaudited and for informational purposes only. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The pro forma capitalization information should not be relied upon to reflect the number of shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that actually will be received by Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
Investment Class |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $64,376,412 | $1,203,966,585 | (48,777)(2) | $1,268,294,220 |
Total shares outstanding | 5,989,658 | 155,276,838 | 8,306,634 (3) | 163,583,472 |
Net asset value per share | $10.75 | $7.75 | – | $7.75 |
|
(1) Assumes the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders as if the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
Service Class |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $84,555,180 | $32,191,197 | (45,868)(2) – | $116,700,509 |
Total shares outstanding | 7,896,265 | 4,144,325 | 10,882,263 (3) | 15,026,588 |
Net asset value per share | $10.71 | $7.77 | – | $7.77 |
|
(1) Assumes the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders as if the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
Consultant Class |
| Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $6,228,881 | $249,004,314 | (6,276)(2) | $255,226,919 |
Total shares outstanding | 828,659 | 40,285,369 | 1,007,910 (3) | 41,293,279 |
Net asset value per share | $7.52 | $6.18 | – | $6.18 |
|
(1) Assumes the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders as if the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
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Capitalization for Both Reorganizations
The following tables set forth: (i) the capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of Small-Cap Leaders as of December 31, 2018; (ii) the capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of December 31, 2018; (iii) the capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018; and (iv) the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of both Reorganizations on December 31, 2018. Small-Cap Leaders did not have any outstanding Consultant Class shares as of December 31, 2018.
The pro forma capitalization information below is unaudited and for informational purposes only. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by shareholders of a Target Fund in connection with both Reorganizations. The pro forma capitalization information should not be relied upon to reflect the number of shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that actually will be received by shareholders of a Target Fund in connection with both Reorganizations.
Investment Class |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $28,041,820 | $64,376,412 | $1,203,966,585 | (91,155)(2) | $1,296,293,662 |
Total shares outstanding | 5,946,340 | 5,989,658 | 155,276,838 | 11,924,933 (3) | 167,201,771 |
Net asset value per share | $4.72 | $10.75 | $7.75 | – | $7.75 |
|
(1) Assumes both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Investment Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Target Fund shareholders as if both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
Service Class |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $27,194,073 | $84,555,180 | $32,191,197 | (86,965)(2) | $143,853,485 |
Total shares outstanding | 5,828,474 | 7,896,265 | 4,144,325 | 14,382,143 (3) | 18,526,468 |
Net asset value per share | $4.67 | $10.71 | $7.77 | – | $7.76 |
|
(1) Assumes both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Target Fund shareholders as if both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
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Consultant Class |
| Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund(1) | Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Both Reorganizations (Unaudited)(2) |
Net assets | $0 | $6,228,881 | $249,004,314 | (6,276)(3) | $255,226,919 |
Total shares outstanding | 0 | 828,659 | 40,285,369 | 1,007,910 (4) | 41,293,279 |
Net asset value per share | $0.00 | $7.52 | $6.18 | – | $6.18 |
|
(1) Small-Cap Leaders did not have any Consultant Class shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018. |
(2) Assumes both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(3) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(4) Reflects the change in Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual after giving effect to the distribution of Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders as if both Reorganizations had taken place on December 31, 2018. Small-Cap Leaders did not have any Consultant Class shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018. |
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COMPARISON OF ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND
Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, Principal Investment Risks, and Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual
This section describes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, principal investment risks, and certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual and the differences between them.
Investment Objectives. The investment objectives of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are identical. The investment objective of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual is to seek long-term growth of capital.
Principal Investment Policies and Strategies. As set forth in the table below, the principal investment policies and strategies of Small-Cap Leaders are substantially similar to those of Pennsylvania Mutual.
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Royce invests the Fund’s assets primarily in a limited number (generally up to 100) of equity securities of small-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion. Royce selects securities of “leading” companies—those that in its view are trading at attractive valuations that also have excellent business strengths, strong balance sheets, and/or improved prospects for growth, as well as those with the potential for improvement in cash flow levels and internal rates of return. | Royce invests the Fund’s assets primarily in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion that it believes are trading below its estimate of their current worth. The Fund uses multiple investment disciplines in an effort to provide exposure to approaches that have historically tended to perform well in different market environments. These disciplines include investing in a “High Quality” approach—companies that Royce believes have competitive advantages and high returns on capital; a “Traditional Value” approach —companies that are currently out of favor, selling at what Royce deems to be low valuations; and a “Special Situations” approach—companies with complex structures that do not lend themselves to traditional valuation metrics, as well as other Royce approaches such as “Growth at a Reasonable Price” and “Deep Value.” The Fund’s portfolio managers generally focus on one or more of these approaches in managing segments of the Fund’s assets, while the Lead Portfolio Manager oversees investments across all segments. |
Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion at the time of investment. | Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion. |
Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. |
Overall, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | |
| • | use a bottom-up, small-cap core investment approach; |
| | |
| • | invest primarily in small-cap equity securities; |
| | |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in U.S. issuers; |
| | |
| • | have the same benchmark index (i.e., the Russell 2000 Index); |
| | |
| • | are subject to the same restrictions on their respective investments in foreign securities; and |
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| • | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are, however, different from one another in that Small-Cap Leaders normally invests in a limited number (generally up to 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders had 78 portfolio holdings while Pennsylvania Mutual had 269 portfolio holdings. In addition, the portfolio turnover rate for Small-Cap Leaders was significantly higher than that of Pennsylvania Mutual during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 62% for Small-Cap Leaders and 35% for Pennsylvania Mutual).
Principal Investment Risks. Set forth below is a summary of the principal investment risks that may be associated with an investment in Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual as a result of their respective investment policies and approach. Overall, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to substantially similar principal investment risks. However, Small-Cap Leaders' investment in a limited number of issuers may involve considerably more risk to investors than Pennsylvania Mutual's more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because Small-Cap Leaders' portfolio may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small-Cap Leaders' higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risks | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Market Risk. As with any mutual fund that invests in common stocks, the Fund is subject to market risk—the possibility that common stock prices will decline over short or extended periods of time. As a result, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate, sometimes sharply and unpredictably, and you could lose money over short or long periods of time.
Royce’s estimate of a company’s current worth also may prove to be inaccurate, or this estimate may not be recognized by other investors, which could lead to portfolio losses. Securities in the Fund’s portfolio may not increase as much as the market as a whole and some securities may continue to be undervalued for long periods of time. Investments in the Fund are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. | Yes | Yes |
Risks of Investing in Small-Cap Securities. The prices of small-cap securities (i.e., those with market capitalizations up to $3 billion) are generally more volatile than those of larger-cap securities. In addition, because small-cap securities tend to have significantly lower trading volumes than larger-cap securities, the Fund may have difficulty selling holdings or may only be able to sell holdings at prices substantially lower than what Royce believes they are worth. Such companies may also have limited markets, financial resources or product lines, may lack management depth, and may be more vulnerable to adverse business or market developments. Therefore, the Fund may involve considerably more risk of loss and its returns may differ significantly from funds investing in larger-cap companies or other asset classes. | Yes | Yes |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers. The Fund’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights. The Fund’s potential industry and sector overweights may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk. In addition to general market risk, foreign securities may be subject to different risks than investments in U.S. securities, including adverse political, social, economic, or other developments that are unique to a particular country or region. Prices of foreign securities in particular countries or regions may, at times, move in a different direction and/or be more volatile than those of U.S. securities. The Fund’s investments are usually denominated in or tied to the currencies of the countries in which they are primarily traded. Because the Fund does not intend to hedge its foreign currency exposure, the U.S. dollar value of the Fund’s investments may be harmed by declines in the value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. This may occur even if the value of the investment in the currency’s home country has not declined. | Yes | Yes |
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Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies. Referenced below are certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. Neither Fund’s fundamental investment restrictions may be changed without the approval of the Board and a “majority of the outstanding voting securities” of the relevant Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a shareholders’ meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Fund are present or represented by proxy at such meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Operating policies, on the other hand, may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.
The fundamental investment restrictions and operating polices of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual in respect of issuing senior securities, making loans, borrowing money, purchasing securities on margin, writing call options on portfolio securities, selling securities short, investing in real estate and commodities, and concentration of investments are substantially identical. However, pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Small-Cap Leaders may not invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities (i.e., securities for which market quotations are not readily available), including restricted securities (i.e., securities that are subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions), while Pennsylvania Mutual is not subject to similar fundamental investment restrictions. However, Pennsylvania Mutual may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 15% of its net assets in restricted securities.
Pursuant to their operating policies, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual may invest without limit in short-term fixed income securities for temporary defensive purposes. If either Fund should implement such a temporary investment policy, such policy would be inconsistent with its investment goal and the Fund may not achieve its investment goal while that policy is in effect. Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual also may invest in short-term fixed income securities in order to invest uncommitted cash balances or to maintain liquidity to meet shareholder redemptions under their operating policies.
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Investment Performance of Small-Cap Leaders
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Small-Cap Leaders. Past performance does not indicate how Small-Cap Leaders will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Small-Cap Leaders for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 23.46% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -23.48% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Small-Cap Leaders (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -12.53 | 0.71 | 9.43 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -16.51 | -2.81 | 6.92 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -4.46 | 0.49 | 7.78 |
Service Class |
Return Before Taxes | -12.72 | 0.42 | 9.15 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
39
Investment Performance of Pennsylvania Mutual
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Pennsylvania Mutual. Past performance does not indicate how Pennsylvania Mutual will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Pennsylvania Mutual for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 22.91% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -21.07% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Pennsylvania Mutual (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -9.66 | 3.15 | 11.34 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -13.63 | -0.44 | 9.07 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -2.65 | 2.28 | 9.35 |
Service Class |
Return Before Taxes | -9.96 | 2.84 | 11.07 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
40
Management of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual
Investment Adviser. Royce & Associates, LP is the investment adviser for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual and is responsible for the management of their respective assets. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151.
Portfolio Managers for Small-Cap Leaders, Pennsylvania Mutual, and Combined Fund. Lauren A. Romeo serves as the sole portfolio manager for Small-Cap Leaders. Ms. Romeo has served as the portfolio manager since 2014 and was the Fund’s co-manager (2013-2014), portfolio manager (2010-2013), and assistant portfolio manager (2006-2010). Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager. Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo manage Pennsylvania Mutual with him. They are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen. Mr. Royce has been portfolio manager of Pennsylvania Mutual since 1972. Mr. Kaplan and Ms. Romeo became portfolio managers in 2016 and were previously assistant portfolio managers from 2003 and 2006, respectively, through 2015. Mr. Stoeffel and Mr. Flynn became assistant portfolio managers in 2017 while Mr. Palen became assistant portfolio manager in 2018. Assistant portfolio managers may have investment discretion over a portion of a Fund’s portfolio subject to supervision by the Fund’s portfolio manager(s). It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. Additional information about the compensation of the portfolio managers for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual, other accounts managed by such portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers’ ownership of securities in the relevant Fund(s) and any other series of the Trust they manage is included in the SAI.
Investment Advisory Services Provided to Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual by Royce. Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. The annual rates of these fees, before any waiver or expense reimbursements to cap the expense ratios for certain Fund share classes at specified levels as shown in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund Shareholders,” are as follows:
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,0000. 85% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $50,000,000 0.875% of the next $50,000,000 0.75% of any additional average net assets |
Other Service Providers for Small-Cap Leaders, Pennsylvania Mutual, and Combined Fund. Royce Fund Services, LLC serves as the distributor for the shares of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian of the securities, cash, and other assets of each of these Funds. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. serves as the transfer agent for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. It is currently expected that such firms will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
Financial Highlights for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual
This table is intended to help you understand the financial performance for the past five years of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual. The table reflects financial results for a single share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the relevant Fund (assuming reinvestment of all distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with each Fund’s financial statements, is included in the Annual Report, which is available at www.roycefunds.com or upon request.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | Net Investment Income (Loss) | | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total from Investment Operations | | Distributions from Net Investment Income | | Distributions from Net Realized Gain on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total Distributions | | Shareholder Redemption Fees | | Net Asset Value, End of Period | | Total Return | | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | Prior to Fee Waivers, Expense Reimbursements and Balance Credits | | Prior to Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Net of Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Ratio of Net Investment Income (Loss) to Average Net Assets | | Portfolio Turnover Rate |
|
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 6.67 | | | $ | 0.02 | | | $ | (0.83 | ) | | $ | (0.81 | ) | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | (1.13 | ) | | $ | (1.14 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 4.72 | | | | (12.53 | )% | | $ | 28,042 | | | | 1.28 | % | | | 1.27 | % | | | 1.24 | % | | | 0.21 | % | | | 62 | % |
|
2017 | | 7.12 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 0.66 | | | | 0.71 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (1.11 | ) | | | (1.16 | ) | | | – | | | | 6.67 | | | | 10.47 | | | | 43,875 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.62 | | | | 74 |
|
2016 | | 6.28 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 1.58 | | | | 1.63 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.73 | ) | | | (0.79 | ) | | | – | | | | 7.12 | | | | 25.84 | | | | 48,128 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 0.62 | | | | 65 |
|
2015 | | 8.74 | | | | 0.03 | | | | (1.09 | ) | | | (1.06 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (1.36 | ) | | | (1.40 | ) | | | – | | | | 6.28 | | | | (12.21 | ) | | | 50,410 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.40 | | | | 64 |
|
2014 | | 10.11 | | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.32 | ) | | | (0.32 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.05 | ) | | | (1.05 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.74 | | | | (2.95 | ) | | | 68,898 | | | | 1.22 | | | | 1.22 | | | | 1.22 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | 39 |
|
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 6.59 | | | $ | (0.00 | ) | | $ | (0.81 | ) | | $ | (0.81 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.11 | ) | | $ | (1.11 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 4.67 | | | | (12.72 | )% | | $ | 27,194 | | | | 1.62 | % | | | 1.62 | % | | | 1.49 | % | | | (0.03 | )% | | | 62 | % |
|
2017 | | 7.03 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 0.66 | | | | 0.69 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (1.10 | ) | | | (1.13 | ) | | | – | | | | 6.59 | | | | 10.15 | | | | 38,864 | | | | 1.59 | | | | 1.59 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 0.31 | | | | 74 |
|
|
2016 | | 6.21 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 1.56 | | | | 1.59 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.73 | ) | | | (0.77 | ) | | | – | | | | 7.03 | | | | 25.51 | | | | 50,523 | | | | 1.58 | | | | 1.58 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 0.37 | | | | 65 |
|
|
2015 | | 8.65 | | | | 0.02 | | | | (1.09 | ) | | | (1.07 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (1.36 | ) | | | (1.37 | ) | | | – | | | | 6.21 | | | | (12.50 | ) | | | 57,729 | | | | 1.54 | | | | 1.54 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 0.18 | | | | 64 |
|
|
2014 | | 10.05 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.31 | ) | | | (0.35 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.05 | ) | | | (1.05 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.65 | | | | (3.26 | ) | | | 149,736 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.50 | | | | (0.39 | ) | | | 39 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 10.52 | | | $ | 0.04 | | | $ | (0.97 | ) | | $ | (0.93 | ) | | $ | (0.02 | ) | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | (1.84 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 7.75 | | | | (9.66 | )% | | $ | 1,203,967 | | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.33 | % | | | 35 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.02 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 1.68 | | | | 1.74 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (2.18 | ) | | | (2.24 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.52 | | | | 16.24 | | | | 1,622,523 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.47 | | | | 27 |
|
2016 | | 9.33 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.48 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.79 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.02 | | | | 26.47 | | | | 1,671,848 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.60 | | | | 18 |
|
2015 | | 13.00 | | | | 0.09 | | | | (1.58 | ) | | | (1.49 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (2.18 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.33 | | | | (11.43 | ) | | | 1,925,419 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.58 | | | | 21 |
|
2014 | | 14.73 | | | | 0.06 | | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (1.58 | ) | | | – | | | | 13.00 | | | | (0.70 | ) | | | 3,869,579 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.35 | | | | 21 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 10.56 | | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | (0.96 | ) | | $ | (0.97 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 7.77 | | | | (9.96 | )% | | $ | 32,191 | | | | 1.30 | % | | | 1.30 | % | | | 1.30 | % | | | (0.07 | )% | | | 35 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.03 | | | | 0.01 | | | | 1.69 | | | | 1.70 | | | | – | | | | (2.17 | ) | | | (2.17 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.56 | | | | 15.88 | | | | 54,938 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 27 |
|
2016 | | 9.35 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.44 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.76 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.03 | | | | 25.99 | | | | 100,598 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 0.27 | | | | 18 |
|
2015 | | 12.96 | | | | 0.05 | | | | (1.56 | ) | | | (1.51 | ) | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (2.10 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.35 | | | | (11.57 | ) | | | 102,341 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 0.29 | | | | 21 |
|
2014 | | 14.69 | | | | 0.00 | | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | – | | | | 12.96 | | | | (1.04 | ) | | | 333,548 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 21 |
|
41
COMPARISON OF ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND AND ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND
Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, Principal Investment Risks, and Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
This section describes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, principal investment risks, and certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and the differences between them.
Investment Objectives. The investment objectives of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are identical. The investment objective of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual is to seek long-term growth of capital.
Principal Investment Policies and Strategies. As set forth in the table below, the principal investment policies and strategies of Small/Mid-Cap Premier are similar to those of Pennsylvania Mutual.
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Royce invests the Fund’s assets in a limited number (generally less than 100) of equity securities of primarily small-cap and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion. Royce looks for companies that it considers “premier”—those that it believes have sustainable, moat-like franchises, discernible competitive advantages, a history of prudent capital allocation, and opportunities to profitably reinvest excess cash flow. | Royce invests the Fund’s assets primarily in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion that it believes are trading below its estimate of their current worth. The Fund uses multiple investment disciplines in an effort to provide exposure to approaches that have historically tended to perform well in different market environments. These disciplines include investing in a “High Quality” approach—companies that Royce believes have competitive advantages and high returns on capital; a “Traditional Value” approach —companies that are currently out of favor, selling at what Royce deems to be low valuations; and a “Special Situations” approach—companies with complex structures that do not lend themselves to traditional valuation metrics, as well as other Royce approaches such as “Growth at a Reasonable Price” and “Deep Value.” The Fund’s portfolio managers generally focus on one or more of these approaches in managing segments of the Fund’s assets, while the Lead Portfolio Manager oversees investments across all segments. |
Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion. | Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion. |
Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. |
Overall, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are similar to one another in that they:
| • | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | |
| • | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| | |
| • | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
| | |
| • | are subject to identical restrictions on their investments in foreign securities; and |
| | |
| • | do not expect to engage in foreign currency hedging to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their |
| | foreign security holdings. |
42
Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual, however, differ from one another in certain ways. For example, these Funds focus on overlapping yet distinct market capitalization segments within the equity securities market. Pursuant to its investment policies, Small/Mid-Cap Premier must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in small- and mid-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $15 billion. Pennsylvania Mutual, on the other hand, must normally invest at least 65% of its nets assets in small- and micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, these Funds have different benchmark indexes (i.e., the Russell 2500 Index is the primary benchmark index for Small/Mid-Cap Premier while the Russell 2000 Index is the benchmark index for Pennsylvania Mutual) and had meaningfully different geometric average market capitalizations as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximately $4.1 billion for Small/Mid-Cap Premier versus approximately $1.72 billion for Pennsylvania Mutual). Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are also different from one another in that Small/Mid-Cap Premier normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Pennsylvania Mutual normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Small/Mid-Cap Premier had 66 portfolio holdings while Pennsylvania Mutual had 269 portfolio holdings.
Principal Investment Risks. Set forth below is a summary of the principal investment risks that may be associated with an investment in Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual as a result of their respective investment policies and approach. Overall, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are subject to similar principal investment risks. However, Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s investment in a limited number of issuers may, however, involve more risk than Pennsylvania Mutual because Small/Mid-Cap Premier may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. In addition, Small/Mid-Cap Premier's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Pennsylvania Mutual may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risks | Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Market Risk. As with any mutual fund that invests in common stocks, the Fund is subject to market risk—the possibility that common stock prices will decline over short or extended periods of time. As a result, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate, sometimes sharply and unpredictably, and you could lose money over short or long periods of time. Royce’s estimate of a company’s current worth also may prove to be inaccurate, or this estimate may not be recognized by other investors, which could lead to portfolio losses. Securities in the Fund’s portfolio may not increase as much as the market as a whole and some securities may continue to be undervalued for long periods of time. Investments in the Fund are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. | Yes | Yes |
Risks of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities. The prices of securities with smaller market capitalizations are generally more volatile than those of larger-cap securities. In addition, because these securities tend to have significantly lower trading volumes than larger-cap securities, the Fund may have difficulty selling holdings or may only be able to sell holdings at prices substantially lower than what Royce believes they are worth. Such companies may also have limited markets, financial resources or product lines, may lack management depth, and may be more vulnerable to adverse business or market developments. Therefore, the Fund may involve considerably more risk of loss and its returns may differ significantly from funds investing in larger-cap companies or other asset classes. | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers. The Fund’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights. The Fund’s potential industry and sector overweights may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk. In addition to general market risk, foreign securities may be subject to different risks than investments in U.S. securities, including adverse political, social, economic, or other developments that are unique to a particular country or region. Prices of foreign securities in particular countries or regions may, at times, move in a different direction and/or be more volatile than those of U.S. securities. The Fund’s investments are usually denominated in or tied to the currencies of the countries in which they are primarily traded. Because the Fund does not intend to hedge its foreign currency exposure, the U.S. dollar value of the Fund’s investments may be harmed by declines in the value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. This may occur even if the value of the investment in the currency’s home country has not declined. | Yes ** | Yes ** |
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. As a result, an investment in Pennsylvania Mutual may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the extent Pennsylvania Mutual invests, relative to Small/Mid-Cap Premier, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion while Small/Mid-Cap Premier invests, relative to Pennsylvania Mutual, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $3 billion and $15 billion. |
** Foreign securities may involve political, economic, currency, and other risks not encountered in U.S. investments. Pennsylvania Mutual may be more subject to foreign securities risk than Small/Mid-Cap Premier to the extent Pennsylvania Mutual invests, relative to Small/Mid-Cap Premier, a greater portion of its assets in foreign securities. |
43
Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies. Referenced below are certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. Neither Fund’s fundamental investment restrictions may be changed without the approval of the Board and a “majority of the outstanding voting securities” of the relevant Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a shareholders’ meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Fund are present or represented by proxy at such meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Operating policies, on the other hand, may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.
The fundamental investment restrictions and operating polices of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual in respect of issuing senior securities, making loans, borrowing money, purchasing securities on margin, writing call options on portfolio securities, selling securities short, investing in real estate and commodities, and concentration of investments are substantially identical. However, pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Small/Mid-Cap Premier may not invest more than 10% of its net assets in illiquid securities (i.e., securities for which market quotations are not readily available), while Pennsylvania Mutual is not subject to a similar fundamental policy restriction. However, Pennsylvania Mutual may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 15% of its net assets in restricted securities (i.e., securities that are may be subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions).
Pursuant to their operating policies, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual may invest without limit in short-term fixed income securities for temporary defensive purposes. If either Fund should implement such a temporary investment policy, such policy would be inconsistent with its investment goal and the Fund may not achieve its investment goal while that policy is in effect. Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual also may invest in short-term fixed income securities in order to invest uncommitted cash balances or to maintain liquidity to meet shareholder redemptions under their operating policies.
44
Investment Performance of Small/Mid-Cap Premier
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Small/Mid-Cap Premier. Past performance does not indicate how Small/Mid-Cap Premier will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Small/Mid-Cap Premier for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2500 Index, the Fund’s primary benchmark index, and the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s secondary benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class but lower expenses than the Consultant Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class but higher than those of the Consultant Class. If the Consultant Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class and the Service Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 29.21% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -22.94% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Small/Mid-Cap Premier (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class and the Consultant Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -15.05 | 2.52 | 11.22 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -19.20 | -0.01 | 9.35 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -6.29 | 1.86 | 9.26 |
Service Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -15.16 | 2.29 | 10.96 |
Consultant Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -15.95 | 1.38 | 9.93 |
Russell 2500 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -10.00 | 5.15 | 13.15 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
45
Investment Performance of Pennsylvania Mutual
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Pennsylvania Mutual. Past performance does not indicate how Pennsylvania Mutual will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Pennsylvania Mutual for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class but lower expenses than the Consultant Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class but higher than those of the Consultant Class. If the Consultant Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class and the Service Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 22.91% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -21.07% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Pennsylvania Mutual (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class and the Consultant Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -9.66 | 3.15 | 11.34 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -13.63 | -0.44 | 9.07 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -2.65 | 2.28 | 9.35 |
Service Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -9.96 | 2.84 | 11.07 |
Consultant Class | | | |
Return Before Taxes | -10.56 | 2.12 | 10.24 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
46
Management of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
Investment Adviser. Royce & Associates, LP is the investment adviser for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual and is responsible for the management of their respective assets. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151.
Portfolio Managers for Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, and Combined Fund. Steven G. McBoyle serves as the sole portfolio manager for Small/Mid-Cap Premier. He has been portfolio manager since 2012 and was previously assistant portfolio manager (2011-2012). Charles M. Royce is Pennsylvania Mutual’s lead portfolio manager. Portfolio Managers Jay S. Kaplan and Lauren A. Romeo manage Pennsylvania Mutual with him. They are assisted by Portfolio Managers James P. Stoeffel, Chris E. Flynn, and Andrew S. Palen. Assistant portfolio managers may have investment discretion over a portion of a Fund’s portfolio subject to supervision by the Fund’s portfolio manager(s). Mr. Royce has been portfolio manager of Pennsylvania Mutual since 1972. Mr. Kaplan and Ms. Romeo became portfolio managers in 2016 and were previously assistant portfolio managers from 2003 and 2006, respectively, through 2015. Mr. Stoeffel and Mr. Flynn became assistant portfolio managers in 2017 while Mr. Palen became assistant portfolio manager in 2018. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Pennsylvania Mutual will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. It is further expected that Mr. McBoyle will join the portfolio management group for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. Additional information about the compensation of the portfolio managers for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual, other accounts managed by such portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers’ ownership of securities in the relevant Fund and any other series of the Trust they manage is included in the SAI.
Investment Advisory Services Provided to Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual by Royce. Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The annual rates of these fees, before any waiver or expense reimbursements to cap the expense ratios for certain Fund share classes at specified levels as shown in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund Shareholders,” are as follows:
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
0.85% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.80% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.75% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.70% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $50,000,000 0.875% of the next $50,000,000 0.75% of any additional average net assets |
Other Service Providers for Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, and Combined Fund. Royce Fund Services, LLC serves as the distributor for the shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian of the securities, cash, and other assets of each of these Funds. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. serves as the transfer agent for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. It is currently expected that such firms will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
Financial Highlights for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual
This table is intended to help you understand the financial performance for the past five years of the Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. The table reflects financial results for a single share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the relevant Fund (assuming reinvestment of all distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with each Fund’s financial statements, is included in the Annual Report, which is available at www.roycefunds.com or upon request.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | Net Investment Income (Loss) | | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total from Investment Operations | | Distributions from Net Investment Income | | Distributions from Net Realized Gain on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total Distributions | | Shareholder Redemption Fees | | Net Asset Value, End of Period | | Total Return | | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | Prior to Fee Waivers, Expense Reimbursements and Balance Credits | | Prior to Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Net of Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Ratio of Net Investment Income (Loss) to Average Net Assets | | Portfolio Turnover Rate |
|
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 15.66 | | | $ | 0.02 | | | $ | (2.32 | ) | | $ | (2.30 | ) | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | (2.60 | ) | | $ | (2.61 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 10.75 | | | | (15.05 | )% | | $ | 64,376 | | | | 1.02 | % | | | 1.02 | % | | | 1.02 | % | | | 0.12 | % | | | 69 | % |
|
2017 | | 14.64 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 3.05 | | | | 3.10 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (2.05 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | – | | | | 15.66 | | | | 21.47 | | | | 81,549 | | | | 0.99 | | | | 0.99 | | | | 0.99 | | | | 0.29 | | | | 54 |
|
2016 | | 12.87 | | | | 0.04 | | | | 2.30 | | | | 2.34 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.51 | ) | | | (0.57 | ) | | | – | | | | 14.64 | | | | 18.12 | | | | 88,378 | | | | 1.02 | | | | 1.02 | | | | 1.02 | | | | 0.22 | | | | 67 |
|
2015 | | 15.21 | | | | 0.12 | | | | (1.09 | ) | | | (0.97 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) | | | (1.26 | ) | | | (1.37 | ) | | | – | | | | 12.87 | | | | (6.33 | ) | | | 89,766 | | | | 1.10 | | | | 1.10 | | | | 1.10 | | | | 0.54 | | | | 66 |
|
2014 | | 16.24 | | | | 0.10 | | | | (0.25 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.83 | ) | | | (0.88 | ) | | | – | | | | 15.21 | | | | (0.81 | ) | | | 160,558 | | | | 1.09 | | | | 1.09 | | | | 1.09 | | | | 0.66 | | | | 35 |
|
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 15.61 | | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | (2.30 | ) | | $ | (2.31 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (2.59 | ) | | $ | (2.59 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 10.71 | | | | (15.16 | )% | | $ | 84,555 | | | | 1.32 | % | | | 1.31 | % | | | 1.17 | % | | | (0.04 | )% | | | 69 | % |
|
2017 | | 14.60 | | | | 0.02 | | | | 3.03 | | | | 3.05 | | | | – | | | | (2.04 | ) | | | (2.04 | ) | | | – | | | | 15.61 | | | | 21.21 | | | | 112,520 | | | | 1.32 | | | | 1.32 | | | | 1.19 | | | | 0.10 | | | | 54 |
|
2016 | | 12.84 | | | | 0.00 | | | | 2.30 | | | | 2.30 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.51 | ) | | | (0.54 | ) | | | – | | | | 14.60 | | | | 17.84 | | | | 120,254 | | | | 1.36 | | | | 1.36 | | | | 1.25 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | 67 |
|
2015 | | 15.17 | | | | 0.05 | | | | (1.05 | ) | | | (1.00 | ) | | | (0.07 | ) | | | (1.26 | ) | | | (1.33 | ) | | | – | | | | 12.84 | | | | (6.53 | ) | | | 120,381 | | | | 1.46 | | | | 1.46 | | | | 1.35 | | | | 0.31 | | | | 66 |
|
2014 | | 16.20 | | | | 0.05 | | | | (0.25 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.83 | ) | | | (0.83 | ) | | | – | | | | 15.17 | | | | (1.14 | ) | | | 175,433 | | | | 1.43 | | | | 1.43 | | | | 1.40 | | | | 0.32 | | | | 35 |
|
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund–Consultant Class |
2018 | $ | 11.06 | | | $ | (0.10 | ) | | $ | (1.62 | ) | | $ | (1.72 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 7.52 | | | | (15.95 | )% | | $ | 6,229 | | | | 2.25 | % | | | 2.24 | % | | | 2.09 | % | | | (0.96 | )% | | | 69 | % |
|
2017 | | 10.44 | | | | (0.09 | ) | | | 2.16 | | | | 2.07 | | | | – | | | | (1.45 | ) | | | (1.45 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.06 | | | | 20.10 | | | | 10,328 | | | | 2.24 | | | | 2.24 | | | | 2.09 | | | | (0.81 | ) | | | 54 |
|
2016 | | 9.37 | | | | (0.09 | ) | | | 1.67 | | | | 1.58 | | | | – | | | | (0.51 | ) | | | (0.51 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.44 | | | | 16.78 | | | | 11,643 | | | | 2.28 | | | | 2.28 | | | | 2.14 | | | | (0.89 | ) | | | 67 |
|
2015 | | 11.47 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.78 | ) | | | (0.84 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.26 | ) | | | (1.26 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.37 | | | | (7.31 | ) | | | 11,369 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.24 | | | | (0.58 | ) | | | 66 |
|
2014 | | 12.57 | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.27 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.83 | ) | | | (0.83 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.47 | | | | (2.02 | ) | | | 13,338 | | | | 2.31 | | | | 2.31 | | | | 2.31 | | | | (0.59 | ) | | | 35 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 10.52 | | | $ | 0.04 | | | $ | (0.97 | ) | | $ | (0.93 | ) | | $ | (0.02 | ) | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | (1.84 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 7.75 | | | | (9.66 | )% | | $ | 1,203,967 | | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.92 | % | | | 0.33 | % | | | 35 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.02 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 1.68 | | | | 1.74 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (2.18 | ) | | | (2.24 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.52 | | | | 16.24 | | | | 1,622,523 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.47 | | | | 27 |
|
2016 | | 9.33 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.48 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.79 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.02 | | | | 26.47 | | | | 1,671,848 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.60 | | | | 18 |
|
2015 | | 13.00 | | | | 0.09 | | | | (1.58 | ) | | | (1.49 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (2.18 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.33 | | | | (11.43 | ) | | | 1,925,419 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.92 | | | | 0.58 | | | | 21 |
|
2014 | | 14.73 | | | | 0.06 | | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (1.58 | ) | | | – | | | | 13.00 | | | | (0.70 | ) | | | 3,869,579 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.91 | | | | 0.35 | | | | 21 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 10.56 | | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | (0.96 | ) | | $ | (0.97 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | (1.82 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 7.77 | | | | (9.96 | )% | | $ | 32,191 | | | | 1.30 | % | | | 1.30 | % | | | 1.30 | % | | | (0.07 | )% | | | 35 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.03 | | | | 0.01 | | | | 1.69 | | | | 1.70 | | | | – | | | | (2.17 | ) | | | (2.17 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.56 | | | | 15.88 | | | | 54,938 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 1.27 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 27 |
|
2016 | | 9.35 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 2.41 | | | | 2.44 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.76 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.03 | | | | 25.99 | | | | 100,598 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 1.26 | | | | 0.27 | | | | 18 |
|
2015 | | 12.96 | | | | 0.05 | | | | (1.56 | ) | | | (1.51 | ) | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (2.10 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.35 | | | | (11.57 | ) | | | 102,341 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 0.29 | | | | 21 |
|
2014 | | 14.69 | | | | 0.00 | | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | – | | | | 12.96 | | | | (1.04 | ) | | | 333,548 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 21 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund–Consultant Class |
2018 | $ | 8.46 | | | $ | (0.06 | ) | | $ | (0.77 | ) | | $ | (0.83 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.45 | ) | | $ | (1.45 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 6.18 | | | | (10.56 | )% | | $ | 249,004 | | | | 1.93 | % | | | 1.93 | % | | | 1.93 | % | | | (0.69 | )% | | | 35 | % |
|
2017 | | 8.90 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | 1.35 | | | | 1.30 | | | | – | | | | (1.74 | ) | | | (1.74 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.46 | | | | 15.06 | | | | 361,569 | | | | 1.93 | | | | 1.92 | | | | 1.92 | | | | (0.54 | ) | | | 27 |
|
2016 | | 7.70 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | 1.98 | | | | 1.95 | | | | – | | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.90 | | | | 25.20 | | | | 402,114 | | | | 1.94 | | | | 1.94 | | | | 1.94 | | | | (0.42 | ) | | | 18 |
|
2015 | | 11.16 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (1.33 | ) | | | (1.38 | ) | | | – | | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | – | | | | 7.70 | | | | (12.31 | ) | | | 416,862 | | | | 1.94 | | | | 1.94 | | | | 1.94 | | | | (0.44 | ) | | | 21 |
|
2014 | | 12.96 | | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.18 | ) | | | (0.26 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.16 | | | | (1.72 | ) | | | 676,347 | | | | 1.91 | | | | 1.91 | | | | 1.91 | | | | (0.64 | ) | | | 21 |
|
47
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
How to Purchase and Sell Fund Shares
The minimum initial investments for Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of the Funds purchased directly from the Trust1 are set forth in the table below. (Consultant Class shares of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual are generally offered only through certain broker-dealers.)
ACCOUNT TYPE | MINIMUM |
Regular Account | $2,000 |
IRA | $1,000 |
Automatic Investment or Direct Deposit Plan Accounts | $1,000 |
401(k) Accounts | None |
|
The minimum for subsequent investments is $50, regardless of account type. |
1The minimum initial investment in GiftShare Accounts in the Service Class and Consultant Cass of Small/Mid-Cap Premier is $5,000. |
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. You may also purchase or sell Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary.
Tax Information
Each Fund intends to make distributions that are expected to be taxable to you as ordinary income or capital gains unless your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes” for more details.
Financial Intermediary Compensation
If you purchase Fund shares through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
Distribution Arrangements
RFS distributes the Funds’ shares pursuant to the terms of its distribution agreements with the Funds. The Trust has adopted a distribution plan for the Service Class shares for each Fund and the Consultant Class shares for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual under Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under this plan and the distribution agreements, the Service and Consultant Classes are obligated to pay a fee to RFS of up to 0.25% and 1.00% per year of their respective average net assets. RFS uses the Rule 12b-1 fee for Service Class primarily to cover sales-related and account maintenance costs and to pay service and other fees to broker-dealers that introduce investors to Service Class shares of the Funds. RFS uses the Rule 12b-1 fee for Consultant Class primarily to cover sales-related and account maintenance costs and to pay sales commissions and other fees to broker-dealers that introduce investors to Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual. Because these fees are paid out of the applicable Fund’s assets that are attributable to the Service and Consultant Classes on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. Neither the distribution plan nor the distribution agreements currently provide for any suspension or reduction of the 0.25% or 1.00% fee payable by the Service Class or the Consultant Class, respectively, of any Fund if such Class closes to new investors.
If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through a firm that provides recordkeeping and other shareholder services to employee benefit plans (“Retirement Plan Recordkeepers”), the shares may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. RFS and/or Royce may compensate broker-dealers, Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, and other financial intermediaries that introduce investors to the Fund, provide the opportunity to distribute the Fund through their sales personnel, provide access to their sales personnel and branch offices, and/or provide certain administrative services to their customers who own Fund shares. These payments are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing.” In addition, the Board has authorized the Funds to compensate such third parties to the extent the Board has determined that any of the services which these parties render to a Fund are non-distribution-related shareholder services, including recordkeeping and account maintenance services.
Payments to third parties (each, a “financial intermediary”) may: (i) be substantial to any given financial intermediary, (ii) be more or less than the payments received by a financial intermediary with respect to other mutual funds, and (iii) exceed the costs and expenses incurred by the financial intermediary for any servicing activities in respect of the Funds. Revenue sharing arrangements are separately negotiated between Royce and/or its affiliates and the financial intermediaries receiving these payments.
48
Revenue sharing and shareholder servicing payments may influence financial intermediaries to recommend or sell a Fund over other mutual funds. You may ask your financial intermediary about these differing interests and how the financial intermediary and its employees and associated persons are compensated for administering your Fund investment. Revenue-sharing and shareholder servicing payments may benefit Royce to the extent that the payments result in more assets, on which fees are charged by Royce, being invested in a Fund.
Additional Information About Purchasing Shares
If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, share class eligibility, investment minimums, commissions, fees, policies and procedures may differ from those described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. Such third parties may initiate an exchange or convert Fund shares of one class held by you for or into shares of another class of that Fund in order to ensure compliance with such eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures. For example, such an exchange may be initiated by a third party (and not by a Fund or RFS) in the event Fund shares come to be held in connection with different type of program (e.g., investment advisory vs. brokerage) offered by such third party. Likewise, a conversion of Consultant Class shares to Service Class shares (or the appropriate share class) of the Fund may be initiated by a third party (and not by a Fund or RFS) if such Consultant Class shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the conversion is in line with the policies and procedures of such third party. Such exchanges or conversions would be effected solely on the basis of the relative net asset values of the respective shares to be exchanged or converted without the imposition of any sales charges by the Fund or RFS. The class of shares received by you in such an exchange or conversion may be subject to higher fees and expenses than the class of shares held by you immediately prior to such exchange or conversion.
In addition to regular accounts, Small/Mid-Cap Premier offers GiftShare Accounts, which are trusts designed exclusively for gifting and estate planning. For more information on GiftShare Accounts, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 or visit www.roycefunds.com for an information packet.
The Trust reserves the right both to suspend the offering of any Fund’s shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States.
The Trust reserves the right to reinvest the proceeds from any dividends from net investment income, distributions from net realized capital gains, or redemptions of shares which a shareholder has chosen to receive by check if the check remains uncashed for more than 180 days. No interest will accrue on the amount of such uncashed checks, which will be reinvested in additional shares of the applicable Fund at the net asset value per share at the time of the reinvestment. If a shareholder has chosen to receive distributions in cash and a check remains uncashed for more than 180 days, subsequent dividends and distributions may be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. In addition, a shareholder’s participation in an automatic withdrawal plan may be terminated if a check remains uncashed. These policies may be waived for closed accounts as well as for certain retirement or other qualified plans.
Additional Information About Redeeming Shares
You may redeem shares in your account at any time. The Funds, however, are intended primarily for long-term investment purposes and are not intended to provide a means of speculating on short-term market movements. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Frequent Trading of Fund Shares” for more details.
Early Redemption Fee on Investment Class and Service Class Shares
In order to discourage short-term trading, the Trust assesses an early redemption fee of 1% on redemptions of the Investment and Service Classes of shares of any Fund that you held for less than 30 days. Each fee is payable to the relevant Fund out of the proceeds otherwise payable to you.
The “first-in, first-out” method is used to determine the holding period by comparing the date of the redemption with the earliest dates of the share purchases in an account. For accounts registered on the books of the Funds’ transfer agent, the anniversary day of an account transaction determines the 30-day holding period, so that if you purchased a Fund’s shares on March 30, 2019, these shares would be subject to the fee if you were to redeem them prior to May 2, 2019.
You will incur no fee on shares that you acquire through distribution reinvestment. The redemption fee will apply to shares that you exchange into another series of the Trust (exchanges from GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier are not permitted). The following types of shareholders and accounts are exempt from the early redemption fee: participants in Automatic Investment or Withdrawal Plans, retirement plans, certain pre-approved group investment plans and charitable organizations, omnibus or similar account customers of certain pre-approved broker-dealers and other institutions, and GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge for Consultant Class Shares
A CDSC of 1.00% is assessed on redemptions of Consultant Class shares held for less than 365 days.
The CDSC is based on the net asset value at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is less, and therefore you do not pay a sales charge on amounts representing appreciation or depreciation. The CDSC is payable to RFS as compensation for its expenses in selling shares, including paying compensation to broker-dealers and other financial intermediaries
49
Each CDSC will be paid to RFS out of the proceeds otherwise payable to you. RFS generally pays broker-dealers and other financial intermediaries selling Consultant Class shares a commission of 1.00% of the purchase price of those shares, and RFS will retain the CDSC and an annual distribution/service fee of 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the Consultant Class shares not redeemed during such period. Starting on the 365th day after purchase, the third-party broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries will receive an annual distribution/service fee of up to 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the Consultant Class shares that they service.
When you request a redemption of Consultant Class shares, shares held for 365 days or longer, and therefore not subject to a CDSC, will be redeemed first.
You will not pay a CDSC on: |
| • | Exchanges between Consultant Classes of the various series of the Trust. |
| • | Shares acquired through reinvestment of distributions. |
| • | Shares no longer subject to the CDSC. |
| | |
The CDSC will generally be waived for: |
| • | Participants in Automatic Investment or Withdrawal Plans. |
| • | Certain profit sharing or retirement plans. |
| • | Certain pre-approved group investment plans and charitable organizations. |
| | |
Please note that these exemptions may not be available to investors who hold Consultant Class shares through certain broker-dealers and other financial intermediaries. |
| | |
Shareholders purchasing Consultant Class shares through a Merrill Lynch platform or account will be eligible only for the CDSC waivers described below, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement or the SAI. |
| | |
CDSC Waivers on Consultant Class Shares Available at Merrill Lynch: |
| • | Death or disability of the shareholder. |
| • | Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
| • | Return of excess contributions from an IRA. |
| • | Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching age 70½ as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
| • | Shares sold to pay Merrill Lynch fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Merrill Lynch. |
| | |
Effective March 1, 2019, shareholders purchasing Consultant Class shares through a Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., & Raymond James affiliates (collectively, “Raymond James”) platform or account will be eligible only for the CDSC waivers described below, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Prospectus. |
| | |
CDSC Waivers on Consultant Class Shares Available at Raymond James: |
| • | Death or disability of the shareholder. |
| • | Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
| • | Return of excess contributions from an IRA. |
| • | Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching age 70½ as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
| • | Shares sold to pay Raymond James fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Raymond James. |
In addition, holders Consultant Class shares of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual will have their shares converted at net asset value to Service Class shares (or the appropriate share class) of the relevant Fund if the shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the conversion is in line with the policies and procedures of Raymond James.
If you want to learn more about CDSC waivers, contact your Financial Advisor or consult the SAI. If you want to learn more about the above-described share class conversions, contact your Raymond James Financial Advisor.
Other Redemption Information
The Funds will normally make redemptions in cash for shareholders who hold shares that are registered in their own name. Each Fund typically expects to send (via check, wire, or ACH) redemption payments to such shareholders within two business days after the transfer agent’s receipt of a redemption request in Good Order (as defined below). For accounts held through financial intermediaries, the length of time that a Fund typically expects to pay redemption proceeds depends, in part, on the terms of the agreement in place between the financial intermediary and the Fund. For redemption proceeds for intermediary-held accounts that are paid either directly to you from a Fund or to your financial intermediary for transmittal to you, the Fund typically expects to make payments by wire, by ACH, or by issuing a check on the next business day following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. Redemption requests that are
50
processed through investment professionals that utilize the National Securities Clearing Corporation will generally settle one to three business days following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. The financial intermediary, if applicable, is responsible for transmitting redemption proceeds to shareholders. Under certain circumstances and when deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund, redemption proceeds may take up to seven calendar days to be sent after receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. In addition, with respect to investors redeeming shares that were purchased by check or through ACH, redemption proceeds may not be sent until payment for the entire purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days.
The Funds typically expect to satisfy redemption requests either by using available cash (or cash equivalents) or by selling portfolio securities. The Funds may use other methods to satisfy redemption requests, including using a line of credit or participating in an interfund lending program in reliance on exemptive relief from the SEC. These methods may be used during both normal and stressed market conditions.
In addition to paying redemption proceeds in cash, the Trust reserves the right to satisfy a shareholder’s redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of a Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). Redemption-in-kind proceeds will typically be made by delivering the selected securities to the redeeming shareholder within seven days after the receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. For these purposes, such securities will be valued at the same value assigned to them in calculating a Fund’s net asset value per share. If a Fund pays redemption proceeds by transferring portfolio securities in-kind to you, you may pay transaction costs to dispose of the securities, incur adverse tax consequences in connection with any such disposal, and receive less for them than the price at which they were valued for purposes of redemption.
The Trust reserves the right to involuntarily redeem Fund shares in any account that falls below the minimum initial investment due to redemptions by the shareholder. If at any time the balance in an account does not have a value at least equal to the minimum initial investment, you may be notified that the value of your account is below a Fund’s minimum account balance requirement. You would have 60 days to increase your account balance before the account is closed. Proceeds would be paid promptly to the shareholder.
The Trust also may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment for the Funds beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by a Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for a Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Fund’s shareholders. The Trust also reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
Frequent Trading of Fund Shares
Large and frequent short-term trades in a Fund’s shares increase the administrative costs associated with processing its shareholder transactions. This kind of trading may also potentially interfere with the efficient management of a Fund’s portfolio and increase the costs associated with trading its portfolio securities. In addition, under certain circumstances frequent trading may dilute the returns earned on shares held by a Fund’s other shareholders.
The Board has determined that the Funds are not designed to serve as vehicles for frequent trading in response to short-term fluctuations in the securities markets, and has therefore adopted a policy intended to discourage shareholders from trading that could be detrimental to long-term shareholders of the Funds (the “Policy”).
The Policy provides that the Funds will monitor shareholder trading activity and will seek to restrict a shareholder’s trading privileges in a Fund if that shareholder is found to have engaged in multiple “Round Trip” transactions. A “Round Trip” is defined as a purchase (including subscriptions and exchanges) into a Fund either preceded or followed by a sale (including redemptions and exchanges) of the same or a similar number of shares out of the Fund within 30 days of the purchase. The Funds will make inquiries or take action against any such shareholder whose trading appears inconsistent with the Policy. Purchases and sales of Fund shares made through an automatic investment plan or systematic withdrawal plan or initiated by a third party to ensure compliance with its eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures are not considered when determining Round Trips. In addition, as described above, the Funds impose a redemption fee on certain short-term redemptions to discourage frequent trading.
The Funds may reject any purchase or exchange order by any investor for any reason, including orders the Funds believe are made by short-term investors. In particular, under the Policy, the Funds reserve the right to restrict or reject purchases of shares (including exchanges) without prior notice whenever they detect a pattern of excessive trading.
With respect to accounts where shareholder transactions are processed, or records are kept, by third-party intermediaries, the Funds use reasonable efforts to monitor such accounts to detect suspicious trading patterns. Transactions placed through the same financial intermediary or omnibus account may be deemed part of a group for this purpose and therefore be rejected. For any account that is so identified, the Funds will make further inquiries and take any other necessary actions to enforce the Policy against the shareholder(s) trading through this account and, if necessary, the third-party intermediary maintaining this account. However, the Funds may not be able to determine that a specific order, especially an order made through an omnibus, retirement plan, or similar account, is short term or
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excessive and whether it may be disruptive to the Funds. There is no assurance, therefore, that the Funds will reject all such orders. The Funds do not have any arrangements with any investor or financial intermediary to permit frequent purchases and redemptions of their shares. The Funds may accept undertakings from intermediaries to enforce frequent trading policies on behalf of the Funds that provide a substantially similar level of protection against excessive trading.
Although the Funds will monitor shareholder transactions for certain patterns of excessive trading activity, there can be no assurance that all such trading activity can be identified, prevented, or terminated.
Net Asset Value Per Share
Net asset value per share (“NAV”) is calculated by dividing the value of a Fund’s net assets by the number of its outstanding shares. Each Fund’s investments are valued based on market value or, if market quotations are not readily available, at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures established by the Board. In certain cases, market value may be determined using information provided by a pricing service approved by the Board. Valuing securities at their fair values involves greater reliance on judgment than valuation of securities based on readily available market quotations. When using fair value methods to price securities, the Funds may value those securities higher or lower than another fund using not readily available market quotations or its own fair value methods to price the same securities. There can be no assurance that the Funds could obtain the fair value price assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its net asset value. Because trading hours for certain non-U.S. securities end before the close of the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), closing market quotations may become unreliable. If between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. If an issuer-specific event has occurred during this time that, in Royce’s judgment, is likely to have affected the closing price of a security, it may fair value the security. The Funds use an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts, and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. The Funds value their non-U.S. securities in U.S. dollars on the basis of foreign currency exchange rates provided to the Funds by their custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company. When fair value pricing is employed, the price of securities used by a Fund may differ from quotes or published prices for the same security. Certain bonds and other fixed income securities may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates, and maturities, using established independent pricing services. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
The date on which your purchase, redemption, or exchange of shares is processed is the trade date, and the price used for the transaction is based on the next calculation of net asset value after the order is processed. The NAV for each Class of a Fund is calculated as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time) and is determined every day that the NYSE is open. Securities in each Fund’s portfolio that primarily trade on a foreign exchange may change in value on a day that the NYSE is closed and the Fund’s shareholders are not able to redeem shares in the Fund. If the Fund, its transfer agent, or any other authorized agent receives your trade order by the close of regular trading on the NYSE, your order will receive that day’s NAV. If your order is received after the close of regular trading, it will receive the next business day’s NAV. If you place your order through a financial intermediary rather than with the Fund or its transfer agent directly, the financial intermediary is responsible for transmitting your order to the Fund’s transfer agent in a timely manner.
Portfolio Disclosure Policy
A description of the Funds’ policy and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities holdings is available in the SAI and at on The Royce Funds’ website, www.roycefunds.com. The Funds’ complete portfolio holdings are also available on The Royce Funds’ website approximately 15 to 20 days after each calendar month end and remain available until the next month’s holdings are posted. The Funds’ portfolio holdings are also available on Form N-Q, which is filed with the SEC within 60 days of the end of the Funds’ first and third quarters and can be obtained at www.sec.gov.
Reports
The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports electronically. Please go to www.roycefunds.com/edelivery for more details.
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Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes
Each Fund pays any dividends from its net investment income and makes any distributions from its net realized capital gains annually in December.
Unless you choose otherwise, dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. Unless your account is an IRA or is otherwise exempt from taxation, dividends and distributions will be taxable to you whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. The tax character of distributions (as ordinary income or capital gain) is determined at the Fund level and is not related to how long you have owned a Fund’s shares. Long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends received by a Fund (generally dividends received from taxable domestic corporations and certain foreign corporations) are eligible for taxation at a reduced rate that applies to non-corporate shareholders. To the extent a Fund makes any distributions derived from long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends, such distributions will generally be eligible for taxation to non-corporate shareholders at the reduced rate, provided (in the case of qualifying dividends) that certain holding period and other requirements are met.
Selling or exchanging shares is a taxable event, and you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Each Fund will report the proceeds of your redemption(s) to you. The tax consequences of a redemption depend on your cost basis and holding period, so you should retain all account statements for use in determining the tax consequences of redemptions. In addition, each Fund is generally required by law to provide you and the IRS with cost basis information on the redemption or exchange of any of your shares in a Fund purchased on or after January 1, 2012 (including any shares that you acquire through reinvestment of distributions).
If you redeem shares of a Fund held for six months or less, and you received a capital gain distribution from the Fund during the time you held the shares, you will be required to treat any loss on the redemption as a long-term capital loss up to the amount of the distribution.
You should carefully consider the tax implications of purchasing shares shortly before a distribution. At the time of purchase, a Fund’s net asset value may include undistributed income or capital gains. When the Fund subsequently distributes these amounts, they are taxable to you, even though the distribution is economically a return of part of your investment.
In certain circumstances, you may be subject to back-up withholding taxes on distributions to you from a Fund if you fail to provide the Fund with your correct Social Security Number or other taxpayer identification number, or to make required certifications, or if you have been notified by the IRS that you are subject to back-up withholding.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income (which includes interest, dividends, and capital gains) of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 or $250,000 if married filing jointly, and of certain trusts and estates.
Always consult a tax advisor with questions about federal, state, or local tax consequences. Please see the SAI for additional U.S. federal income tax information.
Customer Identification Program
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account. The Trust has appointed an anti-money laundering compliance officer. When you open a new account to buy shares of a Fund, the Trust or your financial intermediary may ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number, and other information that will allow the Trust to identify you. If the Trust or your financial intermediary is unable to adequately verify your identity within the time frames set forth in the law, your account may not be opened or your shares may be automatically redeemed. If the net asset value per share has decreased since your purchase, you will lose money as a result of this automatic redemption. If you need help completing your account application for direct investment in a Fund, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
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ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION
To the extent any of the discussion below under this heading refers only to a single Reorganization, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall in all respects apply separately to each Reorganization and to Pennsylvania Mutual and the relevant Target Fund, as applicable.
General
Under the NYSE rules that govern brokers who have record ownership of the shares of a Target Fund that are held in “street name” for their customers (i.e., the beneficial owners of such Target Fund shares), brokers have the discretion to vote such shares on routine matters, but do not have the discretion to vote such shares on non-routine matters. With respect to Proposal No. 1 for each Target Fund, it is not expected that brokers will be permitted to vote any Target Fund shares in their discretion.
Inspectors and Judges of Voting
Shareholders vote at a Meeting by casting ballots (in person or by proxy), which votes will be tabulated by one or two persons who were appointed by the Board before the Meeting to serve as Inspectors and Judges of Voting at the Meeting and who have executed an Inspectors and Judges Oath.
Quorum
A quorum of shareholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting of shareholders of a Target Fund. Under the Bylaws of the Trust, a quorum will exist if shareholders entitled to vote more than 50% of the issued and outstanding shares of a Target Fund on the Record Date are present at the relevant Meeting in person or by proxy. In determining whether a quorum is present at each Meeting, the Inspectors and Judges of Voting will count Target Fund shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote as shares that are present and entitled to vote at the Meeting. “Broker non-votes” are, with respect to Proposal No. 1 for each Target Fund, shares of that Target Fund held by brokers or nominees as to which (i) the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power and (ii) the broker or nominee has not received instructions from the beneficial owner or other person who is entitled to instruct how such shares will be voted, but for which a broker or nominee returns the proxy card without actually voting on Proposal No. 1. Each Target Fund may request that selected brokers or nominees return proxies in respect of Target Fund shares for which the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power or for which voting instructions have not been received to the extent necessary to obtain a quorum at each Meeting. Thus, Target Fund shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will be counted in determining (i) whether a quorum is present at each Meeting and (ii) the total number of Target Fund shares present at each Meeting.
Required Vote
Approval of the Plan in connection with a Reorganization requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Target Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Target Fund present at the Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Target Fund are present or represented by proxy at such Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Target Fund. Target Fund shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will have the same effect as a vote against Proposal No. 1 at each Meeting as well as a vote against any adjournment of a Meeting.
In accordance with the provisions of agreements governing certain Individual Retirement Accounts holding shares of Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier and GiftShare Accounts holding shares of Small-Mid-Cap Premier, the applicable trustee or custodian may vote all unvoted Target Fund shares held in such accounts in the same proportion as shares of the applicable Target Fund for which voting instructions are timely received (i.e., for Proposal No. 1, against Proposal No. 1 , or abstain) by such Target Fund or its agent.
Adjournment of Meeting
If a quorum is not present at the relevant Meeting, or if a quorum is present at such Meeting but sufficient votes to approve Proposal No. 1 are not received, such Meeting may be adjourned to permit further solicitation of proxies. In the absence of a quorum, the persons named as proxies may propose an adjournment of the relevant Meeting, and will vote in favor of such adjournment those proxies which they are entitled to vote in favor of Proposal No. 1 and will vote against any such adjournment those proxies required to be voted against Proposal No. 1. If a quorum is present but insufficient votes have been received to approve Proposal No. 1, the chairperson of the relevant Meeting may adjourn the Meeting to permit further solicitation of proxies if the chairperson determines that an adjournment and additional solicitation is reasonable and in the interest of shareholders. Solicitation of votes may continue to be made without any obligation to provide any additional notice of the adjournment other than announcement at the relevant Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Affiliated Broker-Dealer
Royce Fund Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Royce, is the distributor of the Fund. RFS’s principal office is located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
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Information Concerning Royce
Royce, a Delaware limited partnership, is the investment adviser for each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual and a subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”), 100 International Drive, Baltimore, MD 21202. Legg Mason owns a diversified group of global asset managers and is listed on the NYSE (symbol: LM). Royce is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Shareholder Proposals
The Trust is not required, and does not currently intend, to hold annual shareholder meetings for any of the Funds. Shareholders wishing to submit proposals for inclusion in a proxy statement for a subsequent shareholder meeting must send their written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Any shareholder who wishes to bring any proposal at any subsequent shareholder meeting without including such proposal in the Trust’s proxy statement relating to the meeting also must send his or her written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Written proposals should be sent to the Secretary of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Shareholder proposals that are submitted in a timely manner will not necessarily be included in the Trust’s proxy materials. Inclusion of such proposals is subject to limitations under the federal securities laws.
Proxy Delivery
If you and another shareholder share the same address, the Trust may send only one proxy statement unless you or the other shareholder(s) request otherwise. Call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate copy of the proxy statement, and the Trust will promptly mail a copy to you. You may also call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate proxy in the future, or if you are receiving multiple copies now, and wish to receive a single copy in the future. For such requests, call 1-800-221-4268, or write the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES
Record Date Shares Outstanding
As of the Record Date, Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual had outstanding the number of shares of each share class as indicated in the table immediately below. Each Target Fund share is entitled to one vote for each full share and a fractional vote for each fractional share at the relevant Meeting.
Fund and Share Class | Number of Shares Outstanding |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | |
Investment | 3,881,077 |
Service | 5,408,803 |
Consultant* | – |
Institutional* | – |
R* | – |
|
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | |
Investment | 5,889,251 |
Service | 7,685,082 |
Consultant | 817,837 |
Institutional** | – |
R** | – |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | |
Investment | 153,433,640 |
Service | 3,417,798 |
Consultant | 38,988,968 |
Institutional | 10,806,736 |
R | 1,285,239 |
* No Consultant Class, Institutional Class, or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be issued in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. |
** No Institutional Class or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be issued in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. |
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Information About Share Ownership
The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Small-Cap Leaders as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Service | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 1,849,875 | Record | 34.20% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 1,084,297 | Record | 20.05% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Fund Department 211 Main Street San Francisco, CA 94105 -1905 | 1,138,619 | Record | 21.05% |
| | | | |
Investment | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 1,023,124 | Record | 26.36% |
The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Small/Mid-Cap Premier as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Service | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 940,063 | Record | 12.23% |
| | | | |
Investment | MAC & Co. Attn: Mutual Fund Operations 500 Grant Street, Room 151-1010 Pittsburgh, PA 15219-2502 | 3,477,308 | Record | 59.04% |
| | | | |
Consultant | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 235,537 | Record | 28.80% |
The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Pennsylvania Mutual as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Investment | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 8,028,184 | Record | 5.23% |
| Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 15,253,422 | Record | 9.94% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 18,563,304 | Record | 12.10% |
| | | | |
Service | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 708,633 | Record | 20.73% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 1,425,182 | Record | 41.70% |
| | | | |
Consultant | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefits of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 13,075,745 | Record | 33.54% |
| Pershing LLC P.O. Box 2052 Jersey City, NJ 07303-2052 | 2,093,577 | Record | 5.37% |
| Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Funds 211 Main Street San Francisco, CA 94105-1905 | 4,017,097 | Record | 10.30% |
| Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC Special Custody Account for the Exclusive Benefit of Customers 2801 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103-2523 | 3,426,495 | Record | 8.79% |
| | | | |
Institutional | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Funds 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 1,725,257 | Record | 15.96% |
| National Financial Services LLC 499 Washington Blvd. Jersey City, NJ 07310-1995 | 5,997,042 | Record | 55.49% |
| TIAA, FSB Cust/TTEE FBO Retirement Plans for which TIAA Acts as Recordkeeper Attn: Trust Operations 211 N. Broadway, Suite 100 Saint Louis, MO 63102-2748 | 1,018,340 | Record | 9.42% |
| | | | |
R | Matrix Trust Company Trustee Personal Care Products Council 401 717 17th Street, Suite 1300 Denver, CO 80202-3304 | 144,961 | Record | 11.28% |
| MG Trust Company Cust. FBO Foster Electric Co. 401(K) 717 17th Street, Suite 1300 Denver, CO 80202-3304 | 81,877 | Record | 6.37% |
As of the Record Date, the Trustees and officers of the Trust (15 individuals) owned, in the aggregate, the approximate percentages of the relevant share classes of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual.
Trustee and Officer Ownership of Certain Share Classes of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund, and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Fund | Share Class | Aggregate Ownership Percentage |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | Investment | 10.20% |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | Investment | 5.65% |
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As of the Record Date, the Trustees and officers of the Trust (15 individuals) owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the outstanding remaining share classes of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS
Services and Policies
This section describes the shareholder services available to direct shareholders of the Investment, Service, and Consultant Classes of the Funds. It also provides important policy information regarding Royce Fund accounts.
If you purchase Fund shares through a third-party intermediary, such as a mutual fund supermarket, broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, account minimums, fees, policies, and procedures may differ from those described in this Guide. Fund shares purchased through a third-party intermediary may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. Royce Fund Services, LLC, the distributor of Fund shares, Royce & Associates, LP, the Funds’ investment adviser, and/or the Funds may pay fees to broker-dealers, financial intermediaries, and other service providers that introduce investors to the Funds and/or provide certain administrative services to its customers who own Fund shares. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. (“DST AMS”) serves as the Funds’ transfer agent. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian for securities, cash, and other assets of the Funds.
For information and policies on Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier, please refer also to the respective booklets that deal separately with them, as many services offered in this guide are not available for those types of accounts. You must use separate applications and other forms to open these accounts. Please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 or visit www.roycefunds.com to obtain these materials.
Account Information
The Funds pay their own management fees and other operating expenses as outlined in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Please mail all account-related correspondence, including Account Applications, subsequent investments, and written requests for redemption—
by regular mail to: |
The Royce Funds |
c/o DST AMS |
PO Box 219012 |
Kansas City, MO 64121-9012 |
|
by registered mail or overnight courier to: |
The Royce Funds |
c/o DST AMS |
330 West 9th Street |
Kansas City, MO 64105 |
How to Open an Account
You may open an account online at www.roycefunds.com, by mail, or through a financial intermediary. Once you are a direct Royce Fund shareholder (that is, you opened your account directly through The Royce Funds and not through a financial intermediary), you can also open additional accounts online.
Online
You can set up an account online by visiting www.roycefunds.com and clicking on the Shareholder Login tab. Please note that GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier are not available for purchase online. (If you would like to invest in a GiftShare Account in this Fund, you may do so by mail.)
You can also download a Prospectus and Account Application from www.roycefunds.com.
Online account access also allows you to manage your account online once you have registered (see “Managing Your Account Online” below for more details).
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By Mail
Complete and sign the enclosed Account Application. Make your check payable to The Royce Fund and mail it, together with your Application, to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see mailing addresses above).
Special Notice To Non-U.S. Investors
The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States. The Funds mail prospectuses and other information to U.S. addresses only and can accept new account requests from U.S. addresses only.
Managing Your Account Online
Online access allows you to open new accounts directly online and gives you the ability to manage your account(s) online. To access, or register for, online services go to www.roycefunds.com. First-time users need to register for the services by creating a Username and Password. Once registered, you can login with your unique Username. You then have the ability to:
1. | Check your most recent account value |
2. | Sign up for eDelivery to have Prospectuses, Financial Reports, semiannual account statements, transaction confirmation statements, duplicate confirmation statements, and tax forms e-mailed to you. |
3. | Review your recent account history, including distributions |
4. | Change your address (a redemption restriction of 30 days applies) |
5. | Make subsequent purchases1 ($50 minimum) |
6. | Exchange between funds1 |
7. | Redeem fund shares1 ($50,000 maximum) |
8. | Establish an Automatic Investment Plan |
9. | View average cost and tax summary information |
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1 | Options 5, 6, and 7 are not available for GiftShare Accounts in Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. Bank information must be established on your account prior to purchasing shares. |
About Online Security
Your Username and Password allow you to login and access portfolio information. Both your Username and Password are encrypted when you login to access your account.
Royce uses industry best practices to ensure the confidentiality and safety of your information and transactions. Shareholders who wish to sign up for account access must have a secure web browser that uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology with 128-bit encryption. This helps to keep your use of account access confidential.
Your Username and Password are Encrypted
When you login, your Username and Password are both encrypted. Although you will not see an “https” address or the lock symbol at the bottom of your browser window until you have logged in, we assure you that your personal information is secure as it is accepted by our transfer agent’s secure server.
Three Wrong Passwords and You’re Out
We have limited to 3 the number of times that a user can enter an incorrect Password in order to deter unauthorized users. Once your Password has been entered incorrectly 3 times, you will be locked out of the system. To re-establish access, you need to telephone Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time.
Also, if there is no activity for 15 minutes, you will be automatically logged off the system. If you leave your computer unattended, this time-out feature helps to prevent an unauthorized user from accessing the account(s).
How to Purchase Additional Shares
You may purchase additional Fund shares online, by telephone, and by mail.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account online, you can purchase Fund shares after logging in. Funds are debited from your bank checking account through ACH. ($50 minimum—bank information must be established on your account before purchasing shares.)
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By Telephone
To pay using the Automated Clearing House (ACH):
By establishing the Expedited Purchase option on your Account Application, a telephone call allows you to have funds automatically debited from your bank checking account through ACH. Call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call our automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time to buy additional Fund shares ($50 minimum). If your purchase request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV.
To pay by bank wire:
Payments for wire purchases ($500 minimum) must be received by the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time).
Wiring instructions are:
State Street Bank and Trust Co., Inc.
ABA # 011000028
Credit DDA # 9904-712-8
Name of Royce Fund–Share Class
Account Number
Account Name
By Mail
Make your check—$50 minimum—payable to The Royce Fund. Fill out the amount of your purchase on the investment form found at the bottom of your latest statement. If you do not have a form, simply write the name of the Fund and Share Class in which you are investing and your account number clearly on the check. Mail to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above for mailing addresses).
Please note that the Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases.
Convenient Methods of Making Regular, Automatic Expedited Purchases
Select the following services on your Account Application or, if you have an existing Royce Funds account, call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 for an enrollment form or download one at www.roycefunds.com . You may also establish these services online.
Automatic Investment Plan
You can make regular purchases to your Royce Fund account directly from your bank account through ACH on a monthly or quarterly basis on the date you select ($50 minimum).
Direct Deposit Payroll Deduction Plan
You can make investments from your payroll or government check into your Royce Fund account each payment or pay period. Your employer must have direct deposit through ACH available for employees. You may cancel the option by giving written notice to your employer or government agency, as appropriate. The Fund is not responsible for the efficiency of the employer or government agency making the payment or of any financial institution transmitting payments. To sign up, you need to complete an Authorization for Direct Deposit form, which you can download by going to the Fund Literature page on www.roycefunds.com, clicking on How to Invest at the foot of the page, and clicking Applications & Special Forms or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Important Information about Purchases |
• | If your check or wire does not clear, or if the Funds or their transfer agent do not receive payment for any telephone or online purchase, the transaction will be cancelled and you will be responsible for any loss that the Fund incurs. If you are already a shareholder, the Fund can redeem shares from any identically registered Royce Fund account as reimbursement for any loss. |
• | The Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases. |
• | In order to avoid lengthy processing delays caused by clearing foreign checks, the Funds will only accept a foreign check that has been drawn in U.S. dollars and has been issued by a foreign bank with a U.S. correspondent bank. |
• | The Funds reserve the right both to suspend the offering of Fund shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. |
• | You may have your bank account information taken from your initial investment check. Otherwise, you |
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| must include a voided check with your Account Application for Expedited Purchases and Redemptions. It can take up to three weeks to establish these services; you will receive confirmation of their activation by mail. |
Important Information about Telephone and Online Transactions
Neither the Funds nor their transfer agent will be liable for following instructions reasonably believed to be genuine that are received by telephone or made online. The transfer agent uses certain procedures designed to confirm that instructions are genuine. Procedures may include requiring some form of personal identification prior to acting on the instructions, such as providing written confirmation of the transaction and/or recording incoming calls. If the Funds or their transfer agent do not follow such procedures, then they may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions.
How to Sell Shares
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. DST AMS will generally send the proceeds within two business days of receiving the request.
Redemptions from Royce-sponsored retirement plan accounts—IRA—and from accounts for which share certificates are outstanding must be made in writing.
Certain other redemption requests must be made in writing and also require a medallion guarantee of the signature(s) of the shareholder(s). These include redemption requests for $50,000 or more, for a payee(s) other than the shareholder(s), or for proceeds to be sent to an address other than the address of record.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account at www.roycefunds.com, login, and click the Fund you want to sell, and select Redeem from the Account Actions dropdown menu. Proceeds may be sent by check, by bank wire, or through ACH. (This service is not available for GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier.)
By Telephone
For any amount less than $50,000, you may call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call the automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time and DST AMS will mail a check to the address of record on the account. If your redemption request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV. You may also establish the Expedited Redemption option, which allows you to have proceeds sent to your bank by wire—usually credited within one business day—and/or by ACH—usually credited within two business days.
By Mail
Mail your letter to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above mailing addresses). Written requests must be in Good Order, meaning that the request meets the Fund’s legal and processing requirements.
All written requests to sell shares must contain at least the following to be in Good Order: |
• | The name(s) and signature(s) of each shareholder named in the account registration with medallion guarantee(s) if required |
• | The Fund name and account number |
• | The dollar or share amount you want to sell |
• | The address to which you want proceeds sent |
• | Certificates, if you are holding any |
In addition: |
• | Trusts and Corporate Retirement Plan Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the trustee(s) named in the account registration. Redemptions involving third parties, trustees not named in the account registration, successor trustees, or other situations require additional documentation. Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 with any questions. |
• | Corporate Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by an officer of the corporation and a certified copy of a Corporate Resolution that authorizes the assigning officer to effect transactions. The same party cannot certify the Corporate Resolution and sign the letter of instruction. |
• | Partnership/Sole Proprietorship Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the general partner(s)/sole proprietor named in the account registration. |
• | Nominee Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by a general partner or a nominee facsimile stamp. |
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• | Transfer on Death Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by the beneficiary(ies) named in the account registration, a certified copy of the deceased shareholder’s Death Certificate, a tax waiver if required by the deceased’s former state of residence, and an affidavit signed by the beneficiary(ies) that states: “Under penalty of perjury, I/we swear that there are no known disputes as to the persons entitled to a distribution under the nonprobate transfer or the amounts to be distributed to each person and no known claims that would affect the distribution requested.” |
• | Administrators/executors of shareholder estates must provide a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction, certified copy of Letters Testamentary, which authorize the signing party to act on behalf of the deceased shareholder and, if required by the deceased’s state of former residence, a certified tax waiver. |
If you have any questions about how to ensure that your written redemption request is in Good Order, please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, or contact us at www.roycefunds.com.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
This option allows you to automatically redeem shares from your Fund account and have the proceeds transferred directly to your bank account through ACH on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis generally on the 15th day of the month. You must have at least $25,000 in a Fund account to be eligible for this feature.
Important Information About Redemptions |
• | Telephone and online redemptions will not be permitted for 30 days after a change in the address of record. |
• | If you are redeeming shares recently purchased by check or through ACH, proceeds may not be sent until payment for the purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days. Otherwise, redemption proceeds must be sent to you within seven days of receipt of your request in Good Order. |
• | If you have difficulty making a redemption by telephone or online, you may want to make your redemption request by regular or express mail (See “How to Sell Shares: By Mail” above for processing information). The Funds reserve the right to revise or terminate telephone or online account access redemption privileges at any time. |
• | Each Fund may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by the Funds of securities owned by them is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for the Funds fairly to determine the value of their respective net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Funds’ shareholders. |
• | Each Fund will normally make redemptions in cash, but reserves the right to satisfy a redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of the Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). |
How to Exchange Shares
You may make exchanges between the series of the Trust in the same class, as well as between Funds in the Investment, Service, and Consultant Classes. However, you must meet a Fund Class’s minimum initial investment when you open an account by exchange. Also, exchanges are not permitted to or from GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier.
You may make exchanges online, by telephone, and by mail. An exchange involves a purchase and a redemption; therefore you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Also, exchanges are subject to the Funds’ early redemption fee and are permitted only if both the registration and the Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number of the two accounts are identical. You may make an exchange only for shares of a class or series offered for sale in your state of residence. The Trust reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
How to Transfer Ownership
You may transfer the ownership of any of your Fund shares to another person by writing to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS.
As with selling shares, your request must be in Good Order (see “How To Sell Shares” above for information regarding Good Order). Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 for instructions.
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Statements and Reports |
• | A confirmation statement is sent to you, electronically or by mail, each time there is a transaction in your account. You can also review your recent account history once you have registered for online account access. |
• | Year-to-date account statements are sent semiannually. |
• | The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports via eDelivery. Please go to www.roycefunds.com for more details. |
Minimum Account Balance
Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining low-balance accounts, the Trust reserves the right to redeem shares in the account of any Fund (except GiftShare Accounts in Small/Mid-Cap Premier) if the account falls below the minimum initial investment because of redemptions by the shareholder.
The Trust may notify you if, due to redemption(s), the balance in your account is less than the appropriate minimum initial investment, or if you discontinue an Automatic Investment Plan before your account reaches the $2,000 minimum initial investment. You would then have 60 days to increase your balance before the Fund would close your account.
In each of the cases described above, the relevant Fund would promptly pay redemption proceeds to the shareholder.
* * *
If you have any questions about the material in this section, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268, or visit our website at www.roycefunds.com.
OTHER BUSINESS
While each Meeting has been called to transact any business that may properly come before it, the only matters which the Trustees intend to present are the matters stated in the Notice of Special Meetings. However, if any additional matter properly comes before a Meeting and on all matters incidental to the conduct of such Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed proxy to vote the proxy in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
| By order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
| |
| John E. Denneen, |
| Secretary |
Please fill in, date and sign the proxy card and return it in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. You may also provide your voting instructions via telephone or the internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient voting options.
Dated: April 1 , 2019
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APPENDIX A
PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND
This Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund (this “Plan”), a Delaware statutory trust having its principal place of business at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 (“TRF”), on behalf of the acquiring fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (the “Acquiring Fund”) and each target fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (each, a “Target Fund”), is made as of this 28th day of February, 2019. The Target Funds and the Acquiring Fund are collectively referred to herein as the “Funds.”
Each reorganization will consist of: (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund, in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund and Investment Class Service Class, and, to the extent applicable, Consultant Class shares of the Acquiring Fund (collectively, “Acquiring Fund Shares”) having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the value of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund; (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares to the shareholders of the Target Fund according to their respective interests in complete liquidation of the Target Fund; and (iii) the termination of the Target Fund as soon as practicable after the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof), all upon and subject to the terms and conditions of this Plan.
The Reorganization of one Target Fund into the Acquiring Fund is not dependent upon the consummation of the Reorganization of the other Target Fund into the Acquiring Fund. To the extent this Plan refers only to a single Reorganization, the terms and conditions hereof shall apply separately to each Reorganization and to the Acquiring Fund and the relevant Target Fund, as applicable.
The Plan is intended to be and is adopted as a plan of reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).
In order to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Plan, the following actions shall be taken by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund, as applicable:
1. Acquisition of Assets, Assumption of Liabilities, Issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares, and Liquidation and Termination of Target Fund.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions contained herein and on the basis of the representations and warranties contained herein, the Target Fund agrees to convey, transfer, and deliver substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, and claims whatsoever. In exchange, the Acquiring Fund agrees: (i) to deliver to the Target Fund the number of full and fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, determined by dividing: (1) the aggregate value of the Target Fund’s assets with respect to each class of the Target Fund, net of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof, by (2) the net asset value of one share of the corresponding class of the Acquiring Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof; and (ii) to assume substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund. Such transactions shall take place at the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof). For the purposes of this Agreement, the Investment Class shares of the Target Fund correspond to the Investment Class shares of the Acquiring Fund, the Service Class shares of the Target Fund correspond to the Service Class shares of the Acquiring Fund, and, to the extent applicable, the Consultant Class shares of the Target Fund correspond to the Consultant Class shares of the Acquiring Fund. The term “Acquiring Fund Shares” should be read to include each such class of shares of the Acquiring Fund unless the context otherwise requires.
(b) The assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund shall consist of all property owned by the Target Fund, including, without limitation, all cash, securities, commodities, interests in futures and other financial instruments, claims (whether absolute or contingent, known, or unknown), receivables (including dividends, interest, principal, subscriptions and other receivables), goodwill and other intangible property, all books and records belonging to the Target Fund, any deferred or prepaid expenses shown as an asset on the books of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time (as defined in Section 2(a) hereof), and all interests, rights, privileges and powers, other than cash in an amount necessary to pay dividends and distributions as provided in Section 8(d) hereof and other than the Target Fund’s rights under this Plan. All liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves of the Target Fund, to the extent that they exist at or after the Valuation Time, shall after the Valuation Time, attach to the Acquiring Fund and may be enforced against the Acquiring Fund to the same extent as if the same had been incurred by the Acquiring Fund.
A-1
Appendix A
(c) Immediately following the Closing, the Target Fund shall, in complete liquidation of the Target Fund, distribute pro rata to its shareholders of record as of the Valuation Time all of the Acquiring Fund Shares received by the Target Fund pursuant to this Section 1 and shall thereafter terminate. Such liquidation and distribution shall be accomplished by the establishment of accounts on the share records of TRF relating to the Acquiring Fund and noting in such accounts the amounts of Acquiring Fund Shares that former Target Fund shareholders are due based on their respective holdings of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time. Fractional Acquiring Fund Shares shall be carried to the normal and customary decimal place for such shares. The Acquiring Fund shall not issue certificates representing Acquiring Fund Shares in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
2. Valuation.
(a) The value of the assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund hereunder shall be the value of such assets as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (the “Valuation Time”), using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
(b) Full Acquiring Fund Shares, and to the extent necessary, fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, of an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the amount of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund, shall be issued by the Acquiring Fund in exchange for its acquisition of such assets from the Target Fund and its assumption of such liabilities of the Target Fund. The net asset value per share of an Investment Class share of the Acquiring Fund, a Service Class share of the Acquiring Fund, and, to the extent applicable, a Consultant Class share of the Acquiring Fund, as contemplated under Section 1(a) of this Plan shall be computed as of the Valuation Time, using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
3. Closing and Closing Date.
The consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby shall take place at the Closing (the “Closing”). The date of the Closing shall be June 14, 2019, or such other date as determined in writing by TRF’s officers (the “Closing Date”). Unless otherwise provided in writing, all acts taking place at the Closing shall be deemed to take place as of 10:00 a.m. on the Closing Date. The Closing shall take place at the principal office of TRF. TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall have provided for delivery as of the Closing of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the account of the Acquiring Fund at the Acquiring Fund’s custodian. Also, TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall produce at the Closing a list of names and addresses of the shareholders of record of the Target Fund and the number of full and fractional shares owned by each such shareholder, all as of the Valuation Time, certified by its transfer agent or by its President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief. TRF, on behalf of the Acquiring Fund, shall issue and deliver to the Secretary of TRF a confirmation evidencing the Acquiring Fund Shares to be credited to the Target Fund’s account on the Closing Date, or shall provide evidence satisfactory to the Target Fund that the Acquiring Fund Shares have been registered in an account on the books of the Acquiring Fund in such manner as TRF, on behalf of Target Fund, may request.
4. Transfer Taxes
Any transfer taxes payable upon the issuance of the Acquiring Fund Shares in a name other than the registered holder of the Target Fund shares on the books of the Target Fund as of that time shall, as a condition of such transfer, be paid by the person to whom such Acquiring Fund Shares are to be issued and transferred.
5. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Target Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Target Fund:
(a) The Target Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end, management investment company and all of the shares of Target Fund sold were sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”).
(b) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Target Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
A-2
Appendix A
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Target Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Target Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Target Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
(e) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
(f) The Target Fund does not have any unamortized or unpaid organizational fees or expenses.
(g) The Target Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a “regulated investment company” (a “RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Code, as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code for its taxable year through the Closing Date and liquidation; and has satisfied, and intends to satisfy, the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years.
(h) The Target Fund, or its agents, (i) holds a valid Form W-8BEN, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Withholding and Reporting (Individuals), a valid Form W-8BEN-E, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting (Entities) (or other appropriate series of Form W-8, as the case may be), or Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, for each Target Fund shareholder of record, which Form W-8 or Form W-9 can be associated with reportable payments made by the Target Fund to such shareholder, and/or (ii) has otherwise timely instituted the appropriate nonresident alien or foreign corporation or backup withholding procedures with respect to such shareholder as provided by Sections 1441, 1442, 1471 and 3406 of the Code.
(i) At the Closing, the Target Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to below, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially adversely affect title thereto.
(j) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Target Fund.
(k) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Target Fund.
(l) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
6. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Acquiring Fund:
(a) The Acquiring Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the 1940 Act as an open-end, management investment company and all of the Acquiring Fund Shares sold have been sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the 1933 Act.
(b) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Acquiring Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Acquiring Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Acquiring Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Acquiring Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
A-3
Appendix A
(e) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
(f) The Acquiring Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a RIC as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code through the Closing Date and expects to continue to so qualify thereafter; and has satisfied the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years and expects to continue to satisfy them.
(g) The statement of assets and liabilities to be created by TRF for the Acquiring Fund as of the Valuation Time for the purpose of determining the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued pursuant to this Plan will accurately reflect the assets in the case of the Target Fund and the net asset value in the case of the Acquiring Fund, and outstanding shares, as of such date, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(h) At the Closing, the Acquiring Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to above, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially affect title thereto.
(i) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Acquiring Fund.
(j) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Acquiring Fund.
(k) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
(l) TRF anticipates that consummation of this Plan will not cause the Acquiring Fund to fail to conform to the requirements applicable to RICs under Subchapter M of the Code at the end of the next succeeding tax quarter.
7. Intentions of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(a) At the Closing, TRF on behalf of the Target Fund, intends to have available a copy of the shareholder ledger accounts, certified by TRF’s transfer agent or its President or a Vice President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief, for all the shareholders of record of Target Fund shares as of the Valuation Time who are to become shareholders of the Acquiring Fund as a result of the completion of the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
(b) TRF intends to operate each Fund’s respective business as presently conducted between the date hereof and the Closing.
(c) TRF intends that the Target Fund will not acquire the Acquiring Fund Shares for the purpose of making distributions thereof to anyone other than the Target Fund’s shareholders.
(d) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund intends, if this Plan is consummated, to liquidate and dissolve the Target Fund.
(e) TRF intends that, by the Closing, each Fund’s Federal and other tax returns and reports required by law to be filed on or before such date shall have been filed, and all Federal and other taxes shown as due on said returns shall have either been paid or adequate liability reserves shall have been provided for the payment of such taxes.
(f) TRF intends to mail to each shareholder of the Target Fund entitled to vote at the meeting of its shareholders at which action on this Plan is to be considered, in sufficient time to comply with requirements as to notice thereof, a prospectus/proxy statement that complies in all material respects with the applicable provisions of Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 20(a) of the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations, respectively, thereunder.
(g) TRF intends to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement on Form N-14 under the 1933 Act relating to the Acquiring Fund Shares issuable hereunder (the “Registration Statement”), and will use its best efforts to provide that the Registration Statement becomes effective as promptly as practicable. At
A-4
Appendix A
the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, it will: (i) comply in all material respects with the applicable provisions of the 1933 Act, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder; and (ii) not contain any untrue statement of material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. At the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, at the time of the shareholders’ meeting of the Target Fund, and at the Closing Date, the prospectus and statement of additional information included in the Registration Statement will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
8. Conditions Precedent to be Fulfilled by TRF on behalf of the Funds.
The consummation of the Plan with respect to the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a) That: (i) all the representations and warranties contained herein concerning the Funds shall be true and correct as of the Closing with the same effect as though made as of and at such date; (ii) performance of all obligations required by this Plan to be performed by TRF on behalf of the Funds shall occur prior to the Closing; and (iii) TRF shall execute a certificate signed by the President or a Vice President and by the Secretary or equivalent officer to the foregoing effect.
(b) That the form of this Plan shall have been adopted and approved by the appropriate action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) That the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shall not have issued an unfavorable management report under Section 25(b) of the 1940 Act or instituted or threatened to institute any proceeding seeking to enjoin consummation of the Plan under Section 25(c) of the 1940 Act. And, further, that no other legal, administrative or other proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened that would materially affect the financial condition of a Fund or would prohibit the transactions contemplated hereby.
(d) That at or immediately prior to the Closing, the Target Fund shall have declared and paid a dividend or dividends which, together with all previous such dividends, shall have the effect of distributing to the Target Fund’s shareholders all of such Target Fund’s investment company taxable income for taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing and all of its net capital gain, if any, realized in taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing (after reduction for any capital loss carry-forward).
(e) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to TRF, dated as of the Closing Date, in form and substance satisfactory to TRF, substantially to the effect that:
• The transactions contemplated by the Plan will qualify as a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Code and that the Target Fund and Acquiring Fund will be a "party to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Target Fund upon (i) the transfer of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of liabilities of the Target Fund and the Acquiring Fund Shares or (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares by the Target Fund to its shareholders in exchange for their Target Fund shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquiring Fund upon the receipt of the assets of the Target Fund solely in exchange for the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares to the Target Fund and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund by the Acquiring Fund;
• The tax basis of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of the Target Fund immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of the Target Fund;
• The tax holding period of the assets of the Target Fund in the hands of Acquiring Fund will include the Target Fund's tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of the Target Fund's taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to the Acquiring Fund;
• Target Fund shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Target Fund shares solely for Acquiring Fund Shares as part of the Reorganization;
• The tax basis of Acquiring Fund Shares received by Target Fund shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange; and
• The tax holding period of Acquiring Fund Shares that Target Fund shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Target Fund shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange.
In giving the opinion set forth above, counsel may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact.
(f) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion in form and substance satisfactory to it from Richards, Layton & Finger, to the effect that, subject in all respects to the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance, and other laws now or hereafter affecting generally the enforcement of creditors’ rights and subject to the general principles of equity:
(1) TRF is validly existing in good standing as a statutory trust under the Delaware Statutory Trust Act, 12 Del. C. § 3801, et seq. (the “Act”), and has the trust power and authority under the Trust Instrument, Bylaws and the Act to (i) execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Plan and (ii) conduct its business as described in the Trust Instrument and Bylaws;
(2) The Acquiring Fund has been duly established as a separate series of TRF under the Trust Instrument and Section 3806(b)(2) of the Act;
A-5
Appendix A
(3) The shares of the Acquiring Fund to be issued as provided for by the Plan are duly authorized, and upon issuance will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable beneficial interests in the Acquiring Fund;
(4) The execution and delivery of the Plan and the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby have been duly authorized by TRF under the Trust Instrument, the Bylaws and the Act;
(5) Neither the execution, delivery and performance by TRF of the Plan, nor the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby, violates (i) the Trust Instrument or Bylaws or (ii) any law, rule or regulation of the State of Delaware applicable to TRF; and
(6) This Plan constitutes a legal, valid and binding agreement of TRF, enforceable against TRF, in accordance with its terms.
In giving the opinion set forth above, Richards, Layton & Finger may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact and may assume all conditions precedent set forth in this Plan have been satisfied and may include other customary assumptions and qualifications for opinions of this type, including without limitation, customary enforceability assumptions (including the effect of principles of equity, including principles of commercial reasonableness and good faith and fair dealing), that the trustees of TRF have complied with their fiduciary duties in approving this Plan, that the Reorganization is fair in all respects and that the execution and delivery of this Plan by TRF with respect to the Target Fund and the performance of its obligations thereunder are not inconsistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. In addition, such counsel need not express an opinion with respect to any provisions of this Plan that purport to obligate TRF to cause other persons or entities to take certain actions or act in a certain way insofar as such provision relates to the actions of such other persons or entities, any provisions of this Plan to the extent that such provisions purport to bind or limit the trustees of TRF in the exercise of their fiduciary duties or to bind parties not a signatory to this Plan.
(g) That the Registration Statement with respect to the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered to the Target Fund’s shareholders in accordance with this Plan shall have become effective, and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto, shall have been issued prior to the Closing Date, or shall be in effect at Closing, and no proceedings for the issuance of such an order shall be pending or threatened on that date.
(h) That the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered hereunder shall be eligible for sale by the Acquiring Fund with each state commission or agency with which such eligibility is required in order to permit the Acquiring Fund Shares lawfully to be delivered to each shareholder of the Target Fund.
9. Expenses.
(a) TRF represents and warrants that there are no broker or finders’ fees payable by it in connection with the transactions provided for herein.
(b) All costs incurred in entering into and carrying out the terms and conditions of this Plan, including (without limitation) outside legal counsel and independent registered public accounting firm costs, and costs incurred in connection with the printing and mailing of the relevant combined prospectus and proxy statement and related materials, and with the solicitation and tabulation of vote of Target Fund shareholders, shall be allocated and paid by the Funds as follows: Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (45%), Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (45%), and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (10%).
(c) Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Acquiring Fund and its shareholders.
A-6
Appendix A
10. Termination; Postponement; Waiver; Order.
(a) Anything contained in this Plan to the contrary notwithstanding, this Plan may be terminated and abandoned at any time (whether before or after approval thereof by the shareholders of an Target Fund) prior to the Closing, or the Closing may be postponed by TRF on behalf of a Fund by resolution of the Board of Trustees of TRF if circumstances develop that, in the opinion of the Board, make proceeding with the Plan inadvisable.
(b) If the transactions contemplated by this Plan have not been consummated by December 31, 2019, the Plan shall automatically terminate on that date, unless a later date is agreed to by the officers of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) In the event of termination of this Plan pursuant to the provisions hereof, the Plan shall become void and have no further effect with respect to the Acquiring Fund or Target Fund, and neither TRF, the Acquiring Fund nor the Target Fund, nor the trustees, officers, agents or shareholders shall have any liability in respect of this Plan.
(d) At any time prior to the Closing, any of the terms or conditions of this Plan may be waived by the party who is entitled to the benefit thereof by action taken by TRF’s Board of Trustees if, in the judgment of such Board of Trustees, such action or waiver will not have a material adverse affect on the benefits intended under this Plan to its shareholders, on behalf of whom such action is taken.
(e) If any order or orders of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to this Plan shall be issued prior to the Closing and shall impose any terms or conditions that are determined by action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds to be acceptable, such terms and conditions shall be binding as if a part of this Plan without further vote or approval of the shareholders of the Target Fund, unless such terms and conditions shall result in a change in the method of computing the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued the Target Fund, in which event, unless such terms and conditions shall have been included in the proxy solicitation material furnished to the shareholders of the Target Fund prior to the meeting at which the transactions contemplated by this Plan shall have been approved, this Plan shall not be consummated and shall terminate, unless TRF on behalf of the Target Fund shall call a special meeting of shareholders at which such conditions so imposed shall be submitted for approval.
11. Entire Plan and Amendments.
This Plan embodies the entire plan of TRF on behalf of the Funds, and there are no agreements, understandings, restrictions, or warranties between the parties other than those set forth or provided for herein. This Plan may be amended in writing only by TRF. Neither this Plan nor any interest herein may be assigned without the prior written consent of TRF on behalf of the Fund corresponding to the Fund making the assignment. For purposes of the Act, this Plan will be deemed part of the governing instrument (as defined in the Act) of TRF.
12. Notices.
Any notice, report, or demand required or permitted by any provision of this Plan shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given if delivered or mailed, first class postage prepaid, addressed to TRF at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, Attention: Secretary.
13. Governing Law.
This Plan shall be governed by and carried out in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without regard to its conflict of laws principles.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Page Follows]
A-7
Appendix A
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each party has executed this Plan by its duly authorized officers, all as of the date and year first written above.
| | THE ROYCE FUND |
| | on behalf of the Acquiring Fund listed in |
| | Schedule A |
| | |
| | |
/s/ John E. Denneen | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark |
Attest: John E. Denneen, | | By: Christopher D. Clark |
Secretary | | Title: President |
| | |
| | |
| | THE ROYCE FUND |
| | on behalf of each Target Fund listed in |
| | Schedule A |
| | |
| | |
/s/ John E. Denneen | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark |
Attest: John E. Denneen, | | By: Christopher D. Clark |
Secretary | | Title: President |
A-8
Appendix A
Schedule A
Target Funds | Acquiring Fund |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund, each a series of The Royce Fund | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund, a series of The Royce Fund |
A-9
THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
April 1 , 2019
Dear Shareholders of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund:
We are sending this information to you because you are a shareholder of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (“Low-Priced Stock”). Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock are being invited to vote on the proposed reorganization of that Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund (“Micro-Cap”). Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is a series of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”).
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | | the proposed transaction as the “Reorganization”; |
| • | | the fund resulting from the Reorganization as the “Combined Fund”; and |
| • | | Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap together as the “Funds.” |
A special meeting of the shareholders of Low-Priced Stock is scheduled for May 28, 2019 (the “Meeting”) to consider and approve the proposed Reorganization. If the Reorganization receives the required shareholder approval and is completed, you will become a shareholder of Micro-Cap, you will cease to own shares of Low-Priced Stock, and Low-Priced Stock will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. This package contains information about the proposal and includes materials you will need to vote.
Proposed Reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund
In order to help shareholders of Low-Priced Stock vote on the proposed Reorganization, below is a short summary of the similarities and differences between Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and certain other factors to be considered by shareholders of Low-Priced Stock when voting on the Reorganization.
Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are similar to one another in that they:
| • | | have the same investment objective; |
| • | | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
| • | | are generally broadly diversified in terms of number of holdings; and |
| • | | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions. |
In addition, we note that James P. Stoeffel is Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio manager, assisted by Portfolio Manager Brendan J. Hartman. Mr. Stoeffel is also Micro-Cap’s lead portfolio manager, with Mr. Hartman managing the Fund with him. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Micro-Cap will continue in their respective roles assuming completion of the Reorganization.
The investment policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap do, however, differ from one another in certain ways. Pursuant to its investment policies, Low-Priced Stock normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in “low-priced” equity securities. Royce & Associates, LP, investment adviser to each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap, defines “low-priced” as those companies whose average cost per share in Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio is less than $25. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, is not subject to any requirements regarding the average cost per share of its portfolio investments. In addition, the investment policies of Low-Priced Stock require at least 65% of the low-priced securities in which it invests be issued by small- and micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion) at the time of investment. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion) under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, the Funds have different benchmark indexes (i.e., the Russell 2000 Index is the benchmark index for Low-Priced Stock while the Russell Microcap Index is the primary benchmark index for Micro-Cap). We also note that the portfolio turnover rate for Low-Priced Stock was significantly higher than that of Micro-Cap during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 58% for Low-Priced Stock and 24% for Micro-Cap).
Despite the potential differences in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had comparable geometric average market capitalizations (i.e., approximately $453 million for Low-Priced Stock and approximately $401 million for Micro-Cap) as of December 31, 2018. Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. In addition, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap allocated similar portions of their respective investment portfolios to the same market cap ranges as of such date as set forth in the table below:
Market Cap Range | Percentage of Low-Priced Stock Net Assets | Percentage of Micro-Cap Net Assets |
Less than $1 billion | 81.3% | 85.5% |
Greater than $1 billion but less than $2 billion | 15.2% | 12.3% |
Greater than $2 billion but less than $3 billion | 3.5% | 2.2% |
Greater than $3 billion | 0% | 0% |
| | |
Overall, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their bottom-up, core investment approaches and their focus on U.S. equity securities. However, the prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Low-Priced Stock to the extent Micro-Cap invests, relative to Low-Priced Stock, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Low-Priced Stock invests, relative to Micro-Cap, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. In addition, Low-Priced Stock's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Micro-Cap may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
In light of the similarities outlined above and the similar market cap focus of the Funds’ actual holdings as of December 31, 2018, Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), investment adviser to each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap, believes that shareholders of Low-Priced Stock could benefit from Micro-Cap’s broader investment mandate through completion of the Reorganization.
We note that Low-Priced Stock is currently subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee rate and lower contractual annual expense caps than Micro-Cap. However, Micro-Cap’s contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps will be reduced to be equal to those of Low-Priced Stock upon completion of the Reorganization. We note that the current contractual annual expense cap of Low-Priced Stock and the new contractual annual expense cap of Micro-Cap assuming completion of the Reorganization expire on December 31, 2019. Assuming completion of the Reorganization and implementation of the reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps for Micro-Cap, we note, as set forth in more detail in the accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund Shareholders,” that: (i) the gross pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were both lower than those of Low-Priced Stock, and (ii) the net pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were both equal to those of Low-Priced Stock.
Performance comparisons presented to the Board of Trustees of the Trust in connection with its consideration and approval of the Reorganization at a meeting held on December 13, 2018 illustrated that Micro-Cap had generally outperformed Low-Priced Stock during various periods ended September 30, 2018. Detailed information regarding the investment performance of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus under the heading “Comparison of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
We believe that completion of the Reorganization would give Low-Priced Stock shareholders the opportunity to participate in a fund that: (i) has the same investment objective; (ii) uses a core investment approach; (iii) has a broader investment mandate than Low-Priced Stock; (iv) has the same portfolio managers; (v) is subject to the same contractual investment advisory fee rate and the same contractual annual expense caps; and (vi) has a larger asset base over which expenses may be spread. The Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved the Reorganization and recommends that Low-Priced Stock shareholders vote “FOR” the related proposal. Although the Trustees have determined that the Reorganization is in the best interests of Low-Priced Stock and its shareholders, the final decision rests with those shareholders.
Conclusion
The enclosed materials explain this proposal in more detail and we encourage you to review them carefully. We hope that you will respond today to ensure that your shares will be represented at the Meeting. You may authorize a proxy to vote your shares by using one of the methods below by following the instructions on your proxy card:
| • | | By touch-tone telephone; |
| • | | By internet; or |
| • | | By completing and returning the enclosed proxy card in the postage-paid envelope. |
You may also vote in person at the Meeting.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about the Reorganization.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our work. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.
| Sincerely, |
| |
| |
| CHRISTOPHER D. CLARK |
| President of The Royce Fund |
2
Please vote now. Your vote is important. |
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, we urge you to indicate your voting instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it and return it promptly in the envelope provided, or record your voting instructions by touch-tone telephone or via the internet, no matter how large or small your holdings may be. If you submit a properly executed proxy but do not indicate how you wish your shares to be voted, your shares will be voted “FOR” the proposal.
|
3
THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON MAY 28, 2019
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (“Low-Priced Stock”) will be held at the offices of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”), 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. (Eastern time), for the following purposes:
| 1. To approve a Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”), on behalf of Low-Priced Stock and Royce Micro-Cap Fund (“Micro- Cap”). As described in more detail in the accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus, the Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock to Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap’s issuance to Low-Priced Stock of shares of beneficial interest of Micro-Cap (the “Micro-Cap Shares”). The Micro-Cap Shares received by Low-Priced Stock in the reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of Low-Priced Stock that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Low-Priced Stock, on a pro rata basis, of the Micro-Cap Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Low-Priced Stock. Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock would receive the same class of Micro-Cap Shares as they held in Low-Priced Stock immediately prior to such reorganization. A vote in favor of the Plan by shareholders of Low-Priced Stock will constitute a vote in favor of the liquidation and termination of Low-Priced Stock as a separate series of the Trust. |
| |
| 2. To transact such other business as may come before the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. |
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has fixed the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those shareholders of Low-Priced Stock entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of Low-Priced Stock at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. A complete list of the shareholders of Low-Priced Stock entitled to vote at the Meeting will be available and open to the examination of any shareholder of Low-Priced Stock for any purpose relevant to such Meeting during ordinary business hours from and after May 14, 2019, at the offices of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is a separate series of the Trust. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the reorganization transaction is completed, you will become a shareholder of Micro-Cap, you will no longer own shares of Low-Priced Stock, and Low-Priced Stock will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the reorganization transaction is otherwise not completed, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of Low-Priced Stock.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about the reorganization transaction. If you need assistance voting, please call Computershare, the proxy solicitor, toll-free at 1-866-209-8568.
IMPORTANT
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, please mark your instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it, and return it in the enclosed envelope (which requires no postage if mailed in the United States), even if you expect to be present at the Meeting. You may also authorize a proxy to vote your shares via touch-tone telephone or the Internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient proxy authorization options. The accompanying proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, is revocable, and will not affect your right to vote in person in the event that you attend the Meeting.
| | By Order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
| | |
| | |
| | John E. Denneen |
| | Secretary |
| | |
April 1 , 2019 | | |
PROXY STATEMENT
for
ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND,
A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
and
PROSPECTUS
for
ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND,
A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
745 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York 10151
1-800-221-4268
Reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund
This Proxy Statement and Prospectus (this “Prospectus/Proxy Statement”) is furnished in connection with the Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (“Low-Priced Stock”), to be held at the offices of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”), 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. (Eastern time) and at any adjournment thereof. The Meeting is being held to vote on a Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”), on behalf of Low-Priced Stock and Royce Micro-Cap Fund (“Micro-Cap”). The proposal for Low-Priced Stock shareholders to consider and approve the Plan at the Meeting is referred to as "Proposal No. 1" in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is a separate series of the Trust.
The Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock to Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap’s issuance to Low-Priced Stock of shares of beneficial interest of Micro-Cap (the “Micro-Cap Shares”). The Micro-Cap Shares received by Low-Priced Stock in the reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of Low-Priced Stock that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Low-Priced Stock, on a pro rata basis, of the Micro-Cap Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Low-Priced Stock. Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock would receive the same class of Micro-Cap Shares as they held in Low-Priced Stock immediately prior to such reorganization.
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement will first be sent to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock on or about April 1 , 2019.
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | | the acquisition of substantially all of Low-Priced Stock’s assets by Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of Low-Priced Stock’s liabilities and the issuance and distribution of the Micro-Cap Shares to Low-Priced Stock and its shareholders as the “Reorganization;” |
| • | | the fund resulting from the Reorganization as the “Combined Fund;” and |
| • | | Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap individually as a “Fund” and together as the “Funds”. |
If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Reorganization is completed, you will become a shareholder of Micro-Cap, you will no longer own shares of Low-Priced Stock, and Low-Priced Stock will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. The Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Micro-Cap’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Micro-Cap’s legal agreements upon completion of the Reorganization, including an amended and restated investment advisory agreement for Micro-Cap with a reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock and new contractual annual expense caps that are equal to those of Low-Priced Stock. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Reorganization is otherwise not completed, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of Low-Priced Stock.
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the Reorganization and has determined that the Reorganization is in the best interest of Low-Priced Stock and its shareholders. The Board has fixed the close of business on March 8, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those shareholders of Low-Priced Stock entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of Low-Priced Stock at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof.
Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), the investment adviser to each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap, has retained Computershare Fund Services, 250 Royall Street, Canton, MA 02021 (the “Solicitor”), to solicit proxies for the Meeting. If you need assistance voting, please call the Solicitor toll-free at 1-866-209-8568. The Solicitor is responsible for printing proxy cards, mailing proxy materials to Low-Priced Stock shareholders, soliciting broker-dealer firms, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, tabulating the returned proxies, and performing other proxy solicitation services. The estimated cost for these solicitation services is approximately $91,000. Such costs and all other fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, printing this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and legal and audit fees, will be allocated between, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Low-Priced Stock (50%) and Micro-Cap (50%). However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
In addition to solicitation through the mail, proxies may be solicited by representatives of the Trust and Royce Fund Services, LLC (“RFS”), each Fund’s distributor, without cost to the Funds. Such solicitation may be made by telephone, facsimile, or otherwise. It is anticipated that banks, broker-dealers, custodians, nominees, fiduciaries, and other financial institutions will be requested to forward proxy materials to beneficial owners and to obtain approval for the execution of proxies. Upon request, Royce will reimburse brokers, custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries for the reasonable expenses incurred by them in connection with forwarding solicitation material to the beneficial owners of Low-Priced Stock shares held of record by such persons.
This Prospectus/Proxy Statement is both a Prospectus for Micro-Cap and a Proxy Statement for Low-Priced Stock. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement sets forth concisely the information about the Reorganization and Micro-Cap that you should know before voting. You should review it carefully and retain it for future reference. The Funds are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and in accordance therewith, file reports and other information, including proxy materials and charter documents, with the SEC.
The following document has been filed with the SEC, and is incorporated herein by reference into (legally forms a part of) this Prospectus/Proxy Statement:
| • | | The Statement of Additional Information relating to this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and certain potential reorganization transactions involving other series of the Trust, dated April 1 , 2019 (the “Reorganization SAI”) (File Number 333-230063) . |
| | | |
The following documents relating to the Funds have also been filed with the SEC: |
| | | |
| • | | The Prospectus relating to each series of the Trust, including Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date; |
| • | | The Statement of Additional Information relating to each series of the Trust, including Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date (the “SAI”); and |
| • | | The Annual Report to Shareholders of each series of the Trust, including Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (the “Annual Report”). |
The documents listed above are available free of charge by calling Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268, or by writing to the Funds at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151. You also may view or obtain copies (at prescribed rates) of these documents from the SEC:
In Person: | | At the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549 |
By Mail: | | Public Reference Section |
| | Office of Consumer Affairs and Information Services Securities and Exchange Commission |
| | 100 F Street, N.E. Washington, DC 20549 (duplicating fee required) |
By E-mail: | | publicinfo@sec.gov (duplicating fee required) |
By Internet: | | www.sec.gov |
2
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank, and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other U.S. government agency. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the possible loss of principal.
The SEC has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense
The date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement is April 1 , 2019
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS |
| |
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND SHAREHOLDERS | 5 |
| |
INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE RATES FOR ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND, ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND, AND THE COMBINED FUND | 8 |
| |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND AND ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND | 8 |
| |
SUMMARY OF REORGANIZATION | 9 |
| |
INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATION | 13 |
| |
COMPARISON OF ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND AND ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND | 19 |
| |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS | 26 |
| |
ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION | 31 |
| |
RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES | 32 |
| |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS | 33 |
| |
OTHER BUSINESS | 38 |
| |
APPENDIX A – FORM OF PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND | A-1 |
4
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND SHAREHOLDERS (INVESTMENT CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Investment Class shares of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization. The annualized expense ratios below for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses below further assume: (i) the Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018; (ii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of a new contractual investment advisory fee rate for the Combined Fund that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock; and (iii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of a new contractual annual expense cap for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock. The current contractual annual expense caps for the Investment Class shares of Low-Priced and Micro-Cap and the new contractual annual expense cap for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization will expire on December 31, 2019.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Investment Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Investment Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Management fees | 1.00% | 1.25% | 1.00%*** |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Other expenses | 0.31% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.31% | 1.50% | 1.25% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.07)%* | (0.01)%** | (0.01)%**** |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24%* | 1.49%** | 1.24%**** |
| | | |
* Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Investment Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.24% through December 31, 2019. |
** Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Investment Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.49% through December 31, 2019. |
*** The contractual investment advisory fee rate for the Combined Fund will be lowered to be identical to that of Low-Priced Stock assuming completion of the Reorganization. Detailed information regarding contractual investment advisory fee rates is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Investment Advisory Fee Rates for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund, Royce Micro-Cap Fund, and the Combined Fund.” |
**** Royce has contractually agreed, assuming completion of the Reorganization and without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Investment Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.24% through December 31, 2019. |
5
Investment Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Investment Class shares of Low-Priced Stock, Micro-Cap, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
1 Year | $126 | $152 | $126 |
3 Years | $408 | $473 | $396 |
5 Years | $711 | $818 | $685 |
10 Years | $1,573 | $1,790 | $1,510 |
6
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND SHAREHOLDERS (SERVICE CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Service Class shares of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization. The annualized expense ratios below for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses below further assume: (i) the Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018; (ii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of a new contractual investment advisory fee rate for the Combined Fund that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock; and (iii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of a new contractual annual expense cap for the Service Class shares of the Combined Fund that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock. The current contractual annual expense caps for the Service Class shares of Low-Priced and Micro-Cap and the new contractual annual expense cap for the Service Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization will expire on December 31, 2019.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Service Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Service Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Management fees | 1.00% | 1.25% | 1.00%*** |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Other expenses | 0.28% | 0.39% | 0.27% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.53% | 1.89% | 1.52% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.04)%* | (0.28)%** | (0.03)%**** |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.49%* | 1.61%** | 1.49%**** |
| | | |
* Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Service Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.49% through December 31, 2019. |
** Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Service Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.61% through December 31, 2019. |
*** The contractual investment advisory fee rate for the Combined Fund will be lowered to be identical to that of Low-Priced Stock assuming completion of the Reorganization. Detailed information regarding contractual investment advisory fee rates is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Investment Advisory Fee Rates for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund, Royce Micro-Cap Fund, and the Combined Fund.” |
**** Royce has contractually agreed, assuming completion of the Reorganization and without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Service Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.49% through December 31, 2019. |
7
Service Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Service Class shares of Low-Priced Stock, Micro-Cap, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
1 Year | $152 | $164 | $152 |
3 Years | $479 | $567 | $477 |
5 Years | $830 | $995 | $826 |
10 Years | $1,820 | $2,189 | $1,810 |
INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE RATES FOR
ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND, ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND, AND THE COMBINED FUND
Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. The annual contractual rates of these fees, along with the annual contractual rate of these fees for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization, are set forth in the table below.
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Combined Fund* |
1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets | 1.25% of the first $2,000,000,000 1.20% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.15% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.10% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets |
* Assumes completion of the Reorganization. |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR
ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND AND ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND
Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in the fee tables or expense examples of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap set forth above, affect the performance of the Funds. The portfolio turnover rates for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 are shown below.
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
58% of the average value of its portfolio | 24% of the average value of its portfolio |
8
SUMMARY OF REORGANIZATION
The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement relating to the Reorganization, including the form of Plan, a copy of which is attached as Appendix A hereto. You should read the more complete information in the rest of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
General Information Regarding Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the SEC as an open-end management investment company. Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is organized as a separate series of the Trust. Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are “diversified” investment companies within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”). A “diversified” fund is a mutual fund that, with respect to 75% of the value of its total assets, may not: (i) have more than 5% of the value of its total assets invested in the securities of any one issuer and (ii) own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer.
James P. Stoeffel is Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio manager, assisted by Portfolio Manager Brendan J. Hartman. Mr. Stoeffel is also Micro-Cap’s lead portfolio manager, with Mr. Hartman managing the Fund with him. It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Micro-Cap will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization.
Upon completion of the Reorganization, the Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Micro-Cap’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Micro-Cap’s legal agreements, including an amended and restated investment advisory agreement for Micro-Cap with a reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock and new contractual annual expense caps that are equal to those of Low-Priced Stock.
Key Features of Reorganization
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) approved the Plan and unanimously recommends that Low-Priced Stock shareholders vote to approve the Plan. The Plan provides, among other things, for:
| • | | the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock to Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap’s issuance to Low-Priced Stock of the Micro-Cap Shares; |
| • | | the pro rata distribution of the Micro-Cap Shares by Low-Priced Stock to its shareholders; |
| • | | the liquidation of Low-Priced Stock and its termination as a separate series of the Trust. |
The Micro-Cap Shares issued by Micro-Cap to Low-Priced Stock as part of the Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the Low-Priced Stock shares that are outstanding immediately prior to the Reorganization. Low-Priced Stock will, in turn, distribute those Micro-Cap Shares to its shareholders. The Micro-Cap Shares received by each Low-Priced Stock shareholder as part of the Reorganization will be of the same class and will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Low-Priced Stock shares immediately prior to the Reorganization. Please see “ Information About the Reorganization-Summary of the Terms of the Plan” for more detailed information regarding the Plan.
Completion of the Reorganization is subject to the approval of Low-Priced Stock shareholders as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Additional Voting Information–Required Vote” and the satisfaction of certain other conditions. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Reorganization is completed, Low-Priced Stock shareholders will become shareholders of Micro-Cap and will no longer own Low-Priced Stock shares, and Low-Priced Stock will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Reorganization is not otherwise completed, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and Low-Priced Stock shareholders will remain shareholders of that Fund.
The Trustees unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of Low-Priced Stock would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. Please see “Information About the Reorganization–Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization” for detailed information about the factors considered by the Board in approving the Plan and certain other information supporting approval of the Reorganization.
9
Summary of Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, and Benchmarks for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund
This section summarizes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and benchmarks for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap.
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
| | | |
Investment Objective | Long-term growth of capital | | Long-term growth of capital |
Primary Investments | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in low-priced equity securities. Royce defines low-priced equity securities as those whose average cost per share in the Fund’s portfolio is less than $25. At least 65% of these low-priced equity securities will be issued by companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion at the time of investment. | | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion. |
Investment Approach | Royce uses multiple investment themes to invest in low- priced companies with solid fundamentals and/or prospects selling at prices that Royce believes do not fully reflect these attributes. In selecting securities for the Fund, Royce generally uses a bottom-up approach. | | Royce uses multiple investment themes and offers wide exposure to micro-cap stocks by investing in companies with strong fundamentals and/or prospects selling at prices that Royce believes do not fully reflect these attributes. Royce considers companies with strong balance sheets, attractive growth prospects, and/or the potential for improvement in cash flow levels and internal rates of return, among other factors. |
Number of Holdings | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 120 holdings. | | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 143 holdings. |
Foreign Investments | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 14.5% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. | | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 12.1% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. |
Benchmark Index(es) | Russell 2000 Index | | Russell Microcap Index (Primary) Russell 2000 Index (Secondary) |
10
Overall, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are similar to one another in that they: |
| | | |
| • | | have the same investment objective; |
| | | |
| • | | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| | | |
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
| | | |
| • | | are generally broadly diversified in terms of number of holdings; |
| | | |
| • | | have the same portfolio managers; |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to the same restrictions on their respective investments in foreign securities; and |
| | | |
| • | | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
The investment policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap do, however, differ from one another in certain ways. Pursuant to its investment policies, Low-Priced Stock must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in “low-priced” equity securities. Royce defines “low-priced” as those companies whose average cost per share in Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio is less than $25. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, is not subject to any requirements regarding the average cost per share of its portfolio investments. In addition, the investment policies of Low-Priced Stock require at least 65% of the low-priced securities in which it invests be issued by small- and micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion) at the time of investment. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion) under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, the Funds have different benchmark indexes (i.e., the Russell 2000 Index is the benchmark index for Low-Priced Stock while the Russell Microcap Index is the primary benchmark index for Micro-Cap). Certain summary market capitalization data with respect to the actual holdings of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is provided immediately below under the sub-heading “Additional Information Regarding Market Cap Focus of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018”. We also note that the portfolio turnover rate for Low-Priced Stock was significantly higher than that of Micro-Cap during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 58% for Low-Priced Stock and 24% for Micro-Cap).
Summary of Principal Investment Risks for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
The principal investment risks associated with an investment in Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are identified in the table below. For detailed descriptions of these risks, please see “Comparison of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Overall, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their common investment approaches and their focus on U.S. small-cap equity securities. Low-Priced Stock's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Micro-Cap may, however, indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risk | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
Market Risk | Yes | Yes |
Risk of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers | No | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk | Yes | Yes |
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Low-Priced Stock to the extent Micro-Cap invests, relative to Low-Priced Stock, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Low-Priced Stock invests, relative to Micro-Cap, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. Certain summary market capitalization data with respect to the actual holdings of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is provided immediately below under the sub-heading “Additional Information Regarding Market Cap Focus of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018”. |
11
Additional Information Regarding Market Cap Focus of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018
Despite the potential differences in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had comparable geometric average market capitalizations (i.e., approximately $453 million for Low-Priced Stock and approximately $401 million for Micro-Cap) as of December 31, 2018. Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. In addition, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap allocated similar portions of their respective investment portfolios to the same market cap ranges as of such date as set forth in the table below:
Market Cap Range | Percentage of Low-Priced Stock Net Assets | Percentage of Micro-Cap Net Assets |
Less than $1 billion | 81.3% | 85.5% |
Greater than $1 billion but less than $2 billion | 15.2% | 12.3% |
Greater than $2 billion but less than $3 billion | 3.5% | 2.2% |
Greater than $3 billion | 0% | 0% |
| | |
No assurance can be given that shares of the Combined Fund will not lose value. As with any Fund, the value of the Combined Fund’s investments, and, therefore, the value of the Combined Fund’s shares, may fluctuate.
Primary U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of Reorganization
The Reorganization is intended to qualify for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). It is expected that Low-Priced Stock shareholders will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the exchange of all of their Low-Priced Stock shares solely for shares of Micro-Cap, as described herein and in the Plan. In addition, in general, it is expected that Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the transactions contemplated by the Reorganization, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the taxable year of Low-Priced Stock due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of certain assets, and any tax on any such gain would be borne by Low-Priced Stock shareholders. Low-Priced Stock does not expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. If Low-Priced Stock were to sell investments in anticipation of the Reorganization, Low-Priced Stock could generate capital gains for its shareholders, which would be taxable.
Purchase and Redemption Procedures, Fee Structures, and Exchange Rights
Investment Class and Service Class shares of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are subject to identical purchase and redemption procedures and have identical exchange rights. Investment Class and Service Class shares of Low-Priced Stock are, however, currently subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee rate and lower contractual annual expense caps than the corresponding shares of Micro-Cap. As noted elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, Micro-Cap’s contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps will be lowered to be equal to those of Low-Priced Stock upon completion of the Reorganization. Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Reorganization.
Shareholder Voting
Only shareholders of Low-Priced Stock will vote in connection with the Reorganization. The Board has set the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for determining those Low-Priced Stock shareholders entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of Low-Priced Stock shares at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Low-Priced Stock shareholders on the Record Date will be entitled one vote for each full Low-Priced Stock share and a fractional vote for each Low-Priced Stock fractional share that they hold, with no shares having cumulative voting rights.
Approval of the Plan requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Low-Priced Stock, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Low-Priced Stock present at the Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock are present or represented by proxy at such Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock.
All properly executed proxy cards received prior to the Meeting will be voted at such Meeting in accordance with the instructions marked thereon or otherwise as provided therein. Unless instructions to the contrary are marked, proxy cards will be voted “FOR” Proposal No. 1. You may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised by sending written instructions to the Secretary of the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 or by submitting a new proxy card with a later date. In addition, any shareholder attending the Meeting may vote in person, whether or not he or she has previously submitted a proxy card. The Board knows of no business other than that mentioned in Proposal No. 1 of the Notice of Special Meeting that will be presented for consideration at the Meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof, it is the intention of the persons named on the enclosed proxy card to vote in accordance with their best judgment.
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATION
General
As described in more detail below in this section under the sub-heading “Summary of the Terms of the Plan,” Low-Priced Stock will transfer substantially all of its assets to Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and the issuance of the Micro-Cap Shares to Low-Priced Stock. The date on which these transactions occur in connection with the Reorganization is referred to as the “Closing Date” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. The Micro-Cap Shares issued to Low-Priced Stock will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (referred to as the “Valuation Time”).
The distribution of the Micro-Cap Shares to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock will be accomplished by opening new accounts on the books of Micro-Cap in the names of shareholders of Low-Priced Stock and transferring to those shareholder accounts the relevant Micro-Cap Shares. Accordingly, as a result of the Reorganization, each shareholder of Low-Priced Stock will receive shares of the same class of Micro-Cap that they hold for Low-Priced Stock having an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Low-Priced Stock shares as of the Valuation Time. No sales charge, redemption fee, or other fee will be assessed to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock in connection with their receipt of the Micro-Cap Shares as part of the Reorganization. The stock transfer books of Low-Priced Stock will be permanently closed on the Closing Date. Upon the distribution of the Micro-Cap Shares by Low-Priced Stock to its shareholders, Low-Priced Stock will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust.
The Reorganization is structured so that Micro-Cap will be the legal survivor in the Reorganization, which means that the management and operation of the Combined Fund will be governed by Micro-Cap’s investment objective, principal investment policies and strategies, and legal agreements upon completion of such Reorganization, including an amended and restated investment advisory agreement for Micro-Cap with a reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock and new contractual annual expense caps that are equal to those of Low-Priced Stock. In addition, Micro-Cap will be the accounting survivor in the Reorganization, which means that the Combined Fund will carry on the performance and financial history of Micro-Cap upon completion of the Reorganization.
Summary of the Terms of the Plan
Pursuant to the Plan, Low-Priced Stock will, on the Closing Date, transfer substantially all of its assets to Micro-Cap in exchange solely for Micro-Cap’s issuance of the Micro-Cap Shares to Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock. The net asset value of the shares issued by Micro-Cap to Low-Priced Stock will be equal, as of the Valuation Time, to the value of the assets of Low-Priced Stock that were transferred to Micro-Cap, as determined in accordance with the Trust’s valuation procedures, net of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock assumed by Micro-Cap. In order to minimize any potential for undesirable U.S. federal income and excise tax consequences in connection with the Reorganization, Low-Priced Stock will distribute to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains as of such date. Low-Priced Stock expects to distribute the Micro-Cap Shares to its shareholders promptly after the Closing Date in connection with its liquidation. Thereafter, Low-Priced Stock will be terminated as a separate series of the Trust.
Certain customary representations and warranties have been made in the Plan in respect of the capitalization, status, and conduct of business of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. Unless waived in accordance with the Plan, the obligations of the parties to the Plan are conditioned upon, among other things:
| • | | the approval of the Plan by the shareholders of Low-Priced Stock in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act; |
| • | | the absence of any rule, regulation, order, injunction or proceeding preventing or seeking to prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Plan; |
| • | | the receipt of all necessary approvals, consents, registrations, and exemptions under federal, state and local laws; |
| • | | the truth in all material respects, as of the Closing Date, of the representations and warranties of the parties and performance and compliance in all material respects with the parties’ agreements, obligations and covenants required by the Plan; |
| • | | the effectiveness under applicable law of Micro-Cap’s registration statement on Form N-14, of which this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part and the absence of any related stop orders under the Securities Act of 1933; |
| • | | the declaration of a dividend by Low-Priced Stock to distribute to its shareholders all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains; |
| • | | the receipt of an opinion of special Delaware counsel to the Trust regarding the issuance of the Micro-Cap Shares under Delaware law; and |
| • | | the receipt of an opinion of special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust relating to the tax-free nature of the Reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes (such opinion of counsel is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) or any court). |
The Plan may be terminated or amended by the mutual consent of the parties before approval thereof by the shareholders of Low-Priced Stock.
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The Board recommends that Low-Priced Stock shareholders should vote to approve the Plan, as it believes the Reorganization is in the best interests of Low-Priced Stock as more fully described below under the sub-heading “Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization.”
Estimated Fees and Expenses of the Reorganization
Fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated between, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Low-Priced Stock (50%) and Micro-Cap (50%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganization are estimated to range from approximately $169,400 to $182,600 . However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders. Likewise, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
Legal Matters
Certain legal matters concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization will be passed on by Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust. Certain legal matters under Delaware law regarding the Plan and the issuance of the Micro-Cap Shares as part of the Reorganization will be passed on by Richards, Layton & Finger, special Delaware counsel to the Trust.
Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization
The Trustees of the Trust, including all of the Trustees of the Trust who are not “interested persons” of the Trust in respect of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap (collectively, the “Independent Trustees”), have unanimously determined that the Reorganization would be in the best interests of each Fund. The Board also concluded that the interests of the existing shareholders of each Fund would not be diluted as a result of consummation of the Plan.
At a Board meeting held on December 13, 2018, Royce noted to the Trustees that Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap:
| • | | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions; |
| | | |
| • | | employ similar investment strategies in that both Funds: (i) utilize a bottom-up, core investment approach and (ii) invest primarily in the equity securities of U.S. companies; |
| | | |
| • | | are generally broadly diversified in terms of number of holdings (i.e., Low-Priced Stock had 116 holdings and Micro-Cap had 151 holdings as of September 30, 2018); |
| | | |
| • | | have the same portfolio managers (i.e., James P. Stoeffel and Brendan J. Hartman); |
| | | |
| • | | held some of the same portfolio securities as of September 30, 2018; and |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to similar principal investment risks. |
| | | |
Royce also noted to the Trustees at such Board meeting that: |
| | | |
| • | | Low-Priced Stock must, in accordance with its investment policies, normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in “low- priced” equity securities (i.e., those companies whose average cost per share in Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio is less than $25) while Micro-Cap is not subject to any requirements regarding the average cost per share of its portfolio investments; |
| | | |
| • | | Under their respective investment policies, at least 65% of the “low-priced” securities in which Low-Priced Stock invests must normally be issued by small- and micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion) at the time of investment while at least 80% of Micro-Cap’s net assets must normally be invested in micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion); and |
| | | |
| • | | The benchmark index for Low-Priced Stock is the Russell 2000 Index while the primary benchmark index for Micro-Cap is the Russell Microcap Index. |
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Despite the potential differences in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had comparable geometric average market capitalizations as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximately $536.3 million for Low-Priced Stock and approximately $494 million for Micro-Cap) and December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximately $453 million for Low-Priced Stock and approximately $401 million for Micro-Cap). Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. In addition, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap allocated similar portions of their respective investment portfolios to the same market cap ranges as of December 31, 2018 as set forth in the table below:
Market Cap Range | Percentage of Low-Priced Stock Net Assets | Percentage of Micro-Cap Net Assets |
Less than $1 billion | 81.3% | 85.5% |
Greater than $1 billion but less than $2 billion | 15.2% | 12.3% |
Greater than $2 billion but less than $3 billion | 3.5% | 2.2% |
Greater than $3 billion | 0% | 0% |
| | |
In light of the foregoing, the Board took note of Royce’s expectation that the securities held by Low-Priced Stock will not be sold in significant amounts other than in the ordinary course of business prior to, or immediately after, the Reorganization. However, to the extent dispositions of securities held by Low-Priced Stock are made, such dispositions will result in taxable gains or losses and transaction costs to Low-Priced Stock (if the dispositions are made prior to the Reorganization) or to the Combined Fund (if the dispositions are made after the Reorganization). Please see “Comparison of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement for more detailed information regarding the Funds’ investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and principal investment risks. The Board further took note of Royce’s expectation that shareholders of Low-Priced Stock could benefit from Micro-Cap’s broader investment mandate through completion of the Reorganization.
Royce also noted to the Trustees at such Board meeting that Micro-Cap experienced lower volatility than Low-Priced Stock as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended September 30, 2018 (i.e., middle quintile ranking for Micro-Cap versus second-highest quintile ranking for Low-Priced Stock compared to a universe of small-cap funds). Such trend of lower volatility for Micro-Cap compared to Low-Priced Stock continued as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended December 31, 2018.
Royce further noted to the Trustees that Low-Priced Stock was actually larger than Micro-Cap in terms of net assets as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $264.3 million for Low-Priced Stock versus approximate net assets of $191.2 million for Micro-Cap). Notwithstanding that fact, it was noted by the Trustees that, as shareholders of the Combined Fund, former Low-Priced Stock shareholders: (i) would nonetheless enjoy a larger asset base over which fund expenses could be spread; (ii) would benefit from the reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps that will go into effect upon completion of the Reorganization; and (iii) might benefit from any operating efficiencies or economies of scale that may be achieved by the Combined Fund. As of December 31, 2018, the approximate net assets of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap were $202 million and $141.8 million, respectively.
Royce noted to the Trustees that Low-Priced Stock is currently subject to a lower contractual investment advisory fee rate and lower contractual annual expense caps than Micro-Cap. Information regarding the annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund Shareholders.” The annualized expense ratios for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund further assume: (i) the completion of the Reorganization on December 31, 2018; (ii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of a new contractual investment advisory fee rate for the Combined Fund that is equal to that of Low-Priced Stock; and (iii) the implementation on January 1, 2018 of new contractual annual expense caps for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund that are equal to those of Low-Priced Stock. The current contractual annual expense caps for the relevant share classes of Low-Priced and Micro-Cap and the new contractual annual expense cap for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization will expire on December 31, 2019. Assuming completion of the Reorganization and implementation of the reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps for Micro-Cap, we note, as set forth in more detail in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund Shareholders,” that: (i) the gross pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were both lower than those of Low-Priced Stock, and (ii) the net pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the relevant share classes of the Combined Fund were both equal to those of Low-Priced Stock.
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Summary Information Regarding Annual Fund Operating Expenses* |
| Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund (Assumes Completion of Reorganization) |
Investment Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.31% | 1.50% | 1.25% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24% | 1.49% | 1.24% |
Service Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.53% | 1.89% | 1.52% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.49% | 1.61% | 1.49% |
* The summary information above is consistent with annual fund operating expense information provided by Royce to the Board at its December 13, 2018 meeting. The annualized expense ratios for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap provided by Royce to the Board were based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund provided by Royce to the Board further assumed that: (i) the Reorganization became effective on September 30, 2018 and (ii) the reduced contractual investment advisory fee rate and contractual annual expense caps described elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement were implemented on January 1, 2018. |
Royce also provided the Trustees with information regarding the average annual total returns achieved by Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap for the three-month, nine-month, one-, three-, five-, ten-, fifteen-, and twenty-year periods ended September 30, 2018. Such information illustrated that Micro-Cap outperformed Low-Priced Stock during all of these periods other than the one- and five-year periods. Detailed information regarding the investment performance achieved by each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Comparison of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Royce also noted to the Trustees that fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated between, and paid by, the Funds as follows: Low-Priced Stock (50%) and Micro-Cap (50%). Royce further noted to the Trustees that neither Low-Priced Stock nor Micro-Cap had any capital loss carryforwards as of September 30, 2018. Finally, Royce noted to the Trustees that it is a condition to the closing of the Reorganization that Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap receive an opinion of special tax counsel to the Trust substantially to the effect that the exchange of shares pursuant to the Plan would not result in a taxable gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes for Low-Priced Stock or its shareholders.
The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, after considering the foregoing matters, unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. The determinations were made on the basis of each Trustee’s business judgment after consideration of all of the relevant factors taken as a whole, though individual Trustees may have placed different weight on various factors and assigned different degrees of materiality to various conclusions.
FOR THE REASONS DISCUSSED ABOVE, THE BOARD, ON BEHALF OF LOW-PRICED STOCK,
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE PLAN.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Reorganization
The following is a general summary of the material anticipated U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization. The discussion is based upon the Code, Treasury regulations, court decisions, published positions of the IRS and other applicable authorities, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations (possibly with retroactive effect). The discussion is limited to U.S. persons who hold shares of Low-Priced Stock as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary does not address all of the U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to a particular shareholder or to shareholders who may be subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws. No ruling has been or will be obtained from the IRS regarding any matter relating to the Reorganization. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax aspects described below. Shareholders must consult their own tax advisers as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization, as well as to the effects of state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
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It is a condition to closing the Reorganization that Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap receive an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust, dated as of the Closing Date, that the Reorganization will be a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will be a “party to a reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code. As such a reorganization, the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization can be summarized as follows:
| • | | No gain or loss will be recognized by Low-Priced Stock upon (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock to Micro-Cap in exchange for the assumption by Micro-Cap of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and shares of Micro-Cap or (ii) the distribution of Micro-Cap shares by Low-Priced Stock to its shareholders in exchange for their Low-Priced Stock shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of Low-Priced Stock’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code; |
| • | | No gain or loss will be recognized by Micro-Cap upon the receipt of substantially all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock solely in exchange for the issuance of Micro-Cap shares to Low-Priced Stock and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock by Micro-Cap, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of Low-Priced Stock’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of Low-Priced Stock; |
| • | | The tax basis of the assets of Low-Priced Stock acquired by Micro-Cap will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of Low-Priced Stock immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of Low-Priced Stock’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of Low-Priced Stock; |
| • | | The tax holding period of the assets of Low-Priced Stock in the hands of Micro-Cap will include Low-Priced Stock’s tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of Low-Priced Stock’s taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to Micro-Cap; |
| • | | Low-Priced Stock shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Low-Priced Stock shares solely for Micro-Cap shares as part of the Reorganization; |
| • | | The tax basis of Micro-Cap shares received by Low-Priced Stock shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Low-Priced Stock shares surrendered in the exchange; and |
| • | | The tax holding period of Micro-Cap shares that Low-Priced Stock shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Low-Priced Stock shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Low-Priced Stock shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange. |
The opinion of Sidley Austin LLP will be based on U.S. federal income tax law in effect on the Closing Date. In rendering its opinion, Sidley Austin LLP will also rely upon certain representations of the management of Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock and assume, among other things, that the Reorganization will be consummated in accordance with the operative documents. An opinion of counsel is not binding on the IRS or any court.
The Trust intends that Micro-Cap continue to be taxed under the rules applicable to regulated investment companies as defined in Section 851 of the Code, which are the same rules currently applicable to Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock and their respective shareholders.
Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock should note that, if necessary, in accordance with the Fund’s policy of distributing its investment company taxable income and net capital gains for each taxable year in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment as a regulated investment company and avoid federal income and excise tax at the fund level, Low-Priced Stock will declare and pay a distribution of any such previously undistributed income and gains to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization. Such distribution will be taxable to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock.
Low-Priced Stock does not currently expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. The tax consequences of any sales of portfolio securities by Low-Priced Stock prior to the Reorganization will depend on the difference between the price at which such securities are sold and the basis of Low-Priced Stock in such securities. Any capital gains recognized in these sales on a net basis will be distributed to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock prior to the Reorganization as capital gain dividends (to the extent of net realized long-term capital gains) and/or ordinary dividends (to the extent of net realized short-term capital gains). Such distributions will be taxable to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock.
Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock may redeem their shares at any time prior to the closing of the Reorganization. Generally, these are taxable transactions. Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisers regarding potential transactions.
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Rights of Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
Because the Funds are organized as separate series of the same Delaware statutory trust (i.e., The Royce Fund), the substantive legal and voting rights of shareholders of Low-Priced Stock under the Trust Instrument of the Trust are identical to those of Micro-Cap shareholders. No sales charges, redemption fees, or other fees will be assessed to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock in connection with their receipt of the Micro-Cap Shares as part of the Reorganization. Holders of Investment Class and Service Class shares of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of their Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Reorganization.
Pro Forma Capitalization for Reorganization
The following tables set forth: (i) the capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of Low-Priced Stock as of December 31, 2018; (ii) the capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018; and (iii) the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization on December 31, 2018.
The pro forma capitalization information below is unaudited and for informational purposes only. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Micro-Cap will be received by Low-Priced Stock shareholders in connection with the Reorganization. The pro forma capitalization information should not be relied upon to reflect the number of shares of Micro-Cap that actually will be received by Low-Priced Stock shareholders in connection with the Reorganization.
Investment Class |
| Royce Low- Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro- Cap Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $46,430,314 | $117,040,213 | (96,356)(2) | $163,374,171 |
Total shares outstanding | 7,283,512 | 12,512,702 | 4,965,809 (3) | 17,478,511 |
Net asset value per share | $6.37 | $9.35 | | $9.35 |
| | | | |
(1) Assumes the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap after giving effect to the distribution of Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap to Low-Priced Stock shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
Service Class |
| Royce Low- Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro- Cap Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $155,595,814 | $8,052,517 | (75,503)(2) | $163,572,828 |
Total shares outstanding | 24,562,747 | 879,635 | 17,005,007 (3) | 17,884,642 |
Net asset value per share | $6.33 | $9.15 | — | $9.15 |
| | | | |
(1) Assumes the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects estimated expenses expected to be incurred in connection with the Reorganization. |
(3) Reflects the change in Service Class shares of Micro-Cap after giving effect to the distribution of Service Class shares of Micro-Cap to Low-Priced Stock shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
18
COMPARISON OF ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND AND ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND
Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, Principal Investment Risks, Fundamental Investment Restrictions, and Certain Operating Policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
This section describes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, principal investment risks, fundamental investment restrictions and certain operating policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and the differences between them.
Investment Objectives. The investment objectives of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are identical. The investment objective of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap is to seek long-term growth of capital.
Principal Investment Policies and Strategies. As set forth in the table below, the principal investment policies and strategies of Low-Priced Stock are substantially similar to those of Micro-Cap.
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in low-priced equity securities. Royce defines low-priced equity securities as those whose average cost per share in the Fund’s portfolio is less than $25. At least 65% of these low-priced equity securities will be issued by companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion at the time of investment. | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion. |
Royce uses multiple investment themes to invest in low-priced companies with solid fundamentals and/or prospects selling at prices that Royce believes do not fully reflect these attributes. In selecting securities for the Fund, Royce generally uses a bottom-up approach. | Royce uses multiple investment themes and offers wide exposure to micro-cap stocks by investing in companies with strong fundamentals and/or prospects selling at prices that Royce believes do not fully reflect these attributes. Royce considers companies with strong balance sheets, attractive growth prospects, and/or the potential for improvement in cash flow levels and internal rates of return, among other factors. |
Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. |
Overall, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are similar to one another in that they: |
| | | |
| • | | have the same investment objective (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | | |
| • | | use a bottom-up, core investment approach; |
| | | |
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers |
| | | |
| • | | are generally broadly diversified in terms of number of holdings (i.e., Low-Priced Stock had 120 holdings and Micro-Cap had 143 holdings as of December 31, 2018); |
| | | |
| • | | have the same portfolio managers (i.e., James P. Stoeffel and Brendan J. Hartman); |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to the same restrictions on their respective investments in foreign securities; and |
| | | |
| • | | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
19
The investment policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap do, however, differ from one another in certain ways. Pursuant to its investment policies, Low-Priced Stock must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in “low-priced” equity securities. Royce defines “low-priced” as those companies whose average cost per share in Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio is less than $25. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, is not subject to any requirements regarding the average cost per share of its portfolio investments. In addition, the investment policies of Low-Priced Stock require at least 65% of the low-priced securities in which it invests be issued by small- and micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion) at the time of investment. Micro-Cap, on the other hand, must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion) under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, the Funds have different benchmark indexes (i.e., the Russell 2000 Index is the benchmark index for Low-Priced Stock while the Russell Microcap Index is the primary benchmark index for Micro-Cap). Summary market capitalization data with respect to the actual holdings of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018 is provided immediately below under the sub-heading “Market Cap Focus”. In addition, the portfolio turnover rate for Low-Priced Stock was significantly higher than that of Micro-Cap during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (i.e., 58% for Low-Priced Stock and 24% for Micro-Cap).
Principal Investment Risks. Set forth below is a summary of the principal investment risks that may be associated with an investment in Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as a result of their respective investment policies and approach. Overall, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are subject to similar principal investment risks. Low-Priced Stock's higher portfolio turnover rate than that of Micro-Cap may, however, indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account.
Principal Investment Risks | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
Market Risk. As with any mutual fund that invests in common stocks, the Fund is subject to market risk—the possibility that common stock prices will decline over short or extended periods of time. As a result, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate, sometimes sharply and unpredictably, and you could lose money over short or long periods of time.
Royce’s estimate of a company’s current worth also may prove to be inaccurate, or this estimate may not be recognized by other investors, which could lead to portfolio losses. Securities in the Fund’s portfolio may not increase as much as the market as a whole and some securities may continue to be undervalued for long periods of time. Investments in the Fund are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. | Yes | Yes |
Risks of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities. The prices of securities with smaller market capitalizations are generally more volatile than those of larger-cap securities. In addition, because these securities tend to have significantly lower trading volumes than larger-cap securities, the Fund may have difficulty selling holdings or may only be able to sell holdings at prices substantially lower than what Royce believes they are worth. Such companies may also have limited markets, financial resources or product lines, may lack management depth, and may be more vulnerable to adverse business or market developments. Therefore, the Fund may involve considerably more risk of loss and its returns may differ significantly from funds investing in larger-cap companies or other asset classes. | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers. The Fund’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | No | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights. The Fund’s potential industry and sector overweights may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk. In addition to general market risk, foreign securities may be subject to different risks than investments in U.S. securities, including adverse political, social, economic, or other developments that are unique to a particular country or region. Prices of foreign securities in particular countries or regions may, at times, move in a different direction and/or be more volatile than those of U.S. securities. The Fund’s investments are usually denominated in or tied to the currencies of the countries in which they are primarily traded. Because the Fund does not intend to hedge its foreign currency exposure, the U.S. dollar value of the Fund’s investments may be harmed by declines in the value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. This may occur even if the value of the investment in the currency’s home country has not declined. | Yes | Yes |
20
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Low-Priced Stock to the extent Micro-Cap invests, relative to Low-Priced Stock, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Low-Priced Stock invests, relative to Micro-Cap, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations between $1 billion and $3 billion. Summary market capitalization data with respect to the actual holdings of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018 is provided immediately below under the sub-heading “Market Cap Focus”. |
Market Cap Focus. Despite the potential differences in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had comparable geometric average market capitalizations (i.e., approximately $453 million for Low-Priced Stock and approximately $401 million for Micro-Cap) as of December 31, 2018. Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. In addition, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap allocated similar portions of their respective investment portfolios to the same market cap ranges as of such date as set forth in the table below:
Market Cap Range | Percentage of Low-Priced Stock Net Assets | Percentage of Micro-Cap Net Assets |
Less than $1 billion | 81.3% | 85.5% |
Greater than $1 billion but less than $2 billion | 15.2% | 12.3% |
Greater than $2 billion but less than $3 billion | 3.5% | 2.2% |
Greater than $3 billion | 0% | 0% |
| | |
In light of the similarities outlined above and the similar market cap focus of the Funds’ actual holdings as of December 31, 2018, Royce believes that shareholders of Low-Priced Stock could benefit from Micro-Cap’s broader investment mandate through completion of the Reorganization.
Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies. The fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap are substantially identical. Neither Fund’s fundamental investment restrictions may be changed without the approval of the Board and a “majority of the outstanding voting securities” of the relevant Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a shareholders’ meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Fund are present or represented by proxy at such meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Operating policies, on the other hand, may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.
Pursuant to their operating policies, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap also may invest without limit in short-term fixed income securities for temporary defensive purposes. If either Fund should implement such a temporary investment policy, such policy would be inconsistent with its investment goal and the Fund may not achieve its investment goal while that policy is in effect. In addition, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap also may invest in short-term fixed income securities in order to invest uncommitted cash balances or to maintain liquidity to meet shareholder redemptions under their operating policies.
21
Investment Performance of Low-Priced Stock
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Low-Priced Stock. Past performance does not indicate how Low-Priced Stock will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Low-Priced Stock for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 26.83% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -23.24% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Low-Priced Stock (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. |
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class |
Return Before Taxes | -9.04 | 0.23 | 7.63 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -12.83 | -3.10 | 5.20 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -2.46 | 0.12 | 6.29 |
Service Class |
Return Before Taxes | -9.31 | -0.01 | 7.36 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
22
Investment Performance of Micro-Cap
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Micro-Cap. Past performance does not indicate how Micro-Cap will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes—returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Micro-Cap for various periods compare with those of the Russell Microcap Index, the Fund’s primary benchmark index, and the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s secondary benchmark index. The Service Class has higher expenses than the Investment Class. If the Service Class’s expenses had been reflected, returns for that Class would have been lower than those of the Investment Class.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 30.69% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -22.12% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Micro-Cap (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class and would have been lower for the Service Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. |
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class |
Return Before Taxes | -8.94 | -0.91 | 8.34 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -11.49 | -3.29 | 6.56 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -3.32 | -0.69 | 6.86 |
Service Class1 |
Return Before Taxes | -9.01 | -1.02 | 8.20 |
Russell Microcap Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -13.08 | 3.08 | 11.71 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
1 Certain immaterial adjustments were made to the net assets of Micro-Cap at 12/31/17 for financial reporting purposes, and as a result the calendar year total returns based on those net asset values differ from the adjusted net values and calendar year total returns reported in the Financial Highlights. |
23
Management of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
Investment Adviser. Royce & Associates, LP is the investment adviser for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and is responsible for the management of their respective assets. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151.
Portfolio Managers for Low-Priced Stock, Micro-Cap, and Combined Fund. James P. Stoeffel is Low-Priced Stock’s portfolio manager, assisted by Portfolio Manager Brendan J. Hartman. Mr. Stoeffel was previously assistant portfolio manager (2013-2014) for Low-Priced Stock. Mr. Hartman became assistant portfolio manager for Low-Priced Stock in 2016. Mr. Stoeffel is also Micro-Cap’s lead portfolio manager, with Mr. Hartman managing the Fund with him. Mr. Stoeffel previously co-managed Micro-Cap (2015). Mr. Hartman was previously assistant portfolio manager (2013-2015) for Micro-Cap. An assistant portfolio manager may have investment discretion over a portion of the Fund’s portfolio, subject to supervision by the Fund’s portfolio manager(s). It is currently expected that such Portfolio Managers for Micro-Cap will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization. Additional information about the compensation of the Funds’ portfolio managers, other accounts managed by such portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers’ ownership of securities in the Funds and any other series of the Trust they manage is included in the SAI.
Investment Advisory Services Provided to Low-Priced Stock, Micro-Cap, and Combined Fund by Royce. Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. The annual rates of these fees, before any waiver or expense reimbursements to cap the expense ratios for certain Fund share classes at specified levels as shown in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund Shareholders,” are set forth in the table below. As noted elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, the contractual investment advisory fee for Micro-Cap will be reduced to be equal to that of Low-Priced Stock upon completion of the Reorganization. The annual rate of such fee for the Combined Fund is also
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Combined Fund* |
1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets | 1.25% of the first $2,000,000,000 1.20% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.15% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.10% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets |
* Assumes completion of the Reorganization. |
Other Service Providers for Low-Priced Stock, Micro-Cap, and Combined Fund. Royce Fund Services, LLC serves as the distributor for the shares of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian of the securities, cash, and other assets of each of the Funds. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. serves as the transfer agent for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. It is currently expected that such firms will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization.
24
Financial Highlights for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap
This table is intended to help you understand the financial performance for the past five years of the Investment Class and Service Class shares of each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap. The table reflects financial results for a single share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the relevant Fund (assuming reinvestment of all distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with each Fund’s financial statements, is included in the Annual Report, which is available at www.roycefunds.com or upon request.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | Net Investment Income (Loss) | | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total from Investment Operations | | Distributions from Net Investment Income | | Distributions from Net Realized Gain on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total Distributions | | Shareholder Redemption Fees | | Net Asset Value, End of Period | | Total Return | | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | Prior to Fee Waivers, Expense Reimbursements and Balance Credits | | Prior to Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Net of Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Ratio of Net Investment Income (Loss) to Average Net Assets | | Portfolio Turnover Rate |
|
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 8.49 | | | $ | (0.02 | ) | | $ | (0.70 | ) | | $ | (0.72 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.40 | ) | | $ | (1.40 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 6.37 | | | | (9.04 | )% | | $ | 46,430 | | | | 1.32 | % | | | 1.31 | % | | | 1.24 | % | | | (0.27 | )% | | | 58 | % |
|
2017 | | 8.26 | | | | (0.00 | ) | | | 0.80 | | | | 0.80 | | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (0.55 | ) | | | (0.57 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.49 | | | | 9.86 | | | | 52,912 | | | | 1.30 | | | | 1.30 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.12 | | | | 26 |
|
2016 | | 7.77 | | | | 0.04 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 1.28 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.73 | ) | | | (0.79 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.26 | | | | 16.42 | | | | 22,852 | | | | 1.31 | | | | 1.31 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.39 | | | | 34 |
|
2015 | | 9.46 | | | | 0.00 | | | | (0.97 | ) | | | (0.97 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.72 | ) | | | (0.72 | ) | | | – | | | | 7.77 | | | | (10.21 | ) | | | 28,732 | | | | 1.28 | | | | 1.28 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 53 |
|
2014 | | 13.60 | | | | 0.06 | | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (0.52 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (3.61 | ) | | | (3.62 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.46 | | | | (3.15 | ) | | | 50,371 | | | | 1.25 | | | | 1.25 | | | | 1.24 | | | | 0.46 | | | | 29 |
|
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 8.46 | | | $ | (0.04 | ) | | $ | (0.70 | ) | | $ | (0.74 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.39 | ) | | $ | (1.39 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 6.33 | | | | (9.31 | )% | | $ | 155,596 | | | | 1.53 | % | | | 1.53 | % | | | 1.49 | % | | | (0.49 | )% | | | 58 | % |
|
2017 | | 8.23 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | 0.79 | | | | 0.78 | | | | – | | | | (0.55 | ) | | | (0.55 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.46 | | | | 9.67 | | | | 209,369 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.49 | | | | (0.13 | ) | | | 26 |
|
2016 | | 7.75 | | | | 0.02 | | | | 1.23 | | | | 1.25 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.73 | ) | | | (0.77 | ) | | | – | | | | 8.23 | | | | 16.09 | | | | 281,873 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 0.14 | | | | 34 |
|
2015 | | 9.46 | | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (0.97 | ) | | | (0.99 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.72 | ) | | | (0.72 | ) | | | – | | | | 7.75 | | | | (10.42 | ) | | | 316,475 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 1.47 | | | | (0.20 | ) | | | 53 |
|
2014 | | 13.62 | | | | 0.03 | | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (0.55 | ) | | | – | | | | (3.61 | ) | | | (3.61 | ) | | | – | | | | 9.46 | | | | (3.37 | ) | | | 520,905 | | | | 1.55 | | | | 1.55 | | | | 1.49 | | | | 0.21 | | | | 29 |
|
Royce Micro-Cap Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 11.64 | | | $ | (0.05 | ) | | $ | (0.94 | ) | | $ | (0.99 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.30 | ) | | $ | (1.30 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 9.35 | | | | (8.94 | )% | | $ | 117,040 | | | | 1.50 | % | | | 1.50 | % | | | 1.49 | % | | | (0.43 | )% | | | 24 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.92 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | 0.66 | | | | 0.63 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.90 | ) | | | (0.91 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.64 | | | | 5.43 | | | | 166,935 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 1.49 | | | | (0.28 | ) | | | 26 |
|
2016 | | 11.09 | | | | 0.01 | | | | 2.18 | | | | 2.19 | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (1.30 | ) | | | (1.36 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.92 | | | | 19.74 | | | | 192,731 | | | | 1.48 | | | | 1.48 | | | | 1.48 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 38 |
|
2015 | | 14.47 | | | | 0.02 | | | | (1.96 | ) | | | (1.94 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.44 | ) | | | (1.44 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.09 | | | | (13.32 | ) | | | 219,272 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 0.15 | | | | 41 |
|
2014 | | 16.68 | | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.65 | ) | | | (0.73 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.48 | ) | | | (1.48 | ) | | | – | | | | 14.47 | | | | (4.13 | ) | | | 414,120 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.52 | | | | (0.49 | ) | | | 18 |
|
Royce Micro-Cap Fund–Service Class |
2018 | $ | 11.41 | | | $ | (0.07 | ) | | $ | (0.91 | ) | | $ | (0.98 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.28 | ) | | $ | (1.28 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 9.15 | | | | (9.09 | )% | | $ | 8,053 | | | | 1.90 | % | | | 1.89 | % | | | 1.61 | % | | | (0.56 | )% | | | 24 | % |
|
2017 | | 11.69 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | 0.65 | | | | 0.60 | | | | – | | | | (0.88 | ) | | | (0.88 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.41 | | | | 5.32 | | | | 13,880 | | | | 1.86 | | | | 1.86 | | | | 1.61 | | | | (0.40 | ) | | | 26 |
|
2016 | | 10.90 | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | 2.15 | | | | 2.14 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (1.30 | ) | | | (1.35 | ) | | | – | | | | 11.69 | | | | 19.59 | | | | 17,343 | | | | 1.83 | | | | 1.83 | | | | 1.61 | | | | (0.11 | ) | | | 38 |
|
2015 | | 14.26 | | | | 0.00 | | | | (1.92 | ) | | | (1.92 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.44 | ) | | | (1.44 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.90 | | | | (13.37 | ) | | | 20,538 | | | | 1.80 | | | | 1.80 | | | | 1.63 | | | | 0.01 | | | | 41 |
|
2014 | | 16.48 | | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.65 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.48 | ) | | | (1.48 | ) | | | 0.01 | | | | 14.26 | | | | (4.24 | ) | | | 38,645 | | | | 1.77 | | | | 1.77 | | | | 1.66 | | | | (0.63 | ) | | | 18 |
|
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
How to Purchase and Sell Fund Shares
The minimum initial investments for Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Funds purchased directly from the Trust are set forth in the table below.
ACCOUNT TYPE | MINIMUM |
Regular Account | $2,000 |
IRA | $1,000 |
Automatic Investment or Direct Deposit Plan Accounts | $1,000 |
401(k) Accounts | None |
| |
The minimum for subsequent investments is $50, regardless of account type. |
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. You may also purchase or sell Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary.
Tax Information
Each Fund intends to make distributions that are expected to be taxable to you as ordinary income or capital gains unless your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes” for more details.
Financial Intermediary Compensation
If you purchase Fund shares through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
Distribution Arrangements
RFS distributes the Funds’ shares pursuant to the terms of its distribution agreements with the Funds. The Trust has adopted a distribution plan for the Service Class shares for each Fund under Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under this plan and the distribution agreements, the Service Class is obligated to pay a fee to RFS of up to 0.25% per year of its average net assets. RFS uses the Rule 12b-1 fee for Service Class primarily to cover sales-related and account maintenance costs and to pay service and other fees to broker-dealers that introduce investors to Service Class shares of the Funds. Because these fees are paid out of the applicable Fund’s assets that are attributable to the Service Class on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. Neither the distribution plan nor the distribution agreements currently provide for any suspension or reduction of the 0.25% fee payable by the Service Class of any Fund if such Class closes to new investors.
If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through a firm that provides recordkeeping and other shareholder services to employee benefit plans (“Retirement Plan Recordkeepers”), the shares may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. RFS and/or Royce may compensate broker-dealers, Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, and other financial intermediaries that introduce investors to the Fund, provide the opportunity to distribute the Fund through their sales personnel, provide access to their sales personnel and branch offices, and/or provide certain administrative services to their customers who own Fund shares. These payments are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing.” In addition, the Board has authorized the Funds to compensate such third parties to the extent the Board has determined that any of the services which these parties render to a Fund are non-distribution-related shareholder services, including recordkeeping and account maintenance services.
Payments to third parties (each, a “financial intermediary”) may: (i) be substantial to any given financial intermediary, (ii) be more or less than the payments received by a financial intermediary with respect to other mutual funds, and (iii) exceed the costs and expenses incurred by the financial intermediary for any servicing activities in respect of the Funds. Revenue sharing arrangements are separately negotiated between Royce and/or its affiliates and the financial intermediaries receiving these payments.
Revenue sharing and shareholder servicing payments may influence financial intermediaries to recommend or sell a Fund over other mutual funds. You may ask your financial intermediary about these differing interests and how the financial intermediary and its employees and associated persons are compensated for administering your Fund investment. Revenue-sharing and shareholder servicing payments may benefit Royce to the extent that the payments result in more assets, on which fees are charged by Royce, being invested in a Fund.
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Additional Information About Purchasing Shares
If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, share class eligibility, investment minimums, commissions, fees, policies and procedures may differ from those described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. Such third parties may initiate an exchange Fund shares of one class held by you for shares of another class of that Fund in order to ensure compliance with such eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures. For example, such an exchange may be initiated by a third party (and not by a Fund or RFS) in the event Fund shares come to be held in connection with different type of program (e.g., investment advisory vs. brokerage) offered by such third party. Such exchanges would be effected solely on the basis of the relative net asset values of the respective shares to be exchanged without the imposition of any sales charges by the Fund or RFS. The class of shares received by you in such an exchange may be subject to higher fees and expenses than the class of shares held by you immediately prior to such exchange.
The Trust reserves the right both to suspend the offering of any Fund’s shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States.
The Trust reserves the right to reinvest the proceeds from any dividends from net investment income, distributions from net realized capital gains, or redemptions of shares which a shareholder has chosen to receive by check if the check remains uncashed for more than 180 days. No interest will accrue on the amount of such uncashed checks, which will be reinvested in additional shares of the applicable Fund at the net asset value per share at the time of the reinvestment. If a shareholder has chosen to receive distributions in cash and a check remains uncashed for more than 180 days, subsequent dividends and distributions may be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. In addition, a shareholder’s participation in an automatic withdrawal plan may be terminated if a check remains uncashed. These policies may be waived for closed accounts as well as for certain retirement or other qualified plans.
Additional Information About Redeeming Shares
You may redeem shares in your account at any time. The Funds, however, are intended primarily for long-term investment purposes and are not intended to provide a means of speculating on short-term market movements. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Frequent Trading of Fund Shares” for more details.
Early Redemption Fee on Investment Class and Service Class Shares
In order to discourage short-term trading, the Trust assesses an early redemption fee of 1% on redemptions of the Investment and Service Classes of shares of any Fund that you held for less than 30 days. Each fee is payable to the relevant Fund out of the proceeds otherwise payable to you.
The “first-in, first-out” method is used to determine the holding period by comparing the date of the redemption with the earliest dates of the share purchases in an account. For accounts registered on the books of the Funds’ transfer agent, the anniversary day of an account transaction determines the 30-day holding period, so that if you purchased a Fund’s shares on March 30, 2019, these shares would be subject to the fee if you were to redeem them prior to May 2, 2019.
You will incur no fee on shares that you acquire through distribution reinvestment. The redemption fee will apply to shares that you exchange into another series of the Trust. The following types of shareholders and accounts are exempt from the early redemption fee: participants in Automatic Investment or Withdrawal Plans, retirement plans, certain pre-approved group investment plans and charitable organizations, and omnibus or similar account customers of certain pre-approved broker-dealers and other institutions.
Other Redemption Information
The Funds will normally make redemptions in cash for shareholders who hold shares that are registered in their own name. Each Fund typically expects to send (via check, wire, or ACH) redemption payments to such shareholders within two business days after the transfer agent’s receipt of a redemption request in Good Order (as defined below). For accounts held through financial intermediaries, the length of time that a Fund typically expects to pay redemption proceeds depends, in part, on the terms of the agreement in place between the financial intermediary and the Fund. For redemption proceeds for intermediary-held accounts that are paid either directly to you from a Fund or to your financial intermediary for transmittal to you, the Fund typically expects to make payments by wire, by ACH, or by issuing a check on the next business day following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. Redemption requests that are processed through investment professionals that utilize the National Securities Clearing Corporation will generally settle one to three business days following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. The financial intermediary, if applicable, is responsible for transmitting redemption proceeds to shareholders. Under certain circumstances and when deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund, redemption proceeds may take up to seven calendar days to be sent after receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. In addition, with respect to investors redeeming shares that were purchased by check or through ACH, redemption proceeds may not be sent until payment for the entire purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days.
The Funds typically expect to satisfy redemption requests either by using available cash (or cash equivalents) or by selling portfolio securities. The Funds may use other methods to satisfy redemption requests, including using a line of credit or participating in an interfund lending program in reliance on exemptive relief from the SEC. These methods may be used during both normal and stressed market conditions.
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In addition to paying redemption proceeds in cash, the Trust reserves the right to satisfy a shareholder’s redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of a Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). Redemption-in-kind proceeds will typically be made by delivering the selected securities to the redeeming shareholder within seven days after the receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. For these purposes, such securities will be valued at the same value assigned to them in calculating a Fund’s net asset value per share. If a Fund pays redemption proceeds by transferring portfolio securities in-kind to you, you may pay transaction costs to dispose of the securities, incur adverse tax consequences in connection with any such disposal, and receive less for them than the price at which they were valued for purposes of redemption.
The Trust reserves the right to involuntarily redeem Fund shares in any account that falls below the minimum initial investment due to redemptions by the shareholder. If at any time the balance in an account does not have a value at least equal to the minimum initial investment, you may be notified that the value of your account is below a Fund’s minimum account balance requirement. You would have 60 days to increase your account balance before the account is closed. Proceeds would be paid promptly to the shareholder.
The Trust also may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment for the Funds beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by a Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for a Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Fund’s shareholders. The Trust also reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
Frequent Trading of Fund Shares
Large and frequent short-term trades in a Fund’s shares increase the administrative costs associated with processing its shareholder transactions. This kind of trading may also potentially interfere with the efficient management of a Fund’s portfolio and increase the costs associated with trading its portfolio securities. In addition, under certain circumstances frequent trading may dilute the returns earned on shares held by a Fund’s other shareholders.
The Board has determined that the Funds are not designed to serve as vehicles for frequent trading in response to short-term fluctuations in the securities markets, and has therefore adopted a policy intended to discourage shareholders from trading that could be detrimental to long-term shareholders of the Funds (the “Policy”).
The Policy provides that the Funds will monitor shareholder trading activity and will seek to restrict a shareholder’s trading privileges in a Fund if that shareholder is found to have engaged in multiple “Round Trip” transactions. A “Round Trip” is defined as a purchase (including subscriptions and exchanges) into a Fund either preceded or followed by a sale (including redemptions and exchanges) of the same or a similar number of shares out of the Fund within 30 days of the purchase. The Funds will make inquiries or take action against any such shareholder whose trading appears inconsistent with the Policy. Purchases and sales of Fund shares made through an automatic investment plan or systematic withdrawal plan or initiated by a third party to ensure compliance with its eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures are not considered when determining Round Trips. In addition, as described above, the Funds impose a redemption fee on certain short-term redemptions to discourage frequent trading.
The Funds may reject any purchase or exchange order by any investor for any reason, including orders the Funds believe are made by short-term investors. In particular, under the Policy, the Funds reserve the right to restrict or reject purchases of shares (including exchanges) without prior notice whenever they detect a pattern of excessive trading.
With respect to accounts where shareholder transactions are processed, or records are kept, by third-party intermediaries, the Funds use reasonable efforts to monitor such accounts to detect suspicious trading patterns. Transactions placed through the same financial intermediary or omnibus account may be deemed part of a group for this purpose and therefore be rejected. For any account that is so identified, the Funds will make further inquiries and take any other necessary actions to enforce the Policy against the shareholder(s) trading through this account and, if necessary, the third-party intermediary maintaining this account. However, the Funds may not be able to determine that a specific order, especially an order made through an omnibus, retirement plan, or similar account, is short term or excessive and whether it may be disruptive to the Funds. There is no assurance, therefore, that the Funds will reject all such orders. The Funds do not have any arrangements with any investor or financial intermediary to permit frequent purchases and redemptions of their shares. The Funds may accept undertakings from intermediaries to enforce frequent trading policies on behalf of the Funds that provide a substantially similar level of protection against excessive trading.
Although the Funds will monitor shareholder transactions for certain patterns of excessive trading activity, there can be no assurance that all such trading activity can be identified, prevented, or terminated.
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Net Asset Value Per Share
Net asset value per share (“NAV”) is calculated by dividing the value of a Fund’s net assets by the number of its outstanding shares. Each Fund’s investments are valued based on market value or, if market quotations are not readily available, at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures established by the Board. In certain cases, market value may be determined using information provided by a pricing service approved by the Board. Valuing securities at their fair values involves greater reliance on judgment than valuation of securities based on readily available market quotations. When using fair value methods to price securities, the Funds may value those securities higher or lower than another fund using not readily available market quotations or its own fair value methods to price the same securities. There can be no assurance that the Funds could obtain the fair value price assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its net asset value. Because trading hours for certain non-U.S. securities end before the close of the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), closing market quotations may become unreliable. If between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. If an issuer-specific event has occurred during this time that, in Royce’s judgment, is likely to have affected the closing price of a security, it may fair value the security. The Funds use an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts, and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. The Funds value their non-U.S. securities in U.S. dollars on the basis of foreign currency exchange rates provided to the Funds by their custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company. When fair value pricing is employed, the price of securities used by a Fund may differ from quotes or published prices for the same security. Certain bonds and other fixed income securities may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates, and maturities, using established independent pricing services. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
The date on which your purchase, redemption, or exchange of shares is processed is the trade date, and the price used for the transaction is based on the next calculation of net asset value after the order is processed. The NAV for each Class of a Fund is calculated as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time) and is determined every day that the NYSE is open. Securities in each Fund’s portfolio that primarily trade on a foreign exchange may change in value on a day that the NYSE is closed and the Fund’s shareholders are not able to redeem shares in the Fund. If the Fund, its transfer agent, or any other authorized agent receives your trade order by the close of regular trading on the NYSE, your order will receive that day’s NAV. If your order is received after the close of regular trading, it will receive the next business day’s NAV. If you place your order through a financial intermediary rather than with the Fund or its transfer agent directly, the financial intermediary is responsible for transmitting your order to the Fund’s transfer agent in a timely manner.
Portfolio Disclosure Policy
A description of the Funds’ policy and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities holdings is available in the SAI and at on The Royce Funds’ website, www.roycefunds.com. The Funds’ complete portfolio holdings are also available on The Royce Funds’ website approximately 15 to 20 days after each calendar month end and remain available until the next month’s holdings are posted. The Funds’ portfolio holdings are also available on Form N-Q, which is filed with the SEC within 60 days of the end of the Funds’ first and third quarters and can be obtained at www.sec.gov.
Reports
The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports electronically. Please go to www.roycefunds.com/edelivery for more details.
Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes
Each Fund pays any dividends from its net investment income and makes any distributions from its net realized capital gains annually in December.
Unless you choose otherwise, dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. Unless your account is an IRA or is otherwise exempt from taxation, dividends and distributions will be taxable to you whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. The tax character of distributions (as ordinary income or capital gain) is determined at the Fund level and is not related to how long you have owned a Fund’s shares. Long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends received by a Fund (generally dividends received from taxable domestic corporations and certain foreign corporations) are eligible for taxation at a reduced rate that applies to non-corporate shareholders. To the extent a Fund makes any distributions derived from long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends, such distributions will generally be eligible for taxation to non-corporate shareholders at the reduced rate, provided (in the case of qualifying dividends) that certain holding period and other requirements are met.
Selling or exchanging shares is a taxable event, and you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Each Fund will report the proceeds of your redemption(s) to you. The tax consequences of a redemption depend on your cost basis and holding period, so you should retain all account statements for use in determining the tax consequences of redemptions. In addition, each Fund is generally required by law to
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provide you and the IRS with cost basis information on the redemption or exchange of any of your shares in a Fund purchased on or after January 1, 2012 (including any shares that you acquire through reinvestment of distributions).
If you redeem shares of a Fund held for six months or less, and you received a capital gain distribution from the Fund during the time you held the shares, you will be required to treat any loss on the redemption as a long-term capital loss up to the amount of the distribution.
You should carefully consider the tax implications of purchasing shares shortly before a distribution. At the time of purchase, a Fund’s net asset value may include undistributed income or capital gains. When the Fund subsequently distributes these amounts, they are taxable to you, even though the distribution is economically a return of part of your investment.
In certain circumstances, you may be subject to back-up withholding taxes on distributions to you from a Fund if you fail to provide the Fund with your correct Social Security Number or other taxpayer identification number, or to make required certifications, or if you have been notified by the IRS that you are subject to back-up withholding.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income (which includes interest, dividends, and capital gains) of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 or $250,000 if married filing jointly, and of certain trusts and estates.
Always consult a tax advisor with questions about federal, state, or local tax consequences. Please see the SAI for additional U.S. federal income tax information.
Customer Identification Program
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account. The Trust has appointed an anti-money laundering compliance officer. When you open a new account to buy shares of a Fund, the Trust or your financial intermediary may ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number, and other information that will allow the Trust to identify you. If the Trust or your financial intermediary is unable to adequately verify your identity within the time frames set forth in the law, your account may not be opened or your shares may be automatically redeemed. If the net asset value per share has decreased since your purchase, you will lose money as a result of this automatic redemption. If you need help completing your account application for direct investment in a Fund, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
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ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION
General
Under the NYSE rules that govern brokers who have record ownership of Low-Priced Stock shares that are held in “street name” for their customers (i.e., the beneficial owners of such Low-Priced Stock shares), brokers have the discretion to vote such shares on routine matters, but do not have the discretion to vote such shares on non-routine matters. With respect to Proposal No. 1, it is not expected that brokers will be permitted to vote any Low-Priced Stock shares in their discretion.
Inspectors and Judges of Voting
Shareholders vote at the Meeting by casting ballots (in person or by proxy), which votes will be tabulated by one or two persons who were appointed by the Board before the Meeting to serve as Inspectors and Judges of Voting at the Meeting and who have executed an Inspectors and Judges Oath.
Quorum
A quorum of shareholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting of shareholders of Low-Priced Stock. Under the Bylaws of the Trust, a quorum will exist if shareholders entitled to vote more than 50% of the issued and outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock on the Record Date are present at the Meeting in person or by proxy. In determining whether a quorum is present at the Meeting, the Inspectors and Judges of Voting will count Low-Priced Stock shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote as shares that are present and entitled to vote at the Meeting. “Broker non-votes” are, with respect to Proposal No. 1, Low-Priced Stock shares held by brokers or nominees as to which (i) the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power and (ii) the broker or nominee has not received instructions from the beneficial owner or other person who is entitled to instruct how such shares will be voted, but for which a broker or nominee returns the proxy card without actually voting on Proposal No. 1. Low-Priced Stock may request that selected brokers or nominees return proxies in respect of Low-Priced Stock shares for which the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power or for which voting instructions have not been received to the extent necessary to obtain a quorum at the Meeting. Thus, Low-Priced Stock shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will be counted in determining (i) whether a quorum is present at the Meeting and (ii) the total number of Low-Priced Stock shares present at the Meeting.
Required Vote
Approval of the Plan requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Low-Priced Stock, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Low-Priced Stock present at the Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock are present or represented by proxy at the Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Low-Priced Stock. Low-Priced Stock shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will have the same effect as a vote against Proposal No. 1 at the Meeting as well as a vote against any adjournment of the Meeting.
In accordance with the provisions of agreements governing certain Individual Retirement Accounts holding shares of Low-Priced Stock, the applicable custodian may vote all unvoted Low-Priced Stock shares held in such accounts in the same proportion as shares of Low-Priced Stock for which voting instructions are timely received (i.e., for Proposal No. 1, against Proposal No. 1, or abstain) by Low-Priced Stock or its agent.
Adjournment of Meeting
If a quorum is not present at the Meeting, or if a quorum is present at the Meeting but sufficient votes to approve Proposal No. 1 are not received, the Meeting may be adjourned to permit further solicitation of proxies. In the absence of a quorum, the persons named as proxies may propose an adjournment, and will vote in favor of such adjournment those proxies which they are entitled to vote in favor of Proposal No. 1 and will vote against any such adjournment those proxies required to be voted against Proposal No. 1. If a quorum is present but insufficient votes have been received to approve Proposal No. 1, the chairperson of the Meeting may adjourn the Meeting to permit further solicitation of proxies if the chairperson determines that an adjournment and additional solicitation is reasonable and in the interest of shareholders. Solicitation of votes may continue to be made without any obligation to provide any additional notice of the adjournment other than announcement at the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Affiliated Broker-Dealer
Royce Fund Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Royce, is the distributor of each Fund. RFS’s principal office is located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Information Concerning Royce
Royce, a Delaware limited partnership, is the investment adviser for each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap and a subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”), 100 International Drive, Baltimore, MD 21202. Legg Mason owns a diversified group of global asset managers and is listed on the NYSE (symbol: LM). Royce is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
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Shareholder Proposals
The Trust is not required, and does not currently intend, to hold annual shareholder meetings for either Fund. Shareholders wishing to submit proposals for inclusion in a proxy statement for a subsequent shareholder meeting must send their written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Any shareholder who wishes to bring any proposal at any subsequent shareholder meeting without including such proposal in the Trust’s proxy statement relating to the meeting also must send his or her written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Written proposals should be sent to the Secretary of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Shareholder proposals that are submitted in a timely manner will not necessarily be included in the Trust’s proxy materials. Inclusion of such proposals is subject to limitations under the federal securities laws.
Proxy Delivery
If you and another shareholder share the same address, the Trust may send only one proxy statement unless you or the other shareholder(s) request otherwise. Call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate copy of the proxy statement, and the Trust will promptly mail a copy to you. You may also call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate proxy in the future, or if you are receiving multiple copies now, and wish to receive a single copy in the future. For such requests, call 1-800-221-4268, or write the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES
Record Date Shares Outstanding
As of the Record Date, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had outstanding the number of shares of each share class as indicated in the table immediately below. Each Low-Priced Stock share is entitled to one vote for each full share and a fractional vote for each fractional share at the Meeting.
Fund and Share Class | Number of Shares Outstanding |
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund |
Investment | 7,085,486 |
Service | 23,806,358 |
Consultant* | None |
|
Royce Micro-Cap Fund |
Investment | 12,164,321 |
Service | 690,765 |
Consultant | 2,201,557 |
* No Consultant Class shares of Micro-Cap will be issued in connection with the Reorganization. |
Information About Share Ownership
The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Low-Priced Stock as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Service | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 8,469,434 | Record | 35.58% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 7,375,253 | Record | 30.98% |
| TD Ameritrade Inc. for the Exclusive Benefit of our Clients P.O. Box 2226 Omaha, NE 68103-2226 | 1,247,383 | Record | 5.24% |
| Reliance Trust Company FBO Retirement Plans Serviced by Metlife 8515 E. Orchard Road, 2T2 Greenwood Village, CO 80111-5002 | 1,546,342 | Record | 6.50% |
| | | | |
Investment | Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC Special Custody Account for the Exclusive Benefit of Customers 2801 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103-2523 | 424,089 | Record | 5.99% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 679,806 | Record | 9.59% |
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The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Micro-Cap as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Service | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 481,890 | Record | 69.76% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 64,359 | Record | 9.32% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Fund Department 211 Main Street San Francisco, CA 94105 -1905 | 42,684 | Record | 6.18% |
| | | | |
Investment | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 972,036 | Record | 7.99% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 1,819,534 | Record | 14.96% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 1,163,126 | Record | 9.56% |
| | | | |
Consultant | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 997,779 | Record | 45.32% |
| Raymond James Omnibus for Mutual Funds House Account Firm Attn. Courtney Waller 880 Carillon Parkway St. Petersburg, FL 33716-1100 | 116,311 | Record | 5.28% |
| UBS WM USA OMNI Account M/F 100 Harbor Blvd. Weehawken, NJ 19482-2600 | 235,222 | Record | 10.68% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody A/C FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Fund Department 211 Main Street San Francisco, CA 94105 -1905 | 200,864 | Record | 9.12% |
As of the Record Date, the Trustees and officers of the Trust (15 individuals) owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of each outstanding share class of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS
Services and Policies
This section describes the shareholder services available to direct shareholders of the Investment and Service Classes of the Funds. It also provides important policy information regarding Royce Fund accounts.
If you purchase Fund shares through a third-party intermediary, such as a mutual fund supermarket, broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, account minimums, fees, policies, and procedures may differ from those described in this Guide. Fund shares purchased through a third-party intermediary may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. Royce Fund Services, LLC, the distributor of Fund shares, Royce & Associates, LP, the Funds’ investment adviser, and/or the Funds may pay fees to broker-dealers, financial intermediaries, and other service providers that introduce investors to the Funds and/or provide certain administrative services to its customers who own Fund shares. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. (“DST AMS”) serves as the Funds’ transfer agent. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian for securities, cash, and other assets of the Funds.
For information and policies on Individual Retirement Account (IRA), please refer also to the booklet that deals separately with them, as many services offered in this guide are not available for those types of accounts. You must use separate applications and other forms to open these accounts. Please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 or visit www.roycefunds.com to obtain these materials.
Account Information
The Funds pay their own management fees and other operating expenses as outlined in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Please mail all account-related correspondence, including Account Applications, subsequent investments, and written requests for redemption—
by regular mail to:
The Royce Funds
c/o DST AMS
PO Box 219012
Kansas City, MO 64121-9012
by registered mail or overnight courier to:
The Royce Funds
c/o DST AMS
330 West 9th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
How to Open an Account
You may open an account online at www.roycefunds.com, by mail, or through a financial intermediary. Once you are a direct Royce Fund shareholder (that is, you opened your account directly through The Royce Funds and not through a financial intermediary), you can also open additional accounts online.
Online
You can set up an account online by visiting www.roycefunds.com and clicking on the Shareholder Login tab.
You can also download a Prospectus and Account Application from www.roycefunds.com.
Online account access also allows you to manage your account online once you have registered (see “Managing Your Account Online” below for more details).
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By Mail
Complete and sign the enclosed Account Application. Make your check payable to The Royce Fund and mail it, together with your Application, to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see mailing addresses above).
Special Notice To Non-U.S. Investors
The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States. The Funds mail prospectuses and other information to U.S. addresses only and can accept new account requests from U.S. addresses only.
Managing Your Account Online
Online access allows you to open new accounts directly online and gives you the ability to manage your account(s) online. To access, or register for, online services go to www.roycefunds.com. First-time users need to register for the services by creating a Username and Password. Once registered, you can login with your unique Username. You then have the ability to:
1. | | Check your most recent account value |
2. | | Sign up for eDelivery to have Prospectuses, Financial Reports, semiannual account statements, transaction confirmation statements, duplicate confirmation statements, and tax forms e-mailed to you. |
3. | | Review your recent account history, including distributions |
4. | | Change your address (a redemption restriction of 30 days applies) |
5. | | Make subsequent purchases ($50 minimum) |
6. | | Exchange between funds |
7. | | Redeem fund shares ($50,000 maximum) |
8. | | Establish an Automatic Investment Plan |
9. | | View average cost and tax summary information |
|
Bank information must be established on your account prior to purchasing shares. |
About Online Security
Your Username and Password allow you to login and access portfolio information. Both your Username and Password are encrypted when you login to access your account.
Royce uses industry best practices to ensure the confidentiality and safety of your information and transactions. Shareholders who wish to sign up for account access must have a secure web browser that uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology with 128-bit encryption. This helps to keep your use of account access confidential.
Your Username and Password are Encrypted
When you login, your Username and Password are both encrypted. Although you will not see an “https” address or the lock symbol at the bottom of your browser window until you have logged in, we assure you that your personal information is secure as it is accepted by our transfer agent’s secure server.
Three Wrong Passwords and You’re Out
We have limited to 3 the number of times that a user can enter an incorrect Password in order to deter unauthorized users. Once your Password has been entered incorrectly 3 times, you will be locked out of the system. To re-establish access, you need to telephone Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time.
Also, if there is no activity for 15 minutes, you will be automatically logged off the system. If you leave your computer unattended, this time-out feature helps to prevent an unauthorized user from accessing the account(s).
How to Purchase Additional Shares
You may purchase additional Fund shares online, by telephone, and by mail.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account online, you can purchase Fund shares after logging in. Funds are debited from your bank checking account through ACH. ($50 minimum—bank information must be established on your account before purchasing shares.)
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By Telephone
To pay using the Automated Clearing House (ACH):
By establishing the Expedited Purchase option on your Account Application, a telephone call allows you to have funds automatically debited from your bank checking account through ACH. Call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call our automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time to buy additional Fund shares ($50 minimum). If your purchase request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV.
To pay by bank wire:
Payments for wire purchases ($500 minimum) must be received by the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time).
Wiring instructions are:
State Street Bank and Trust Co., Inc.
ABA # 011000028
Credit DDA # 9904-712-8
Name of Royce Fund–Share Class
Account Number
Account Name
By Mail
Make your check—$50 minimum—payable to The Royce Fund. Fill out the amount of your purchase on the investment form found at the bottom of your latest statement. If you do not have a form, simply write the name of the Fund and Share Class in which you are investing and your account number clearly on the check. Mail to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above for mailing addresses).
Please note that the Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases.
Convenient Methods of Making Regular, Automatic Expedited Purchases
Select the following services on your Account Application or, if you have an existing Royce Funds account, call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 for an enrollment form or download one at www.roycefunds.com. You may also establish these services online.
Automatic Investment Plan
You can make regular purchases to your Royce Fund account directly from your bank account through ACH on a monthly or quarterly basis on the date you select ($50 minimum).
Direct Deposit Payroll Deduction Plan
You can make investments from your payroll or government check into your Royce Fund account each payment or pay period. Your employer must have direct deposit through ACH available for employees. You may cancel the option by giving written notice to your employer or government agency, as appropriate. The Fund is not responsible for the efficiency of the employer or government agency making the payment or of any financial institution transmitting payments. To sign up, you need to complete an Authorization for Direct Deposit form, which you can download by going to the Fund Literature page on www.roycefunds.com, clicking on How to Invest at the foot of the page, and clicking Applications & Special Forms or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Important Information about Purchases |
• | | If your check or wire does not clear, or if the Funds or their transfer agent do not receive payment for any telephone or online purchase, the transaction will be cancelled and you will be responsible for any loss that the Fund incurs. If you are already a shareholder, the Fund can redeem shares from any identically registered Royce Fund account as reimbursement for any loss. |
• | | The Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases. |
• | | In order to avoid lengthy processing delays caused by clearing foreign checks, the Funds will only accept a foreign check that has been drawn in U.S. dollars and has been issued by a foreign bank with a U.S. correspondent bank. |
• | | The Funds reserve the right both to suspend the offering of Fund shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. |
• | | You may have your bank account information taken from your initial investment check. Otherwise, you must include a voided check with your Account Application for Expedited Purchases and Redemptions. It can take up to three weeks to establish these services; you will receive confirmation of their activation by mail. |
Important Information about Telephone and Online Transactions
Neither the Funds nor their transfer agent will be liable for following instructions reasonably believed to be genuine that are received by telephone or made online. The transfer agent uses certain procedures designed to confirm that instructions are genuine. Procedures may include requiring some form of personal identification prior to acting on the instructions, such as providing written confirmation of the transaction and/or recording incoming calls. If the Funds or their transfer agent do not follow such procedures, then they may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions.
How to Sell Shares
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. DST AMS will generally send the proceeds within two business days of receiving the request.
Redemptions from Royce-sponsored retirement plan accounts—IRA—and from accounts for which share certificates are outstanding must be made in writing.
Certain other redemption requests must be made in writing and also require a medallion guarantee of the signature(s) of the shareholder(s). These include redemption requests for $50,000 or more, for a payee(s) other than the shareholder(s), or for proceeds to be sent to an address other than the address of record.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account at www.roycefunds.com, login, and click the Fund you want to sell, and select Redeem from the Account Actions dropdown menu. Proceeds may be sent by check, by bank wire, or through ACH.
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By Telephone
For any amount less than $50,000, you may call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call the automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time and DST AMS will mail a check to the address of record on the account. If your redemption request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV. You may also establish the Expedited Redemption option, which allows you to have proceeds sent to your bank by wire—usually credited within one business day—and/or by ACH—usually credited within two business days.
By Mail
Mail your letter to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above mailing addresses). Written requests must be in Good Order, meaning that the request meets the Fund’s legal and processing requirements.
All written requests to sell shares must contain at least the following to be in Good Order: |
• | | The name(s) and signature(s) of each shareholder named in the account registration with medallion guarantee(s) if required |
• | | The Fund name and account number |
• | | The dollar or share amount you want to sell |
• | | The address to which you want proceeds sent |
• | | Certificates, if you are holding any |
| | |
In addition: |
• | | Trusts and Corporate Retirement Plan Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the trustee(s) named in the account registration. Redemptions involving third parties, trustees not named in the account registration, successor trustees, or other situations require additional documentation. Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 with any questions. |
• | | Corporate Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by an officer of the corporation and a certified copy of a Corporate Resolution that authorizes the assigning officer to effect transactions. The same party cannot certify the Corporate Resolution and sign the letter of instruction. |
• | | Partnership/Sole Proprietorship Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the general partner(s)/sole proprietor named in the account registration. |
• | | Nominee Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by a general partner or a nominee facsimile stamp. |
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• | | Transfer on Death Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by the beneficiary(ies) named in the account registration, a certified copy of the deceased shareholder’s Death Certificate, a tax waiver if required by the deceased’s former state of residence, and an affidavit signed by the beneficiary(ies) that states: “Under penalty of perjury, I/we swear that there are no known disputes as to the persons entitled to a distribution under the nonprobate transfer or the amounts to be distributed to each person and no known claims that would affect the distribution requested.” |
• | | Administrators/executors of shareholder estates must provide a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction, certified copy of Letters Testamentary, which authorize the signing party to act on behalf of the deceased shareholder and, if required by the deceased’s state of former residence, a certified tax waiver. |
If you have any questions about how to ensure that your written redemption request is in Good Order, please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, or contact us at www.roycefunds.com.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
This option allows you to automatically redeem shares from your Fund account and have the proceeds transferred directly to your bank account through ACH on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis generally on the 15th day of the month. You must have at least $25,000 in a Fund account to be eligible for this feature.
Important Information About Redemptions |
• | | Telephone and online redemptions will not be permitted for 30 days after a change in the address of record. |
• | | If you are redeeming shares recently purchased by check or through ACH, proceeds may not be sent until payment for the purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days. Otherwise, redemption proceeds must be sent to you within seven days of receipt of your request in Good Order. |
• | | If you have difficulty making a redemption by telephone or online, you may want to make your redemption request by regular or express mail (See “How to Sell Shares: By Mail” above for processing information). The Funds reserve the right to revise or terminate telephone or online account access redemption privileges at any time. |
• | | Each Fund may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by the Funds of securities owned by them is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for the Funds fairly to determine the value of their respective net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Funds’ shareholders. |
• | | Each Fund will normally make redemptions in cash, but reserves the right to satisfy a redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of the Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). |
How to Exchange Shares
You may make exchanges between the series of the Trust in the same class, as well as between Funds in the Investment and Service Classes. However, you must meet a Fund Class’s minimum initial investment when you open an account by exchange.
You may make exchanges online, by telephone, and by mail. An exchange involves a purchase and a redemption; therefore you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Also, exchanges are subject to the Funds’ early redemption fee and are permitted only if both the registration and the Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number of the two accounts are identical. You may make an exchange only for shares of a class or series offered for sale in your state of residence. The Trust reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
How to Transfer Ownership
You may transfer the ownership of any of your Fund shares to another person by writing to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS.
As with selling shares, your request must be in Good Order (see “How To Sell Shares” above for information regarding Good Order). Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 for instructions.
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Statements and Reports |
• | A confirmation statement is sent to you, electronically or by mail, each time there is a transaction in your account. You can also review your recent account history once you have registered for online account access. |
• | Year-to-date account statements are sent semiannually. |
• | The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports via eDelivery. Please go to www.roycefunds.com for more details. |
Minimum Account Balance
Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining low-balance accounts, the Trust reserves the right to redeem shares in the account of any Fund if the account falls below the minimum initial investment because of redemptions by the shareholder.
The Trust may notify you if, due to redemption(s), the balance in your account is less than the appropriate minimum initial investment, or if you discontinue an Automatic Investment Plan before your account reaches the $2,000 minimum initial investment. You would then have 60 days to increase your balance before the Fund would close your account.
In each of the cases described above, the relevant Fund would promptly pay redemption proceeds to the shareholder.
* * *
If you have any questions about the material in this section, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268, or visit our website at www.roycefunds.com.
OTHER BUSINESS
While the Meeting has been called to transact any business that may properly come before it, the only matters which the Trustees intend to present are the matters stated in the Notice of Special Meeting. However, if any additional matter properly comes before the Meeting and on all matters incidental to the conduct of such Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed proxy to vote the proxy in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
| By order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
| |
| John E. Denneen, |
| Secretary |
| |
Please fill in, date and sign the proxy card and return it in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. You may also provide your voting instructions via telephone or the internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient voting options.
Dated: April 1 , 2019
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APPENDIX A
PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND
This Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund (this “Plan”), a Delaware statutory trust having its principal place of business at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 (“TRF”), on behalf of the acquiring fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (the “Acquiring Fund”) and the target fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (the “Target Fund”), is made as of this 28th day of February, 2019. Together, the Target Fund and the Acquiring Fund are referred to herein as the “Funds.”
The reorganization will consist of: (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund, in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund and Investment Class and Service Class shares of the Acquiring Fund (collectively, “Acquiring Fund Shares”) having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the value of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund; (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares to the shareholders of the Target Fund according to their respective interests in complete liquidation of the Target Fund; and (iii) the termination of the Target Fund as soon as practicable after the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof), all upon and subject to the terms and conditions of this Plan.
The Plan is intended to be and is adopted as a plan of reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).
In order to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Plan, the following actions shall be taken by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund, as applicable:
1. Acquisition of Assets, Assumption of Liabilities, Issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares, and Liquidation and Termination of Target Fund.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions contained herein and on the basis of the representations and warranties contained herein, the Target Fund agrees to convey, transfer, and deliver substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, and claims whatsoever. In exchange, the Acquiring Fund agrees: (i) to deliver to the Target Fund the number of full and fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, determined by dividing: (1) the aggregate value of the Target Fund’s assets with respect to each class of the Target Fund, net of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof, by (2) the net asset value of one share of the corresponding class of the Acquiring Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof; and (ii) to assume substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund. Such transactions shall take place at the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof). For the purposes of this Agreement, the Investment Class shares of the Target Fund correspond to the Investment Class shares of the Acquiring Fund and the Service Class shares of the Target Fund correspond to the Service Class shares of the Acquiring Fund. The term “Acquiring Fund Shares” should be read to include each such class of shares of the Acquiring Fund unless the context otherwise requires.
(b) The assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund shall consist of all property owned by the Target Fund, including, without limitation, all cash, securities, commodities, interests in futures and other financial instruments, claims (whether absolute or contingent, known, or unknown), receivables (including dividends, interest, principal, subscriptions and other receivables), goodwill and other intangible property, all books and records belonging to the Target Fund, any deferred or prepaid expenses shown as an asset on the books of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time (as defined in Section 2(a) hereof), and all interests, rights, privileges and powers, other than cash in an amount necessary to pay dividends and distributions as provided in Section 8(d) hereof and other than the Target Fund’s rights under this Plan. All liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves of the Target Fund, to the extent that they exist at or after the Valuation Time, shall after the Valuation Time, attach to the Acquiring Fund and may be enforced against the Acquiring Fund to the same extent as if the same had been incurred by the Acquiring Fund.
A-1
Appendix A
(c) Immediately following the Closing, the Target Fund shall, in complete liquidation of the Target Fund, distribute pro rata to its shareholders of record as of the Valuation Time all of the Acquiring Fund Shares received by the Target Fund pursuant to this Section 1 and shall thereafter terminate. Such liquidation and distribution shall be accomplished by the establishment of accounts on the share records of TRF relating to the Acquiring Fund and noting in such accounts the amounts of Acquiring Fund Shares that former Target Fund shareholders are due based on their respective holdings of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time. Fractional Acquiring Fund Shares shall be carried to the normal and customary decimal place for such shares. The Acquiring Fund shall not issue certificates representing Acquiring Fund Shares in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
2. Valuation.
(a) The value of the assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund hereunder shall be the value of such assets as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (the “Valuation Time”), using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
(b) Full Acquiring Fund Shares, and to the extent necessary, fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, of an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the amount of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund, shall be issued by the Acquiring Fund in exchange for its acquisition of such assets from the Target Fund and its assumption of such liabilities of the Target Fund. The net asset value per share of an Investment Class share of the Acquiring Fund and a Service Class share of the Acquiring Fund as contemplated under Section 1(a) of this Plan shall be computed as of the Valuation Time, using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
3. Closing and Closing Date.
The consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby shall take place at the Closing (the “Closing”). The date of the Closing shall be June 14, 2019, or such other date as determined in writing by TRF’s officers (the “Closing Date”). Unless otherwise provided in writing, all acts taking place at the Closing shall be deemed to take place as of 10:00 a.m. on the Closing Date. The Closing shall take place at the principal office of TRF. TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall have provided for delivery as of the Closing of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the account of the Acquiring Fund at the Acquiring Fund’s custodian. Also, TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall produce at the Closing a list of names and addresses of the shareholders of record of the Target Fund and the number of full and fractional shares owned by each such shareholder, all as of the Valuation Time, certified by its transfer agent or by its President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief. TRF, on behalf of the Acquiring Fund, shall issue and deliver to the Secretary of TRF a confirmation evidencing the Acquiring Fund Shares to be credited to the Target Fund’s account on the Closing Date, or shall provide evidence satisfactory to the Target Fund that the Acquiring Fund Shares have been registered in an account on the books of the Acquiring Fund in such manner as TRF, on behalf of Target Fund, may request.
4. Transfer Taxes
Any transfer taxes payable upon the issuance of the Acquiring Fund Shares in a name other than the registered holder of the Target Fund shares on the books of the Target Fund as of that time shall, as a condition of such transfer, be paid by the person to whom such Acquiring Fund Shares are to be issued and transferred.
5. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Target Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Target Fund:
(a) The Target Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end, management investment company and all of the shares of Target Fund sold were sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”).
(b) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Target Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Target Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Target Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
A-2
Appendix A
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Target Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
(e) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
(f) The Target Fund does not have any unamortized or unpaid organizational fees or expenses.
(g) The Target Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a “regulated investment company” (a “RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Code, as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code for its taxable year through the Closing Date and liquidation; and has satisfied, and intends to satisfy, the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years.
(h) The Target Fund, or its agents, (i) holds a valid Form W-8BEN, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Withholding and Reporting (Individuals), a valid Form W-8BEN-E, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting (Entities) (or other appropriate series of Form W-8, as the case may be), or Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, for each Target Fund shareholder of record, which Form W-8 or Form W-9 can be associated with reportable payments made by the Target Fund to such shareholder, and/or (ii) has otherwise timely instituted the appropriate nonresident alien or foreign corporation or backup withholding procedures with respect to such shareholder as provided by Sections 1441, 1442, 1471 and 3406 of the Code.
(i) At the Closing, the Target Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to below, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially adversely affect title thereto.
(j) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Target Fund.
(k) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Target Fund.
(l) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
6. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Acquiring Fund:
(a) The Acquiring Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the 1940 Act as an open-end, management investment company and all of the Acquiring Fund Shares sold have been sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the 1933 Act.
(b) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Acquiring Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Acquiring Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Acquiring Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Acquiring Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
(e) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
A-3
Appendix A
(f) The Acquiring Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a RIC as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code through the Closing Date and expects to continue to so qualify thereafter; and has satisfied the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years and expects to continue to satisfy them.
(g) The statement of assets and liabilities to be created by TRF for the Acquiring Fund as of the Valuation Time for the purpose of determining the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued pursuant to this Plan will accurately reflect the assets in the case of the Target Fund and the net asset value in the case of the Acquiring Fund, and outstanding shares, as of such date, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(h) At the Closing, the Acquiring Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to above, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially affect title thereto.
(i) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Acquiring Fund.
(j) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Acquiring Fund.
(k) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
(l) TRF anticipates that consummation of this Plan will not cause the Acquiring Fund to fail to conform to the requirements applicable to RICs under Subchapter M of the Code at the end of the next succeeding tax quarter.
7. Intentions of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(a) At the Closing, TRF on behalf of the Target Fund, intends to have available a copy of the shareholder ledger accounts, certified by TRF’s transfer agent or its President or a Vice President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief, for all the shareholders of record of Target Fund shares as of the Valuation Time who are to become shareholders of the Acquiring Fund as a result of the completion of the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
(b) TRF intends to operate each Fund’s respective business as presently conducted between the date hereof and the Closing.
(c) TRF intends that the Target Fund will not acquire the Acquiring Fund Shares for the purpose of making distributions thereof to anyone other than the Target Fund’s shareholders.
(d) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund intends, if this Plan is consummated, to liquidate and dissolve the Target Fund.
(e) TRF intends that, by the Closing, each Fund’s Federal and other tax returns and reports required by law to be filed on or before such date shall have been filed, and all Federal and other taxes shown as due on said returns shall have either been paid or adequate liability reserves shall have been provided for the payment of such taxes.
(f) TRF intends to mail to each shareholder of the Target Fund entitled to vote at the meeting of its shareholders at which action on this Plan is to be considered, in sufficient time to comply with requirements as to notice thereof, a prospectus/proxy statement that complies in all material respects with the applicable provisions of Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 20(a) of the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations, respectively, thereunder.
(g) TRF intends to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement on Form N-14 under the 1933 Act relating to the Acquiring Fund Shares issuable hereunder (the “Registration Statement”), and will use its best efforts to provide that the Registration Statement becomes effective as promptly as practicable. At the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, it will: (i) comply in all material respects with the applicable provisions of the 1933 Act, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder; and (ii) not contain any untrue statement of material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. At the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, at the time of the
A-4
Appendix A
shareholders’ meeting of the Target Fund, and at the Closing Date, the prospectus and statement of additional information included in the Registration Statement will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
8. Conditions Precedent to be Fulfilled by TRF on behalf of the Funds.
The consummation of the Plan with respect to the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a) That: (i) all the representations and warranties contained herein concerning the Funds shall be true and correct as of the Closing with the same effect as though made as of and at such date; (ii) performance of all obligations required by this Plan to be performed by TRF on behalf of the Funds shall occur prior to the Closing; and (iii) TRF shall execute a certificate signed by the President or a Vice President and by the Secretary or equivalent officer to the foregoing effect.
(b) That the form of this Plan shall have been adopted and approved by the appropriate action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) That the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shall not have issued an unfavorable management report under Section 25(b) of the 1940 Act or instituted or threatened to institute any proceeding seeking to enjoin consummation of the Plan under Section 25(c) of the 1940 Act. And, further, that no other legal, administrative or other proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened that would materially affect the financial condition of a Fund or would prohibit the transactions contemplated hereby.
(d) That at or immediately prior to the Closing, the Target Fund shall have declared and paid a dividend or dividends which, together with all previous such dividends, shall have the effect of distributing to the Target Fund’s shareholders all of such Target Fund’s investment company taxable income for taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing and all of its net capital gain, if any, realized in taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing (after reduction for any capital loss carry-forward).
(e) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to TRF, dated as of the Closing Date, in form and substance satisfactory to TRF, substantially to the effect that:
• The transactions contemplated by the Plan will qualify as a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Code and that the Target Fund and Acquiring Fund will be a "party to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Target Fund upon (i) the transfer of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of liabilities of the Target Fund and the Acquiring Fund Shares or (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares by the Target Fund to its shareholders in exchange for their Target Fund shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquiring Fund upon the receipt of the assets of the Target Fund solely in exchange for the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares to the Target Fund and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund by the Acquiring Fund;
• The tax basis of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of the Target Fund immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of the Target Fund;
• The tax holding period of the assets of the Target Fund in the hands of Acquiring Fund will include the Target Fund's tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of the Target Fund's taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to the Acquiring Fund;
• Target Fund shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Target Fund shares solely for Acquiring Fund Shares as part of the Reorganization;
• The tax basis of Acquiring Fund Shares received by Target Fund shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange; and
• The tax holding period of Acquiring Fund Shares that Target Fund shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Target Fund shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange.
In giving the opinion set forth above, counsel may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact.
(f) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion in form and substance satisfactory to it from Richards, Layton & Finger, to the effect that, subject in all respects to the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance, and other laws now or hereafter affecting generally the enforcement of creditors’ rights and subject to the general principles of equity:
| (1) TRF is validly existing in good standing as a statutory trust under the Delaware Statutory Trust Act, 12 Del. C. § 3801, et seq. (the “Act”), and has the trust power and authority under the Trust Instrument, Bylaws and the Act to (i) execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Plan and (ii) conduct its business as described in the Trust Instrument and Bylaws; |
| |
| (2) The Acquiring Fund has been duly established as a separate series of TRF under the Trust Instrument and Section 3806(b)(2) of the Act; |
| |
| (3) The shares of the Acquiring Fund to be issued as provided for by the Plan are duly authorized, and upon issuance will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable beneficial interests in the Acquiring Fund; |
| |
| (4) The execution and delivery of the Plan and the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby have been duly authorized by TRF under the Trust Instrument, the Bylaws and the Act; |
A-5
Appendix A
| (5) Neither the execution, delivery and performance by TRF of the Plan, nor the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby, violates (i) the Trust Instrument or Bylaws or (ii) any law, rule or regulation of the State of Delaware applicable to TRF; and |
| |
| (6) This Plan constitutes a legal, valid and binding agreement of TRF, enforceable against TRF, in accordance with its terms. |
In giving the opinion set forth above, Richards, Layton & Finger may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact and may assume all conditions precedent set forth in this Plan have been satisfied and may include other customary assumptions and qualifications for opinions of this type, including without limitation, customary enforceability assumptions (including the effect of principles of equity, including principles of commercial reasonableness and good faith and fair dealing), that the trustees of TRF have complied with their fiduciary duties in approving this Plan, that the Reorganization is fair in all respects and that the execution and delivery of this Plan by TRF with respect to the Target Fund and the performance of its obligations thereunder are not inconsistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. In addition, such counsel need not express an opinion with respect to any provisions of this Plan that purport to obligate TRF to cause other persons or entities to take certain actions or act in a certain way insofar as such provision relates to the actions of such other persons or entities, any provisions of this Plan to the extent that such provisions purport to bind or limit the trustees of TRF in the exercise of their fiduciary duties or to bind parties not a signatory to this Plan.
(g) That the Registration Statement with respect to the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered to the Target Fund’s shareholders in accordance with this Plan shall have become effective, and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto, shall have been issued prior to the Closing Date, or shall be in effect at Closing, and no proceedings for the issuance of such an order shall be pending or threatened on that date.
(h) That the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered hereunder shall be eligible for sale by the Acquiring Fund with each state commission or agency with which such eligibility is required in order to permit the Acquiring Fund Shares lawfully to be delivered to each shareholder of the Target Fund.
9. Expenses.
(a) TRF represents and warrants that there are no broker or finders’ fees payable by it in connection with the transactions provided for herein.
(b) All costs incurred in entering into and carrying out the terms and conditions of this Plan, including (without limitation) outside legal counsel and independent registered public accounting firm costs, and costs incurred in connection with the printing and mailing of the relevant combined prospectus and proxy statement and related materials, and with the solicitation and tabulation of vote of Target Fund shareholders, shall be allocated and paid by the Funds as follows: Target Fund (50%) and Acquiring Fund (50%).
(c) Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Acquiring Fund and its shareholders.
10. Termination; Postponement; Waiver; Order.
(a) Anything contained in this Plan to the contrary notwithstanding, this Plan may be terminated and abandoned at any time (whether before or after approval thereof by the shareholders of an Target Fund) prior to the Closing, or the Closing may be postponed by TRF on behalf of a Fund by resolution of the Board of Trustees of TRF if circumstances develop that, in the opinion of the Board, make proceeding with the Plan inadvisable.
(b) If the transactions contemplated by this Plan have not been consummated by December 31, 2019, the Plan shall automatically terminate on that date, unless a later date is agreed to by the officers of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) In the event of termination of this Plan pursuant to the provisions hereof, the Plan shall become void and have no further effect with respect to the Acquiring Fund or Target Fund, and neither TRF, the Acquiring Fund nor the Target Fund, nor the trustees, officers, agents or shareholders shall have any liability in respect of this Plan.
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Appendix A
(d) At any time prior to the Closing, any of the terms or conditions of this Plan may be waived by the party who is entitled to the benefit thereof by action taken by TRF’s Board of Trustees if, in the judgment of such Board of Trustees, such action or waiver will not have a material adverse affect on the benefits intended under this Plan to its shareholders, on behalf of whom such action is taken.
(e) If any order or orders of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to this Plan shall be issued prior to the Closing and shall impose any terms or conditions that are determined by action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds to be acceptable, such terms and conditions shall be binding as if a part of this Plan without further vote or approval of the shareholders of the Target Fund, unless such terms and conditions shall result in a change in the method of computing the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued the Target Fund, in which event, unless such terms and conditions shall have been included in the proxy solicitation material furnished to the shareholders of the Target Fund prior to the meeting at which the transactions contemplated by this Plan shall have been approved, this Plan shall not be consummated and shall terminate, unless TRF on behalf of the Target Fund shall call a special meeting of shareholders at which such conditions so imposed shall be submitted for approval.
11. Entire Plan and Amendments.
This Plan embodies the entire plan of TRF on behalf of the Funds, and there are no agreements, understandings, restrictions, or warranties between the parties other than those set forth or provided for herein. This Plan may be amended in writing only by TRF. Neither this Plan nor any interest herein may be assigned without the prior written consent of TRF on behalf of the Fund corresponding to the Fund making the assignment. For purposes of the Act, this Plan will be deemed part of the governing instrument (as defined in the Act) of TRF.
12. Notices.
Any notice, report, or demand required or permitted by any provision of this Plan shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given if delivered or mailed, first class postage prepaid, addressed to TRF at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, Attention: Secretary.
13. Governing Law.
This Plan shall be governed by and carried out in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without regard to its conflict of laws principles.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Page Follows]
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Appendix A
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each party has executed this Plan by its duly authorized officers, all as of the date and year first written above.
| | | THE ROYCE FUND | |
| | | on behalf of the Acquiring Fund listed in Schedule A | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ John E. Denneen Attest: John E. Denneen, Secretary | | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark By: Christopher D. Clark Title: President | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | | THE ROYCE FUND | |
| | | on behalf of the Target Fund listed in Schedule A | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ John E. Denneen Attest: John E. Denneen, Secretary | | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark By: Christopher D. Clark Title: President | |
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Appendix A
Schedule A
Target Fund | Acquiring Fund |
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund, a series of The Royce Fund | Royce Micro-Cap Fund, a series of The Royce Fund |
A-9
THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
April 1 , 2019
Dear Shareholders of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund:
We are sending this information to you because you are a shareholder of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund (“Micro-Cap Opportunity”). Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity are being invited to vote on the proposed reorganization of that Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund (“Opportunity”). Each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity is a series of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”).
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | | the proposed transaction as the “Reorganization”; |
| • | | the fund resulting from the Reorganization as the “Combined Fund”; and |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity together as the “Funds.” |
A special meeting of the shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity is scheduled for May 28, 2019 (the “Meeting”) to consider and approve the proposed Reorganization. If the Reorganization receives the required shareholder approval and is completed, you will become a shareholder of Opportunity, you will cease to own shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity, and Micro-Cap Opportunity will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. This package contains information about the proposal and includes materials you will need to vote.
Proposed Reorganization of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund
In order to help shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity vote on the proposed Reorganization, below is a short summary of the similarities and differences between Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and certain other factors to be considered by shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity when voting on the Reorganization.
Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are similar to one another in that they:
| • | | have the same investment objective; |
| • | | use a bottom-up, value investment approach; |
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; and |
| • | | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions. |
We further note that William A. Hench is the portfolio manager for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Mr. Hench is assisted by Portfolio Managers Robert Kosowsky and Suzanne Franks on both Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. It is currently expected that Messrs. Hench and Kosowsky and Ms. Franks will continue in their respective roles for Opportunity assuming completion of the Reorganization.
Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity, however, differ from one another in certain ways. For example, the Funds focus on overlapping yet distinct market capitalization segments within the equity securities market. Pursuant to its investment policies, Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion). Opportunity, on the other hand, normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, but may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, the Funds have different benchmark indexes, with the Russell Microcap Index and the Russell 2000 Index serving as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Micro-Cap Opportunity and the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Value Index serving as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Opportunity. In addition, Opportunity’s geometric average market capitalization as of December 31, 2018 was more than 2 times larger than that of Micro-Cap Opportunity (i.e., approximately $727 million for Opportunity compared to approximately $319 million for Micro-Cap Opportunity). Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.
The Funds are also different from one another in that Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Opportunity normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity had 82 portfolio holdings and 273 portfolio holdings, respectively.
Finally, the Funds’ investment policies allow Micro-Cap Opportunity to invest a larger percentage of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries than Opportunity (i.e., 25% foreign securities limit for Micro-Cap Opportunity compared to a 10% foreign securities limit for Opportunity). Notwithstanding its current ability to invest a larger percentage of its net assets in foreign securities than Opportunity, Micro-Cap Opportunity allocated proportionally less of its net assets to such securities than did Opportunity as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., 1.1% for Micro-Cap Opportunity compared to 4.3% for Opportunity).
Overall, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their bottom-up, value investment approaches and their focus on U.S. equity securities. However, the prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with larger stock market capitalizations. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Opportunity to the extent Micro-Cap Opportunity invests, relative to Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Opportunity invests, relative to Micro-Cap Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations greater than $1 billion. In addition, Micro-Cap Opportunity’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk than Opportunity because Micro-Cap Opportunity may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. Finally, an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity may be more subject to the risks associated with foreign securities than an investment in Opportunity to the extent Micro-Cap Opportunity takes advantage of the flexibility offered by its investment policies to invest, relative to Opportunity, a greater portion of its net assets in such securities.
The Funds are also quite dissimilar in terms of their size. Micro-Cap Opportunity, which has historically had a difficult time attracting and maintaining assets at a sufficient level for it to be viable as a stand-alone mutual fund, also recently experienced a significant decline in its net asset level from approximately $47 million as of December 31, 2017 to approximately $18.2 million as of December 31, 2018. Opportunity, with net assets of approximately $869.2 million as of December 31, 2018, is considerably larger than Micro-Cap Opportunity.
We note that Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity are subject to identical contractual investment advisory fee rates. We further note, as set forth in more detail in the fee tables under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund Shareholders,” that both the annualized operating expense ratio of Opportunity and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratio of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization were both lower than the annualized expense ratio of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
Performance comparisons presented to the Board of Trustees of the Trust in connection with its consideration and approval of the Reorganization at a meeting held on December 13, 2018 illustrated that Opportunity had generally outperformed Micro-Cap Opportunity during various periods ended September 30, 2018. Detailed information regarding the investment performance of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus under the heading “Comparison of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
We believe that completion of the Reorganization would give Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders the opportunity to participate in a fund that: (i) has the same investment objective; (ii) uses a value investment approach; (iii) has demonstrated an ability to attract and maintain assets over a long-term period at a level sufficient to be a viable stand-alone mutual fund; (iv) has the same portfolio managers; (v) is subject to the same contractual investment advisory fee rate; and (vi) has a significantly larger asset base over which expenses may be spread. The Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved the Reorganization and recommends that Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders vote “FOR” the related proposal. Although the Trustees have determined that the Reorganization is in the best interests of Micro-Cap Opportunity and its shareholders, the final decision rests with those shareholders.
Conclusion
The enclosed materials explain this proposal in more detail and we encourage you to review them carefully. We hope that you will respond today to ensure that your shares will be represented at the Meeting. You may authorize a proxy to vote your shares by using one of the methods below by following the instructions on your proxy card:
| • | | By touch-tone telephone; |
| • | | By internet; or |
| • | | By completing and returning the enclosed proxy card in the postage-paid envelope. |
You may also vote in person at the Meeting.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about the Reorganization.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our work. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.
| Sincerely, |
| |
| CHRISTOPHER D. CLARK |
| President of The Royce Fund |
2
Please vote now. Your vote is important. |
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, we urge you to indicate your voting instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it and return it promptly in the envelope provided, or record your voting instructions by touch-tone telephone or via the internet, no matter how large or small your holdings may be. If you submit a properly executed proxy but do not indicate how you wish your shares to be voted, your shares will be voted “FOR” the proposal. |
3
THE ROYCE FUND
745 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10151
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON MAY 28, 2019
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund (“Micro-Cap Opportunity”) will be held at the offices of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”), 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. (Eastern time), for the following purposes:
| 1. To approve a Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”), on behalf of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Royce Opportunity Fund (“Opportunity”). As described in more detail in the accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus, the Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity to Opportunity in exchange for Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity’s issuance to Micro-Cap Opportunity of shares of beneficial interest of Opportunity (the “Opportunity Shares”). The Opportunity Shares received by Micro-Cap Opportunity in the reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Micro-Cap Opportunity, on a pro rata basis, of the Opportunity Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Micro-Cap Opportunity. Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity would receive the same class of Opportunity Shares as they held in Micro-Cap Opportunity immediately prior to such reorganization. A vote in favor of the Plan by shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity will constitute a vote in favor of the liquidation and termination of Micro-Cap Opportunity as a separate series of the Trust. |
| |
| 2. To transact such other business as may come before the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. |
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has fixed the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. A complete list of the shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity entitled to vote at the Meeting will be available and open to the examination of any shareholder of Micro-Cap Opportunity for any purpose relevant to such Meeting during ordinary business hours from and after May 14, 2019, at the offices of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity is a separate series of the Trust. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the reorganization transaction is completed, you will become a shareholder of Opportunity, you will no longer own shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity, and Micro-Cap Opportunity will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the reorganization transaction is otherwise not completed, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
Please call Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268 with any questions you may have about the reorganization transaction. If you need assistance voting, please call Computershare, the proxy solicitor, toll-free at 1-866-209-8568.
IMPORTANT
To avoid the wasteful and unnecessary expense of further proxy solicitation, please mark your instructions on the enclosed proxy card, date and sign it, and return it in the enclosed envelope (which requires no postage if mailed in the United States), even if you expect to be present at the Meeting. You may also authorize a proxy to vote your shares via touch-tone telephone or the Internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient proxy authorization options. The accompanying proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, is revocable, and will not affect your right to vote in person in the event that you attend the Meeting.
| By Order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
| |
| |
| John E. Denneen |
| Secretary |
April 1 , 2019
PROXY STATEMENT
for
ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND,
A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
AND
PROSPECTUS
FOR
ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND,
A SERIES OF THE ROYCE FUND
745 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York 10151
1-800-221-4268
Reorganization of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund
This Proxy Statement and Prospectus (this “Prospectus/Proxy Statement”) is furnished in connection with the Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund (“Micro-Cap Opportunity”), to be held at the offices of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”), 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, on May 28, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. (Eastern time) and at any adjournment thereof. The Meeting is being held to vote on a Plan of Reorganization of the Trust (the “Plan”), on behalf of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Royce Opportunity Fund (“Opportunity”). The proposal for Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders to consider and approve the Plan at the Meeting is referred to as "Proposal No. 1" in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. Each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity is a separate series of the Trust.
The Plan provides for the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity to Opportunity in exchange for Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity’s issuance to Micro-Cap Opportunity of shares of beneficial interest of Opportunity (the “Opportunity Shares”). The Opportunity Shares received by Micro-Cap Opportunity in the reorganization transaction will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity that are outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Micro-Cap Opportunity, on a pro rata basis, of the Opportunity Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Micro-Cap Opportunity. Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity would receive the same class of Opportunity Shares as they held in Micro-Cap Opportunity immediately prior to such reorganization.
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement will first be sent to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity on or about April 1 , 2019.
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we sometimes refer to:
| • | | the acquisition of substantially all of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s assets by Opportunity in exchange for Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s liabilities and the issuance and distribution of the Opportunity Shares to Micro-Cap Opportunity and its shareholders as the “Reorganization;” |
| • | | the fund resulting from the Reorganization as the “Combined Fund;” and |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity individually as a “Fund” and together as the “Funds”. |
If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Reorganization is completed, you will become a shareholder of Opportunity, you will no longer own shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity, and Micro-Cap Opportunity will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. The Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Opportunity’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Opportunity’s investment advisory agreement upon completion of the Reorganization. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Reorganization is otherwise not completed, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and you will remain a shareholder of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the Reorganization and has determined that the Reorganization is in the best interest of Micro-Cap Opportunity and its shareholders. The Board has fixed the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of those shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof.
Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), the investment adviser to each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity, has retained Computershare Fund Services, 250 Royall Street, Canton, MA, 02021 (the “Solicitor”), to solicit proxies for the Meeting. If you need assistance voting, please call the Solicitor toll-free at 1-866-209-8568. The Solicitor is responsible for printing proxy cards, mailing proxy materials to Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders, soliciting broker-dealer firms, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, tabulating the returned proxies, and performing other proxy solicitation services. The estimated cost for these solicitation services is approximately $7,000. Such costs and all other fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, printing this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and legal and audit fees, will be paid by Royce. However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
In addition to solicitation through the mail, proxies may be solicited by representatives of the Trust and Royce Fund Services, LLC (“RFS”), each Fund’s distributor, without cost to the Funds. Such solicitation may be made by telephone, facsimile, or otherwise. It is anticipated that banks, broker-dealers, custodians, nominees, fiduciaries, and other financial institutions will be requested to forward proxy materials to beneficial owners and to obtain approval for the execution of proxies. Upon request, Royce will reimburse brokers, custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries for the reasonable expenses incurred by them in connection with forwarding solicitation material to the beneficial owners of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares held of record by such persons.
This Prospectus/Proxy Statement is both a Prospectus for Opportunity and a Proxy Statement for Micro-Cap Opportunity. This Prospectus/Proxy Statement sets forth concisely the information about the Reorganization and Opportunity that you should know before voting. You should review it carefully and retain it for future reference. The Funds are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and in accordance therewith, file reports and other information, including proxy materials and charter documents, with the SEC.
The following document has been filed with the SEC, and is incorporated herein by reference into (legally forms a part of) this Prospectus/Proxy Statement:
| • | | The Statement of Additional Information relating to this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and certain potential reorganization transactions involving other series of the Trust, dated April 1 , 2019 (the “Reorganization SAI”) (File Number 333-230063 ). |
The following documents relating to the Funds have also been filed with the SEC:
| • | | The Prospectus relating to each series of the Trust, including Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date; |
| • | | The Statement of Additional Information relating to each series of the Trust, including Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date (the “SAI”); and |
| • | | The Annual Report to Shareholders of each series of the Trust, including Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (the “Annual Report”). |
The documents listed above are available free of charge by calling Investor Services toll-free at 1-800-221-4268, or by writing to the Funds at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151. You also may view or obtain copies (at prescribed rates) of these documents from the SEC:
In Person: | | At the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549 |
By Mail: | | Public Reference Section Office of Consumer Affairs and Information Services Securities and Exchange Commission 100 F Street, N.E. Washington, DC 20549 (duplicating fee required) |
By E-mail: | | publicinfo@sec.gov (duplicating fee required) |
By Internet: | | www.sec.gov |
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Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank, and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other U.S. government agency. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the possible loss of principal.
——————
The SEC has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense
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The date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement is April 1 , 2019
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND SHAREHOLDERS | 5 |
| |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND AND ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND | 6 |
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SUMMARY OF REORGANIZATION | 7 |
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATION | 11 |
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COMPARISON OF ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND AND ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND | 16 |
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS | 22 |
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ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION | 27 |
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RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES | 28 |
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS | 29 |
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OTHER BUSINESS | 34 |
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APPENDIX A – FORM OF PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND | A-1 |
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FEES AND EXPENSES FOR ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND SHAREHOLDERS (INVESTMENT CLASS)
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating expenses are paid from a fund’s assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The fee tables below describe the fees and expenses that you pay if you buy and hold Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and the pro forma combined fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization. The annualized expense ratios below for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund further assume that the Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018.
The estimated pro forma Combined Fund fees and expenses presented below are based upon numerous material assumptions. Although these projections represent good faith estimates, no assurance can be given that any particular level of expenses will be achieved, because expenses depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of Fund assets, many of which are beyond the control of the Funds and Royce. Future expenses may be higher than those shown below.
Investment Class |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
| Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum deferred sales charge | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on reinvested dividends | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Redemption fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed on shares held for less than 30 days) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Investment Class |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
| Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
Management fees | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Distribution (12b-1) fees | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Other expenses | 0.32% | 0.20% | 0.20% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.32 | 1.20% | 1.20% |
Fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | (0.08)%* | (0.00)% | (0.00)% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24%* | 1.20% | 1.20% |
|
* Royce has contractually agreed, without right of termination, to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to maintain the Investment Class’s net annual operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest, litigation expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, and other expenses not borne in the ordinary course of business) at or below 1.24% through December 31, 2019. |
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Investment Class Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity, Opportunity, and the Combined Fund after giving effect to the Reorganization based on their annualized expense ratios as shown in the fee table above with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the relevant Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the relevant Fund’s total operating expenses remain the same (net of the fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements for the periods noted above in which such fee waivers/and or expense reimbursements would be operative). Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions your costs would be:
| Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization |
1 Year | $126 | $122 | $122 |
3 Years | $410 | $381 | $381 |
5 Years | $716 | $660 | $660 |
10 Years | $1,583 | $1,455 | $1,455 |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER FOR
ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND AND ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND
Each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in larger distributions of net realized capital gains and, therefore, higher taxes for shareholders whose fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in the fee tables or expense examples of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity set forth above, affect the performance of the Funds. The portfolio turnover rates for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 are shown below.
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
52% of the average value of its portfolio | 47% of the average value of its portfolio |
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SUMMARY OF REORGANIZATION
The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement relating to the Reorganization, including the form of Plan, a copy of which is attached as Appendix A hereto. You should read the more complete information in the rest of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
General Information Regarding Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
The Trust is a Delaware statutory trust that is registered with the SEC as an open-end management investment company. Each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity is organized as a separate series of the Trust. Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are “diversified” investment companies within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”). A “diversified” fund is a mutual fund that, with respect to 75% of the value of its total assets, may not: (i) have more than 5% of the value of its total assets invested in the securities of any one issuer and (ii) own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer.
William A. Hench is the portfolio manager for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Mr. Hench is assisted by Portfolio Managers Robert Kosowsky and Suzanne Franks on both Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. It is currently expected that Messrs. Hench and Kosowsky and Ms. Franks will continue in their respective roles for Opportunity assuming completion of the Reorganization.
Upon completion of the Reorganization, the Combined Fund will be managed in accordance with Opportunity’s investment objective and principal investment policies and strategies and will be subject to Opportunity’s legal agreements.
Key Features of Reorganization
The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) approved the Plan and unanimously recommends that Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders vote to approve the Plan. The Plan provides, among other things, for:
| • | | the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity to Opportunity in exchange for Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity’s issuance to Micro-Cap Opportunity of the Opportunity Shares; |
| • | | the pro rata distribution of the Opportunity Shares by Micro-Cap Opportunity to its shareholders; |
| • | | the liquidation of Micro-Cap Opportunity and its termination as a separate series of the Trust. |
The Opportunity Shares issued by Opportunity to Micro-Cap Opportunity as part of the Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of all of the Micro-Cap Opportunity shares that are outstanding immediately prior to the Reorganization. Micro-Cap Opportunity will, in turn, distribute those Opportunity Shares to its shareholders. The Opportunity Shares received by each Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholder as part of the Reorganization will be of the same class and will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares immediately prior to the Reorganization. Please see “Information About the Reorganization–Summary of the Terms of the Plan” for more detailed information regarding the Plan.
Completion of the Reorganization is subject to the approval of Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders as described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Additional Voting Information–Required Vote” and the satisfaction of certain other conditions. If the Plan receives the required shareholder approval and the Reorganization is completed, Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders will become shareholders of Opportunity and will no longer own Micro-Cap Opportunity shares, and Micro-Cap Opportunity will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust. In the event the Plan does not receive the required shareholder approval or the Reorganization is not otherwise completed, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will continue to operate as separate series of the Trust and Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders will remain shareholders of that Fund.
The Trustees unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Please see “Information About the Reorganization–Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization” for detailed information about the factors considered by the Board in approving the Plan and certain other information supporting approval of the Reorganization.
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Summary of Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, and Benchmarks for Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund
This section summarizes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and benchmarks for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity.
| Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | | Royce Opportunity Fund |
Investment Objective | Long-term growth of capital | Long-term growth of capital |
Primary Investments | Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion. | Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities. |
Investment Approach | • Uses an opportunistic approach to invest in a limited number (generally less than 100) of micro-cap companies with low Price-to-Book and Price-to-Sales ratios. • Companies are categorized into one of four themes: Turnarounds, Unrecognized Asset Values, Undervalued Growth, and Interrupted Earnings. • Seeks to identify a catalyst for future earnings growth in the form of new management, more favorable business cycle, product innovation, and/or margin improvement.
| • Uses an opportunistic approach to invest in small- and micro-cap companies with low Price-to-Book and Price-to-Sales ratios. • Companies are categorized into one of four themes: Turnarounds, Unrecognized Asset Values, Undervalued Growth, and Interrupted Earnings. • Seeks to identify a catalyst for future earnings growth in the form of new management, more favorable business cycle, product innovation, and/or margin improvement. • Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, it may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies. |
Number of Holdings | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 82 holdings. | As of December 31, 2018, the Fund had 273 holdings. |
Foreign Investments | Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 1.1% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. | The Fund may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 10% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases.
As of December 31, 2018: Approximately 4.3% of the Fund’s net assets was invested in foreign securities. |
Benchmark Index(es) | Russell Microcap Index (Primary) Russell 2000 Index (Secondary) | Russell 2000 Index (Primary) Russell 2000 Value Index (Secondary) |
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Overall, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are similar to one another in that they:
| • | | have the same investment objective; |
|
| • | | use a bottom-up, value investment approach; |
|
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
|
| • | | have the same portfolio managers; and |
|
| • | | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are, however, different from one another in that:
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Opportunity normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, but may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies; |
| | | |
| • | | The primary and secondary benchmark indexes for Micro-Cap Opportunity are the Russell Microcap Index and the Russell 2000 Index, respectively, while the primary and secondary benchmark indexes for Opportunity are the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Value Index, respectively; |
| | | |
| • | | The geometric average market capitalization of Opportunity was more than 2 times larger than that of Micro-Cap Opportunity as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., approximately $727 million for Opportunity compared to approximately $319 million for Micro-Cap Opportunity) (Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.) ; |
| | | |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Opportunity normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings (e.g., Micro-Cap Opportunity had 82 portfolio holdings as of December 31, 2018 while Opportunity had 273 portfolio holdings as of such date); and |
| | | |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries while Opportunity may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 10% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in such securities. |
Summary of Principal Investment Risks for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
The principal investment risks associated with an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are identified in the table below. For detailed descriptions of these risks, please see “Comparison of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Overall, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are subject to similar principal investment risks due to their common investment approaches and their focus on U.S. equity securities. However, Micro-Cap Opportunity’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve considerably more risk to investors than Opportunity’s more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because Micro-Cap Opportunity’s portfolio may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event.
Principal Investment Risk | Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
Market Risk | Yes | Yes |
Risk of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights | Yes | Yes |
Foreign Securities Risk | Yes | Yes |
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with larger stock market capitalizations. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Opportunity to the extent Micro- Cap Opportunity invests, relative to Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Opportunity invests, relative to Micro-Cap Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations greater than $1 billion. |
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No assurance can be given that shares of the Combined Fund will not lose value. As with either Fund, the value of the Combined Fund’s investments, and, therefore, the value of the Combined Fund’s shares, may fluctuate.
Primary U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of Reorganization
The Reorganization is intended to qualify for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). It is expected that Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the exchange of all of their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares solely for shares of Opportunity, as described herein and in the Plan. In addition, in general, it is expected that Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will not recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the transactions contemplated by the Reorganization, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the taxable year of Micro-Cap Opportunity due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of certain assets, and any tax on any such gain would be borne by Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders. Micro-Cap Opportunity does not expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. If Micro-Cap Opportunity were to sell investments in anticipation of the Reorganization, Micro-Cap Opportunity could generate capital gains for its shareholders, which would be taxable.
Purchase and Redemption Procedures, Fee Structures, and Exchange Rights
Investment Class shares of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are subject to identical purchase and redemption procedures and investment advisory fee rates and have identical exchange rights. Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Reorganization.
Shareholder Voting
Only shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity will vote in connection with the Reorganization. The Board has set the close of business on March 18, 2019 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for determining those Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares at the close of business on the Record Date will be entitled to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof. Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders on the Record Date will be entitled one vote for each full Micro-Cap Opportunity share and a fractional vote for each Micro-Cap Opportunity fractional share that they hold, with no shares having cumulative voting rights.
Approval of the Plan requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Micro-Cap Opportunity, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity present at the Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity are present or represented by proxy at such Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
All properly executed proxy cards received prior to the Meeting will be voted at such Meeting in accordance with the instructions marked thereon or otherwise as provided therein. Unless instructions to the contrary are marked, proxy cards will be voted “FOR” Proposal No. 1. You may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised by sending written instructions to the Secretary of the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 or by submitting a new proxy card with a later date. In addition, any shareholder attending the Meeting may vote in person, whether or not he or she has previously submitted a proxy card. The Board knows of no business other than that mentioned in Proposal No. 1 of the Notice of Special Meeting that will be presented for consideration at the Meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the Meeting or any adjournment thereof, it is the intention of the persons named on the enclosed proxy card to vote in accordance with their best judgment.
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE REORGANIZATION
General
As described in more detail below in this section under the sub-heading “Summary of the Terms of the Plan,” Micro-Cap Opportunity will transfer substantially all of its assets to Opportunity in exchange for Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity and the issuance of the Opportunity Shares to Micro-Cap Opportunity. The date on which these transactions occur in connection with the Reorganization is referred to as the “Closing Date” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. The Opportunity Shares issued to Micro-Cap Opportunity will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (referred to as the “Valuation Time”).
The distribution of the Opportunity Shares to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity will be accomplished by opening new accounts on the books of Opportunity in the names of shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity and transferring to those shareholder accounts the relevant Opportunity Shares. Accordingly, as a result of the Reorganization, each shareholder of Micro-Cap Opportunity will receive shares of the same class of Opportunity that they hold for Micro-Cap Opportunity having an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares as of the Valuation Time. No sales charge, redemption fee, or other fee will be assessed to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity in connection with their receipt of the Opportunity Shares as part of the Reorganization. The stock transfer books of Micro-Cap Opportunity will be permanently closed on the Closing Date. Upon the distribution of the Opportunity Shares by Micro-Cap Opportunity to its shareholders, Micro-Cap Opportunity will be liquidated and terminated as a separate series of the Trust.
The Reorganization is structured so that Opportunity will be the legal survivor in the Reorganization, which means that the management and operation of the Combined Fund will be governed by Opportunity’s investment objective, principal investment policies and strategies, and legal agreements upon completion of such Reorganization. In addition, Opportunity will be the accounting survivor in the Reorganization, which means that the Combined Fund will carry on the performance and financial history of Opportunity upon completion of the Reorganization.
Summary of the Terms of the Plan
Pursuant to the Plan, Micro-Cap Opportunity will, on the Closing Date, transfer substantially all of its assets to Opportunity in exchange solely for Opportunity’s issuance of the Opportunity Shares to Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity’s assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity. The net asset value of the shares issued by Opportunity to Micro-Cap Opportunity will be equal, as of the Valuation Time, to the value of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity that were transferred to Opportunity, as determined in accordance with the Trust’s valuation procedures, net of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity assumed by Opportunity. In order to minimize any potential for undesirable U.S. federal income and excise tax consequences in connection with the Reorganization, Micro-Cap Opportunity will distribute to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains as of such date. Micro-Cap Opportunity expects to distribute the Opportunity Shares to its shareholders promptly after the Closing Date in connection with its liquidation. Thereafter, Micro-Cap Opportunity will be terminated as a separate series of the Trust.
Certain customary representations and warranties have been made in the Plan in respect of the capitalization, status, and conduct of business of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Unless waived in accordance with the Plan, the obligations of the parties to the Plan are conditioned upon, among other things:
| • | | the approval of the Plan by the shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act; |
| • | | the absence of any rule, regulation, order, injunction or proceeding preventing or seeking to prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Plan; |
| • | | the receipt of all necessary approvals, consents, registrations, and exemptions under federal, state and local laws; |
| • | | the truth in all material respects, as of the Closing Date, of the representations and warranties of the parties and performance and compliance in all material respects with the parties’ agreements, obligations and covenants required by the Plan; |
| • | | the effectiveness under applicable law of Opportunity’s registration statement on Form N-14, of which this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part and the absence of any related stop orders under the Securities Act of 1933; |
| • | | the declaration of a dividend by Micro-Cap Opportunity to distribute to its shareholders all of its undistributed net investment income and net capital gains; |
| • | | the receipt of an opinion of special Delaware counsel to the Trust regarding the issuance of the Opportunity Shares under Delaware law; and |
| • | | the receipt of an opinion of special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust relating to the tax-free nature of the Reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes (such opinion of counsel is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) or any court). |
The Plan may be terminated or amended by the mutual consent of the parties before approval thereof by the shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
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The Board recommends that Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders should vote to approve the Plan, as it believes the Reorganization is in the best interests of Micro-Cap Opportunity as more fully described below under the sub-heading “Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization.”
Estimated Fees and Expenses of the Reorganization
Fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be paid by Royce. The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganization are estimated to range from approximately $82,050 to $95,520. However, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders. Likewise, any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
Legal Matters
Certain legal matters concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization will be passed on by Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust. Certain legal matters under Delaware law regarding the Plan and the issuance of the Opportunity Shares as part of the Reorganization will be passed on by Richards, Layton & Finger, special Delaware counsel to the Trust.
Reasons for the Proposed Reorganization
The Trustees of the Trust, including all of the Trustees of the Trust who are not “interested persons” of the Trust in respect of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity (collectively, the “Independent Trustees”), have unanimously determined that the Reorganization would be in the best interests of each Fund. The Board also concluded that the interests of the existing shareholders of each Fund would not be diluted as a result of consummation of the Plan.
At a Board meeting held on December 13, 2018, Royce noted to the Trustees that Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity:
| • | | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to similar investment policies and restrictions; |
| | | |
| • | | employ similar investment strategies in that both Funds: (i) utilize a bottom-up, value investment approach and (ii) invest primarily in the equity securities of U.S. companies; |
| | | |
| • | | experienced similar volatility as measured by their average five-year standard deviation for each of the last four calendar quarters during the period ended September 30, 2018 (i.e., highest quintile ranking for both Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity compared to a universe of small-cap funds); |
| | | |
| • | | have the same portfolio managers (i.e. William A. Hench, Robert Kosowsky, and Suzanne Franks); |
| | | |
| • | | held some of the same portfolio securities as of September 30, 2018; and |
| | | |
| • | | are subject to similar principal investment risks. |
Royce also noted to the Trustees at such Board meeting that:
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Opportunity normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, but may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies; |
| | | |
| • | | The Russell Microcap Index and the Russell 2000 Index serve as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Micro-Cap Opportunity, while the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Value Index serve as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Opportunity; |
| | | |
| • | | The geometric average market capitalization of Opportunity was more than 2 times larger than that of Micro-Cap Opportunity as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximately $997 million for Opportunity compared to approximately $432.5 million for Micro-Cap Opportunity) (Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median.) ; |
| | | |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Opportunity normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings (e.g., Micro-Cap Opportunity had 102 portfolio holdings as of September 30, 2018 while Opportunity had 262 portfolio holdings as of such date); and |
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| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries while Opportunity may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 10% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in such securities. |
Notwithstanding these differences, the Board took note of Royce’s expectation that the securities held by Micro-Cap Opportunity will not be sold in significant amounts other than in the ordinary course of business prior to, or immediately after, the Micro-Cap Opportunity Reorganization. However, to the extent dispositions of securities held by Micro-Cap Opportunity are made, such dispositions will result in taxable gains or losses and transaction costs to Micro-Cap Opportunity (if the dispositions are made prior to the Micro-Cap Opportunity Reorganization) or to the Combined Fund (if the dispositions are made after the Micro-Cap Opportunity Reorganization). Please see “Comparison of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund” in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement for more detailed information regarding the Funds’ investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, and principal investment risks.
Royce noted to the Trustees that Opportunity was much larger than Micro-Cap Opportunity in terms of net assets as of September 30, 2018 (i.e., approximate net assets of $1.28 billion for Opportunity compared to approximate net assets of $46 million for Micro-Cap Opportunity). As of December 31, 2018, the approximate net assets of Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity were $869.2 million and $18.2 million, respectively. Royce also noted to the Trustees that Micro-Cap Opportunity has historically had a difficult time attracting and maintaining assets at a sufficient level for it to be viable as a stand-alone mutual fund. Accordingly, by reorganizing Micro-Cap Opportunity into Opportunity, it was noted by the Trustees that, as shareholders of the Combined Fund, former Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders would: (i) enjoy a significantly larger asset base over which fund expenses could be spread; (ii) benefit from any operating efficiencies or economies of scale that may be achieved by the Combined Fund; and (iii) have an investment in a fund that has demonstrated an ability to attract and maintain assets over a long-term period at a level sufficient to be a viable stand-alone mutual fund.
Royce noted to the Trustees that Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity were subject to the same contractual investment advisory fee rate. Information regarding the annualized operating expense ratio for the Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratios for the for the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization is set forth in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund Shareholders.” Such annualized expense ratios for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. Such pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund further assume that the Reorganization became effective on December 31, 2018. Such information, which is summarized below for your reference, illustrates that the annualized operating expense ratio for Opportunity and the pro forma annualized operating expense ratio for the Combined Fund were both lower than the annualized operating expense ratio of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
Summary Information Regarding Annual Fund Operating Expenses* |
| Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund | Pro Forma Combined Fund (Assumes Completion of Reorganization) |
Investment Class |
Total annual Fund operating expenses prior to fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.32% | 1.20% | 1.20% |
Total annual Fund operating expenses after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements | 1.24% | 1.20% | 1.20% |
* The summary information above is consistent with annual fund operating expense information provided by Royce to the Board at its December 13, 2018 meeting. The annualized expense ratios for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity provided by Royce to the Board were based on their respective operating expenses and average net assets for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2018, as adjusted to give effect to any contractual annual expense caps that were in effect during that period. The pro forma fees and expenses for the Combined Fund provided by Royce to the Board further assumed that the Reorganization became effective on September 30, 2018. |
Royce also provided the Trustees with information regarding the average annual total returns achieved by Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity for the three-, nine-month, one-, three-, and five-year periods ended September 30, 2018. Such information illustrated that Opportunity outperformed Micro-Cap Opportunity during the three-month, three-, and five-year periods ended September 30, 2018 while Micro-Cap Opportunity achieved higher average annual total returns than Opportunity for the relevant nine-month and one-year periods. Detailed information regarding the investment performance achieved by each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity for certain periods ended December 31, 2018 is set forth in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Comparison of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund.” Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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Royce also noted to the Trustees that fees and expenses resulting from the Reorganization, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be paid by Royce. Royce further noted to the Trustees that neither Micro-Cap Opportunity nor Opportunity had any capital loss carryforwards as of September 30, 2018. Finally, Royce noted to the Trustees that it is a condition to the closing of the Reorganization that Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity receive an opinion of special tax counsel to the Trust substantially to the effect that the exchange of shares pursuant to the Plan would not result in a taxable gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes for Micro-Cap Opportunity or its shareholders.
The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, after considering the foregoing matters, unanimously concluded that the interests of existing shareholders of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity would not be diluted as a result of the consummation of the Plan and that the consummation of the Plan is in the best interests of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. The determinations were made on the basis of each Trustee’s business judgment after consideration of all of the relevant factors taken as a whole, though individual Trustees may have placed different weight on various factors and assigned different degrees of materiality to various conclusions.
FOR THE REASONS DISCUSSED ABOVE, THE BOARD, ON BEHALF OF MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY, UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE PLAN.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Reorganization
The following is a general summary of the material anticipated U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization. The discussion is based upon the Code, Treasury regulations, court decisions, published positions of the IRS and other applicable authorities, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations (possibly with retroactive effect). The discussion is limited to U.S. persons who hold shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary does not address all of the U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to a particular shareholder or to shareholders who may be subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws. No ruling has been or will be obtained from the IRS regarding any matter relating to the Reorganization. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax aspects described below. Shareholders must consult their own tax advisers as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization, as well as to the effects of state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
It is a condition to closing the Reorganization that Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity receive an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to the Trust, dated as of the Closing Date, that the Reorganization will be a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity will be a “party to a reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code. As such a reorganization, the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization can be summarized as follows:
| • | | No gain or loss will be recognized by Micro-Cap Opportunity upon (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity to Opportunity in exchange for the assumption by Opportunity of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity and shares of Opportunity or (ii) the distribution of Opportunity shares by Micro-Cap Opportunity to its shareholders in exchange for their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code; |
| • | | No gain or loss will be recognized by Opportunity upon the receipt of substantially all of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity solely in exchange for the issuance of Opportunity shares to Micro-Cap Opportunity and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Micro-Cap Opportunity by Opportunity, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity; |
| • | | The tax basis of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity acquired by Opportunity will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of Micro-Cap Opportunity immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity; |
| • | | The tax holding period of the assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity in the hands of Opportunity will include Micro-Cap Opportunity’s tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of Micro-Cap Opportunity’s taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to Opportunity; |
| • | | Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares solely for Opportunity shares as part of the Reorganization; |
| • | | The tax basis of Opportunity shares received by Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Micro-Cap Opportunity shares surrendered in the exchange; and |
| • | | The tax holding period of Opportunity shares that Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Micro-Cap Opportunity shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange. |
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The opinion of Sidley Austin LLP will be based on U.S. federal income tax law in effect on the Closing Date. In rendering its opinion, Sidley Austin LLP will also rely upon certain representations of the management of Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity and assume, among other things, that the Reorganization will be consummated in accordance with the operative documents. An opinion of counsel is not binding on the IRS or any court.
The Trust intends that Opportunity continue to be taxed under the rules applicable to regulated investment companies as defined in Section 851 of the Code, which are the same rules currently applicable to Opportunity and Micro-Cap Opportunity and their respective shareholders.
Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity should note that, if necessary, in accordance with the Fund’s policy of distributing its investment company taxable income and net capital gains for each taxable year in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment as a regulated investment company and avoid federal income and excise tax at the fund level, Micro-Cap Opportunity will declare and pay a distribution of any such previously undistributed income and gains to its shareholders at or immediately prior to the Reorganization. Such distribution will be taxable to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
Micro-Cap Opportunity does not currently expect to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted. The tax consequences of any sales of portfolio securities by Micro-Cap Opportunity prior to the Reorganization will depend on the difference between the price at which such securities are sold and the basis of Micro-Cap Opportunity in such securities. Any capital gains recognized in these sales on a net basis will be distributed to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity prior to the Reorganization as capital gain dividends (to the extent of net realized long-term capital gains) and/or ordinary dividends (to the extent of net realized short-term capital gains). Such distributions will be taxable to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity.
Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity may redeem their shares at any time prior to the closing of the Reorganization. Generally, these are taxable transactions. Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisers regarding potential transactions.
Rights of Shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
Because the Funds are organized as separate series of the same Delaware statutory trust (i.e., The Royce Fund), the substantive legal and voting rights of shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity under the Trust Instrument of the Trust are identical to those of Opportunity shareholders. No sales charges, redemption fees, or other fees will be assessed to shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity in connection with their receipt of the Opportunity Shares as part of the Reorganization. Holders of Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity also will not be subject to any redemption fees in connection with any redemptions of their Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund that are made within the first 30 days after the completion of the Reorganization.
Pro Forma Capitalization for Reorganization
The following tables set forth: (i) the capitalization of the Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity as of December 31, 2018; (ii) the capitalization of the Investment Class shares of Opportunity as of December 31, 2018; and (iii) the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the Investment Class shares of the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization on December 31, 2018.
The pro forma capitalization information below is unaudited and for informational purposes only. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Opportunity will be received by Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders in connection with the Reorganization. The pro forma capitalization information should not be relied upon to reflect the number of shares of Opportunity that actually will be received by Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders in connection with the Reorganization.
Investment Class |
| Royce Micro- Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund | Pro Forma Adjustments | Pro Forma Combined Fund Assuming Completion of Reorganization (Unaudited)(1) |
Net assets | $18,188,408 | $557,003,458 | | $575,191,866 |
Total shares outstanding | 1,531,707 | 56,123,037 | 1,833,509 (2) | 57,956,546 |
Net asset value per share | $11.87 | $9.92 | | $9.92 |
|
(1) Assumes the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
(2) Reflects the change in Investment Class shares of Opportunity after giving effect to the distribution of Investment Class shares of Opportunity to Micro-Cap Opportunity shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
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COMPARISON OF ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND AND ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND
Investment Objectives, Principal Investment Policies and Strategies, Principal Investment Risks, and Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
This section describes the investment objectives, principal investment policies and strategies, principal investment risks, and certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and the differences between them.
Investment Objectives. The investment objectives of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are identical. The investment objective of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity is to seek long-term growth of capital.
Principal Investment Policies and Strategies. As set forth in the table below, the principal investment policies and strategies of Micro-Cap Opportunity are substantially similar to those of Opportunity.
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
Normally, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of micro-cap companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion. | Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities. |
• Uses an opportunistic approach to invest in a limited number (generally less than 100) of micro-cap companies with low Price-to-Book and Price-to-Sales ratios. • Companies are categorized into one of four themes: Turnarounds, Unrecognized Asset Values, Undervalued Growth, and Interrupted Earnings. • Seeks to identify a catalyst for future earnings growth in the form of new management, more favorable business cycle, product innovation, and/or margin improvement.
| • Uses an opportunistic approach to invest in small- and micro-cap companies with low Price-to-Book and Price-to-Sales ratios. • Companies are categorized into one of four themes: Turnarounds, Unrecognized Asset Values, Undervalued Growth, and Interrupted Earnings. • Seeks to identify a catalyst for future earnings growth in the form of new management, more favorable business cycle, product innovation, and/or margin improvement. • Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, it may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies. |
Although the Fund normally focuses on securities of U.S. companies, it may invest up to 25% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. | The Fund may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 10% of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries. The Fund does not expect to purchase or sell foreign currencies to hedge against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of any foreign securities that it purchases. |
Overall, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are similar to one another in that they:
| • | | have identical investment objectives (i.e., long-term growth of capital); |
| | | |
| • | | use a bottom-up, value investment approach; |
| | | |
| • | | invest a substantial portion of their respective assets in the equity securities of U.S. issuers; |
| | | |
| • | | have the same portfolio managers (i.e., William A. Hench, Robert Kosowsky, and Suzanne Franks); and |
| | | |
| • | | do not expect to engage in hedging transactions to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar or to lock in the value of their foreign security holdings. |
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Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity, however, differ from one another in certain ways. For example, the Funds focus on overlapping yet distinct market capitalization segments within the equity securities market. Pursuant to its investment policies, Micro-Cap Opportunity must normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in micro-cap companies (i.e., those with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion). Opportunity, on the other hand, normally focuses on securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $3 billion, but may, in certain market environments, invest an equal or greater percentage of its assets in securities of larger-cap companies under its investment policies. As a result of the potential difference in market cap focus permitted by their respective investment policies, the Funds have different benchmark indexes, with the Russell Microcap Index and the Russell 2000 Index serving as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Micro-Cap Opportunity and the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Value Index serving as the primary and secondary benchmark indexes, respectively, for Opportunity. In addition, Opportunity’s geometric average market capitalization as of December 31, 2018 was more than 2 times larger than that of Micro-Cap Opportunity (i.e., approximately $727 million for Opportunity compared to approximately $319 million for Micro-Cap Opportunity). Geometric average market capitalization is a weighted calculation that uses the market capitalization of each portfolio holding in an attempt to avoid skewing the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify each Fund's center. Royce believes that geometric average market capitalization offers a more accurate measure of a Fund's average market cap than a simple mean or median. The Funds are also different from one another in that Micro-Cap Opportunity normally invests in a limited number (generally less than 100) of issuers while Opportunity normally has a more broadly diversified portfolio in terms of number of holdings. As of December 31, 2018, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity had 82 portfolio holdings and 273 portfolio holdings, respectively. Finally, the Funds’ investment policies allow Micro-Cap Opportunity to invest a larger percentage of its net assets (measured at the time of investment) in securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries than Opportunity (i.e., 25% foreign securities limit for Micro-Cap Opportunity compared to a 10% foreign securities limit for Opportunity). Notwithstanding its current ability to invest a larger percentage of its net assets in foreign securities than Opportunity, Micro-Cap Opportunity allocated proportionally less of its net assets to such securities than did Opportunity as of December 31, 2018 (i.e., 1.1% for Micro-Cap Opportunity compared to 4.3% for Opportunity).
Principal Investment Risks. Set forth below is a summary of the principal investment risks that may be associated with an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity as a result of their respective investment policies and approach. Overall, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are subject to similar principal investment risks. However, Micro-Cap Opportunity’s investment in a limited number of issuers may, however, involve more risk than Opportunity because Micro-Cap Opportunity may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event.
Principal Investment Risks | Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
Market Risk. As with any mutual fund that invests in common stocks, the Fund is subject to market risk—the possibility that common stock prices will decline over short or extended periods of time. As a result, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate, sometimes sharply and unpredictably, and you could lose money over short or long periods of time.
Royce’s estimate of a company’s current worth also may prove to be inaccurate, or this estimate may not be recognized by other investors, which could lead to portfolio losses. Securities in the Fund’s portfolio may not increase as much as the market as a whole and some securities may continue to be undervalued for long periods of time. Investments in the Fund are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. | Yes | Yes |
Risks of Investing in Smaller-Company Securities. The prices of securities with smaller market capitalizations are generally more volatile than those of larger-cap securities. In addition, because these securities tend to have significantly lower trading volumes than larger-cap securities, the Fund may have difficulty selling holdings or may only be able to sell holdings at prices substantially lower than what Royce believes they are worth. Such companies may also have limited markets, financial resources or product lines, may lack management depth, and may be more vulnerable to adverse business or market developments. Therefore, the Fund may involve considerably more risk of loss and its returns may differ significantly from funds investing in larger-cap companies or other asset classes. | Yes* | Yes* |
Investment in a Limited Number of Issuers. The Fund’s investment in a limited number of issuers may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | No |
Industry and Sector Overweights. The Fund’s potential industry and sector overweights may involve more risk to investors than a more broadly diversified portfolio of securities because it may be more susceptible to any single corporate, economic, political, regulatory, or market event. | Yes | Yes |
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Foreign Securities Risk. In addition to general market risk, foreign securities may be subject to different risks than investments in U.S. securities, including adverse political, social, economic, or other developments that are unique to a particular country or region. Prices of foreign securities in particular countries or regions may, at times, move in a different direction and/or be more volatile than those of U.S. securities. The Fund’s investments are usually denominated in or tied to the currencies of the countries in which they are primarily traded. Because the Fund does not intend to hedge its foreign currency exposure, the U.S. dollar value of the Fund’s investments may be harmed by declines in the value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. This may occur even if the value of the investment in the currency’s home country has not declined. | Yes | Yes |
* The prices of equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion are generally more volatile than those of equity securities of companies with larger stock market capitalizations. As a result, an investment in Micro-Cap Opportunity may involve more risk of loss and its returns may differ from Opportunity to the extent Micro- Cap Opportunity invests, relative to Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations up to $1 billion while Opportunity invests, relative to Micro-Cap Opportunity, a greater portion of its assets in the equity securities of companies with stock market capitalizations greater than $1 billion. |
Certain Fundamental Investment Restrictions and Operating Policies. Referenced below are certain fundamental investment restrictions and operating policies of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Neither Fund’s fundamental investment restrictions may be changed without the approval of the Board and a “majority of the outstanding voting securities” of the relevant Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Fund present at a shareholders’ meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Fund are present or represented by proxy at such meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Operating policies, on the other hand, may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval. The fundamental investment restrictions and operating polices of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity in respect of issuing senior securities, making loans, investing in real estate and commodities, and concentration of investments are substantially identical. Such fundamental investment restrictions and operating polices differ as set forth in the table immediately below.
Investment Policy | Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
Illiquid and Restricted Securities | While Micro-Cap Opportunity is not subject to a fundamental investment restriction with respect to its investments in illiquid securities (i.e., securities for which market quotations are not readily available), including restricted securities (i.e., securities that are subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions), it is, however, subject to an operating policy that limits its investments in restricted securities to no more than 15% of its net assets. | Pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Opportunity may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities (i.e., securities for which market quotations are not readily available), including restricted securities (i.e., securities that are subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions). |
Foreign Securities and Developing Country Securities | While Micro-Cap Opportunity is not subject to a fundamental investment restriction with respect to its investments its investments in the securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries (i.e., foreign securities) it is, however, subject to an operating policy that limits its investments in foreign securities to no more than 25% of its net assets. In addition, Micro-Cap Opportunity may not, as a matter of operating policy, invest more than 5% of its net assets in the securities of companies headquartered in developing countries. | Although Opportunity may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the securities of companies headquartered in foreign countries (i.e., foreign securities) pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, it is subject to an operating policy that limits its investments in foreign securities to no more than 10% of its assets. Subject to the foregoing, Opportunity is not subject to a specific fundamental investment restriction or operating policy with respect to its investments in the securities of companies headquartered in developing countries. |
Purchasing Securities on Margin, Writing Call Options on Portfolio Securities, and Selling Securities Short | Pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Micro-Cap Opportunity may not purchase securities on margin. While Micro-Cap Opportunity is not subject to any fundamental investment restrictions with respect to writing call options on its portfolio securities and selling securities short, it may not take such actions pursuant to its operating policies. | Pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Opportunity may not purchase securities on margin, write call options on its portfolio securities, or sell securities short. |
Borrowings | Although Micro-Cap Opportunity may borrow from banks in an amount not to exceed one-third of the value of its total assets pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, it may, as a matter of operating policy, only borrow money from banks as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets. | Pursuant to its fundamental investment restrictions, Opportunity may borrow money only from banks as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets. |
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Pursuant to their operating policies, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity also may invest without limit in short-term fixed income securities for temporary defensive purposes. If either Fund should implement such a temporary investment policy, such policy would be inconsistent with its investment goal and the Fund may not achieve its investment goal while that policy is in effect. In addition, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity also may invest in short-term fixed income securities in order to invest uncommitted cash balances or to maintain liquidity to meet shareholder redemptions under their operating policies.
Investment Performance of Micro-Cap Opportunity
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Micro-Cap Opportunity. Past performance does not indicate how Micro-Cap Opportunity will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance of the Fund’s Investment Class shares year by year since the Fund’s inception. The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Micro-Cap Opportunity for various periods compare with those of the Russell Microcap Index, the Fund’s primary benchmark index, and the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s secondary benchmark index.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 18.10% (quarter ended 3/31/12) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -26.25% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of the Investment Class shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity. In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | SINCE INCEPTION (8/31/10) |
Investment Class1 |
Return Before Taxes | -14.01 | 1.23 | 10.14 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -20.23 | -0.84 | 8.14 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -3.35 | 1.05 | 8.01 |
Russell Microcap Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -13.08 | 3.08 | 11.41 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.68 |
1 Certain immaterial adjustments were made to the net assets of Micro-Cap Opportunity at 12/31/17 for financial reporting purposes, and as a result the calendar year total returns based on those net asset values differ from the adjusted net values and calendar year total returns reported in the Financial Highlights. |
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Investment Performance of Opportunity
The following performance information provides an indication of the risks of investing in Opportunity. Past performance does not indicate how Opportunity will perform in the future. The Calendar Year Total Returns chart shows performance year by year over the last ten years (Investment Class used for illustrative purposes —returns differ by Class). The Annualized Total Returns table shows how the average annual total returns of Opportunity for various periods compare with those of the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s primary benchmark index, and the Russell 2000 Value Index, the Fund’s secondary benchmark index.

During the period shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a calendar quarter was 36.91% (quarter ended 6/30/09) and the lowest return for a calendar quarter was -28.01% (quarter ended 9/30/11).
The table also presents the impact of taxes on the returns of Opportunity (Investment Class again used for illustrative purposes; after tax returns differ by Class). In calculating these figures, it was assumed that the shareholder was in the highest federal income tax bracket in effect at the time of each distribution of income or capital gains. The impact of state or local income taxes was not considered. Your after-tax returns depend on your tax situation, so they may differ from the returns shown. This information does not apply if your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred, because such accounts are subject to income taxes only upon distribution. Current month-end performance information may be obtained at www.roycefunds.com or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Annualized Total Returns As of 12/31/18 (%) |
| 1 YEAR | 5 YEAR | 10 YEAR |
Investment Class |
Return Before Taxes | -19.97 | 1.73 | 13.73 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | -21.75 | -0.75 | 11.94 |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | -10.61 | 1.31 | 11.54 |
Russell 2000 Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -11.01 | 4.41 | 11.97 |
Russell 2000 Value Index (Reflects no deductions for fees, expenses, or taxes) | -12.86 | 3.61 | 10.4 |
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Management of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
Investment Adviser. Royce & Associates, LP is the investment adviser for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and is responsible for the management of their respective assets. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151.
Portfolio Managers for Micro-Cap Opportunity, Opportunity, and Combined Fund. William A. Hench is the portfolio manager for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. Mr. Hench is assisted by Portfolio Managers Robert Kosowsky and Suzanne Franks on both Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. With respect to Micro-Cap Opportunity, Mr. Hench has been portfolio manager since the Fund’s inception. With respect to Opportunity, Mr. Hench became portfolio manager in 2013 and was previously the Fund’s assistant portfolio manager (2004-2013). Mr. Kosowsky became assistant portfolio manager for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity on October 1, 2018. Ms. Franks became assistant portfolio manager for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity on October 15, 2018. An assistant portfolio manager may have investment discretion over a portion of the Fund’s portfolio, subject to supervision by the Fund’s portfolio manager(s). It is currently expected that Messrs. Hench and Kosowsky and Ms. Franks will continue in their respective roles for Opportunity assuming completion of the Reorganization. Additional information about the compensation of the Funds’ portfolio managers, other accounts managed by such portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers’ ownership of securities in the Funds and any other series of the Trust they manage is included in the SAI.
Investment Advisory Services Provided to Micro-Cap Opportunity, Opportunity, and Combined Fund by Royce. Royce receives advisory fees monthly as compensation for its services to Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. The annual rates of these fees, before any waiver or expense reimbursements to cap the expense ratios for certain Fund share classes at specified levels as shown in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement under the heading “Fees and Expenses for Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund Shareholders,” are set forth in the table below.
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund |
1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets |
Other Service Providers for Micro-Cap Opportunity, Opportunity, and Combined Fund. Royce Fund Services, LLC serves as the distributor for the shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian of the securities, cash, and other assets of each of the Funds. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. serves as the transfer agent for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. It is currently expected that such firms will continue in their respective roles for the Combined Fund assuming completion of the Reorganization.
Financial Highlights for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity
This table is intended to help you understand the financial performance for the past five years of the Investment Class shares of each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity. The table reflects financial results for a single share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the relevant Fund (assuming reinvestment of all distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with each Fund’s financial statements, is included in the Annual Report, which is available at www.roycefunds.com or upon request.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | Net Investment Income (Loss) | | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total from Investment Operations | | Distributions from Net Investment Income | | Distributions from Net Realized Gain on Investments and Foreign Currency | | Total Distributions | | Shareholder Redemption Fees | | Net Asset Value, End of Period | | Total Return | | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | Prior to Fee Waivers, Expense Reimbursements and Balance Credits | | Prior to Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Net of Fee Waivers and Expense Reimbursements | | Ratio of Net Investment Income (Loss) to Average Net Assets | | Portfolio Turnover Rate |
|
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 19.76 | | | $ | (0.19 | ) | | $ | (2.20 | ) | | $ | (2.39 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (5.50 | ) | | $ | (5.50 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 11.87 | | | | (13.96 | )% | | $ | 18,188 | | | | 1.32 | % | | | 1.32 | % | | | 1.24 | % | | | (0.92 | )% | | | 52 | % |
|
2017 | | 17.19 | | | | (0.14 | ) | | | 4.38 | | | | 4.24 | | | | – | | | | (1.67 | ) | | | (1.67 | ) | | | – | | | | 19.76 | | | | 24.92 | | | | 45,992 | | | | 1.28 | | | | 1.28 | | | | 1.24 | | | | (0.75 | ) | | | 70 |
|
2016 | | 13.88 | | | | (0.08 | ) | | | 3.39 | | | | 3.31 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | 17.19 | | | | 23.85 | | | | 45,135 | | | | 1.30 | | | | 1.30 | | | | 1.24 | | | | (0.55 | ) | | | 83 |
|
2015 | | 16.52 | | | | (0.09 | ) | | | (2.55 | ) | | | (2.64 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.00 | ) | | | – | | | | 13.88 | | | | (15.98 | ) | | | 34,437 | | | | 1.39 | | | | 1.39 | | | | 1.25 | | | | (0.58 | ) | | | 105 |
|
2014 | | 17.93 | | | | (0.11 | ) | | | (0.81 | ) | | | (0.92 | ) | | | – | | | | (0.51 | ) | | | (0.51 | ) | | | 0.02 | | | | 16.52 | | | | (4.97 | ) | | | 18,221 | | | | 1.56 | | | | 1.56 | | | | 1.28 | | | | (0.60 | ) | | | 131 |
|
Royce Opportunity Fund–Investment Class |
2018 | $ | 13.58 | | | $ | (0.04 | ) | | $ | (2.61 | ) | | $ | (2.65 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | (1.01 | ) | | $ | (1.01 | ) | | $ | – | | | $ | 9.92 | | | | (19.97 | )% | | $ | 557,003 | | | | 1.20 | % | | | 1.20 | % | | | 1.20 | % | | | (0.30 | )% | | | 47 | % |
|
2017 | | 12.85 | | | | (0.04 | ) | | | 2.79 | | | | 2.75 | | | | – | | | | (2.02 | ) | | | (2.02 | ) | | | – | | | | 13.58 | | | | 21.88 | | | | 805,660 | | | | 1.18 | | | | 1.18 | | | | 1.18 | | | | (0.28 | ) | | | 43 |
|
2016 | | 10.57 | | | | (0.02 | ) | | | 3.19 | | | | 3.17 | | | | – | | | | (0.89 | ) | | | (0.89 | ) | | | – | | | | 12.85 | | | | 29.86 | | | | 751,184 | | | | 1.19 | | | | 1.19 | | | | 1.19 | | | | (0.18 | ) | | | 26 |
|
2015 | | 13.46 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (1.80 | ) | | | (1.83 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.06 | ) | | | (1.06 | ) | | | – | | | | 10.57 | | | | (13.57 | ) | | | 746,052 | | | | 1.17 | | | | 1.17 | | | | 1.17 | | | | (0.27 | ) | | | 27 |
|
2014 | | 15.54 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.09 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | – | | | | (1.94 | ) | | | (1.94 | ) | | | – | | | | 13.46 | | | | (0.48 | ) | | | 1,284,044 | | | | 1.14 | | | | 1.14 | | | | 1.14 | | | | (0.30 | ) | | | 36 |
|
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
How to Purchase and Sell Fund Shares
The minimum initial investments for Investment Class shares of the Funds purchased directly from the Trust are set forth in the table below.
ACCOUNT TYPE | MINIMUM |
Regular Account | $2,000 |
IRA | $1,000 |
Automatic Investment or Direct Deposit Plan Accounts | $1,000 |
401(k) Accounts | None |
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The minimum for subsequent investments is $50, regardless of account type. |
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. You may also purchase or sell Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary.
Tax Information
Each Fund intends to make distributions that are expected to be taxable to you as ordinary income or capital gains unless your investment is in an individual retirement account (IRA), a 401(k) plan, or is otherwise tax deferred. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes” for more details.
Financial Intermediary Compensation
If you purchase Fund shares through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
Distribution Arrangements
RFS distributes the Funds’ shares pursuant to the terms of its distribution agreements with the Funds. If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through a firm that provides recordkeeping and other shareholder services to employee benefit plans (“Retirement Plan Recordkeepers”), the shares may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. RFS and/or Royce may compensate broker-dealers, Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, and other financial intermediaries that introduce investors to the Fund, provide the opportunity to distribute the Fund through their sales personnel, provide access to their sales personnel and branch offices, and/or provide certain administrative services to their customers who own Fund shares. These payments are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing.” In addition, the Board has authorized the Funds to compensate such third parties to the extent the Board has determined that any of the services which these parties render to a Fund are non-distribution-related shareholder services, including recordkeeping and account maintenance services.
Payments to third parties (each, a “financial intermediary”) may: (i) be substantial to any given financial intermediary, (ii) be more or less than the payments received by a financial intermediary with respect to other mutual funds, and (iii) exceed the costs and expenses incurred by the financial intermediary for any servicing activities in respect of the Funds. Revenue sharing arrangements are separately negotiated between Royce and/or its affiliates and the financial intermediaries receiving these payments.
Revenue sharing and shareholder servicing payments may influence financial intermediaries to recommend or sell a Fund over other mutual funds. You may ask your financial intermediary about these differing interests and how the financial intermediary and its employees and associated persons are compensated for administering your Fund investment. Revenue-sharing and shareholder servicing payments may benefit Royce to the extent that the payments result in more assets, on which fees are charged by Royce, being invested in a Fund.
Additional Information About Purchasing Shares
If you purchase Fund shares through a third party, such as a discount or full-service broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, or through Retirement Plan Recordkeepers, share class eligibility, investment minimums, commissions, fees, policies and procedures may differ from those described in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement. Such third parties may initiate an exchange Fund shares of one class held by you for shares of another class of that Fund in order to ensure compliance with such eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures. For example, such an exchange may be initiated by a third party (and not by a Fund or RFS) in the event Fund shares come to be held in connection with different type of program (e.g., investment advisory vs. brokerage) offered by such third party. Such exchanges would be effected solely on the basis of the relative net asset values of the respective shares to be exchanged without the imposition of any sales charges by the Fund or RFS. The class of shares received by you in such an exchange may be subject to higher fees and expenses than the class of shares held by you immediately prior to such exchange.
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The Trust reserves the right both to suspend the offering of either Fund’s shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States.
The Trust reserves the right to reinvest the proceeds from any dividends from net investment income, distributions from net realized capital gains, or redemptions of shares which a shareholder has chosen to receive by check if the check remains uncashed for more than 180 days. No interest will accrue on the amount of such uncashed checks, which will be reinvested in additional shares of the applicable Fund at the net asset value per share at the time of the reinvestment. If a shareholder has chosen to receive distributions in cash and a check remains uncashed for more than 180 days, subsequent dividends and distributions may be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. In addition, a shareholder’s participation in an automatic withdrawal plan may be terminated if a check remains uncashed. These policies may be waived for closed accounts as well as for certain retirement or other qualified plans.
Additional Information About Redeeming Shares
You may redeem shares in your account at any time. The Funds, however, are intended primarily for long-term investment purposes and are not intended to provide a means of speculating on short-term market movements. Please see the information in this section under the sub-heading “Frequent Trading of Fund Shares” for more details.
Early Redemption Fee on Investment Class Shares
In order to discourage short-term trading, the Trust assesses an early redemption fee of 1% on redemptions of the Investment Class shares of either Fund that you held for less than 30 days. Each fee is payable to the relevant Fund out of the proceeds otherwise payable to you.
The “first-in, first-out” method is used to determine the holding period by comparing the date of the redemption with the earliest dates of the share purchases in an account. For accounts registered on the books of the Funds’ transfer agent, the anniversary day of an account transaction determines the 30-day holding period, so that if you purchased a Fund’s shares on March 30, 2019, these shares would be subject to the fee if you were to redeem them prior to May 2, 2019.
You will incur no fee on shares that you acquire through distribution reinvestment. The redemption fee will apply to shares that you exchange into another series of the Trust. The following types of shareholders and accounts are exempt from the early redemption fee: participants in Automatic Investment or Withdrawal Plans, retirement plans, certain pre-approved group investment plans and charitable organizations, and omnibus or similar account customers of certain pre-approved broker-dealers and other institutions.
Other Redemption Information
The Funds will normally make redemptions in cash for shareholders who hold shares that are registered in their own name. Each Fund typically expects to send (via check, wire, or ACH) redemption payments to such shareholders within two business days after the transfer agent’s receipt of a redemption request in Good Order (as defined below). For accounts held through financial intermediaries, the length of time that a Fund typically expects to pay redemption proceeds depends, in part, on the terms of the agreement in place between the financial intermediary and the Fund. For redemption proceeds for intermediary-held accounts that are paid either directly to you from a Fund or to your financial intermediary for transmittal to you, the Fund typically expects to make payments by wire, by ACH, or by issuing a check on the next business day following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. Redemption requests that are processed through investment professionals that utilize the National Securities Clearing Corporation will generally settle one to three business days following receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. The financial intermediary, if applicable, is responsible for transmitting redemption proceeds to shareholders. Under certain circumstances and when deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund, redemption proceeds may take up to seven calendar days to be sent after receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. In addition, with respect to investors redeeming shares that were purchased by check or through ACH, redemption proceeds may not be sent until payment for the entire purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days.
The Funds typically expect to satisfy redemption requests either by using available cash (or cash equivalents) or by selling portfolio securities. The Funds may use other methods to satisfy redemption requests, including using a line of credit or participating in an interfund lending program in reliance on exemptive relief from the SEC. These methods may be used during both normal and stressed market conditions.
In addition to paying redemption proceeds in cash, the Trust reserves the right to satisfy a shareholder’s redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of a Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). Redemption-in-kind proceeds will typically be made by delivering the selected securities to the redeeming shareholder within seven days after the receipt of a redemption request in Good Order. For these purposes, such securities will be valued at the same value assigned to them in calculating a Fund’s net asset value per share. If a Fund pays redemption proceeds by transferring portfolio securities in-kind to you, you may pay transaction costs to dispose of the securities, incur adverse tax consequences in connection with any such disposal, and receive less for them than the price at which they were valued for purposes of redemption.
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The Trust reserves the right to involuntarily redeem Fund shares in any account that falls below the minimum initial investment due to redemptions by the shareholder. If at any time the balance in an account does not have a value at least equal to the minimum initial investment, you may be notified that the value of your account is below a Fund’s minimum account balance requirement. You would have 60 days to increase your account balance before the account is closed. Proceeds would be paid promptly to the shareholder.
The Trust also may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment for the Funds beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by a Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for a Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Fund’s shareholders. The Trust also reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
Frequent Trading of Fund Shares
Large and frequent short-term trades in a Fund’s shares increase the administrative costs associated with processing its shareholder transactions. This kind of trading may also potentially interfere with the efficient management of a Fund’s portfolio and increase the costs associated with trading its portfolio securities. In addition, under certain circumstances frequent trading may dilute the returns earned on shares held by a Fund’s other shareholders.
The Board has determined that the Funds are not designed to serve as vehicles for frequent trading in response to short-term fluctuations in the securities markets, and has therefore adopted a policy intended to discourage shareholders from trading that could be detrimental to long-term shareholders of the Funds (the “Policy”).
The Policy provides that the Funds will monitor shareholder trading activity and will seek to restrict a shareholder’s trading privileges in a Fund if that shareholder is found to have engaged in multiple “Round Trip” transactions. A “Round Trip” is defined as a purchase (including subscriptions and exchanges) into a Fund either preceded or followed by a sale (including redemptions and exchanges) of the same or a similar number of shares out of the Fund within 30 days of the purchase. The Funds will make inquiries or take action against any such shareholder whose trading appears inconsistent with the Policy. Purchases and sales of Fund shares made through an automatic investment plan or systematic withdrawal plan or initiated by a third party to ensure compliance with its eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures are not considered when determining Round Trips. In addition, as described above, the Funds impose a redemption fee on certain short-term redemptions to discourage frequent trading.
The Funds may reject any purchase or exchange order by any investor for any reason, including orders the Funds believe are made by short-term investors. In particular, under the Policy, the Funds reserve the right to restrict or reject purchases of shares (including exchanges) without prior notice whenever they detect a pattern of excessive trading.
With respect to accounts where shareholder transactions are processed, or records are kept, by third-party intermediaries, the Funds use reasonable efforts to monitor such accounts to detect suspicious trading patterns. Transactions placed through the same financial intermediary or omnibus account may be deemed part of a group for this purpose and therefore be rejected. For any account that is so identified, the Funds will make further inquiries and take any other necessary actions to enforce the Policy against the shareholder(s) trading through this account and, if necessary, the third-party intermediary maintaining this account. However, the Funds may not be able to determine that a specific order, especially an order made through an omnibus, retirement plan, or similar account, is short term or excessive and whether it may be disruptive to the Funds. There is no assurance, therefore, that the Funds will reject all such orders. The Funds do not have any arrangements with any investor or financial intermediary to permit frequent purchases and redemptions of their shares. The Funds may accept undertakings from intermediaries to enforce frequent trading policies on behalf of the Funds that provide a substantially similar level of protection against excessive trading.
Although the Funds will monitor shareholder transactions for certain patterns of excessive trading activity, there can be no assurance that all such trading activity can be identified, prevented, or terminated.
Net Asset Value Per Share
Net asset value per share (“NAV”) is calculated by dividing the value of a Fund’s net assets by the number of its outstanding shares. Each Fund’s investments are valued based on market value or, if market quotations are not readily available, at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures established by the Board. In certain cases, market value may be determined using information provided by a pricing service approved by the Board. Valuing securities at their fair values involves greater reliance on judgment than valuation of securities based on readily available market quotations. When using fair value methods to price securities, the Funds may value those securities higher or lower than another fund using not readily available market quotations or its own fair value methods to price the same securities. There can be no assurance that the Funds could obtain the fair value price assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its net asset value. Because trading hours for certain non-U.S. securities end before the close of the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), closing market quotations may become unreliable. If between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. If an issuer-specific event has occurred during this time that, in Royce’s judgment, is likely to have affected the closing price of a security, it may fair value the security. The
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Funds use an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts, and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. The Funds value their non-U.S. securities in U.S. dollars on the basis of foreign currency exchange rates provided to the Funds by their custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company. When fair value pricing is employed, the price of securities used by a Fund may differ from quotes or published prices for the same security. Certain bonds and other fixed income securities may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates, and maturities, using established independent pricing services. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
The date on which your purchase, redemption, or exchange of shares is processed is the trade date, and the price used for the transaction is based on the next calculation of net asset value after the order is processed. The NAV for each Class of a Fund is calculated as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time) and is determined every day that the NYSE is open. Securities in each Fund’s portfolio that primarily trade on a foreign exchange may change in value on a day that the NYSE is closed and the Fund’s shareholders are not able to redeem shares in the Fund. If the Fund, its transfer agent, or any other authorized agent receives your trade order by the close of regular trading on the NYSE, your order will receive that day’s NAV. If your order is received after the close of regular trading, it will receive the next business day’s NAV. If you place your order through a financial intermediary rather than with the Fund or its transfer agent directly, the financial intermediary is responsible for transmitting your order to the Fund’s transfer agent in a timely manner.
Portfolio Disclosure Policy
A description of the Funds’ policy and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities holdings is available in the SAI and at on The Royce Funds’ website, www.roycefunds.com. The Funds’ complete portfolio holdings are also available on The Royce Funds’ website approximately 15 to 20 days after each calendar month end and remain available until the next month’s holdings are posted. The Funds’ portfolio holdings are also available on Form N-Q, which is filed with the SEC within 60 days of the end of the Funds’ first and third quarters and can be obtained at www.sec.gov.
Reports
The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports electronically. Please go to www.roycefunds.com/edelivery for more details.
Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes
Each Fund pays any dividends from its net investment income and makes any distributions from its net realized capital gains annually in December.
Unless you choose otherwise, dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in additional shares of the applicable Fund. Unless your account is an IRA or is otherwise exempt from taxation, dividends and distributions will be taxable to you whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. The tax character of distributions (as ordinary income or capital gain) is determined at the Fund level and is not related to how long you have owned a Fund’s shares. Long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends received by a Fund (generally dividends received from taxable domestic corporations and certain foreign corporations) are eligible for taxation at a reduced rate that applies to non-corporate shareholders. To the extent a Fund makes any distributions derived from long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends, such distributions will generally be eligible for taxation to non-corporate shareholders at the reduced rate, provided (in the case of qualifying dividends) that certain holding period and other requirements are met.
Selling or exchanging shares is a taxable event, and you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Each Fund will report the proceeds of your redemption(s) to you. The tax consequences of a redemption depend on your cost basis and holding period, so you should retain all account statements for use in determining the tax consequences of redemptions. In addition, each Fund is generally required by law to provide you and the IRS with cost basis information on the redemption or exchange of any of your shares in a Fund purchased on or after January 1, 2012 (including any shares that you acquire through reinvestment of distributions).
If you redeem shares of a Fund held for six months or less, and you received a capital gain distribution from the Fund during the time you held the shares, you will be required to treat any loss on the redemption as a long-term capital loss up to the amount of the distribution.
You should carefully consider the tax implications of purchasing shares shortly before a distribution. At the time of purchase, a Fund’s net asset value may include undistributed income or capital gains. When the Fund subsequently distributes these amounts, they are taxable to you, even though the distribution is economically a return of part of your investment.
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In certain circumstances, you may be subject to back-up withholding taxes on distributions to you from a Fund if you fail to provide the Fund with your correct Social Security Number or other taxpayer identification number, or to make required certifications, or if you have been notified by the IRS that you are subject to back-up withholding.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income (which includes interest, dividends, and capital gains) of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 or $250,000 if married filing jointly, and of certain trusts and estates.
Always consult a tax advisor with questions about federal, state, or local tax consequences. Please see the SAI for additional U.S. federal income tax information.
Customer Identification Program
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account. The Trust has appointed an anti-money laundering compliance officer. When you open a new account to buy shares of a Fund, the Trust or your financial intermediary may ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number, and other information that will allow the Trust to identify you. If the Trust or your financial intermediary is unable to adequately verify your identity within the time frames set forth in the law, your account may not be opened or your shares may be automatically redeemed. If the net asset value per share has decreased since your purchase, you will lose money as a result of this automatic redemption. If you need help completing your account application for direct investment in a Fund, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
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ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION
General
Under the NYSE rules that govern brokers who have record ownership of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares that are held in “street name” for their customers (i.e., the beneficial owners of such Micro-Cap Opportunity shares), brokers have the discretion to vote such shares on routine matters, but do not have the discretion to vote such shares on non-routine matters. With respect to Proposal No. 1, it is not expected that brokers will be permitted to vote any Micro-Cap Opportunity shares in their discretion.
Inspectors and Judges of Voting
Shareholders vote at the Meeting by casting ballots (in person or by proxy), which votes will be tabulated by one or two persons who were appointed by the Board before the Meeting to serve as Inspectors and Judges of Voting at the Meeting and who have executed an Inspectors and Judges Oath.
Quorum
A quorum of shareholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting of shareholders of Micro-Cap Opportunity. Under the Bylaws of the Trust, a quorum will exist if shareholders entitled to vote more than 50% of the issued and outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity on the Record Date are present at the Meeting in person or by proxy. In determining whether a quorum is present at the Meeting, the Inspectors and Judges of Voting will count Micro-Cap Opportunity shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote as shares that are present and entitled to vote at the Meeting. “Broker non-votes” are, with respect to Proposal No. 1, Micro-Cap Opportunity shares held by brokers or nominees as to which (i) the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power and (ii) the broker or nominee has not received instructions from the beneficial owner or other person who is entitled to instruct how such shares will be voted, but for which a broker or nominee returns the proxy card without actually voting on Proposal No. 1. Micro-Cap Opportunity may request that selected brokers or nominees return proxies in respect of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares for which the broker or nominee does not have discretionary voting power or for which voting instructions have not been received to the extent necessary to obtain a quorum at the Meeting. Thus, Micro-Cap Opportunity shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will be counted in determining (i) whether a quorum is present at the Meeting and (ii) the total number of Micro-Cap Opportunity shares present at the Meeting.
Required Vote
Approval of the Plan requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Micro-Cap Opportunity, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity present at the Meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity are present or represented by proxy at the Meeting; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity. Micro-Cap Opportunity shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions, “broker non-votes,” and the withholding of authority to vote will have the same effect as a vote against Proposal No. 1 at the Meeting as well as a vote against any adjournment of the Meeting.
In accordance with the provisions of agreements governing certain Individual Retirement Accounts holding shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity, the applicable custodian may vote all unvoted Micro-Cap Opportunity shares held in such accounts in the same proportion as shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity for which voting instructions are timely received (i.e., for Proposal No. 1, against Proposal No. 1, or abstain) by Micro-Cap Opportunity or its agent.
Adjournment of Meeting
If a quorum is not present at the Meeting, or if a quorum is present at the Meeting but sufficient votes to approve Proposal No. 1 are not received, the Meeting may be adjourned to permit further solicitation of proxies. In the absence of a quorum, the persons named as proxies may propose an adjournment, and will vote in favor of such adjournment those proxies which they are entitled to vote in favor of Proposal No. 1 and will vote against any such adjournment those proxies required to be voted against Proposal No. 1. If a quorum is present but insufficient votes have been received to approve Proposal No. 1, the chairperson of the Meeting may adjourn the Meeting to permit further solicitation of proxies if the chairperson determines that an adjournment and additional solicitation is reasonable and in the interest of shareholders. Solicitation of votes may continue to be made without any obligation to provide any additional notice of the adjournment other than announcement at the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Affiliated Broker-Dealer
Royce Fund Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Royce, is the distributor of each Fund. RFS’s principal office is located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Information Concerning Royce
Royce, a Delaware limited partnership, is the investment adviser for each of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity and a subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”), 100 International Drive, Baltimore, MD 21202. Legg Mason owns a diversified group of global asset managers and is listed on the NYSE (symbol: LM). Royce is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Royce has been investing in smaller-company securities with a value approach for more than 40 years. Its offices are located at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
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Shareholder Proposals
The Trust is not required, and does not currently intend, to hold annual shareholder meetings for either Fund. Shareholders wishing to submit proposals for inclusion in a proxy statement for a subsequent shareholder meeting must send their written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Any shareholder who wishes to bring any proposal at any subsequent shareholder meeting without including such proposal in the Trust’s proxy statement relating to the meeting also must send his or her written proposal to the Trust a reasonable time before the Board’s solicitation relating to such meeting is to be made. Written proposals should be sent to the Secretary of the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
Shareholder proposals that are submitted in a timely manner will not necessarily be included in the Trust’s proxy materials. Inclusion of such proposals is subject to limitations under the federal securities laws.
Proxy Delivery
If you and another shareholder share the same address, the Trust may send only one proxy statement unless you or the other shareholder(s) request otherwise. Call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate copy of the proxy statement, and the Trust will promptly mail a copy to you. You may also call or write to the Trust if you wish to receive a separate proxy in the future, or if you are receiving multiple copies now, and wish to receive a single copy in the future. For such requests, call 1-800-221-4268, or write the Trust at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151.
RECORD DATE SHARES OUTSTANDING AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SHARES
Record Date Shares Outstanding
As of the Record Date, Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity had outstanding the number of shares of each share class as indicated in the table immediately below. Each Micro-Cap Opportunity share is entitled to one vote for each full share and a fractional vote for each fractional share at the Meeting.
Fund and Share Class | Number of Shares Outstanding |
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | |
Investment | 1,519,599 |
Service* | None |
Consultant* | None |
Institutional* | None |
R* | None |
|
Royce Opportunity Fund | |
Investment | 53,919,003 |
Service | 5,106,119 |
Consultant | 1,087,856 |
Institutional | 22,491,009 |
R | 2,986,411 |
* No Service Class, Consultant Class, Institutional Class, or R Class shares of Opportunity will be issued in connection with the Reorganization. |
Information About Share Ownership
The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of Investment Class Shares of Micro-Cap Opportunity as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Investment | Ann M. Sidoti & Peter T. Sidoti JT WROS Babylon, NY 11702-4403 | 154,187 | Record and Beneficial | 10.15% |
| Blanche L. Hench & Willian Hench JT WROS c/o Royce & Associates, LP 745 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10151 | 226,250 | Record and Beneficial | 14.89% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 240,181 | Record | 15.81% |
| National Financial Services FBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 149,696 | Record | 9.85% |
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The Persons known to the Trust to be beneficial owners or owners of record of 5% or more of the shares of each Class of Opportunity as of the Record Date are listed in the table immediately below.
Class | Investor | Number of Shares | Type of Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Investment | | | | |
| Pershing LLC P.O. Box 2052 Jersey City, NJ 07303-2052 | 4,235,045 | Record | 7.85% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 7,208,631 | Record | 13.37% |
| John Hancock Life Insurance Co. USA Attn: RPS Trading OPS ST6 601 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210-2805 | 7,609,315 | Record | 14.11% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 200 Liberty Street 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 6,499,143 | Record | 12.05% |
| | | | |
Service | Pershing LLC P.O. Box 2052 Jersey City, NJ 07202-2052 | 283,081 | Record | 5.54% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Reinvest Account Attn: Mutual Fund Department 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104-4151 | 672,611 | Record | 13.17% |
| UMB NA FBO FID for Tax Deferred Accounts 1 SW Security Benefit Place Topeka, KS 66636-1000 | 319,167 | Record | 6.25% |
| National Financial Services FEBO Our Customers 1 World Financial Center Attn: Mutual Fund Department, 5th Floor New York, New York 10281 | 2,054,504 | Record | 40.24% |
| | | | |
Consultant | Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC For the Exclusive Benefit of its Customers 1 New York Plaza, Floor 12 New York, New York 10004-1965 | 228,615 | Record | 21.02% |
| Raymond James Omnibus for Mutual Funds House Account Attn. Courtney Waller 880 Carillon Parkway St. Petersburg, FL 33716-1100 | 214,715 | Record | 19.74% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Special Custody Account FBO Customers Attn: Mutual Fund Department 211 Main Street San Francisco, CA 94105 -1905 | 93,531 | Record | 8.60% |
| Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC Special Custody Account for the Exclusive Benefit of Customers 2801 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103-2523 | 116,143 | Record | 10.68% |
| | | | |
Institutional | MLPF&S for the sole Benefit of Its Customers Attn: Fund Administration 4800 Deer Lake Dr. E, Floor 2 Jacksonville, FL 32246-6484 | 3,233,577 | Record | 14.38% |
| Vanguard Fiduciary Trust Company Royce Funds Omnibus P.O. Box 2600, VM 613 Attn: Outside Funds Valley Forge, PA 19482-2600 | 1,241,123 | Record | 5.52% |
| National Financial Services LLC 499 Washington Blvd. Jersey City, NJ 07310-1995 | 6,187,513 | Record | 27.51% |
| Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Attn: Mutual Fund OPS 101 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94102-4151 | 2,444,302 | Record | 10.87% |
| UBS WM USA OMNI Account M/F SPEC CDY A/C 100 Harbor Blvd. Weehawken, NJ 19482-2600 | 2,251,333 | Record | 10.01% |
R | Sammons Financial Network LLC 4546 Corporate Drive, Suite 100 WDM, IA 50266-5911 | 2,432,396 | Record | 81.45% |
| DCGT as TTEE and/or Cust FBO PLIC Various Retirement Plans Omnibus Attn: NPIO Trade Desk 711 High Street Des Moines, IA 50392-0001 | 168,035 | Record | 5.63% |
As of the Record Date, the Trustees and officers of the Trust (15 individuals) owned, in the aggregate, the approximate percentages of the relevant share classes of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity.
Trustee and Officer Ownership of Certain Share Classes of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund |
Fund | Share Class | Aggregate Ownership Percentage |
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund | Investment | 6.98% |
As of the Record Date, the Trustees and officers of the Trust (15 individuals) owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the outstanding remaining share classes of Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DIRECT SHAREHOLDERS
Services and Policies
This section describes the shareholder services available to direct shareholders of the Investment Class of the Funds. It also provides important policy information regarding Royce Fund accounts.
If you purchase Fund shares through a third-party intermediary, such as a mutual fund supermarket, broker-dealer, bank, or other financial intermediary, account minimums, fees, policies, and procedures may differ from those described in this Guide. Fund shares purchased through a third-party intermediary may be held in the name of that party on the Fund’s books. Royce Fund Services, LLC, the distributor of Fund shares, Royce & Associates, LP, the Funds’ investment adviser, and/or the Funds may pay fees to broker-dealers, financial intermediaries, and other service providers that introduce investors to the Funds and/or provide certain administrative services to its customers who own Fund shares. DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc. (“DST AMS”) serves as the Funds’ transfer agent. State Street Bank and Trust Company is the custodian for securities, cash, and other assets of the Funds.
For information and policies on Individual Retirement Account (IRA), please refer also to the booklet that deals separately with them, as many services offered in this guide are not available for those types of accounts. You must use separate applications and other forms to open these accounts. Please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 or visit www.roycefunds.com to obtain these materials.
Account Information
The Funds pay their own management fees and other operating expenses as outlined in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
Please mail all account-related correspondence, including Account Applications, subsequent investments, and written requests for redemption—
by regular mail to:
The Royce Funds
c/o DST AMS
PO Box 219012
Kansas City, MO 64121-9012
by registered mail or overnight courier to:
The Royce Funds
c/o DST AMS
330 West 9th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
How to Open an Account
You may open an account online at www.roycefunds.com, by mail, or through a financial intermediary. Once you are a direct Royce Fund shareholder (that is, you opened your account directly through The Royce Funds and not through a financial intermediary), you can also open additional accounts online.
Online
You can set up an account online by visiting www.roycefunds.com and clicking on the Shareholder Login tab.
You can also download a Prospectus and Account Application from www.roycefunds.com.
Online account access also allows you to manage your account online once you have registered (see “Managing Your Account Online” below for more details).
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By Mail
Complete and sign the enclosed Account Application. Make your check payable to The Royce Fund and mail it, together with your Application, to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see mailing addresses above).
Special Notice To Non-U.S. Investors
The Funds do not offer their shares for sale outside of the United States. The Funds mail prospectuses and other information to U.S. addresses only and can accept new account requests from U.S. addresses only.
Managing Your Account Online
Online access allows you to open new accounts directly online and gives you the ability to manage your account(s) online. To access, or register for, online services go to www.roycefunds.com. First-time users need to register for the services by creating a Username and Password. Once registered, you can login with your unique Username. You then have the ability to:
1. | | Check your most recent account value |
2. | | Sign up for eDelivery to have Prospectuses, Financial Reports, semiannual account statements, transaction confirmation statements, duplicate confirmation statements, and tax forms e-mailed to you. |
3. | | Review your recent account history, including distributions |
4. | | Change your address (a redemption restriction of 30 days applies) |
5. | | Make subsequent purchases ($50 minimum) |
6. | | Exchange between funds |
7. | | Redeem fund shares ($50,000 maximum) |
8. | | Establish an Automatic Investment Plan |
9. | | View average cost and tax summary information |
Bank information must be established on your account prior to purchasing shares. |
About Online Security
Your Username and Password allow you to login and access portfolio information. Both your Username and Password are encrypted when you login to access your account.
Royce uses industry best practices to ensure the confidentiality and safety of your information and transactions. Shareholders who wish to sign up for account access must have a secure web browser that uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology with 128-bit encryption. This helps to keep your use of account access confidential.
Your Username and Password are Encrypted
When you login, your Username and Password are both encrypted. Although you will not see an “https” address or the lock symbol at the bottom of your browser window until you have logged in, we assure you that your personal information is secure as it is accepted by our transfer agent’s secure server.
Three Wrong Passwords and You’re Out
We have limited to 3 the number of times that a user can enter an incorrect Password in order to deter unauthorized users. Once your Password has been entered incorrectly 3 times, you will be locked out of the system. To re-establish access, you need to telephone Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time.
Also, if there is no activity for 15 minutes, you will be automatically logged off the system. If you leave your computer unattended, this time-out feature helps to prevent an unauthorized user from accessing the account(s).
How to Purchase Additional Shares
You may purchase additional Fund shares online, by telephone, and by mail.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account online, you can purchase Fund shares after logging in. Funds are debited from your bank checking account through ACH. ($50 minimum—bank information must be established on your account before purchasing shares.)
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By Telephone
To pay using the Automated Clearing House (ACH):
By establishing the Expedited Purchase option on your Account Application, a telephone call allows you to have funds automatically debited from your bank checking account through ACH. Call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call our automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time to buy additional Fund shares ($50 minimum). If your purchase request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV.
To pay by bank wire:
Payments for wire purchases ($500 minimum) must be received by the close of regular trading on the NYSE (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time).
Wiring instructions are:
State Street Bank and Trust Co., Inc.
ABA # 011000028
Credit DDA # 9904-712-8
Name of Royce Fund–Share Class
Account Number
Account Name
By Mail
Make your check—$50 minimum—payable to The Royce Fund. Fill out the amount of your purchase on the investment form found at the bottom of your latest statement. If you do not have a form, simply write the name of the Fund and Share Class in which you are investing and your account number clearly on the check. Mail to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above for mailing addresses).
Please note that the Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases.
Convenient Methods of Making Regular, Automatic Expedited Purchases
Select the following services on your Account Application or, if you have an existing Royce Funds account, call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268 for an enrollment form or download one at www.roycefunds.com. You may also establish these services online.
Automatic Investment Plan
You can make regular purchases to your Royce Fund account directly from your bank account through ACH on a monthly or quarterly basis on the date you select ($50 minimum).
Direct Deposit Payroll Deduction Plan
You can make investments from your payroll or government check into your Royce Fund account each payment or pay period. Your employer must have direct deposit through ACH available for employees. You may cancel the option by giving written notice to your employer or government agency, as appropriate. The Fund is not responsible for the efficiency of the employer or government agency making the payment or of any financial institution transmitting payments. To sign up, you need to complete an Authorization for Direct Deposit form, which you can download by going to the Fund Literature page on www.roycefunds.com, clicking on How to Invest at the foot of the page, and clicking Applications & Special Forms or by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268.
Important Information about Purchases
• | | If your check or wire does not clear, or if the Funds or their transfer agent do not receive payment for any telephone or online purchase, the transaction will be cancelled and you will be responsible for any loss that the Fund incurs. If you are already a shareholder, the Fund can redeem shares from any identically registered Royce Fund account as reimbursement for any loss. |
• | | The Funds do not accept third-party checks, “starter” checks, or money orders for initial or subsequent purchases. |
• | | In order to avoid lengthy processing delays caused by clearing foreign checks, the Funds will only accept a foreign check that has been drawn in U.S. dollars and has been issued by a foreign bank with a U.S. correspondent bank. |
• | | The Funds reserve the right both to suspend the offering of Fund shares to new investors and to reject any specific purchase request. |
• | | You may have your bank account information taken from your initial investment check. Otherwise, you must include a voided check with your Account Application for Expedited Purchases and Redemptions. It can take up to three weeks to establish these services; you will receive confirmation of their activation by mail. |
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Important Information about Telephone and Online Transactions
Neither the Funds nor their transfer agent will be liable for following instructions reasonably believed to be genuine that are received by telephone or made online. The transfer agent uses certain procedures designed to confirm that instructions are genuine. Procedures may include requiring some form of personal identification prior to acting on the instructions, such as providing written confirmation of the transaction and/or recording incoming calls. If the Funds or their transfer agent do not follow such procedures, then they may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions.
How to Sell Shares
You may sell shares in your account at any time and make requests online, by telephone, and by mail. DST AMS will generally send the proceeds within two business days of receiving the request.
Redemptions from Royce-sponsored retirement plan accounts—IRA—and from accounts for which share certificates are outstanding must be made in writing.
Certain other redemption requests must be made in writing and also require a medallion guarantee of the signature(s) of the shareholder(s). These include redemption requests for $50,000 or more, for a payee(s) other than the shareholder(s), or for proceeds to be sent to an address other than the address of record.
Online
Once you have registered to access your account at www.roycefunds.com, login, and click the Fund you want to sell, and select Redeem from the Account Actions dropdown menu. Proceeds may be sent by check, by bank wire, or through ACH.
By Telephone
For any amount less than $50,000, you may call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time or call the automated Royce Infoline at (800) 78-ROYCE at any time and DST AMS will mail a check to the address of record on the account. If your redemption request is received after the market closes (generally 4 p.m. Eastern time), it will receive the next business day’s NAV. You may also establish the Expedited Redemption option, which allows you to have proceeds sent to your bank by wire—usually credited within one business day—and/or by ACH—usually credited within two business days.
By Mail
Mail your letter to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS (see above mailing addresses). Written requests must be in Good Order, meaning that the request meets the Fund’s legal and processing requirements.
All written requests to sell shares must contain at least the following to be in Good Order: |
• | | The name(s) and signature(s) of each shareholder named in the account registration with medallion guarantee(s) if required |
• | | The Fund name and account number |
• | | The dollar or share amount you want to sell |
• | | The address to which you want proceeds sent |
• | | Certificates, if you are holding any |
In addition: |
• | | Trusts and Corporate Retirement Plan Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the trustee(s) named in the account registration. Redemptions involving third parties, trustees not named in the account registration, successor trustees, or other situations require additional documentation. Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 with any questions. |
• | | Corporate Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by an officer of the corporation and a certified copy of a Corporate Resolution that authorizes the assigning officer to effect transactions. The same party cannot certify the Corporate Resolution and sign the letter of instruction. |
• | | Partnership/Sole Proprietorship Accounts require a letter of instruction signed by the general partner(s)/sole proprietor named in the account registration. |
• | | Nominee Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by a general partner or a nominee facsimile stamp. |
• | | Transfer on Death Accounts require a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction signed by the beneficiary(ies) named in the account registration, a certified copy of the deceased shareholder’s Death Certificate, a tax waiver if required by the deceased’s former state of residence, and an affidavit signed by the beneficiary(ies) that states: “Under penalty of perjury, I/we swear that there are no known disputes as to the persons entitled to a distribution under the nonprobate transfer or the amounts to be distributed to each person and no known claims that would affect the distribution requested.” |
• | | Administrators/executors of shareholder estates must provide a medallion-guaranteed letter of instruction, certified copy of Letters Testamentary, which authorize the signing party to act on behalf of the deceased shareholder and, if required by the deceased’s state of former residence, a certified tax waiver. |
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If you have any questions about how to ensure that your written redemption request is in Good Order, please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180, or contact us at www.roycefunds.com.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
This option allows you to automatically redeem shares from your Fund account and have the proceeds transferred directly to your bank account through ACH on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis generally on the 15th day of the month. You must have at least $25,000 in a Fund account to be eligible for this feature.
Important Information About Redemptions |
• | | Telephone and online redemptions will not be permitted for 30 days after a change in the address of record. |
• | | If you are redeeming shares recently purchased by check or through ACH, proceeds may not be sent until payment for the purchase is collected, which may take up to 15 calendar days. Otherwise, redemption proceeds must be sent to you within seven days of receipt of your request in Good Order. |
• | | If you have difficulty making a redemption by telephone or online, you may want to make your redemption request by regular or express mail (See “How to Sell Shares: By Mail” above for processing information). The Funds reserve the right to revise or terminate telephone or online account access redemption privileges at any time. |
• | | Each Fund may suspend redemption privileges or postpone payment beyond seven days (1) for any period (A) during which the NYSE is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or (B) during which trading on the NYSE is restricted; (2) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which (A) disposal by the Funds of securities owned by them is not reasonably practicable or (B) it is not reasonably practicable for the Funds fairly to determine the value of their respective net assets; or (3) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Funds’ shareholders. |
• | | Each Fund will normally make redemptions in cash, but reserves the right to satisfy a redemption request under certain circumstances by effecting a redemption-in-kind through a pro rata distribution of the Fund’s portfolio securities (allowing for adjustments to prevent distributions of restricted shares, fractional shares and odd-lot numbers of shares). |
How to Exchange Shares
You may make exchanges between the series of the Trust in the same class, as well as between Funds in the Investment, Class. However, you must meet a Fund Class’s minimum initial investment when you open an account by exchange.
You may make exchanges online, by telephone, and by mail. An exchange involves a purchase and a redemption; therefore you may realize a taxable gain or loss. Also, exchanges are subject to the Funds’ early redemption fee and are permitted only if both the registration and the Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number of the two accounts are identical. You may make an exchange only for shares of a class or series offered for sale in your state of residence. The Trust reserves the right to revise or suspend the exchange privilege at any time.
How to Transfer Ownership
You may transfer the ownership of any of your Fund shares to another person by writing to The Royce Funds, c/o DST AMS.
As with selling shares, your request must be in Good Order (see “How To Sell Shares” above for information regarding Good Order). Please call Shareholder Services at (800) 841-1180 for instructions.
Statements and Reports |
• | | A confirmation statement is sent to you, electronically or by mail, each time there is a transaction in your account. You can also review your recent account history once you have registered for online account access. |
• | | Year-to-date account statements are sent semiannually. |
• | | The Trust mails shareholder reports semiannually and, to reduce expenses, may mail only one copy to shareholders with the same last name and sharing the same address. Directly registered shareholders can choose to receive separate report copies for accounts registered to different members of the same household by calling Investor Services at 1-800-221- 4268. Please allow 30 days for your request to be processed. Shareholders may also elect to receive these reports via eDelivery. Please go to www.roycefunds.com for more details. |
Minimum Account Balance
Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining low-balance accounts, the Trust reserves the right to redeem shares in the account of either Fund if the account falls below the minimum initial investment because of redemptions by the shareholder.
The Trust may notify you if, due to redemption(s), the balance in your account is less than the appropriate minimum initial investment, or if you discontinue an Automatic Investment Plan before your account reaches the $2,000 minimum initial
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investment. You would then have 60 days to increase your balance before the Fund would close your account.
In each of the cases described above, the relevant Fund would promptly pay redemption proceeds to the shareholder.
* * *
If you have any questions about the material in this section, please call Investor Services at 1-800-221-4268, or visit our website at www.roycefunds.com.
OTHER BUSINESS
While the Meeting has been called to transact any business that may properly come before it, the only matters which the Trustees intend to present are the matters stated in the Notice of Special Meeting. However, if any additional matter properly comes before the Meeting and on all matters incidental to the conduct of such Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed proxy to vote the proxy in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
| By order of the Board of Trustees of The Royce Fund |
| |
| John E. Denneen, |
| Secretary |
Please fill in, date and sign the proxy card and return it in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. You may also provide your voting instructions via telephone or the internet by following the instructions on the proxy card. Please take advantage of these prompt and efficient voting options.
Dated: April 1 , 2019
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APPENDIX A
PLAN OF REORGANIZATION OF THE ROYCE FUND
This Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund (this “Plan”), a Delaware statutory trust having its principal place of business at 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151 (“TRF”), on behalf of the acquiring fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (the “Acquiring Fund”) and the target fund listed in Schedule A to this Plan (the “Target Fund”), is made as of this 28th day of February, 2019. Together, the Target Fund and the Acquiring Fund are referred to herein as the “Funds.”
The reorganization will consist of: (i) the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund, in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund and Investment Class shares of the Acquiring Fund (collectively, “Acquiring Fund Shares”) having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the value of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund; (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares to the shareholders of the Target Fund according to their respective interests in complete liquidation of the Target Fund; and (iii) the termination of the Target Fund as soon as practicable after the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof), all upon and subject to the terms and conditions of this Plan.
The Plan is intended to be and is adopted as a plan of reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).
In order to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Plan, the following actions shall be taken by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund, as applicable:
1. Acquisition of Assets, Assumption of Liabilities, Issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares, and Liquidation and Termination of Target Fund.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions contained herein and on the basis of the representations and warranties contained herein, the Target Fund agrees to convey, transfer, and deliver substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, and claims whatsoever. In exchange, the Acquiring Fund agrees: (i) to deliver to the Target Fund the number of full and fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, determined by dividing: (1) the aggregate value of the Target Fund’s assets with respect to each class of the Target Fund, net of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof, by (2) the net asset value of one share of the corresponding class of the Acquiring Fund, computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in Section 2 hereof; and (ii) to assume substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund with respect to each class of the Target Fund. Such transactions shall take place at the Closing (as defined in Section 3 hereof).
(b) The assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund shall consist of all property owned by the Target Fund, including, without limitation, all cash, securities, commodities, interests in futures and other financial instruments, claims (whether absolute or contingent, known, or unknown), receivables (including dividends, interest, principal, subscriptions and other receivables), goodwill and other intangible property, all books and records belonging to the Target Fund, any deferred or prepaid expenses shown as an asset on the books of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time (as defined in Section 2(a) hereof), and all interests, rights, privileges and powers, other than cash in an amount necessary to pay dividends and distributions as provided in Section 8(d) hereof and other than the Target Fund’s rights under this Plan. All liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves of the Target Fund, to the extent that they exist at or after the Valuation Time, shall after the Valuation Time, attach to the Acquiring Fund and may be enforced against the Acquiring Fund to the same extent as if the same had been incurred by the Acquiring Fund.
(c) Immediately following the Closing, the Target Fund shall, in complete liquidation of the Target Fund, distribute pro rata to its shareholders of record as of the Valuation Time all of the Acquiring Fund Shares received by the Target Fund pursuant to this Section 1 and shall thereafter terminate. Such liquidation and distribution shall be accomplished by the establishment of accounts on the share records of TRF relating to the Acquiring Fund and noting in such accounts the amounts of Acquiring Fund Shares that former Target Fund shareholders are due based on their respective holdings of the Target Fund as of the Valuation Time. Fractional Acquiring Fund Shares shall be carried to the normal and customary decimal place for such shares. The Acquiring Fund shall not issue certificates representing Acquiring Fund Shares in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
A-1
Appendix A
2. Valuation.
(a) The value of the assets of the Target Fund to be acquired by the Acquiring Fund hereunder shall be the value of such assets as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange on the business day immediately prior to the Closing Date (the “Valuation Time”), using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
(b) Full Acquiring Fund Shares, and to the extent necessary, fractional Acquiring Fund Shares, of an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund reduced by the amount of the liabilities of the Target Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund, shall be issued by the Acquiring Fund in exchange for its acquisition of such assets from the Target Fund and its assumption of such liabilities of the Target Fund. The net asset value per share of an Investment Class share of the Acquiring Fund as contemplated under Section 1(a) of this Plan shall be computed as of the Valuation Time, using TRF’s then-current valuation procedures.
3. Closing and Closing Date.
The consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby shall take place at the Closing (the “Closing”). The date of the Closing shall be June 14, 2019, or such other date as determined in writing by TRF’s officers (the “Closing Date”). Unless otherwise provided in writing, all acts taking place at the Closing shall be deemed to take place as of 10:00 a.m. on the Closing Date. The Closing shall take place at the principal office of TRF. TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall have provided for delivery as of the Closing of substantially all of the assets of the Target Fund to the account of the Acquiring Fund at the Acquiring Fund’s custodian. Also, TRF, on behalf of the Target Fund, shall produce at the Closing a list of names and addresses of the shareholders of record of the Target Fund and the number of full and fractional shares owned by each such shareholder, all as of the Valuation Time, certified by its transfer agent or by its President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief. TRF, on behalf of the Acquiring Fund, shall issue and deliver to the Secretary of TRF a confirmation evidencing the Acquiring Fund Shares to be credited to the Target Fund’s account on the Closing Date, or shall provide evidence satisfactory to the Target Fund that the Acquiring Fund Shares have been registered in an account on the books of the Acquiring Fund in such manner as TRF, on behalf of Target Fund, may request.
4. Transfer Taxes
Any transfer taxes payable upon the issuance of the Acquiring Fund Shares in a name other than the registered holder of the Target Fund shares on the books of the Target Fund as of that time shall, as a condition of such transfer, be paid by the person to whom such Acquiring Fund Shares are to be issued and transferred.
5. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Target Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Target Fund:
(a) The Target Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end, management investment company and all of the shares of Target Fund sold were sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”).
(b) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Target Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Target Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Target Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Target Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
(e) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
(f) The Target Fund does not have any unamortized or unpaid organizational fees or expenses.
A-2
Appendix A
(g) The Target Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a “regulated investment company” (a “RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Code, as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code for its taxable year through the Closing Date and liquidation; and has satisfied, and intends to satisfy, the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years.
(h) The Target Fund, or its agents, (i) holds a valid Form W-8BEN, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Withholding and Reporting (Individuals), a valid Form W-8BEN-E, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting (Entities) (or other appropriate series of Form W-8, as the case may be), or Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, for each Target Fund shareholder of record, which Form W-8 or Form W-9 can be associated with reportable payments made by the Target Fund to such shareholder, and/or (ii) has otherwise timely instituted the appropriate nonresident alien or foreign corporation or backup withholding procedures with respect to such shareholder as provided by Sections 1441, 1442, 1471 and 3406 of the Code.
(i) At the Closing, the Target Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to below, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially adversely affect title thereto.
(j) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Target Fund.
(k) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Target Fund.
(l) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
6. Representations and Warranties by TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund.
TRF makes the following representations and warranties about the Acquiring Fund:
(a) The Acquiring Fund is a series of TRF, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware validly existing and in good standing under the laws of that jurisdiction. TRF is duly registered under the 1940 Act as an open-end, management investment company and all of the Acquiring Fund Shares sold have been sold pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the 1933 Act.
(b) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of the Acquiring Fund shares, each outstanding share of which is fully paid, non-assessable, freely transferable and has full voting rights.
(c) The financial statements appearing in TRF’s Annual Report to Shareholders in respect of the Acquiring Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, audited by Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, fairly present the financial position of the Acquiring Fund as of such date and the results of its operations for the periods indicated in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(d) TRF has the necessary power and authority to conduct the Acquiring Fund’s business as such business is now being conducted.
(e) TRF on behalf of the Acquiring Fund is not a party to or obligated under any provision of TRF’s Trust Instrument, or any contract or any other commitment or obligation, and is not subject to any order or decree, that would be violated by its execution of or performance under this Plan.
(f) The Acquiring Fund has elected to qualify and has qualified as a RIC as of and since its first taxable year; has been a RIC under the Code at all times since the end of its first taxable year when it so qualified; qualifies and will continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code through the Closing Date and expects to continue to so qualify thereafter; and has satisfied the distribution requirements imposed by the Code for each of its taxable years and expects to continue to satisfy them.
A-3
Appendix A
(g) The statement of assets and liabilities to be created by TRF for the Acquiring Fund as of the Valuation Time for the purpose of determining the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued pursuant to this Plan will accurately reflect the assets in the case of the Target Fund and the net asset value in the case of the Acquiring Fund, and outstanding shares, as of such date, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
(h) At the Closing, the Acquiring Fund will have good and marketable title to all of the securities and other assets shown on the statement of assets and liabilities referred to above, free and clear of all liens or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever, except such imperfections of title or encumbrances as do not materially detract from the value or use of the assets subject thereto, or materially affect title thereto.
(i) Except as may be disclosed in TRF’s then-current prospectus, there is no material suit, judicial action, or legal or administrative proceeding pending or threatened against the Acquiring Fund.
(j) There are no known actual or proposed deficiency assessments with respect to any taxes payable by the Acquiring Fund.
(k) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Plan have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of TRF’s Board of Trustees, and this Plan constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
(l) TRF anticipates that consummation of this Plan will not cause the Acquiring Fund to fail to conform to the requirements applicable to RICs under Subchapter M of the Code at the end of the next succeeding tax quarter.
7. Intentions of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(a) At the Closing, TRF on behalf of the Target Fund, intends to have available a copy of the shareholder ledger accounts, certified by TRF’s transfer agent or its President or a Vice President to the best of its or his or her knowledge and belief, for all the shareholders of record of Target Fund shares as of the Valuation Time who are to become shareholders of the Acquiring Fund as a result of the completion of the transactions contemplated by this Plan.
(b) TRF intends to operate each Fund’s respective business as presently conducted between the date hereof and the Closing.
(c) TRF intends that the Target Fund will not acquire the Acquiring Fund Shares for the purpose of making distributions thereof to anyone other than the Target Fund’s shareholders.
(d) TRF on behalf of the Target Fund intends, if this Plan is consummated, to liquidate and dissolve the Target Fund.
(e) TRF intends that, by the Closing, each Fund’s Federal and other tax returns and reports required by law to be filed on or before such date shall have been filed, and all Federal and other taxes shown as due on said returns shall have either been paid or adequate liability reserves shall have been provided for the payment of such taxes.
(f) TRF intends to mail to each shareholder of the Target Fund entitled to vote at the meeting of its shareholders at which action on this Plan is to be considered, in sufficient time to comply with requirements as to notice thereof, a prospectus/proxy statement that complies in all material respects with the applicable provisions of Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 20(a) of the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations, respectively, thereunder.
(g) TRF intends to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement on Form N-14 under the 1933 Act relating to the Acquiring Fund Shares issuable hereunder (the “Registration Statement”), and will use its best efforts to provide that the Registration Statement becomes effective as promptly as practicable. At the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, it will: (i) comply in all material respects with the applicable provisions of the 1933 Act, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder; and (ii) not contain any untrue statement of material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. At the time the Registration Statement becomes effective, at the time of the shareholders’ meeting of the Target Fund, and at the Closing Date, the prospectus and statement of additional information included in the Registration Statement will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
A-4
Appendix A
8. Conditions Precedent to be Fulfilled by TRF on behalf of the Funds.
The consummation of the Plan with respect to the Acquiring Fund and the Target Fund shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a) That: (i) all the representations and warranties contained herein concerning the Funds shall be true and correct as of the Closing with the same effect as though made as of and at such date; (ii) performance of all obligations required by this Plan to be performed by TRF on behalf of the Funds shall occur prior to the Closing; and (iii) TRF shall execute a certificate signed by the President or a Vice President and by the Secretary or equivalent officer to the foregoing effect.
(b) That the form of this Plan shall have been adopted and approved by the appropriate action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) That the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shall not have issued an unfavorable management report under Section 25(b) of the 1940 Act or instituted or threatened to institute any proceeding seeking to enjoin consummation of the Plan under Section 25(c) of the 1940 Act. And, further, that no other legal, administrative or other proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened that would materially affect the financial condition of a Fund or would prohibit the transactions contemplated hereby.
(d) That at or immediately prior to the Closing, the Target Fund shall have declared and paid a dividend or dividends which, together with all previous such dividends, shall have the effect of distributing to the Target Fund’s shareholders all of such Target Fund’s investment company taxable income for taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing and all of its net capital gain, if any, realized in taxable years ending at or prior to the Closing (after reduction for any capital loss carry-forward).
(e) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion from Sidley Austin LLP, special U.S. federal income tax counsel to TRF, dated as of the Closing Date, in form and substance satisfactory to TRF, substantially to the effect that:
• The transactions contemplated by the Plan will qualify as a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Code and that the Target Fund and Acquiring Fund will be a "party to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Target Fund upon (i) the transfer of the assets of the Target Fund to the Acquiring Fund in exchange for the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of substantially all of liabilities of the Target Fund and the Acquiring Fund Shares or (ii) the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares by the Target Fund to its shareholders in exchange for their Target Fund shares, except for any gain or loss that may be required to be recognized solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of the transfer of any stock in a passive foreign investment company as defined in Section 1297(a) of the Code;
• No gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquiring Fund upon the receipt of the assets of the Target Fund solely in exchange for the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares to the Target Fund and the assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of the Target Fund by the Acquiring Fund;
• The tax basis of the assets of the Target Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of the Target Fund immediately before the transfer, except for certain adjustments that may be required to be made solely as a result of the close of the Target Fund's taxable year due to the Reorganization or as a result of gain recognized on the transfer of certain assets of the Target Fund;
• The tax holding period of the assets of the Target Fund in the hands of Acquiring Fund will include the Target Fund's tax holding period for those assets, except for any assets which may be marked to market for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the termination of the Target Fund's taxable year or on which gain was recognized on the transfer to the Acquiring Fund;
• Target Fund shareholders will not recognize any gain or loss upon the exchange of their Target Fund shares solely for Acquiring Fund Shares as part of the Reorganization;
• The tax basis of Acquiring Fund Shares received by Target Fund shareholders in the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of their Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange; and
• The tax holding period of Acquiring Fund Shares that Target Fund shareholders receive will include the tax holding period of Target Fund shares surrendered in the exchange, provided that such shareholders held Target Fund shares as capital assets on the date of the exchange.
In giving the opinion set forth above, counsel may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact.
(f) That there shall be delivered to TRF, on behalf of the Funds, an opinion in form and substance satisfactory to it from Richards, Layton & Finger, to the effect that, subject in all respects to the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance, and other laws now or hereafter affecting generally the enforcement of creditors’ rights and subject to the general principles of equity:
| (1) TRF is validly existing in good standing as a statutory trust under the Delaware Statutory Trust Act, 12 Del. C. § 3801, et seq. (the “Act”), and has the trust power and authority under the Trust Instrument, Bylaws and the Act to (i) execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Plan and (ii) conduct its business as described in the Trust Instrument and Bylaws; |
| |
| (2) The Acquiring Fund has been duly established as a separate series of TRF under the Trust Instrument and Section 3806(b)(2) of the Act; |
| |
| (3) The shares of the Acquiring Fund to be issued as provided for by the Plan are duly authorized, and upon issuance will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable beneficial interests in the Acquiring Fund; |
| |
| (4) The execution and delivery of the Plan and the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby have been duly authorized by TRF under the Trust Instrument, the Bylaws and the Act; |
| |
| (5) Neither the execution, delivery and performance by TRF of the Plan, nor the consummation by TRF of the transactions contemplated thereby, violates (i) the Trust Instrument or Bylaws or (ii) any law, rule or regulation of the State of Delaware applicable to TRF; and |
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Appendix A
| (6) This Plan constitutes a legal, valid and binding agreement of TRF, enforceable against TRF, in accordance with its terms. |
In giving the opinion set forth above, Richards, Layton & Finger may state that it is relying on certificates of the officers of TRF with regard to matters of fact and may assume all conditions precedent set forth in this Plan have been satisfied and may include other customary assumptions and qualifications for opinions of this type, including without limitation, customary enforceability assumptions (including the effect of principles of equity, including principles of commercial reasonableness and good faith and fair dealing), that the trustees of TRF have complied with their fiduciary duties in approving this Plan, that the Reorganization is fair in all respects and that the execution and delivery of this Plan by TRF with respect to the Target Fund and the performance of its obligations thereunder are not inconsistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. In addition, such counsel need not express an opinion with respect to any provisions of this Plan that purport to obligate TRF to cause other persons or entities to take certain actions or act in a certain way insofar as such provision relates to the actions of such other persons or entities, any provisions of this Plan to the extent that such provisions purport to bind or limit the trustees of TRF in the exercise of their fiduciary duties or to bind parties not a signatory to this Plan.
(g) That the Registration Statement with respect to the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered to the Target Fund’s shareholders in accordance with this Plan shall have become effective, and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto, shall have been issued prior to the Closing Date, or shall be in effect at Closing, and no proceedings for the issuance of such an order shall be pending or threatened on that date.
(h) That the Acquiring Fund Shares to be delivered hereunder shall be eligible for sale by the Acquiring Fund with each state commission or agency with which such eligibility is required in order to permit the Acquiring Fund Shares lawfully to be delivered to each shareholder of the Target Fund.
9. Expenses.
(a) TRF represents and warrants that there are no broker or finders’ fees payable by it in connection with the transactions provided for herein.
(b) All costs incurred in entering into and carrying out the terms and conditions of this Plan, including (without limitation) outside legal counsel and independent registered public accounting firm costs, and costs incurred in connection with the printing and mailing of the relevant combined prospectus and proxy statement and related materials, and with the solicitation and tabulation of vote of Target Fund shareholders, shall be paid by Royce & Associates, LP.
(c) Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by a Fund in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Reorganization will be borne by that Fund and its shareholders, while brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Reorganization will be borne by the Acquiring Fund and its shareholders.
10. Termination; Postponement; Waiver; Order.
(a) Anything contained in this Plan to the contrary notwithstanding, this Plan may be terminated and abandoned at any time (whether before or after approval thereof by the shareholders of an Target Fund) prior to the Closing, or the Closing may be postponed by TRF on behalf of a Fund by resolution of the Board of Trustees of TRF if circumstances develop that, in the opinion of the Board, make proceeding with the Plan inadvisable.
(b) If the transactions contemplated by this Plan have not been consummated by December 31, 2019, the Plan shall automatically terminate on that date, unless a later date is agreed to by the officers of TRF on behalf of the Funds.
(c) In the event of termination of this Plan pursuant to the provisions hereof, the Plan shall become void and have no further effect with respect to the Acquiring Fund or Target Fund, and neither TRF, the Acquiring Fund nor the Target Fund, nor the trustees, officers, agents or shareholders shall have any liability in respect of this Plan.
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Appendix A
(d) At any time prior to the Closing, any of the terms or conditions of this Plan may be waived by the party who is entitled to the benefit thereof by action taken by TRF’s Board of Trustees if, in the judgment of such Board of Trustees, such action or waiver will not have a material adverse affect on the benefits intended under this Plan to its shareholders, on behalf of whom such action is taken.
(e) If any order or orders of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to this Plan shall be issued prior to the Closing and shall impose any terms or conditions that are determined by action of the Board of Trustees of TRF on behalf of the Funds to be acceptable, such terms and conditions shall be binding as if a part of this Plan without further vote or approval of the shareholders of the Target Fund, unless such terms and conditions shall result in a change in the method of computing the number of Acquiring Fund Shares to be issued the Target Fund, in which event, unless such terms and conditions shall have been included in the proxy solicitation material furnished to the shareholders of the Target Fund prior to the meeting at which the transactions contemplated by this Plan shall have been approved, this Plan shall not be consummated and shall terminate, unless TRF on behalf of the Target Fund shall call a special meeting of shareholders at which such conditions so imposed shall be submitted for approval.
11. Entire Plan and Amendments.
This Plan embodies the entire plan of TRF on behalf of the Funds, and there are no agreements, understandings, restrictions, or warranties between the parties other than those set forth or provided for herein. This Plan may be amended in writing only by TRF. Neither this Plan nor any interest herein may be assigned without the prior written consent of TRF on behalf of the Fund corresponding to the Fund making the assignment. For purposes of the Act, this Plan will be deemed part of the governing instrument (as defined in the Act) of TRF.
12. Notices.
Any notice, report, or demand required or permitted by any provision of this Plan shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given if delivered or mailed, first class postage prepaid, addressed to TRF at745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, Attention: Secretary.
13. Governing Law.
This Plan shall be governed by and carried out in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without regard to its conflict of laws principles.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Page Follows]
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Appendix A
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each party has executed this Plan by its duly authorized officers, all as of the date and year first written above.
| | | THE ROYCE FUND | |
| | | on behalf of the Acquiring Fund listed in Schedule A | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ John E. Denneen Attest: John E. Denneen, Secretary | | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark By: Christopher D. Clark Title: President | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | | THE ROYCE FUND | |
| | | on behalf of the Target Fund listed in Schedule A | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ John E. Denneen Attest: John E. Denneen, Secretary | | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark By: Christopher D. Clark Title: President | |
Agreed & Acknowledged
(as to Section 9(b) only)
ROYCE & ASSOCIATES, LP
/s/ Christopher D. Clark | |
By: Christopher D. Clark | |
Title: Chief Executive Officer |
A-8
Appendix A
Schedule A
Target Fund | Acquiring Fund |
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund, a series of The Royce Fund | Royce Opportunity Fund, a series of The Royce Fund |
A-9
|
| THE ROYCE FUND |
| ROYCE PENNSYLVANIA MUTUAL FUND |
ROYCE SMALL-CAP LEADERS FUND |
ROYCE SMALL/MID-CAP PREMIER FUND |
ROYCE MICRO-CAP FUND |
ROYCE LOW-PRICED STOCK FUND |
ROYCE OPPORTUNITY FUND |
ROYCE MICRO-CAP OPPORTUNITY FUND |
| PART B |
| |
| STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION |
| |
| April 1 , 2019 |
This Statement of Additional Information (the “Reorganization SAI”) relates to the proposed reorganizations (each, a “Reorganization” and collectively, the “Reorganizations”) referenced below:
Target Fund | Acquiring Fund | Name of Reorganization |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (“Small Cap Leaders”) | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (“Pennsylvania Mutual”) | Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (“Small/Mid-Cap Premier”) | Pennsylvania Mutual | Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization |
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (“Low-Priced Stock”) | Royce Micro-Cap Fund (“Micro-Cap”) | Low-Priced Stock Reorganization |
Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund (“Micro-Cap Opportunity”) | Royce Opportunity Fund (“Opportunity”) | Micro-Cap Opportunity Reorganization |
For ease of reference and clarity of presentation, we may sometimes refer to:
| • | | Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Low-Priced Stock, and Micro-Cap Opportunity individually as a “Target Fund” and collectively as the “Target Funds;” |
| | | |
| • | | Pennsylvania Mutual, Micro-Cap, and Opportunity individually as an “Acquiring Fund” and collectively as the “Acquiring Funds;” |
| | | |
| • | | Each Target Fund and each Acquiring Fund individually as a “Fund” and collectively as the “Funds”; and |
| | | |
| • | | the fund resulting from a Reorganization as the “Combined Fund.” |
S-1
Each Reorganization is separate from the other Reorganizations. Only shareholders of a Target Fund will vote in connection with the Reorganization involving that Target Fund. Shareholder approval of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect, shareholder approval of the other Reorganizations. Likewise, completion of one Reorganization is not contingent upon, and will not affect, completion of the other Reorganizations.
Each Fund is a separate series of The Royce Fund (the “Trust”). This Reorganization SAI contains information which may be of interest to shareholders of a Target Fund in connection with the relevant Reorganization, but which is not included in the relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement, dated April 1 , 2019 (each, a “Prospectus/Proxy Statement”). As described in the relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement, each Reorganization would involve the transfer of all of the assets of a Target Fund to the corresponding Acquiring Fund, in exchange for such Acquiring Fund’s assumption of all of the liabilities of that Target Fund, and the issuance by such Acquiring Fund to that Target Fund of shares of the corresponding Acquiring Fund with an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the Target Fund shares that are outstanding immediately prior to the relevant Reorganization. The Target Fund would, in turn, distribute such Acquiring Fund shares to its shareholders on a pro rata basis in complete liquidation of the Target Fund. Target Fund shareholders would receive the same class of Acquiring Fund shares as they held in that Target Fund.
This Reorganization SAI is not a prospectus, and should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus/Proxy Statement that addresses the Reorganization for any Target Fund in which you own shares. Each Prospectus/Proxy Statement has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and is available upon request and without charge by writing to the Trust, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10151, or by calling 1-800-221-4268.
Capitalized terms used in this Reorganization SAI and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
S-2
TABLE OF CONTENTS*
Additional Information About the Funds and Financial Statements | S-4 |
Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization | S-5 |
Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization | S-16 |
Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations | S-28 |
Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to Low-Priced Stock Reorganization | S-41 |
* As permitted by Item 14(2) of Form N-14, pro forma financial statements for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are not included in this Reorganization SAI because the aggregate net asset value of Micro-Cap Opportunity does not exceed ten percent of the aggregate net asset value of Opportunity as of the date hereof. |
S-3
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This Reorganization SAI incorporates by reference:
| • | | the Statement of Additional Information relating to each series of the Trust, including each Target Fund and the corresponding Acquiring Fund, dated May 1, 2018 and as amended and supplemented to date (the “SAI”), as filed on May 1, 2018 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) pursuant to Rule 497 under the Securities Act of 1933 (SEC Accession No. 0000949377-18-000143); and |
| | | |
| • | | the Annual Report to Shareholders of each series of the Trust, including each Target Fund and the corresponding Acquiring Fund, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 and dated February 28, 2019 (SEC Accession No. 0000949377-19-000033) as filed with the SEC (the “Annual Report”). |
The SAI and the Annual Report contain historical financial information regarding each Target Fund and the corresponding Acquiring Fund. The financial statements therein, and the reports of the independent registered public accounting firm named therein, are incorporated herein by reference.
Unaudited pro forma financial statements for Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, Pennsylvania Mutual, Low-Priced Stock, and Micro-Cap are provided on the following pages. Each unaudited pro forma schedule of investments and each unaudited pro forma statement of assets and liabilities for these Funds reflects financial positions as if the relevant Reorganization(s) had occurred on December 31, 2018. Each unaudited pro forma statement of operations for these Funds reflects expenses for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018. The pro forma financial statements for Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual give effect to: (i) the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization; (ii) the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization; and (iii) both the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations. The pro forma financial statements for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap give effect to the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization.
Each proposed Reorganization will be accounted for as a tax-free reorganization in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The historical cost basis of the investments of each Target Fund is carried over to the corresponding Combined Fund. None of the Target Funds currently expects to sell or otherwise dispose of any investments in a significant amount prior to the implementation of the relevant Reorganization, except pursuant to transactions made in the ordinary course of business or with respect to investments that are not freely transferable or are otherwise restricted.
As permitted by Item 14(2) of Form N-14, pro forma financial statements for Micro-Cap Opportunity and Opportunity are not included in this Reorganization SAI because the aggregate net asset value of Micro-Cap Opportunity does not exceed ten percent of the aggregate net asset value of Opportunity as of the date hereof.
S-4
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to
Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Proforma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| Common Stocks – 98.8% | | Common Stocks – 92.6% | | Common Stocks – 98.6% |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.4% | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 0.7% | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.4% | | |
| MEDIA - 1.4% | | | | MEDIA - 0.7% | | | | MEDIA - 1.4% | | |
| comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 | | comScore | – | – | | comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 |
| E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | – | – | | E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | 25,690 | 404,104 | | E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | 25,690 | 404,104 |
| Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C | – | – | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 |
| Meredith Corporation | 151,841 | 7,886,622 | | Meredith Corporation | – | – | | Meredith Corporation | 151,841 | 7,886,622 |
| Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 | | Saga Communications Cl. A | – | – | | Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 |
| Total (Cost $28,450,440) | | 22,680,941 | | Total (Cost $329,340) | | 404,104 | | Total (Cost $28,779,780) | | 23,085,045 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 7.7% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 11.0% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 7.8% |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 2.7% | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 4.7% | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 2.8% |
| Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 | | Cooper-Standard Holdings | – | – | | Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 |
| Dorman Products 1 | 118,473 | 10,664,940 | | Dorman Products | – | – | | Dorman Products 1 | 118,473 | 10,664,940 |
| Gentex Corporation | 295,805 | 5,978,219 | | Gentex Corporation | 21,234 | 429,139 | | Gentex Corporation | 317,039 | 6,407,358 |
| LCI Industries | 94,803 | 6,332,840 | | LCI Industries | 14,532 | 970,738 | | LCI Industries | 109,335 | 7,303,578 |
| Standard Motor Products | 106,756 | 5,170,193 | | Standard Motor Products | 6,100 | 295,423 | | Standard Motor Products | 112,856 | 5,465,616 |
| Stoneridge 1 | 220,093 | 5,425,293 | | Stoneridge 1 | 14,100 | 347,565 | | Stoneridge 1 | 234,193 | 5,772,858 |
| Visteon Corporation 1 | 54,397 | 3,279,051 | | Visteon Corporation 1 | 8,700 | 524,436 | | Visteon Corporation 1 | 63,097 | 3,803,487 |
| | 41,949,780 | | | 2,567,301 | | | 44,517,081 |
| AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.0% | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% |
| Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 | | Thor Industries | – | – | | Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 |
| Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 | | Winnebago Industries | – | – | | Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 |
| | 5,550,540 | | | – | | | 5,550,540 |
| DISTRIBUTORS - 0.4% | | DISTRIBUTORS - 0.0% | | DISTRIBUTORS - 0.4% |
| Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 | | Core-Mark Holding Company | – | – | | Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 |
| Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 | | Weyco Group | – | – | | Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 |
| | 7,163,533 | | | – | | | 7,163,533 |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 1.2% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% |
| Century Casinos | – | – | | Century Casinos 1 | 89,900 | 664,361 | | Century Casinos 1 | 89,900 | 664,361 |
| Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 | | Hilton Grand Vacations | – | – | | Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings | – | – | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 |
| Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 | | Red Lion Hotels | – | – | | Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 |
| | 12,188,681 | | | 664,361 | | | 12,853,042 |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.5% | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% |
| Ethan Allen Interiors | – | – | | Ethan Allen Interiors | 15,500 | 272,645 | | Ethan Allen Interiors | 15,500 | 272,645 |
| La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 | | La-Z-Boy | – | – | | La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 |
| | 3,359,034 | | | 272,645 | | | 3,631,679 |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% |
| Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 | | Etsy | – | – | | Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 |
| Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 |
| zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 | | zooplus | – | – | | zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 |
| | 6,441,169 | | | – | | | 6,441,169 |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.3% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 1.0% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.3% |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 161,714 | 3,024,052 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 29,000 | 542,300 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 190,714 | 3,566,352 |
| Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 | | Nautilus | – | – | | Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 |
| | 4,075,520 | | | 542,300 | | | 4,617,820 |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.3% | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.2% | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.3% |
| American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 | | American Eagle Outfitters | – | – | | American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 |
| America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 | | America's Car-Mart | – | – | | America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 |
| Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 | | Barnes & Noble | – | – | | Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 |
| Caleres | 58,769 | 1,635,541 | | Caleres | 27,400 | 762,542 | | Caleres | 86,169 | 2,398,083 |
| Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 |
| DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 | | DSW Cl. A | – | – | | DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 |
| Monro | 163,723 | 11,255,956 | | Monro | 6,700 | 460,625 | | Monro | 170,423 | 11,716,581 |
| Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 | | Shoe Carnival | – | – | | Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 |
| | 35,842,135 | | | 1,223,167 | | | 37,065,302 |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.3% | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 1.4% | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.3% |
| Movado Group | – | – | | Movado Group | 20,200 | 638,724 | | Movado Group | 20,200 | 638,724 |
| Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 | | Steven Madden | – | – | | Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 |
| Wolverine World Wide | 80,800 | 2,576,712 | | Wolverine World Wide | 5,000 | 159,450 | | Wolverine World Wide | 85,800 | 2,736,162 |
| | 4,356,182 | | | 798,174 | | | 5,154,356 |
| Total (Cost $86,379,191) | | 120,926,574 | | Total (Cost $5,240,632) | | 6,067,948 | | Total (Cost $91,619,823) | | 126,994,522 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.4% | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 4.9% | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.5% |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 2.3% | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.7% |
| Cal-Maine Foods | 53,112 | 2,246,638 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 8,158 | 345,084 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 61,270 | 2,591,722 |
| Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 | | Farmer Bros. | – | – | | Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 |
| Industrias Bachoco ADR | – | – | | Industrias Bachoco ADR | 7,700 | 304,612 | | Industrias Bachoco ADR | 7,700 | 304,612 |
| John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | – | – | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 |
| Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 | | Nomad Foods | – | – | | Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 | | Seneca Foods Cl. A | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 | | Seneca Foods Cl. B | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 |
| Tootsie Roll Industries | – | – | | Tootsie Roll Industries | 18,300 | 611,220 | | Tootsie Roll Industries | 18,300 | 611,220 |
| | 10,069,163 | | | 1,260,916 | | | 11,330,079 |
| PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.8% | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 2.6% | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.8% |
| Inter Parfums | 191,012 | 12,524,657 | | Inter Parfums | 22,130 | 1,451,064 | | Inter Parfums | 213,142 | 13,975,721 |
| Total (Cost $10,549,664) | | 22,593,820 | | Total (Cost $1,718,903) | | 2,711,980 | | Total (Cost $12,268,567) | | 25,305,800 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY – 3.8% | | | | ENERGY – 3.6% | | | | ENERGY – 3.8% | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.7% | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.6% | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.7% |
| Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 | | Era Group | – | – | | Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 |
| Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 | | Forum Energy Technologies | – | – | | Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 |
| Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 | | Helmerich & Payne | – | – | | Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 |
| Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 | | Natural Gas Services Group | – | – | | Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 |
| Oil States International | – | – | | Oil States International 1 | 23,440 | 334,723 | | Oil States International 1 | 23,440 | 334,723 |
| Pason Systems | 1,040,509 | 13,940,016 | | Pason Systems | 69,340 | 928,969 | | Pason Systems | 1,109,849 | 14,868,985 |
| RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 | | RPC | – | – | | RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 |
| SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 | | SEACOR Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 |
| TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 335,320 | 8,097,475 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 29,550 | 713,588 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 364,870 | 8,811,063 |
| Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 | | Unit Corporation | – | – | | Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 |
| | 59,194,481 | | | 1,977,280 | | | 61,171,761 |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.1% | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.0% | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.1% |
| San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | 868,814 | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | – | – | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | 868,814 |
| Total (Cost $54,788,424) | | 60,063,295 | | Total (Cost $1,573,314) | | 1,977,280 | | Total (Cost $56,361,738) | | 62,040,575 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
S-5
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Proforma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| FINANCIALS – 16.7% | | | | FINANCIALS – 13.5% | | | | FINANCIALS – 16.6% | | |
| BANKS - 5.3% | | | | BANKS - 0.0% | | | | BANKS - 5.1% | | |
| Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 | | Ames National | – | – | | Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 |
| Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | – | – | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 |
| BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 | | BOK Financial | – | – | | BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 |
| Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 | | Camden National | – | – | | Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 |
| City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 | | City Holding Company | – | – | | City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 |
| CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 | | CNB Financial | – | – | | CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 |
| Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 | | Financial Institutions | – | – | | Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 |
| First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | – | – | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 |
| Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 | | Landmark Bancorp | – | – | | Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 |
| MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 | | MidWestOne Financial Group | – | – | | MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 |
| National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 | | National Bankshares | – | – | | National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 |
| Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 | | Northrim BanCorp | – | – | | Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 |
| Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 | | Popular | – | – | | Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 |
| TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 | | TriState Capital Holdings | – | – | | TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 |
| Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 | | Unity Bancorp | – | – | | Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 |
| Webster Financial | 223,305 | 11,006,704 | | Webster Financial | – | – | | Webster Financial | 223,305 | 11,006,704 |
| | 83,539,205 | | | – | | | 83,539,205 |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.3% | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 7.2% | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.4% |
| Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 | | Ares Management | – | – | | Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 |
| Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 256,133 | 5,663,101 | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 56,400 | 1,247,004 | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 312,533 | 6,910,105 |
| B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 | | B. Riley Financial | – | – | | B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 |
| Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 | | Cohen & Steers | – | – | | Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 |
| Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | – | – | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 |
| Federated Investors Cl. B | – | – | | Federated Investors Cl. B | 13,660 | 362,673 | | Federated Investors Cl. B | 13,660 | 362,673 |
| Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 310,119 | 11,412,379 | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 36,200 | 1,332,160 | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 346,319 | 12,744,539 |
| Lazard Cl. A | 156,565 | 5,778,814 | | Lazard Cl. A | 28,470 | 1,050,827 | | Lazard Cl. A | 185,035 | 6,829,641 |
| Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | – | – | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 |
| Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 | | Morningstar | – | – | | Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 |
| Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 214,946 | 8,544,104 | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | – | – | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 214,946 | 8,544,104 |
| Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | – | – | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 |
| Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 | | Reinet Investments DR | – | – | | Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 |
| Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 | | Rothschild & Co | – | – | | Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 |
| SEI Investments | 154,476 | 7,136,791 | | SEI Investments | – | – | | SEI Investments | 154,476 | 7,136,791 |
| Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 | | Sprott | – | – | | Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 |
| Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | – | – | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 |
| Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 | | Westwood Holdings Group | – | – | | Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 |
| | 99,667,229 | | | 3,992,664 | | | 103,659,893 |
| INSURANCE - 3.0% | | | | INSURANCE - 3.2% | | | | INSURANCE - 3.0% | | |
| Ambac Financial Group 1 | 38,442 | 662,740 | | Ambac Financial Group | – | – | | Ambac Financial Group1 | 38,442 | 662,740 |
| E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 | | E-L Financial | – | – | | E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 |
| James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 | | James River Group Holdings | – | – | | James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 |
| Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 | | Kingstone Companies | – | – | | Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 |
| MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 | | MBIA | – | – | | MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 |
| ProAssurance Corporation | 261,613 | 10,611,023 | | ProAssurance Corporation | 16,500 | 669,240 | | ProAssurance Corporation | 278,113 | 11,280,263 |
| RLI Corp. | 65,108 | 4,491,801 | | RLI Corp. | 15,900 | 1,096,941 | | RLI Corp. | 81,008 | 5,588,742 |
| Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 | | Trupanion | – | – | | Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 |
| | 47,874,153 | | | 1,766,181 | | | 49,640,334 |
| INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.0% | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% |
| Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) | – | – | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 |
| THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.0% | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 3.1% | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.0% |
| Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 | | Axos Financial | – | – | | Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 |
| Genworth MI Canada | 552,769 | 16,276,966 | | Genworth MI Canada | 58,760 | 1,730,261 | | Genworth MI Canada | 611,529 | 18,007,227 |
| Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | – | – | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 |
| Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 | | Timberland Bancorp | – | – | | Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 |
| TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | – | – | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 |
| WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 | | WSFS Financial | – | – | | WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 |
| | 31,635,285 | | | 1,730,261 | | | 33,365,546 |
| Total (Cost $234,801,491) | | 264,531,850 | | Total (Cost $6,300,570) | | 7,489,106 | | Total (Cost $241,102,061) | | 272,020,956 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE – 7.2% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 3.3% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 7.1% | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.1% | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% |
| AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 |
| Eagle Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Eagle Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 1,700 | 68,493 | | Eagle Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 1,700 | 68,493 |
| Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 |
| Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 | | Zealand Pharma | – | – | | Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 |
| | 3,711,701 | | | 68,493 | | | 3,780,194 |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 2.0% | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 0.8% | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 2.0% |
| AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 | | AtriCure | – | – | | AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 |
| Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 | | Atrion Corporation | – | – | | Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 |
| Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 | | Cardiovascular Systems | – | – | | Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 |
| CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 | | CryoLife | – | – | | CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 |
| Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 | | Hill-Rom Holdings | – | – | | Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 |
| Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 118,832 | 1,859,721 | | Lantheus Holdings 1 | 27,100 | 424,115 | | Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 145,932 | 2,283,836 |
| LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 | | LeMaitre Vascular | – | – | | LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 |
| Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 | | Merit Medical Systems | – | – | | Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 |
| | 31,849,956 | | | 424,115 | | | 32,274,071 |
| HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.4% | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 0.7% | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.3% |
| AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 93,330 | 5,288,078 | | AMN Healthcare Services 1 | 7,000 | 396,620 | | AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 100,330 | 5,684,698 |
| Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 | | Encompass Health | – | – | | Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 |
| Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 | | Ensign Group (The) | – | – | | Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 |
| HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 | | HealthEquity | – | – | | HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 |
| National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 | | National Research | – | – | | National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 |
| Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 | | Tivity Health | – | – | | Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 |
| U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 | | U.S. Physical Therapy | – | – | | U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 |
| | 37,494,550 | | | 396,620 | | | 37,891,170 |
| HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 1.0% | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 1.0% |
| Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 | | Medidata Solutions | – | – | | Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.7% | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% |
| Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 25,953 | 6,026,806 | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 25,953 | 6,026,806 |
| Bio-Techne | 79,397 | 11,490,334 | | Bio-Techne | 6,394 | 925,340 | | Bio-Techne | 85,791 | 12,415,674 |
| ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 | | ICON | – | – | | ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 |
| NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 | | NeoGenomics | – | – | | NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 |
| Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 | | Quanterix Corporation | – | – | | Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 |
| | 25,192,941 | | | 925,340 | | | 26,118,281 |
| Total (Cost $63,419,874) | | 113,800,987 | | Total (Cost $1,201,865) | | 1,814,568 | | Total (Cost $64,621,739) | | 115,615,555 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 26.9% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 28.9% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 26.9% | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.9% | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 0.0% | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.8% |
| HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 | | HEICO Corporation | – | – | | HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 |
| HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | – | – | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 |
| Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 | | Magellan Aerospace | – | – | | Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 |
| | 29,978,024 | | | – | | | 29,978,024 |
S-6
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Proforma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.8% | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.0% | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.8% |
| Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 | | Forward Air | – | – | | Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 |
| Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 | | Hub Group Cl. A | – | – | | Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 |
| | 12,842,403 | | | – | | | 12,842,403 |
| AIRLINES - 0.6% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.0% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.6% | | |
| Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 | | Allegiant Travel | – | – | | Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 |
| Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 | | Hawaiian Holdings | – | – | | Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 |
| Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 | | Spirit Airlines | – | – | | Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 |
| | 9,742,341 | | | – | | | 9,742,341 |
| BUILDING PRODUCTS - 0.9% | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 3.2% | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 1.0% |
| Apogee Enterprises | 210,137 | 6,272,589 | | Apogee Enterprises | 23,100 | 689,535 | | Apogee Enterprises | 233,237 | 6,962,124 |
| Gibraltar Industries 1 | 144,789 | 5,153,041 | | Gibraltar Industries 1 | 23,100 | 822,129 | | Gibraltar Industries 1 | 167,889 | 5,975,170 |
| Simpson Manufacturing | 53,000 | 2,868,890 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 4,820 | 260,906 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 57,820 | 3,129,796 |
| | 14,294,520 | | | 1,772,570 | | | 16,067,090 |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.2% | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 4.1% | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.2% |
| Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 | | Healthcare Services Group | – | – | | Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean | – | – | | Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 |
| Kimball International Cl. B | 483,857 | 6,865,931 | | Kimball International Cl. B | 44,230 | 627,624 | | Kimball International Cl. B | 528,087 | 7,493,555 |
| Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 | | Mobile Mini | – | – | | Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 |
| PICO Holdings 1 | 326,703 | 2,986,065 | | PICO Holdings 1 | 33,900 | 309,846 | | PICO Holdings 1 | 360,603 | 3,295,911 |
| Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 39,233 | 1,283,704 | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 6,700 | 219,224 | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 45,933 | 1,502,928 |
| Steelcase Cl. A | – | – | | Steelcase Cl. A | 18,800 | 278,804 | | Steelcase Cl. A | 18,800 | 278,804 |
| Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 | | Team | – | – | | Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 |
| UniFirst Corporation | 31,208 | 4,464,929 | | UniFirst Corporation | 5,600 | 801,192 | | UniFirst Corporation | 36,808 | 5,266,121 |
| Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 | | Viad Corporation | – | – | | Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 |
| | 34,092,519 | | | 2,236,690 | | | 36,329,209 |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 2.1% | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 4.7% | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 2.2% |
| Arcosa 1 | 395,838 | 10,960,754 | | Arcosa 1 | 35,500 | 982,995 | | Arcosa 1 | 431,338 | 11,943,749 |
| Comfort Systems USA | – | – | | Comfort Systems USA | 7,900 | 345,072 | | Comfort Systems USA | 7,900 | 345,072 |
| KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 | | KBR | – | – | | KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 |
| Sterling Construction | – | – | | Sterling Construction 1 | 60,500 | 658,845 | | Sterling Construction 1 | 60,500 | 658,845 |
| Valmont Industries | 132,101 | 14,656,606 | | Valmont Industries | 5,495 | 609,670 | | Valmont Industries | 137,596 | 15,266,276 |
| | 32,759,383 | | | 2,596,582 | | | 35,355,965 |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.3% | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.0% | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.3% |
| Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 | | Encore Wire | – | – | | Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 |
| EnerSys | – | – | | EnerSys | 7,300 | 566,553 | | EnerSys | 7,300 | 566,553 |
| Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 | | Preformed Line Products | – | – | | Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 |
| | 19,920,451 | | | 566,553 | | | 20,487,004 |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.3% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.0% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.2% |
| Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 | | Raven Industries | – | – | | Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 |
| MACHINERY - 9.5% | | | | MACHINERY - 12.3% | | | | MACHINERY - 9.7% | | |
| Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 | | Alamo Group | – | – | | Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 |
| CIRCOR International 1 | 344,615 | 7,340,299 | | CIRCOR International 1 | 28,620 | 609,606 | | CIRCOR International 1 | 373,235 | 7,949,905 |
| Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 | | Colfax Corporation | – | – | | Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 |
| Franklin Electric | 225,023 | 9,648,986 | | Franklin Electric | – | – | | Franklin Electric | 225,023 | 9,648,986 |
| Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 | | Graco | – | – | | Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 |
| Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 | | Graham Corporation | – | – | | Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 |
| Greenbrier Companies (The) | 85,446 | 3,378,535 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 33,600 | 1,328,544 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 119,046 | 4,707,079 |
| John Bean Technologies | 134,682 | 9,671,514 | | John Bean Technologies | 13,099 | 940,639 | | John Bean Technologies | 147,781 | 10,612,153 |
| Kadant | 114,206 | 9,303,221 | | Kadant | 13,060 | 1,063,868 | | Kadant | 127,266 | 10,367,089 |
| Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 | | Kornit Digital | – | – | | Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 |
| Lincoln Electric Holdings | 112,290 | 8,854,066 | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | – | – | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | 112,290 | 8,854,066 |
| Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 | | Lindsay Corporation | – | – | | Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 |
| Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 | | Lydall | – | – | | Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 |
| Meritor 1 | 681,049 | 11,516,539 | | Meritor 1 | 93,300 | 1,577,703 | | Meritor 1 | 774,349 | 13,094,242 |
| Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 | | Miller Industries | – | – | | Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 |
| Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 | | Nordson Corporation | – | – | | Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 |
| RBC Bearings 1 | 60,338 | 7,910,312 | | RBC Bearings 1 | 980 | 128,478 | | RBC Bearings 1 | 61,318 | 8,038,790 |
| Sun Hydraulics | 619,964 | 20,576,605 | | Sun Hydraulics | 10,500 | 348,495 | | Sun Hydraulics | 630,464 | 20,925,100 |
| Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 | | Tennant Company | – | – | | Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 |
| Wabash National | 627,668 | 8,209,897 | | Wabash National | 59,800 | 782,184 | | Wabash National | 687,468 | 8,992,081 |
| | 150,448,666 | | | 6,779,517 | | | 157,228,183 |
| MARINE - 1.2% | | | | MARINE - 0.0% | | | | MARINE - 1.1% | | |
| Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 | | Clarkson | – | – | | Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 |
| Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 | | Eagle Bulk Shipping | – | – | | Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 |
| Kirby Corporation 1 | 112,933 | 7,607,167 | | Kirby Corporation | – | – | | Kirby Corporation 1 | 112,933 | 7,607,167 |
| | 18,705,256 | | | – | | | 18,705,256 |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.7% | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 0.9% | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.7% |
| Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 | | Exponent | – | – | | Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 |
| GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 | | GP Strategies | – | – | | GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 |
| Heidrick & Struggles International | 125,928 | 3,927,694 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 16,300 | 508,397 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 142,228 | 4,436,091 |
| Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 | | Kforce | – | – | | Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 |
| Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 | | Korn Ferry | – | – | | Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 |
| ManpowerGroup | 76,110 | 4,931,928 | | ManpowerGroup | – | – | | ManpowerGroup | 76,110 | 4,931,928 |
| Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 | | Resources Connection | – | – | | Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 |
| TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 | | TrueBlue | – | – | | TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 |
| | 27,598,669 | | | 508,397 | | | 28,107,066 |
| ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 2.7% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | |
| Landstar System | 156,307 | 14,953,891 | | Landstar System | 9,620 | 920,346 | | Landstar System | 165,927 | 15,874,237 |
| Saia 1 | 63,017 | 3,517,609 | | Saia 1 | 10,220 | 570,480 | | Saia 1 | 73,237 | 4,088,089 |
| Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 | | Universal Logistics Holdings | – | – | | Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 |
| Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 | | Werner Enterprises | – | – | | Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 |
| | 28,218,846 | | | 1,490,826 | | | 29,709,672 |
| TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.6% | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 0.0% | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.5% |
| Air Lease Cl. A | 466,067 | 14,079,884 | | Air Lease Cl. A | – | – | | Air Lease Cl. A | 466,067 | 14,079,884 |
| Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 | | Applied Industrial Technologies | – | – | | Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 |
| Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 | | Richelieu Hardware | – | – | | Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 |
| | 25,074,744 | | | – | | | 25,074,744 |
| Total (Cost $301,389,787) | | 424,090,963 | | Total (Cost $15,981,230) | | 15,951,135 | | Total (Cost $317,371,017) | | 440,042,098 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
S-7
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Proforma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 21.0% | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 17.7% | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 20.9% |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.7% | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% |
| ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 | | ADTRAN | – | – | | ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 |
| Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 | | Digi International | – | – | | Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 |
| NetScout Systems | – | – | | NetScout Systems 1,2 | 17,200 | 406,436 | | NetScout Systems 1,2 | 17,200 | 406,436 |
| | 3,584,693 | | | 406,436 | | | 3,991,129 |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 11.2% | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 7.2% | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 11.1% |
| Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 | | Badger Meter | – | – | | Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 |
| Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 | | Benchmark Electronics | – | – | | Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 |
| Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 | | Celestica | – | – | | Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 |
| Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 | | Cognex Corporation | – | – | | Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 |
| Coherent 1 | 51,018 | 5,393,113 | | Coherent 1 | 5,300 | 560,263 | | Coherent 1 | 56,318 | 5,953,376 |
| Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 |
| Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 140,993 | 4,224,150 | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 11,500 | 344,540 | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 152,493 | 4,568,690 |
| Fabrinet 1 | 156,170 | 8,013,083 | | Fabrinet 1 | 5,400 | 277,074 | | Fabrinet 1 | 161,570 | 8,290,157 |
| FARO Technologies 1 | 299,843 | 12,185,620 | | FARO Technologies 1 | 9,260 | 376,326 | | FARO Technologies 1 | 309,103 | 12,561,946 |
| FLIR Systems | 756,241 | 32,926,733 | | FLIR Systems | – | – | | FLIR Systems | 756,241 | 32,926,733 |
| HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 | | HollySys Automation Technologies | – | – | | HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 |
| Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 | | Insight Enterprises | – | – | | Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 |
| IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 | | IPG Photonics | – | – | | IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 |
| Kimball Electronics 1 | 182,454 | 2,826,212 | | Kimball Electronics 1 | 58,456 | 905,484 | | Kimball Electronics 1 | 240,910 | 3,731,696 |
| Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 | | Mesa Laboratories | – | – | | Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 |
| Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 | | Methode Electronics | – | – | | Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 |
| MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 | | MTS Systems | – | – | | MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 |
| National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 | | National Instruments | – | – | | National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 |
| nLIGHT 1,2 | 483,043 | 8,588,505 | | nLIGHT 1 | 25,500 | 453,390 | | nLIGHT 1,2 | 508,543 | 9,041,895 |
| PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 | | PC Connection | – | – | | PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 |
| Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 | | Richardson Electronics | – | – | | Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 |
| Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 | | Sanmina Corporation | – | – | | Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 |
| Vishay Intertechnology | 420,445 | 7,572,214 | | Vishay Intertechnology | 31,700 | 570,917 | | Vishay Intertechnology | 452,145 | 8,143,131 |
| Vishay Precision Group | – | – | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 16,100 | 486,703 | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 16,100 | 486,703 |
| | 176,902,483 | | | 3,974,697 | | | 180,877,180 |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.2% | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 7.7% | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.3% |
| Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 234,360 | 10,061,075 | | Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 20,800 | 892,944 | | Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 255,160 | 10,954,019 |
| Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 | | Brooks Automation | – | – | | Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 |
| Cabot Microelectronics | 97,841 | 9,329,139 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 5,636 | 537,393 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 103,477 | 9,866,532 |
| Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 | | Cirrus Logic | – | – | | Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 |
| Cohu | 260,085 | 4,179,566 | | Cohu | 38,260 | 614,838 | | Cohu | 298,345 | 4,794,404 |
| Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 | | Diodes | – | – | | Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 |
| Entegris | 241,599 | 6,739,404 | | Entegris | – | – | | Entegris | 241,599 | 6,739,404 |
| FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 | | FormFactor | – | – | | FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 |
| Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 529,268 | 10,728,262 | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 22,400 | 454,048 | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 551,668 | 11,182,310 |
| MKS Instruments | 213,092 | 13,767,874 | | MKS Instruments | 5,645 | 364,723 | | MKS Instruments | 218,737 | 14,132,597 |
| Nanometrics 1 | 65,370 | 1,786,562 | | Nanometrics 1 | 14,838 | 405,523 | | Nanometrics 1 | 80,208 | 2,192,085 |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 48,304 | 1,100,365 | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1 | 16,400 | 373,592 | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 64,704 | 1,473,957 |
| Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 | | Photronics | – | – | | Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 |
| Rudolph Technologies | – | – | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 8,100 | 165,807 | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 8,100 | 165,807 |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 146,739 | 5,062,496 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 12,200 | 420,900 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 158,939 | 5,483,396 |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 | | Ultra Clean Holdings | – | – | | Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 |
| Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 | | Versum Materials | – | – | | Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 |
| | 98,147,192 | | | 4,229,768 | | | 102,376,960 |
| SOFTWARE - 3.2% | | | | SOFTWARE - 2.1% | | | | SOFTWARE - 3.1% | | |
| ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 | | ACI Worldwide | – | – | | ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 |
| Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 | | Altair Engineering Cl. A | – | – | | Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 |
| Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 | | Amber Road | – | – | | Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 |
| Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 | | Box Cl. A | – | – | | Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 |
| Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 | | Descartes Systems Group (The) | – | – | | Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 |
| Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 | | Everbridge | – | – | | Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 |
| Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 | | Fair Isaac | – | – | | Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 |
| Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 | | Five9 | – | – | | Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 |
| j2 Global | 63,369 | 4,396,541 | | j2 Global | 16,724 | 1,160,311 | | j2 Global | 80,093 | 5,556,852 |
| Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 | | Manhattan Associates | – | – | | Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 |
| QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 | | QAD Cl. A | – | – | | QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 |
| Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 | | Qualys | – | – | | Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 |
| TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 | | TiVo | – | – | | TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 |
| Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 | | Upland Software | – | – | | Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 |
| Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 | | Varonis Systems | – | – | | Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 |
| | 49,904,350 | | | 1,160,311 | | | 51,064,661 |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.0% | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% |
| Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 | | Cray | – | – | | Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 |
| Total (Cost $261,411,950) | | 331,209,444 | | Total (Cost $9,300,886) | | 9,771,212 | | Total (Cost $270,712,836) | | 340,980,656 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 9.4% | | | | MATERIALS – 3.7% | | | | MATERIALS – 9.2% | | |
| CHEMICALS - 5.1% | | | | CHEMICALS - 2.5% | | | | CHEMICALS - 5.0% | | |
| Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 | | Balchem Corporation | – | – | | Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 |
| Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 | | Chase Corporation | – | – | | Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 |
| FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 | | FutureFuel Corporation | – | – | | FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 |
| Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 | | Ingevity Corporation | – | – | | Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 |
| Innospec | 81,901 | 5,058,206 | | Innospec | – | – | | Innospec | 81,901 | 5,058,206 |
| Minerals Technologies | 233,415 | 11,983,526 | | Minerals Technologies | 26,856 | 1,378,787 | | Minerals Technologies | 260,271 | 13,362,313 |
| Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 | | Platform Specialty Products | – | – | | Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 |
| Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 | | Quaker Chemical | – | – | | Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 |
| | 80,436,469 | | | 1,378,787 | | | 81,815,256 |
| CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.0% | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% |
| Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 | | Imerys | – | – | | Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 |
| CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.0% | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% |
| AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 | | AptarGroup | – | – | | AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 |
| METALS & MINING - 2.5% | | METALS & MINING - 0.0% | | METALS & MINING - 2.4% |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | – | – | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 |
| Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 | | Commercial Metals | – | – | | Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 |
| Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | – | – | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 |
| Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 | | Haynes International | – | – | | Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 |
| Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 | | Hecla Mining | – | – | | Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 |
| IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 | | IAMGOLD Corporation | – | – | | IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 | | Major Drilling Group International | – | – | | Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 |
| Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 | | Pretium Resources | – | – | | Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 |
| Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 141,198 | 10,049,061 | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | – | – | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 141,198 | 10,049,061 |
| Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 | | Worthington Industries | – | – | | Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 |
| | 39,852,222 | | | – | | | 39,852,222 |
S-8
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Proforma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.2% | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.1% |
| Stella-Jones | 569,501 | 16,523,539 | | Stella-Jones | 22,400 | 649,915 | | Stella-Jones | 591,901 | 17,173,454 |
| Total (Cost $98,074,631) | | 148,090,400 | | Total (Cost $2,114,802) | | 2,028,702 | | Total (Cost $100,189,433) | | 150,119,102 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| REAL ESTATE – 3.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 5.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 3.4% | | |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.3% | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 5.3% | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.4% |
| FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 | | FRP Holdings | – | – | | FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 |
| Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 543,368 | 9,872,996 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 66,100 | 1,201,037 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 609,468 | 11,074,033 |
| Marcus & Millichap 1 | 432,786 | 14,857,543 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 50,110 | 1,720,276 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 482,896 | 16,577,819 |
| St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 | | St. Joe Company (The) | – | – | | St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 |
| Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 | | Tejon Ranch | – | – | | Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 |
| Total (Cost $49,470,265) | | 52,745,973 | | Total (Cost $2,358,285) | | 2,921,313 | | Total (Cost $51,828,550) | | 55,667,286 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS |
| (Cost $1,188,735,717) | | 1,560,734,247 | | (Cost $46,119,827) | | 51,137,348 | | (Cost $1,234,855,544) | | 1,611,871,595 |
| | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 0.0% | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 8.2% | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 0.3% |
| (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $4,528,000) | | 4,528,000 | | (Cost $4,528,000) | | 4,528,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.7% | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.0% | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.7% |
| Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | |
| Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | |
| (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 | | (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.5% | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 100.8% | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.6% |
| (Cost $1,199,883,579) | | 1,571,882,109 | | (Cost $50,647,827) | | 55,665,348 | | (Cost $1,250,531,406) | | 1,627,547,457 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.5% | 7,202,053 | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (0.8)% | (429,455) | | CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.4% | 6,670,5733 |
| | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,579,084,162 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 55,235,893 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,634,218,030 |
1 Non-income producing.
2 All or a portion of these securities were on loan at December 31, 2018.
3 Includes adjustment for estimated reorganization expenses of $102,025.
S-9
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to
Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund as of December 31, 2018
| | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Adjustments | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments at value (including collateral on loaned securities)1 | | | $ | 1,571,882,109 | | | | $ | 51,137,348 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,623,019,457 | |
Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | | - | | | | | 4,528,000 | | | | - | | | | | 4,528,000 | |
Cash and foreign currency | | | | - | | | | | 8,755 | | | | - | | | | | 8,755 | |
Receivable for investments sold | | | | 35,664,664 | | | | | 100,603 | | | | - | | | | | 35,765,267 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | | | | 3,748,303 | | | | | 256,382 | | | | - | | | | | 4,004,685 | |
Receivable for dividends and interest | | | | 1,677,332 | | | | | 52,286 | | | | - | | | | | 1,729,618 | |
Receivable for securities lending income | | | | 11,710 | | | | | 61 | | | | - | | | | | 11,771 | |
Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | | 2,866,330 | | | | | 243 | | | | - | | | | | 2,866,573 | |
Total Assets | | | | 1,615,850,448 | | | | | 56,083,678 | | | | - | | | | | 1,671,934,126 | |
LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Payable for collateral on loaned securities | | | | 11,147,862 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 11,147,862 | |
Payable to custodian for cash and foreign currency overdrawn | | | | 8,606,852 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 8,606,852 | |
Payable for investments purchased | | | | 765,641 | | | | | 131,165 | | | | - | | | | | 896,806 | |
Payable for capital shares redeemed | | | | 14,174,992 | | | | | 566,309 | | | | - | | | | | 14,741,301 | |
Payable for investment advisory fees | | | | 1,091,736 | | | | | 48,088 | | | | - | | | | | 1,139,824 | |
Payable for trustees’ fees | | | | 72,466 | | | | | 3,088 | | | | - | | | | | 75,554 | |
Accrued expenses | | | | 906,737 | | | | | 99,135 | | | | 102,025 | 2 | | | | 1,107,897 | |
Total Liabilities | | | | 36,766,286 | | | | | 847,785 | | | | 102,025 | | | | | 37,716,096 | |
Net Assets | | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | | $ | 55,235,893 | | | $ | (102,025 | ) | | | $ | 1,634,218,030 | |
ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | | $ | 1,185,801,399 | | | | $ | 50,224,482 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,236,025,881 | |
Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | | 393,282,763 | | | | | 5,011,411 | | | | (102,025 | )2 | | | | 398,192,149 | |
Net Assets | | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | | $ | 55,235,893 | | | $ | (102,025 | ) | | | $ | 1,634,218,030 | |
Investment Class | | | $ | 1,203,966,585 | | | | $ | 28,041,820 | | | $ | (56,521 | )2 | | | | 1,231,951,884 | |
Service Class | | | | 32,191,197 | | | | | 27,194,073 | | | | (41,475 | )2 | | | | 59,343,795 | |
Consultant Class | | | | 249,004,314 | | | | | | | | | (2,925 | )2 | | | | 249,001,389 | |
Institutional Class | | | | 83,908,171 | | | | | | | | | (986 | )2 | | | | 83,907,185 | |
R Class | | | | 10,013,895 | | | | | | | | | (118 | )2 | | | | 10,013,777 | |
SHARES OUTSTANDING (unlimited number of $.001 par value): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class | | | | 155,276,838 | | | | | 5,946,340 | | | | 3,618,299 | 3 | | | | 158,895,137 | |
Service Class | | | | 4,144,325 | | | | | 5,828,474 | | | | 3,499,881 | 3 | | | | 7,644,206 | |
Consultant Class | | | | 40,285,369 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 40,285,369 | |
Institutional Class | | | | 10,787,665 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 10,787,665 | |
R Class | | | | 1,372,678 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 1,372,678 | |
NET ASSET VALUES (Net Assets ÷ Shares Outstanding): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class4 | | | $ | 7.75 | | | | $ | 4.72 | | | | | | | | $ | 7.75 | |
Service Class4 | | | | 7.77 | | | | | 4.67 | | | | | | | | | 7.76 | |
Consultant Class5 | | | | 6.18 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 6.18 | |
Institutional Class6 | | | | 7.78 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7.78 | |
R Class6 | | | | 7.30 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7.30 | |
Investments at identified cost | | | $ | 1,199,883,579 | | | | $ | 46,119,827 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,246,003,406 | |
Market value of loaned securities7 | | | | 31,228,766 | | | | | 444,361 | | | | | | | | | 31,673,127 | |
1 | | See Notes to Financial Statements for information on non-cash collateral on loaned securities. |
2 | | Adjustment for estimated expenses of reorganization. |
3 | | Reflects the change in shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund after giving effect to the distribution of shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund to Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
4 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 30 days may be subject to a 1% redemption fee, payable to the Fund. |
5 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 365 days may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge, payable to Royce Fund Services, LLC. |
6 | | Offering and redemption price per share. |
7 | | Market value of loaned securities backed by non-cash collateral is as of prior business day. |
S-10
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to
Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund as of December 31, 2018
INVESTMENT INCOME: | | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Adjustments1 | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
INCOME: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Non-Affiliated Companies | | | $ | 24,581,018 | | | | $ | 1,119,815 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 25,700,833 | |
Affiliated Companies | | | | 195,483 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 195,483 | |
Foreign withholding tax | | | | (510,433 | ) | | | | (35,959 | ) | | | - | | | | | (546,392 | ) |
Interest | | | | 454,825 | | | | | 23,178 | | | | - | | | | | 478,003 | |
Securities lending | | | | 614,664 | | | | | 22,557 | | | | - | | | | | 637,221 | |
Total income | | | | 25,335,557 | | | | | 1,129,591 | | | | - | | | | | 26,465,148 | |
EXPENSES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment advisory fees | | | | 15,435,767 | | | | | 775,395 | | | | (184,887 | ) | | | | 16,026,275 | |
Distribution fees | | | | 3,572,101 | | | | | 91,548 | | | | - | | | | | 3,663,649 | |
Shareholder servicing | | | | 1,663,556 | | | | | 96,314 | | | | (19,560 | ) | | | | 1,740,310 | |
Administrative and office facilities | | | | 627,420 | | | | | 31,548 | | | | - | | | | | 658,968 | |
Registration | | | | 80,023 | | | | | 33,599 | | | | (28,491 | ) | | | | 85,131 | |
Custody | | | | 202,428 | | | | | 21,301 | | | | (7,300 | ) | | | | 216,429 | |
Audit | | | | 50,331 | | | | | 27,908 | | | | (27,739 | ) | | | | 50,500 | |
Shareholder reports | | | | 343,820 | | | | | 24,632 | | | | - | | | | | 368,452 | |
Trustees’ fees | | | | 261,106 | | | | | 10,226 | | | | - | | | | | 271,332 | |
Legal | | | | 64,480 | | | | | 2,478 | | | | - | | | | | 66,958 | |
Other expenses | | | | 132,011 | | | | | 6,769 | | | | (1,025 | ) | | | | 137,755 | |
Total expenses | | | | 22,433,043 | | | | | 1,121,718 | | | | (269,002 | ) | | | | 23,285,759 | |
Compensating balance credits | | | | (36,699 | ) | | | | (1,463 | ) | | | - | | | | | (38,162 | ) |
Fees waived by distributor | | | | - | | | | | (1,825 | ) | | | 1,825 | | | | | - | |
Expenses reimbursed by investment adviser | | | | (1,418 | ) | | | | (64,890 | ) | | | 59,216 | | | | | (7,092 | ) |
Net expenses | | | | 22,394,926 | | | | | 1,053,540 | | | | (207,961 | ) | | | | 23,240,505 | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | | 2,940,631 | | | | | 76,051 | | | | 207,961 | | | | | 3,224,643 | |
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | | 299,645,876 | | | | | 7,451,138 | | | | - | | | | | 307,097,014 | |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | | 1,101,984 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 1,101,984 | |
Foreign currency transactions | | | | (14,653 | ) | | | | (5,013 | ) | | | - | | | | | (19,666 | ) |
NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | | (471,384,762 | ) | | | | (15,563,033 | ) | | | - | | | | | (486,947,795 | ) |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | | (4,976,463 | ) | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | (4,976,463 | ) |
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | | (3,419 | ) | | | | (248 | ) | | | - | | | | | (3,667 | ) |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | | (175,631,437 | ) | | | | (8,117,156 | ) | | | - | | | | | (183,748,593 | ) |
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | | $ | (172,690,806 | ) | | | $ | (8,041,105 | ) | | $ | 207,961 | | | | $ | (180,523,950 | ) |
1 | Investment advisory fee decrease due to application of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund's lower investment advisory fee rates at higher asset levels; other fees decrease due to the elimination of duplicate expenses achieved by merging the funds. |
S-11
Notes to Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to
Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 — Basis of Combination:
At a meeting held on December 13, 2018, the Board approved the Trust entering into the Plan on behalf of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small-Cap Leaders along with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. The Plan provides for the transfer of all of the assets of Small-Cap Leaders to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of all of the liabilities of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance of shares of beneficial interest of Pennsylvania Mutual (the “Pennsylvania Mutual Shares”) to Small-Cap Leaders. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by Small-Cap Leaders in the proposed Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the Small-Cap Leaders shares that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Small-Cap Leaders, on a pro rata basis, of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Small-Cap Leaders. Small-Cap Leaders shareholders would receive the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as they held in Small-Cap Leaders immediately prior to the Reorganization.
The Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization will be accounted for as a tax-free merger of investments companies. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined schedule of investments and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of assets and liabilities reflect the financial position of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018 as if the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had occurred on that date. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations reflects the results of operations of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018 as if the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization had occurred on January 1, 2018. These statements have been derived from the books and records of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual utilized in calculating daily net asset values at the dates indicated above in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Completion of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 would not have caused Pennsylvania Mutual to violate any of its portfolio-level compliance tests. The historical cost of Small-Cap Leaders’ investment securities will be carried forward to the Combined Fund. The fiscal year end for each of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small-Cap Leaders is December 31.
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual included in, and incorporated by reference into, the SAI. Such pro forma condensed combined financial statements are presented for information purposes only and may not necessarily be representative of what the actual combined financial statements would have been had the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018 or January 1, 2018, as applicable. Following the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization, Pennsylvania Mutual will be the legal and accounting survivor.
Fees and expenses resulting from the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, these Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganizations are estimated to range from approximately $172,300 to $185,500 . Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by Small-Cap Leaders or Pennsylvania Mutual in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization will be borne by the relevant Fund and its shareholders. Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
NOTE 2 — Pennsylvania Mutual and Small-Cap Leaders Valuation:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq’s Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent
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pricing services. Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Board, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the relevant Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, no assurance can be given that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the relevant Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, a Fund may fair value the security. Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by a Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the investments of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 | – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedules of Investments. |
| Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the investments of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification please refer to the pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund |
Common Stocks | $51,137,348 | – | – | $51,137,348 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | $4,528,000 | – | 4,528,000 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Common Stocks | 1,560,734,247 | – | – | 1,560,734,247 |
Money Market Fund/ Collateral Received for Securities Loaned | 11,147,862 | – | – | 11,147,862 |
Certain securities have transferred in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 measurements during the reporting period. This is generally due to whether fair value factors have been applied. Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the reporting period. At December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual had securities transfer from Level 2 to Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy of $713,588 and $30,306,386, respectively.
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NOTE 3 — Securities Lending:
Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual loans securities through a lending agent to qualified institutional investors for the purpose of realizing additional income. Collateral for the Funds on all securities loaned is accepted in cash and cash equivalents, which are invested temporarily by the custodian, as well as non-cash collateral, which includes short and long-term U.S. Treasuries. The collateral maintained is at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Funds on the next business day. The Funds retain the risk of any loss on the securities on loan as well as incurring the potential loss on investments purchased with cash collateral received for securities lending. In the event of default or bankruptcy by the other party to the agreement, realization and/or retention of the collateral may be subject to legal proceedings. If the borrower fails to return loaned securities, and cash collateral being maintained by the borrower is insufficient to cover the value of loaned securities and provided such collateral insufficiency is not the result of investment losses, the lending agent has agreed to pay the amount of the shortfall to the Funds or, at the option of the lending agent, to replace the securities. In the event of the bankruptcy of the borrower, the Funds could experience delay in recovering the loaned securities or only recover cash or a security of equivalent value. Loans of securities generally do not have stated maturity dates, and the Funds may recall a security at any time. The Funds’ securities lending income consists of the income earned on investing cash collateral, plus any premium payments received for lending certain securities, less any rebates paid to borrowers and lending agent fees associated with the loan. The lending agent is not affiliated with Royce. The following table presents cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by cash collateral held by these Funds at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Cash Collateral1 | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | $11,147,862 | ($10,916,937) | $230,925 |
| | | |
1Absent an event of default, assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset in the pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. The remaining contractual maturity of cash collateral is overnight and continuous. |
The following table presents non-cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by non-cash collateral held by the custodian for Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Non-Cash Collateral | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Non-Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | 22,903,585 | (20,311,829) | 2,591,756 |
Small-Cap Leaders | 453,376 | (444,361) | 9,015 |
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NOTE 4 — Capital Shares:
As of December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders only had Investment Class and Service Class shares outstanding. As of December 31, 2018, Pennsylvania Mutual had Investment Class, Service Class, Institutional Class, Consultant Class, and R Class shares outstanding. No Consultant Class, Institutional Class, or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be issued or distributed to Small-Cap Leaders shareholders in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
The pro forma net asset value per share assumes the issuance of Investment Class and Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that would have been issued at December 31, 2018 in connection with the proposed Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. The number of full and fractional shares of each Class of Pennsylvania Mutual assumed to be issued in connection with the proposed Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is determined by dividing: (i) the aggregate value of the assets of Small-Cap Leaders that are transferred to Pennsylvania Mutual, net of all of the liabilities of Small-Cap Leaders that are assumed by Pennsylvania Mutual, by (ii) the net asset value of one share of the relevant Class of Pennsylvania Mutual.
The pro forma number of Investment Class and Service Class shares outstanding for Pennsylvania Mutual consists of the following at December 31, 2018.
Class of Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual | Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: Pre-Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization | Additional Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual Assumed Issued in Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization* | Total Outstanding Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: Post-Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization* |
Investment | 155,276,838 | 3,618,299 | 158,895,137 |
Service | 4,144,325 | 3,499,881 | 7,644,206 |
*The data does not take into account expenses expected to be incurred by Small-Cap Leaders in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by Small-Cap Leaders shareholders on the date of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization.
NOTE 5 —Pro Forma Operating Expenses:
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted, giving effect to the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization reflects changes in expenses of Pennsylvania Mutual as if such Reorganization was consummated on January 1, 2018.
NOTE 6 — Federal Income Taxes:
Each of Small-Cap Leaders and Pennsylvania Mutual has elected to be taxed as a “regulated investment company” under the Code. If the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization is consummated, unless it determines such qualification is no longer in the best interest of shareholders, Pennsylvania Mutual will seek to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by complying with the provisions applicable to certain investment companies, as defined in applicable sections of the Code, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, Federal income taxes. In addition, Small-Cap Leaders will make any required income or capital gain distributions prior to consummation of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization, in accordance with provisions of the Code relating to tax-free reorganizations of investment companies.
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, Small-Cap Leaders does not expect to have any capital loss carryovers to offset any such gains. As a result of the net unrealized appreciation in Pennsylvania Mutual’s assets as set forth in the Annual Report, it is expected that for a period of years after the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization, the Combined Fund’s sale of appreciated portfolio securities likely will result in greater taxable capital gain distributions to a former Small-Cap Leaders shareholder than such shareholder might otherwise have received in the absence of such Reorganization.
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Pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to
Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| Common Stocks – 98.8% | | | | Common Stocks – 91.2% | | | | Common Stocks – 98.2% | | |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.4% | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 3.4% | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.6% |
| MEDIA - 1.4% | | | | MEDIA - 3.4% | | | | MEDIA - 1.6% | | |
| comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 | | comScore | – | – | | comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 |
| Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C | – | – | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 |
| Media General (Rights) | – | – | | Media General (Rights) 1,3 | 102,272 | 0 | | Media General (Rights) 1,3 | 102,272 | 0 |
| Meredith Corporation | 151,841 | 7,886,622 | | Meredith Corporation | 68,950 | 3,581,263 | | Meredith Corporation | 220,791 | 11,467,885 |
| Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | – | – | | Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | 22,131 | 1,740,382 | | Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | 22,131 | 1,740,382 |
| Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 | | Saga Communications Cl. A | – | – | | Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 |
| Total (Cost $28,450,440) | | 22,680,941 | | Total (Cost $4,698,157) | | 5,321,645 | | Total (Cost $33,148,597) | | 28,002,586 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 7.7% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 17.5% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 8.5% |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 2.7% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 7.0% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 3.1% | | |
| Cooper Tire & Rubber | – | – | | Cooper Tire & Rubber | 29,300 | 947,269 | | Cooper Tire & Rubber | 29,300 | 947,269 |
| Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 | | Cooper-Standard Holdings | – | – | | Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 |
| Dorman Products 1 | 118,473 | 10,664,940 | | Dorman Products 1 | 44,700 | 4,023,894 | | Dorman Products 1 | 163,173 | 14,688,834 |
| Gentex Corporation | 295,805 | 5,978,219 | | Gentex Corporation | – | – | | Gentex Corporation | 295,805 | 5,978,219 |
| LCI Industries | 94,803 | 6,332,840 | | LCI Industries | 32,300 | 2,157,640 | | LCI Industries | 127,103 | 8,490,480 |
| Standard Motor Products | 106,756 | 5,170,193 | | Standard Motor Products | 77,030 | 3,730,563 | | Standard Motor Products | 183,786 | 8,900,756 |
| Stoneridge 1 | 220,093 | 5,425,293 | | Stoneridge | – | – | | Stoneridge 1 | 220,093 | 5,425,293 |
| Visteon Corporation 1 | 54,397 | 3,279,051 | | Visteon Corporation | – | – | | Visteon Corporation 1 | 54,397 | 3,279,051 |
| | | 41,949,780 | | | | 10,859,366 | | | | 52,809,146 |
| AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% | | | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.0% | | | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% | | |
| Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 | | Thor Industries | – | – | | Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 |
| Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 | | Winnebago Industries | – | – | | Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 |
| | | 5,550,540 | | | | – | | | | 5,550,540 |
| DISTRIBUTORS - 0.4% | | | | DISTRIBUTORS - 2.5% | | | | DISTRIBUTORS - 0.6% | | |
| Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 | | Core-Mark Holding Company | – | – | | Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 |
| LKQ Corporation | – | – | | LKQ Corporation 1 | 160,000 | 3,796,800 | | LKQ Corporation 1 | 160,000 | 3,796,800 |
| Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 | | Weyco Group | – | – | | Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 |
| | | 7,163,533 | | | | 3,796,800 | | | | 10,960,333 |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 1.5% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% |
| Aramark | – | – | | Aramark | 78,700 | 2,279,939 | | Aramark | 78,700 | 2,279,939 |
| Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 | | Hilton Grand Vacations | – | – | | Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings | – | – | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 |
| Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 | | Red Lion Hotels | – | – | | Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 |
| | | 12,188,681 | | | | 2,279,939 | | | | 14,468,620 |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.0% | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% |
| La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 | | La-Z-Boy | – | – | | La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.0% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% |
| Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 | | Etsy | – | – | | Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 |
| Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 |
| zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 | | zooplus | – | – | | zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 |
| | | 6,441,169 | | | | – | | | | 6,441,169 |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.3% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.0% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.2% |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 161,714 | 3,024,052 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings | – | – | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 161,714 | 3,024,052 |
| Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 | | Nautilus | – | – | | Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 |
| | | 4,075,520 | | | | – | | | | 4,075,520 |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.3% | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 4.8% | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.5% |
| American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 | | American Eagle Outfitters | – | – | | American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 |
| America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 | | America's Car-Mart | – | – | | America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 |
| Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 | | Barnes & Noble | – | – | | Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 |
| Caleres | 58,769 | 1,635,541 | | Caleres | – | – | | Caleres | 58,769 | 1,635,541 |
| Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 |
| CarMax | – | – | | CarMax 1 | 70,400 | 4,416,192 | | CarMax 1 | 70,400 | 4,416,192 |
| Children's Place | – | – | | Children's Place | 17,000 | 1,531,530 | | Children's Place | 17,000 | 1,531,530 |
| DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 | | DSW Cl. A | – | – | | DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 |
| Monro | 163,723 | 11,255,956 | | Monro | 22,400 | 1,540,000 | | Monro | 186,123 | 12,795,956 |
| Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 | | Shoe Carnival | – | – | | Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 |
| | | 35,842,135 | | | | 7,487,722 | | | | 43,329,857 |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.3% | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 1.7% | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.4% |
| Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 | | Steven Madden | – | – | | Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 |
| Wolverine World Wide | 80,800 | 2,576,712 | | Wolverine World Wide | 84,200 | 2,685,138 | | Wolverine World Wide | 165,000 | 5,261,850 |
| | | 4,356,182 | | | | 2,685,138 | | | | 7,041,320 |
| Total (Cost $86,379,191) | | 120,926,574 | | Total (Cost $28,926,834) | | 27,108,965 | | Total (Cost $115,306,025) | | 148,035,539 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.4% | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 0.3% | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.3% |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.3% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | |
| Cal-Maine Foods | 53,112 | 2,246,638 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 9,700 | 410,310 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 62,812 | 2,656,948 |
| Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 | | Farmer Bros. | – | – | | Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 |
| John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | – | – | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 |
| Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 | | Nomad Foods | – | – | | Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 | | Seneca Foods Cl. A | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 | | Seneca Foods Cl. B | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 |
| | | 10,069,163 | | | | 410,310 | | | | 10,479,473 |
| PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.8% | | | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.0% | | | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.7% | | |
| Inter Parfums | 191,012 | 12,524,657 | | Inter Parfums | – | – | | Inter Parfums | 191,012 | 12,524,657 |
| Total (Cost $10,549,664) | | 22,593,820 | | Total (Cost $357,992) | | 410,310 | | Total (Cost $10,907,656) | | 23,004,130 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY – 3.8% | | | | ENERGY – 0.0% | | | | ENERGY – 3.5% | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.7% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.4% | | |
| Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 | | Era Group | – | – | | Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 |
| Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 | | Forum Energy Technologies | – | – | | Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 |
| Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 | | Helmerich & Payne | – | – | | Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 |
| Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 | | Natural Gas Services Group | – | – | | Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 |
| Pason Systems | 1,040,509 | 13,940,016 | | Pason Systems | – | – | | Pason Systems | 1,040,509 | 13,940,016 |
| RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 | | RPC | – | – | | RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 |
| SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 | | SEACOR Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 |
| TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 335,320 | 8,097,475 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | – | – | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 335,320 | 8,097,475 |
| Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 | | Unit Corporation | – | – | | Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 |
| | | 59,194,481 | | | | – | | | | 59,194,481 |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.1% | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.0% | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.1% |
| San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | 868,814 | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | – | – | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | 868,814 |
| Total (Cost $54,788,424) | | 60,063,295 | | Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $54,788,424) | | 60,063,295 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
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| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
FINANCIALS – 16.7% | | | FINANCIALS – 8.8% | | | | FINANCIALS – 16.0% | | |
| BANKS - 5.3% | | | | BANKS - 0.7% | | | | BANKS - 4.9% | | |
| Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 | | Ames National | – | – | | Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 |
| Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | – | – | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 |
| BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 | | BOK Financial | – | – | | BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 |
| Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 | | Camden National | – | – | | Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 |
| City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 | | City Holding Company | – | – | | City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 |
| CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 | | CNB Financial | – | – | | CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 |
| Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 | | Financial Institutions | – | – | | Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 |
| First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | – | – | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 |
| Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 | | Landmark Bancorp | – | – | | Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 |
| MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 | | MidWestOne Financial Group | – | – | | MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 |
| National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 | | National Bankshares | – | – | | National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 |
| Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 | | Northrim BanCorp | – | – | | Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 |
| Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 | | Popular | – | – | | Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 |
| TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 | | TriState Capital Holdings | – | – | | TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 |
| Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 | | Unity Bancorp | – | – | | Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 |
| Webster Financial | 223,305 | 11,006,704 | | Webster Financial | 22,145 | 1,091,527 | | Webster Financial | 245,450 | 12,098,231 |
| | | 83,539,205 | | | | 1,091,527 | | | | 84,630,732 |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.3% | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 3.6% | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.0% |
| Affiliated Managers Group | – | – | | Affiliated Managers Group | 5,630 | 548,587 | | Affiliated Managers Group | 5,630 | 548,587 |
| Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 | | Ares Management | – | – | | Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 |
| Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 256,133 | 5,663,101 | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | – | – | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 256,133 | 5,663,101 |
| B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 | | B. Riley Financial | – | – | | B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 |
| Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 | | Cohen & Steers | – | – | | Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 |
| Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | – | – | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 |
| Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 310,119 | 11,412,379 | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | – | – | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 310,119 | 11,412,379 |
| Lazard Cl. A | 156,565 | 5,778,814 | | Lazard Cl. A | 52,550 | 1,939,621 | | Lazard Cl. A | 209,115 | 7,718,435 |
| Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | – | – | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 |
| Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 | | Morningstar | – | – | | Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 |
| Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 214,946 | 8,544,104 | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 32,700 | 1,299,825 | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 247,646 | 9,843,929 |
| Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | – | – | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 |
| Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 | | Reinet Investments DR | – | – | | Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 |
| Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 | | Rothschild & Co | – | – | | Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 |
| SEI Investments | 154,476 | 7,136,791 | | SEI Investments | 38,500 | 1,778,700 | | SEI Investments | 192,976 | 8,915,491 |
| Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 | | Sprott | – | – | | Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 |
| Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | – | – | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 |
| Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 | | Westwood Holdings Group | – | – | | Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 |
| | | 99,667,229 | | | | 5,566,733 | | | | 105,233,962 |
| INSURANCE - 3.0% | | | | INSURANCE - 4.5% | | | | INSURANCE - 3.2% | | |
| Alleghany Corporation | – | – | | Alleghany Corporation | 8,820 | 5,497,682 | | Alleghany Corporation | 8,820 | 5,497,682 |
| Ambac Financial Group 1 | 38,442 | 662,740 | | Ambac Financial Group | – | – | | Ambac Financial Group 1 | 38,442 | 662,740 |
| Berkley (W.R.) | – | – | | Berkley (W.R.) | 20,310 | 1,501,112 | | Berkley (W.R.) | 20,310 | 1,501,112 |
| E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 | | E-L Financial | – | – | | E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 |
| James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 | | James River Group Holdings | – | – | | James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 |
| Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 | | Kingstone Companies | – | – | | Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 |
| MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 | | MBIA | – | – | | MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 |
| ProAssurance Corporation | 261,613 | 10,611,023 | | ProAssurance Corporation | – | – | | ProAssurance Corporation | 261,613 | 10,611,023 |
| RLI Corp. | 65,108 | 4,491,801 | | RLI Corp. | – | – | | RLI Corp. | 65,108 | 4,491,801 |
| Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 | | Trupanion | – | – | | Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 |
| | | 47,874,153 | | | | 6,998,794 | | | | 54,872,947 |
| INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.0% | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% |
| Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) | – | – | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 |
| THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.0% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 0.0% | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 1.8% | | |
| Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 | | Axos Financial | – | – | | Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 |
| Genworth MI Canada | 552,769 | 16,276,966 | | Genworth MI Canada | – | – | | Genworth MI Canada | 552,769 | 16,276,966 |
| Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | – | – | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 |
| Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 | | Timberland Bancorp | – | – | | Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 |
| TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | – | – | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 |
| WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 | | WSFS Financial | – | – | | WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 |
| | | 31,635,285 | | | | – | | | | 31,635,285 |
| Total (Cost $234,801,491) | | 264,531,850 | | Total (Cost $12,825,915) | | 13,657,054 | | Total (Cost $247,627,406) | | 278,188,904 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE – 7.2% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 2.1% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 6.7% | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% |
| AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 |
| Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 |
| Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 | | Zealand Pharma | – | – | | Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 |
| | | 3,711,701 | | | | – | | | | 3,711,701 |
S-17
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 2.0% | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 0.0% | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 1.8% |
| AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 | | AtriCure | – | – | | AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 |
| Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 | | Atrion Corporation | – | – | | Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 |
| Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 | | Cardiovascular Systems | – | – | | Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 |
| CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 | | CryoLife | – | – | | CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 |
| Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 | | Hill-Rom Holdings | – | – | | Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 |
| Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 118,832 | 1,859,721 | | Lantheus Holdings | – | – | | Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 118,832 | 1,859,721 |
| LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 | | LeMaitre Vascular | – | – | | LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 |
| Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 | | Merit Medical Systems | – | – | | Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 |
| | | 31,849,956 | | | | – | | | | 31,849,956 |
| HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.4% | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 0.0% | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.2% |
| AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 93,330 | 5,288,078 | | AMN Healthcare Services | – | – | | AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 93,330 | 5,288,078 |
| Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 | | Encompass Health | – | – | | Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 |
| Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 | | Ensign Group (The) | – | – | | Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 |
| HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 | | HealthEquity | – | – | | HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 |
| National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 | | National Research | – | – | | National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 |
| Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 | | Tivity Health | – | – | | Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 |
| U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 | | U.S. Physical Therapy | – | – | | U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 |
| | | 37,494,550 | | | | – | | | | 37,494,550 |
| HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 1.0% | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.9% |
| Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 | | Medidata Solutions | – | – | | Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 2.1% | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% |
| Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 25,953 | 6,026,806 | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 10,626 | 2,467,570 | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 36,579 | 8,494,376 |
| Bio-Techne | 79,397 | 11,490,334 | | Bio-Techne | – | – | | Bio-Techne | 79,397 | 11,490,334 |
| ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 | | ICON | – | – | | ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 |
| NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 | | NeoGenomics | – | – | | NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 |
| PerkinElmer | – | – | | PerkinElmer | 10,074 | 791,312 | | PerkinElmer | 10,074 | 791,312 |
| Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 | | Quanterix Corporation | – | – | | Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 |
| | | 25,192,941 | | | | 3,258,882 | | | | 28,451,823 |
| Total (Cost $63,419,874) | | 113,800,987 | | Total (Cost $3,331,185) | | 3,258,882 | | Total (Cost $66,751,059) | | 117,059,869 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 26.9% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 27.6% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 27.0% | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.9% | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 2.5% | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 2.0% |
| HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 | | HEICO Corporation | – | – | | HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 |
| HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | – | – | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 |
| Hexcel Corporation | – | – | | Hexcel Corporation | 39,240 | 2,250,022 | | Hexcel Corporation | 39,240 | 2,250,022 |
| Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 | | Magellan Aerospace | – | – | | Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 |
| Teledyne Technologies | – | – | | Teledyne Technologies 1 | 7,700 | 1,594,439 | | Teledyne Technologies 1 | 7,700 | 1,594,439 |
| | | 29,978,024 | | | | 3,844,461 | | | | 33,822,485 |
| AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.8% | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.0% | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.7% |
| Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 | | Forward Air | – | – | | Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 |
| Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 | | Hub Group Cl. A | – | – | | Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 |
| | | 12,842,403 | | | | – | | | | 12,842,403 |
| AIRLINES - 0.6% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.0% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.6% | | |
| Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 | | Allegiant Travel | – | – | | Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 |
| Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 | | Hawaiian Holdings | – | – | | Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 |
| Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 | | Spirit Airlines | – | – | | Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 |
| | | 9,742,341 | | | | – | | | | 9,742,341 |
| BUILDING PRODUCTS - 0.9% | | | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 2.9% | | | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | |
| Apogee Enterprises | 210,137 | 6,272,589 | | Apogee Enterprises | – | – | | Apogee Enterprises | 210,137 | 6,272,589 |
| Gibraltar Industries 1 | 144,789 | 5,153,041 | | Gibraltar Industries | – | – | | Gibraltar Industries 1 | 144,789 | 5,153,041 |
| Lennox International | – | – | | Lennox International | 11,257 | 2,463,707 | | Lennox International | 11,257 | 2,463,707 |
| Simpson Manufacturing | 53,000 | 2,868,890 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 37,700 | 2,040,701 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 90,700 | 4,909,591 |
| | | 14,294,520 | | | | 4,504,408 | | | | 18,798,928 |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.2% | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.1% | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.2% |
| Copart | – | – | | Copart 1 | 45,100 | 2,154,878 | | Copart 1 | 45,100 | 2,154,878 |
| Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 | | Healthcare Services Group | – | – | | Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean | – | – | | Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 |
| Kimball International Cl. B | 483,857 | 6,865,931 | | Kimball International Cl. B | – | – | | Kimball International Cl. B | 483,857 | 6,865,931 |
| Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 | | Mobile Mini | – | – | | Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 |
| PICO Holdings 1 | 326,703 | 2,986,065 | | PICO Holdings | – | – | | PICO Holdings 1 | 326,703 | 2,986,065 |
| Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 39,233 | 1,283,704 | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | – | – | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 39,233 | 1,283,704 |
| Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 | | Team | – | – | | Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 |
| UniFirst Corporation | 31,208 | 4,464,929 | | UniFirst Corporation | 8,240 | 1,178,897 | | UniFirst Corporation | 39,448 | 5,643,826 |
| Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 | | Viad Corporation | – | – | | Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 |
| | | 34,092,519 | | | | 3,333,775 | | | | 37,426,294 |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 2.1% | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 0.6% | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 1.9% |
| Arcosa 1 | 395,838 | 10,960,754 | | Arcosa | – | – | | Arcosa 1 | 395,838 | 10,960,754 |
| Comfort Systems USA | – | – | | Comfort Systems USA | 21,200 | 926,016 | | Comfort Systems USA | 21,200 | 926,016 |
| KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 | | KBR | – | – | | KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 |
| Valmont Industries | 132,101 | 14,656,606 | | Valmont Industries | – | – | | Valmont Industries | 132,101 | 14,656,606 |
| | | 32,759,383 | | | | 926,016 | | | | 33,685,399 |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.3% | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 3.2% | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.4% |
| Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 | | Encore Wire | – | – | | Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 |
| Hubbell Cl. B | – | – | | Hubbell Cl. B | 22,721 | 2,257,104 | | Hubbell Cl. B | 22,721 | 2,257,104 |
| Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 | | Preformed Line Products | – | – | | Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 |
| Sensata Technologies Holding | – | – | | Sensata Technologies Holding 1 | 59,750 | 2,679,190 | | Sensata Technologies Holding 1 | 59,750 | 2,679,190 |
| | | 19,920,451 | | | | 4,936,294 | | | | 24,856,745 |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.3% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 2.8% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.4% |
| Carlisle Companies | – | – | | Carlisle Companies | 43,103 | 4,332,713 | | Carlisle Companies | 43,103 | 4,332,713 |
| Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 | | Raven Industries | – | – | | Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 |
| | | 20,415,141 | | | | 4,332,713 | | | | 24,747,854 |
S-18
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| MACHINERY - 9.5% | | MACHINERY - 5.1% | | | | MACHINERY - 9.2% | | |
| Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 | | Alamo Group | – | – | | Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 |
| Allison Transmission Holdings | – | – | | Allison Transmission Holdings | 69,000 | 3,029,790 | | Allison Transmission Holdings | 69,000 | 3,029,790 |
| CIRCOR International 1 | 344,615 | 7,340,299 | | CIRCOR International | – | – | | CIRCOR International 1 | 344,615 | 7,340,299 |
| Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 | | Colfax Corporation | – | – | | Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 |
| Franklin Electric | 225,023 | 9,648,986 | | Franklin Electric | 21,960 | 941,645 | | Franklin Electric | 246,983 | 10,590,631 |
| Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 | | Graco | – | – | | Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 |
| Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 | | Graham Corporation | – | – | | Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 |
| Greenbrier Companies (The) | 85,446 | 3,378,535 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | – | – | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 85,446 | 3,378,535 |
| John Bean Technologies | 134,682 | 9,671,514 | | John Bean Technologies | – | – | | John Bean Technologies | 134,682 | 9,671,514 |
| Kadant | 114,206 | 9,303,221 | | Kadant | – | – | | Kadant | 114,206 | 9,303,221 |
| Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 | | Kornit Digital | – | – | | Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 |
| Lincoln Electric Holdings | 112,290 | 8,854,066 | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | 49,960 | 3,939,346 | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | 162,250 | 12,793,412 |
| Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 | | Lindsay Corporation | – | – | | Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 |
| Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 | | Lydall | – | – | | Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 |
| Meritor 1 | 681,049 | 11,516,539 | | Meritor | – | – | | Meritor 1 | 681,049 | 11,516,539 |
| Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 | | Miller Industries | – | – | | Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 |
| Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 | | Nordson Corporation | – | – | | Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 |
| RBC Bearings 1 | 60,338 | 7,910,312 | | RBC Bearings | – | – | | RBC Bearings 1 | 60,338 | 7,910,312 |
| Sun Hydraulics | 619,964 | 20,576,605 | | Sun Hydraulics | – | – | | Sun Hydraulics | 619,964 | 20,576,605 |
| Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 | | Tennant Company | – | – | | Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 |
| Wabash National | 627,668 | 8,209,897 | | Wabash National | – | – | | Wabash National | 627,668 | 8,209,897 |
| | | 150,448,666 | | | | 7,910,781 | | | | 158,359,447 |
| MARINE - 1.2% | | | | MARINE - 3.0% | | | | MARINE - 1.3% | | |
| Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 | | Clarkson | – | – | | Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 |
| Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 | | Eagle Bulk Shipping | – | – | | Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 |
| Kirby Corporation 1 | 112,933 | 7,607,167 | | Kirby Corporation 1 | 68,450 | 4,610,792 | | Kirby Corporation 1 | 181,383 | 12,217,959 |
| | | 18,705,256 | | | | 4,610,792 | | | | 23,316,048 |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.7% | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 0.8% | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.7% |
| Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 | | Exponent | – | – | | Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 |
| GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 | | GP Strategies | – | – | | GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 |
| Heidrick & Struggles International | 125,928 | 3,927,694 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | – | – | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 125,928 | 3,927,694 |
| Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 | | Kforce | – | – | | Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 |
| Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 | | Korn Ferry | – | – | | Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 |
| ManpowerGroup | 76,110 | 4,931,928 | | ManpowerGroup | 19,000 | 1,231,200 | | ManpowerGroup | 95,110 | 6,163,128 |
| Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 | | Resources Connection | – | – | | Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 |
| TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 | | TrueBlue | – | – | | TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 |
| | | 27,598,669 | | | | 1,231,200 | | | | 28,829,869 |
| ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 2.0% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | |
| J.B. Hunt Transport Services | – | – | | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | 7,700 | 716,408 | | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | 7,700 | 716,408 |
| Landstar System | 156,307 | 14,953,891 | | Landstar System | 25,810 | 2,469,243 | | Landstar System | 182,117 | 17,423,134 |
| Saia 1 | 63,017 | 3,517,609 | | Saia | – | – | | Saia 1 | 63,017 | 3,517,609 |
| Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 | | Universal Logistics Holdings | – | – | | Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 |
| Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 | | Werner Enterprises | – | – | | Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 |
| | | 28,218,846 | | | | 3,185,651 | | | | 31,404,497 |
| TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.6% | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 2.6% | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.7% |
| Air Lease Cl. A | 466,067 | 14,079,884 | | Air Lease Cl. A | 112,300 | 3,392,583 | | Air Lease Cl. A | 578,367 | 17,472,467 |
| Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 | | Applied Industrial Technologies | – | – | | Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 |
| Diploma | – | – | | Diploma | 13,585 | 209,517 | | Diploma | 13,585 | 209,517 |
| Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 | | Richelieu Hardware | – | – | | Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 |
| Watsco | – | – | | Watsco | 3,000 | 417,420 | | Watsco | 3,000 | 417,420 |
| | | 25,074,744 | | | | 4,019,520 | | | | 29,094,264 |
| Total (Cost $301,389,787) | | 424,090,963 | | Total (Cost $42,549,256) | | 42,835,611 | | Total (Cost $343,939,043) | | 466,926,574 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 21.0% | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 12.1% | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 20.3% |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.0% | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% |
| ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 | | ADTRAN | – | – | | ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 |
| Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 | | Digi International | – | – | | Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 |
| | | 3,584,693 | | | | – | | | | 3,584,693 |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 11.2% | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 5.8% | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 10.7% |
| AVX Corporation | – | – | | AVX Corporation | 26,800 | 408,700 | | AVX Corporation | 26,800 | 408,700 |
| Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 | | Badger Meter | – | – | | Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 |
| Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 | | Benchmark Electronics | – | – | | Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 |
| Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 | | Celestica | – | – | | Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 |
| Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 | | Cognex Corporation | – | – | | Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 |
| Coherent 1 | 51,018 | 5,393,113 | | Coherent 1 | 18,590 | 1,965,149 | | Coherent 1 | 69,608 | 7,358,262 |
| Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 |
| Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 140,993 | 4,224,150 | | Electro Scientific Industries | – | – | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 140,993 | 4,224,150 |
| Fabrinet 1 | 156,170 | 8,013,083 | | Fabrinet | – | – | | Fabrinet 1 | 156,170 | 8,013,083 |
| FARO Technologies 1 | 299,843 | 12,185,620 | | FARO Technologies | – | – | | FARO Technologies 1 | 299,843 | 12,185,620 |
| FLIR Systems | 756,241 | 32,926,733 | | FLIR Systems | 64,500 | 2,808,330 | | FLIR Systems | 820,741 | 35,735,063 |
| HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 | | HollySys Automation Technologies | – | – | | HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 |
| Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 | | Insight Enterprises | – | – | | Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 |
| IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 | | IPG Photonics | – | – | | IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 |
| Kimball Electronics 1 | 182,454 | 2,826,212 | | Kimball Electronics | – | – | | Kimball Electronics 1 | 182,454 | 2,826,212 |
| Littelfuse | – | – | | Littelfuse | 15,300 | 2,623,644 | | Littelfuse | 15,300 | 2,623,644 |
| Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 | | Mesa Laboratories | – | – | | Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 |
| Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 | | Methode Electronics | – | – | | Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 |
| MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 | | MTS Systems | – | – | | MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 |
| National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 | | National Instruments | – | – | | National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 |
| nLIGHT 1,2 | 483,043 | 8,588,505 | | nLIGHT 1 | 50,000 | 889,000 | | nLIGHT 1,2 | 533,043 | 9,477,505 |
| PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 | | PC Connection | – | – | | PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 |
| Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 | | Richardson Electronics | – | – | | Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 |
| Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 | | Sanmina Corporation | – | – | | Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 |
| Vishay Intertechnology | 420,445 | 7,572,214 | | Vishay Intertechnology | – | – | | Vishay Intertechnology | 420,445 | 7,572,214 |
| Zebra Technologies Cl. A | – | – | | Zebra Technologies Cl. A 1 | 1,810 | 288,206 | | Zebra Technologies Cl. A 1 | 1,810 | 288,206 |
| | | 176,902,483 | | | | 8,983,029 | | | | 185,885,512 |
S-19
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| IT SERVICES - 0.0% | | IT SERVICES - 0.7% | | | | IT SERVICES - 0.1% | | |
| WEX | – | – | | WEX 1 | 7,200 | 1,008,432 | | WEX 1 | 7,200 | 1,008,432 |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.2% | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 5.6% | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.2% |
| Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 234,360 | 10,061,075 | | Advanced Energy Industries | – | – | | Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 234,360 | 10,061,075 |
| Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 | | Brooks Automation | – | – | | Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 |
| Cabot Microelectronics | 97,841 | 9,329,139 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 34,320 | 3,272,412 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 132,161 | 12,601,551 |
| Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 | | Cirrus Logic | – | – | | Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 |
| Cohu | 260,085 | 4,179,566 | | Cohu | – | – | | Cohu | 260,085 | 4,179,566 |
| Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 | | Diodes | – | – | | Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 |
| Entegris | 241,599 | 6,739,404 | | Entegris | 96,300 | 2,686,289 | | Entegris | 337,899 | 9,425,693 |
| FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 | | FormFactor | – | – | | FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 |
| Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 529,268 | 10,728,262 | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | – | – | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 529,268 | 10,728,262 |
| MKS Instruments | 213,092 | 13,767,874 | | MKS Instruments | 43,320 | 2,798,905 | | MKS Instruments | 256,412 | 16,566,779 |
| Nanometrics 1 | 65,370 | 1,786,562 | | Nanometrics | – | – | | Nanometrics 1 | 65,370 | 1,786,562 |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 48,304 | 1,100,365 | | Nova Measuring Instruments | – | – | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 48,304 | 1,100,365 |
| Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 | | Photronics | – | – | | Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 146,739 | 5,062,496 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | – | – | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 146,739 | 5,062,496 |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 | | Ultra Clean Holdings | – | – | | Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 |
| Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 | | Versum Materials | – | – | | Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 |
| | | 98,147,192 | | | | 8,757,606 | | | | 106,904,798 |
| SOFTWARE - 3.2% | | | | SOFTWARE - 0.0% | | | | SOFTWARE - 2.9% | | |
| ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 | | ACI Worldwide | – | – | | ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 |
| Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 | | Altair Engineering Cl. A | – | – | | Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 |
| Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 | | Amber Road | – | – | | Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 |
| Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 | | Box Cl. A | – | – | | Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 |
| Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 | | Descartes Systems Group (The) | – | – | | Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 |
| Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 | | Everbridge | – | – | | Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 |
| Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 | | Fair Isaac | – | – | | Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 |
| Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 | | Five9 | – | – | | Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 |
| j2 Global | 63,369 | 4,396,541 | | j2 Global | – | – | | j2 Global | 63,369 | 4,396,541 |
| Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 | | Manhattan Associates | – | – | | Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 |
| QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 | | QAD Cl. A | – | – | | QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 |
| Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 | | Qualys | – | – | | Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 |
| TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 | | TiVo | – | – | | TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 |
| Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 | | Upland Software | – | – | | Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 |
| Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 | | Varonis Systems | – | – | | Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 |
| | | 49,904,350 | | | | – | | | | 49,904,350 |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.0% | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% |
| Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 | | Cray | – | – | | Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 |
| Total (Cost $261,411,950) | | 331,209,444 | | Total (Cost $20,384,208) | | 18,749,067 | | Total (Cost $281,796,158) | | 349,958,511 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 9.4% | | | | MATERIALS – 14.1% | | | | MATERIALS – 9.8% | | |
| CHEMICALS - 5.1% | | | | CHEMICALS - 7.7% | | | | CHEMICALS - 5.3% | | |
| Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 | | Balchem Corporation | – | – | | Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 |
| Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 | | Chase Corporation | – | – | | Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 |
| FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 | | FutureFuel Corporation | – | – | | FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 |
| Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 | | Ingevity Corporation | – | – | | Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 |
| Innospec | 81,901 | 5,058,206 | | Innospec | 32,000 | 1,976,320 | | Innospec | 113,901 | 7,034,526 |
| Minerals Technologies | 233,415 | 11,983,526 | | Minerals Technologies | 76,846 | 3,945,274 | | Minerals Technologies | 310,261 | 15,928,800 |
| NewMarket Corporation | – | – | | NewMarket Corporation | 4,780 | 1,969,790 | | NewMarket Corporation | 4,780 | 1,969,790 |
| Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 | | Platform Specialty Products | – | – | | Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 |
| Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 | | Quaker Chemical | – | – | | Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 |
| Sensient Technologies | – | – | | Sensient Technologies | 31,342 | 1,750,451 | | Sensient Technologies | 31,342 | 1,750,451 |
| Westlake Chemical | – | – | | Westlake Chemical | 36,350 | 2,405,279 | | Westlake Chemical | 36,350 | 2,405,279 |
| | | 80,436,469 | | | | 12,047,114 | | | | 92,483,583 |
| CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% | | | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.0% | | | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% | | |
| Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 | | Imerys | – | – | | Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 |
| CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% | | | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.0% | | | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% | | |
| AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 | | AptarGroup | – | – | | AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 |
| Packaging Corporation of America | – | – | | Packaging Corporation of America | 16,100 | 1,343,706 | | Packaging Corporation of America | 16,100 | 1,343,706 |
| | | 9,354,227 | | | | 1,343,706 | | | | 10,697,933 |
| METALS & MINING - 2.5% | | | | METALS & MINING - 2.8% | | | | METALS & MINING - 2.6% | | |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | – | – | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 |
| Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 | | Commercial Metals | – | – | | Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 |
| Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | – | – | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 |
| Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 | | Haynes International | – | – | | Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 |
| Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 | | Hecla Mining | – | – | | Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 |
| IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 | | IAMGOLD Corporation | – | – | | IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 |
| Kaiser Aluminum | – | – | | Kaiser Aluminum | 17,560 | 1,567,933 | | Kaiser Aluminum | 17,560 | 1,567,933 |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 | | Major Drilling Group International | – | – | | Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 |
| Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 | | Pretium Resources | – | – | | Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 |
| Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 141,198 | 10,049,061 | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 39,655 | 2,822,246 | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 180,853 | 12,871,307 |
| Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 | | Worthington Industries | – | – | | Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 |
| | | 39,852,222 | | | | 4,390,179 | | | | 44,242,401 |
| PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 2.7% | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.2% |
| Stella-Jones | 569,501 | 16,523,539 | | Stella-Jones | 143,000 | 4,149,011 | | Stella-Jones | 712,501 | 20,672,550 |
| Total (Cost $98,074,631) | | 148,090,400 | | Total (Cost $23,903,779) | | 21,930,010 | | Total (Cost $121,978,410) | | 170,020,410 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
S-20
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| REAL ESTATE – 3.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 2.9% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 3.3% | | |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.3% | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 2.9% | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.3% |
| FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 | | FRP Holdings | – | – | | FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 |
| Jones Lang LaSalle | – | – | | Jones Lang LaSalle | 10,209 | 1,292,459 | | Jones Lang LaSalle | 10,209 | 1,292,459 |
| Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 543,368 | 9,872,996 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 123,400 | 2,242,178 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 666,768 | 12,115,174 |
| Marcus & Millichap 1 | 432,786 | �� 14,857,543 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 30,000 | 1,029,900 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 462,786 | 15,887,443 |
| St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 | | St. Joe Company (The) | – | – | | St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 |
| Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 | | Tejon Ranch | – | – | | Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 |
| Total (Cost $49,470,265) | | 52,745,973 | | Total (Cost $4,489,900) | | 4,564,537 | | Total (Cost $53,960,165) | | 57,310,510 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| UTILITIES – 0.0% | | | | UTILITIES – 2.4% | | | | UTILITIES – 0.2% | | |
| GAS UTILITIES - 0.0% | | | | GAS UTILITIES - 2.4% | | | | GAS UTILITIES - 0.2% | | |
| UGI Corporation | – | – | | UGI Corporation | 70,000 | 3,734,500 | | UGI Corporation | 70,000 | 3,734,500 |
| Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $2,411,237) | | 3,734,500 | | Total (Cost $2,411,237) | | 3,734,500 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | |
| (Cost $1,188,735,717) | | 1,560,734,247 | | (Cost $143,878,463) | | 141,570,581 | | (Cost $1,332,614,180) | | 1,702,304,828 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 0.0% | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 8.9% | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 0.8% |
| (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $13,754,000) | | 13,754,000 | | (Cost $13,754,000) | | 13,754,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.7% | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.0% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.6% | | |
| Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | |
| Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | |
| (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 | | (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.5% | | | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 100.1% | | | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.6% | | |
| (Cost $1,199,883,579) | | 1,571,882,109 | | (Cost $157,632,463) | | 155,324,581 | | (Cost $1,357,516,042) | | 1,727,206,690 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.5% | | 7,202,053 | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (0.1)% | | (164,108) | | CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.4% | | 6,935,9204 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,579,084,162 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 155,160,473 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,734,142,610 |
1 Non-income producing.
2 All or a portion of these securities were on loan at December 31, 2018.
3 Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.0% of net assets for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees.
These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value.
4 Includes adjustment for estimated reorganization expenses of $102,025.
S-21
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to
Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund as of December 31, 2018
| | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Adjustments | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments at value (including collateral on loaned securities)1 | | | $ | 1,571,882,109 | | | | $ | 141,570,581 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,713,452,690 | |
Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | | - | | | | | 13,754,000 | | | | - | | | | | 13,754,000 | |
Cash and foreign currency | | | | - | | | | | 791 | | | | - | | | | | 791 | |
Receivable for investments sold | | | | 35,664,664 | | | | | 317,942 | | | | - | | | | | 35,982,606 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | | | | 3,748,303 | | | | | 17,156 | | | | - | | | | | 3,765,459 | |
Receivable for dividends and interest | | | | 1,677,332 | | | | | 160,812 | | | | - | | | | | 1,838,144 | |
Receivable for securities lending income | | | | 11,710 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 11,710 | |
Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | | 2,866,330 | | | | | 1,135 | | | | - | | | | | 2,867,465 | |
Total Assets | | | | 1,615,850,448 | | | | | 155,822,417 | | | | - | | | | | 1,771,672,865 | |
LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Payable for collateral on loaned securities | | | | 11,147,862 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 11,147,862 | |
Payable to custodian for cash and foreign currency overdrawn | | | | 8,606,852 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 8,606,852 | |
Payable for investments purchased | | | | 765,641 | | | | | 240,641 | | | | - | | | | | 1,006,282 | |
Payable for capital shares redeemed | | | | 14,174,992 | | | | | 204,386 | | | | - | | | | | 14,379,378 | |
Payable for investment advisory fees | | | | 1,091,736 | | | | | 114,994 | | | | - | | | | | 1,206,730 | |
Payable for trustees’ fees | | | | 72,466 | | | | | 6,828 | | | | - | | | | | 79,294 | |
Accrued expenses | | | | 906,737 | | | | | 95,095 | | | | 102,025 | 2 | | | | 1,103,857 | |
Total Liabilities | | | | 36,766,286 | | | | | 661,944 | | | | 102,025 | | | | | 37,530,255 | |
Net Assets | | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | | $ | 155,160,473 | | | $ | (102,025 | ) | | | $ | 1,734,142,610 | |
ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | | $ | 1,185,801,399 | | | | $ | 157,408,146 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,343,209,545 | |
Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | | 393,282,763 | | | | | (2,247,673 | ) | | | (102,025 | )2 | | | | 390,933,065 | |
Net Assets | | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | | $ | 155,160,473 | | | $ | (102,025 | ) | | | $ | 1,734,142,610 | |
Investment Class | | | $ | 1,203,966,585 | | | | $ | 64,376,412 | | | $ | (48,777 | )2 | | | | 1,268,294,220 | |
Service Class | | | | 32,191,197 | | | | | 84,555,180 | | | | (45,868 | )2 | | | | 116,700,509 | |
Consultant Class | | | | 249,004,314 | | | | | 6,228,881 | | | | (6,276 | )2 | | | | 255,226,919 | |
Institutional Class | | | | 83,908,171 | | | | | | | | | (986 | )2 | | | | 83,907,185 | |
R Class | | | | 10,013,895 | | | | | | | | | (118 | )2 | | | | 10,013,777 | |
SHARES OUTSTANDING (unlimited number of $.001 par value): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class | | | | 155,276,838 | | | | | 5,989,658 | | | | 8,306,634 | 3 | | | | 163,583,472 | |
Service Class | | | | 4,144,325 | | | | | 7,896,265 | | | | 10,882,263 | 3 | | | | 15,026,588 | |
Consultant Class | | | | 40,285,369 | | | | | 828,659 | | | | 1,007,910 | 3 | | | | 41,293,279 | |
Institutional Class | | | | 10,787,665 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 10,787,665 | |
R Class | | | | 1,372,678 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 1,372,678 | |
NET ASSET VALUES (Net Assets ÷ Shares Outstanding): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class4 | | | $ | 7.75 | | | | $ | 10.75 | | | | | | | | $ | 7.75 | |
Service Class4 | | | | 7.77 | | | | | 10.71 | | | | | | | | | 7.77 | |
Consultant Class5 | | | | 6.18 | | | | | 7.52 | | | | | | | | | 6.18 | |
Institutional Class6 | | | | 7.78 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7.78 | |
R Class6 | | | | 7.30 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7.30 | |
Investments at identified cost | | | $ | 1,199,883,579 | | | | $ | 143,878,463 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 1,343,762,042 | |
Market value of loaned securities7 | | | | 31,228,766 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 31,228,766 | |
1 | | See Notes to Financial Statements for information on non-cash collateral on loaned securities. |
2 | | Adjustment for estimated expenses of reorganization. |
3 | | Reflects the change in shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund after giving effect to the distribution of shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund to Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. |
4 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 30 days may be subject to a 1% redemption fee, payable to the Fund. |
5 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 365 days may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge, payable to Royce Fund Services, LLC. |
6 | | Offering and redemption price per share. |
7 | | Market value of loaned securities backed by non-cash collateral is as of prior business day. |
S-22
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to
Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund as of December 31, 2018
INVESTMENT INCOME: | | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid- Cap Premier Fund | | Adjustments1 | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
INCOME: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Non-Affiliated Companies | | $ | 24,581,018 | | | $ | 2,097,244 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 26,678,262 | |
Affiliated Companies | | | 195,483 | | | | | | | | | | | | 195,483 | |
Foreign withholding tax | | | (510,433 | ) | | | (6,185 | ) | | | - | | | | (516,618 | ) |
Interest | | | 454,825 | | | | 81,474 | | | | - | | | | 536,299 | |
Securities lending | | | 614,664 | | | | 78 | | | | - | | | | 614,742 | |
Total income | | | 25,335,557 | | | | 2,172,611 | | | | - | | | | 27,508,168 | |
EXPENSES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment advisory fees | | | 15,435,767 | | | | 1,622,445 | | | | (171,269 | ) | | | 16,886,943 | |
Distribution fees | | | 3,572,101 | | | | 352,264 | | | | - | | | | 3,924,365 | |
Shareholder servicing | | | 1,663,556 | | | | 121,133 | | | | (31,320 | ) | | | 1,753,369 | |
Administrative and office facilities | | | 627,420 | | | | 66,695 | | | | - | | | | 694,115 | |
Registration | | | 80,023 | | | | 42,623 | | | | (37,544 | ) | | | 85,102 | |
Custody | | | 202,428 | | | | 25,234 | | | | (7,300 | ) | | | 220,362 | |
Audit | | | 50,331 | | | | 37,571 | | | | (37,469 | ) | | | 50,433 | |
Shareholder reports | | | 343,820 | | | | 58,616 | | | | - | | | | 402,436 | |
Trustees’ fees | | | 261,106 | | | | 25,035 | | | | - | | | | 286,141 | |
Legal | | | 64,480 | | | | 6,002 | | | | - | | | | 70,482 | |
Other expenses | | | 132,011 | | | | 15,339 | | | | (1,525 | ) | | | 145,825 | |
Total expenses | | | 22,433,043 | | | | 2,372,957 | | | | (286,427 | ) | | | 24,519,573 | |
Compensating balance credits | | | (36,699 | ) | | | (6,277 | ) | | | - | | | | (42,976 | ) |
Fees waived by distributor | | | - | | | | (146,097 | ) | | | 146,097 | | | | - | |
Expenses reimbursed by investment adviser | | | (1,418 | ) | | | (17,797 | ) | | | 13,547 | | | | (5,668 | ) |
Net expenses | | | 22,394,926 | | | | 2,202,786 | | | | (126,783 | ) | | | 24,470,929 | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | 2,940,631 | | | | (30,175 | ) | | | 126,783 | | | | 3,037,239 | |
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non- Affiliated Companies | | | 299,645,876 | | | | 24,820,101 | | | | - | | | | 324,465,977 | |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | 1,101,984 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 1,101,984 | |
Foreign currency transactions | | | (14,653 | ) | | | (2,629 | ) | | | - | | | | (17,282 | ) |
NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non- Affiliated Companies | | | (471,384,762 | ) | | | (53,745,945 | ) | | | - | | | | (525,130,707 | ) |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | (4,976,463 | ) | | | - | | | | - | | | | (4,976,463 | ) |
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | (3,419 | ) | | | 100 | | | | - | | | | (3,319 | ) |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency
| | | (175,631,437 | ) | | | (28,928,373 | ) | | | - | | | | (204,559,810 | ) |
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | $ | (172,690,806 | ) | | $ | (28,958,548 | ) | | $ | 126,783 | | | $ | (201,522,571 | ) |
1 Investment advisory fee decrease due to application of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund's lower investment advisory fee rates at higher asset levels; other fees decrease due to the elimination of duplicate expenses achieved by merging the funds. |
S-23
Notes to Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to
Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 — Basis of Combination:
At a meeting held on December 13, 2018, the Board approved the Trust entering into the Plan on behalf of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier along with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The Plan provides for the transfer of all of the assets of Small/Mid-Cap Premier to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of all of the liabilities of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance of shares of beneficial interest of Pennsylvania Mutual (the “Pennsylvania Mutual Shares”) to Small/Mid-Cap Premier. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by Small/Mid-Cap Premier in the proposed Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier shares that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Small/Mid-Cap Premier, on a pro rata basis, of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Small/Mid-Cap Premier. Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders would receive the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as they held in Small/Mid-Cap Premier immediately prior to the Reorganization.
The Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will be accounted for as a tax-free merger of investments companies. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined schedule of investments and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of assets and liabilities reflect the financial position of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018 as if the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had occurred on that date. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations reflects the results of operations of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018 as if the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization had occurred on January 1, 2018. These statements have been derived from the books and records of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual utilized in calculating daily net asset values at the dates indicated above in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Completion of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 would not have caused Pennsylvania Mutual to violate any of its portfolio-level compliance tests. The historical cost of Small/Mid-Cap Premier’s investment securities will be carried forward to the Combined Fund. The fiscal year end for each of Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier is December 31.
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual included in, and incorporated by reference into, the SAI. Such pro forma condensed combined financial statements are presented for information purposes only and may not necessarily be representative of what the actual combined financial statements would have been had the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018 or January 1, 2018, as applicable. Following the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, Pennsylvania Mutual will be the legal and accounting survivor.
Fees and expenses resulting from the Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Small-Cap Leaders Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, these Funds as follows: Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), Small-Cap Leaders (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganizations are estimated to range from approximately $172,300 to $185,500 . Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by Small/Mid-Cap Premier or Pennsylvania Mutual in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will be borne by the relevant Fund and its shareholders. Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
NOTE 2 — Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Valuation:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq’s Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent
S-24
pricing services. Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Board, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the relevant Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, no assurance can be given that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the relevant Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, a Fund may fair value the security. Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by a Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the investments of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 | – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedules of Investments. |
| Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the investments of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification please refer to the pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund |
Common Stocks | $141,570,581 | – | – | $141,570,581 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | $13,754,000 | – | 13,754,000 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
Common Stocks | 1,560,734,247 | – | – | 1,560,734,247 |
Money Market Fund/ Collateral Received for Securities Loaned | 11,147,862 | – | – | 11,147,862 |
Certain securities have transferred in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 measurements during the reporting period. This is generally due to whether fair value factors have been applied. Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the reporting period. At December 31, 2018, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual had securities transfer from Level 2 to Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy of $209,517 and $30,306,386, respectively.
S-25
NOTE 3 — Securities Lending:
Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual loans securities through a lending agent to qualified institutional investors for the purpose of realizing additional income. Collateral for the Funds on all securities loaned is accepted in cash and cash equivalents, which are invested temporarily by the custodian, as well as non-cash collateral, which includes short and long-term U.S. Treasuries. The collateral maintained is at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Funds on the next business day. The Funds retain the risk of any loss on the securities on loan as well as incurring the potential loss on investments purchased with cash collateral received for securities lending. In the event of default or bankruptcy by the other party to the agreement, realization and/or retention of the collateral may be subject to legal proceedings. If the borrower fails to return loaned securities, and cash collateral being maintained by the borrower is insufficient to cover the value of loaned securities and provided such collateral insufficiency is not the result of investment losses, the lending agent has agreed to pay the amount of the shortfall to the Funds or, at the option of the lending agent, to replace the securities. In the event of the bankruptcy of the borrower, the Funds could experience delay in recovering the loaned securities or only recover cash or a security of equivalent value. Loans of securities generally do not have stated maturity dates, and the Funds may recall a security at any time. The Funds’ securities lending income consists of the income earned on investing cash collateral, plus any premium payments received for lending certain securities, less any rebates paid to borrowers and lending agent fees associated with the loan. The lending agent is not affiliated with Royce. The following table presents cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by cash collateral held by these Funds at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Cash Collateral1 | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | $11,147,862 | ($10,916,937) | $230,925 |
| | | |
1Absent an event of default, assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset in the Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The remaining contractual maturity of cash collateral is overnight and continuous. |
The following table presents non-cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by non-cash collateral held by the custodian for Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Non-Cash Collateral | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Non-Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | 22,903,585 | (20,311,829) | 2,591,756 |
NOTE 4 — Capital Shares:
As of December 31, 2018, Small/Mid-Cap Premier only had Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares outstanding. As of December 31, 2018, Pennsylvania Mutual had Investment Class, Service Class, Institutional Class, Consultant Class, and R Class shares outstanding. No Institutional Class or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will issued or be distributed to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
The pro forma net asset value per share assumes the issuance of Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that would have been issued at December 31, 2018 in connection with the proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The number of full and fractional shares of each Class of Pennsylvania Mutual assumed to be issued in connection with the proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is determined by dividing: (i) the aggregate value of the assets of Small/Mid-Cap Premier that are transferred to Pennsylvania Mutual, net of all of the liabilities of Small/Mid-Cap Premier that are assumed by Pennsylvania Mutual, by (ii) the net asset value of one share of the relevant Class of Pennsylvania Mutual.
S-26
The pro forma number of Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares outstanding for Pennsylvania Mutual consists of the following at December 31, 2018.
Class of Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual | Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: Pre-Small/Mid- Cap Premier Reorganization | Additional Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual Assumed Issued in Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization* | Total Outstanding Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: Post-Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization* |
Investment | 155,276,838 | 8,306,634 | 163,583,472 |
Service | 4,144,325 | 10,882,263 | 15,026,588 |
Consultant | 40,285,369 | 1,007,910 | 41,293,279 |
*The data does not take into account expenses expected to be incurred by Small/Mid-Cap Premier in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders on the date of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
NOTE 5 — Pro Forma Operating Expenses:
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted, giving effect to the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization reflects changes in expenses of Pennsylvania Mutual as if such Reorganization was consummated on January 1, 2018.
NOTE 6 — Federal Income Taxes:
Each of Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual has elected to be taxed as a “regulated investment company” under the Code. If the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization is consummated, unless it determines such qualification is no longer in the best interest of shareholders, Pennsylvania Mutual will seek to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by complying with the provisions applicable to certain investment companies, as defined in applicable sections of the Code, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, Federal income taxes. In addition, Small/Mid-Cap Premier will make any required income or capital gain distributions prior to consummation of the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, in accordance with provisions of the Code relating to tax-free reorganizations of investment companies.
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, Small/Mid-Cap Premier does not expect to have any capital loss carryovers to offset any such gains. As a result of the net unrealized appreciation in Pennsylvania Mutual’s assets as set forth in the Annual Report, it is expected that for a period of years after the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, the Combined Fund’s sale of appreciated portfolio securities likely will result in greater taxable capital gain distributions to a former Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholder than such shareholder might otherwise have received in the absence of such Reorganization.
S-27
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to
the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations
as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| Common Stocks – 98.8% | | Common Stocks – 91.2% | | Common Stocks – 92.6% | | Common Stocks – 98.0% |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.4% | | | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 3.4% | | | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 0.7% | | | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.6% | | |
| MEDIA - 1.4% | | | | MEDIA - 3.4% | | | | MEDIA - 0.7% | | | | MEDIA - 1.6% | | |
| comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 | | comScore | – | – | | comScore | – | – | | comScore 1,2 | 522,674 | 7,542,186 |
| E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | – | – | | E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | – | – | | E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | 25,690 | 404,104 | | E.W. Scripps Company Cl. A | 25,690 | 404,104 |
| Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C | – | – | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C | – | – | | Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1 | 232,593 | 3,388,880 |
| Media General (Rights) | – | – | | Media General (Rights) 1,3 | 102,272 | 0 | | Media General (Rights) | – | – | | Media General (Rights) 1,3 | 102,272 | 0 |
| Meredith Corporation | 151,841 | 7,886,622 | | Meredith Corporation | 68,950 | 3,581,263 | | Meredith Corporation | – | – | | Meredith Corporation | 220,791 | 11,467,885 |
| Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | – | – | | Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | 22,131 | 1,740,382 | | Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | – | – | | Nexstar Media Group Cl. A | 22,131 | 1,740,382 |
| Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 | | Saga Communications Cl. A | – | – | | Saga Communications Cl. A | – | – | | Saga Communications Cl. A | 116,258 | 3,863,253 |
| Total (Cost $28,450,440) | | 22,680,941 | | Total (Cost $4,698,157) | | 5,321,645 | | Total (Cost $329,340) | | 404,104 | | Total (Cost $33,477,937) | | 28,406,690 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 7.7% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 17.5% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 11.0% | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 8.6% |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 2.7% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 7.0% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 4.7% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 3.1% | | |
| Cooper Tire & Rubber | – | – | | Cooper Tire & Rubber | 29,300 | 947,269 | | Cooper Tire & Rubber | – | – | | Cooper Tire & Rubber | 29,300 | 947,269 |
| Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 | | Cooper-Standard Holdings | – | – | | Cooper-Standard Holdings | – | – | | Cooper-Standard Holdings 1 | 82,087 | 5,099,244 |
| Dorman Products 1 | 118,473 | 10,664,940 | | Dorman Products 1 | 44,700 | 4,023,894 | | Dorman Products | – | – | | Dorman Products 1 | 163,173 | 14,688,834 |
| Gentex Corporation | 295,805 | 5,978,219 | | Gentex Corporation | – | – | | Gentex Corporation | 21,234 | 429,139 | | Gentex Corporation | 317,039 | 6,407,358 |
| LCI Industries | 94,803 | 6,332,840 | | LCI Industries | 32,300 | 2,157,640 | | LCI Industries | 14,532 | 970,738 | | LCI Industries | 141,635 | 9,461,218 |
| Standard Motor Products | 106,756 | 5,170,193 | | Standard Motor Products | 77,030 | 3,730,563 | | Standard Motor Products | 6,100 | 295,423 | | Standard Motor Products | 189,886 | 9,196,179 |
| Stoneridge 1 | 220,093 | 5,425,293 | | Stoneridge | – | – | | Stoneridge 1 | 14,100 | 347,565 | | Stoneridge 1 | 234,193 | 5,772,858 |
| Visteon Corporation 1 | 54,397 | 3,279,051 | | Visteon Corporation | – | – | | Visteon Corporation 1 | 8,700 | 524,436 | | Visteon Corporation 1 | 63,097 | 3,803,487 |
| | | 41,949,780 | | | | 10,859,366 | | | | 2,567,301 | | | | 55,376,447 |
| AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% | | | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.0% | | | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.0% | | | | AUTOMOBILES - 0.3% | | |
| Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 | | Thor Industries | – | – | | Thor Industries | – | – | | Thor Industries | 32,896 | 1,710,592 |
| Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 | | Winnebago Industries | – | – | | Winnebago Industries | – | – | | Winnebago Industries | 158,610 | 3,839,948 |
| | | 5,550,540 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | 5,550,540 |
| DISTRIBUTORS - 0.4% | | | | DISTRIBUTORS - 2.5% | | | | DISTRIBUTORS - 0.0% | | | | DISTRIBUTORS - 0.6% | | |
| Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 | | Core-Mark Holding Company | – | – | | Core-Mark Holding Company | – | – | | Core-Mark Holding Company | 57,395 | 1,334,434 |
| LKQ Corporation | – | – | | LKQ Corporation 1 | 160,000 | 3,796,800 | | LKQ Corporation | – | – | | LKQ Corporation 1 | 160,000 | 3,796,800 |
| Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 | | Weyco Group | – | – | | Weyco Group | – | – | | Weyco Group | 199,832 | 5,829,099 |
| | | 7,163,533 | | | | 3,796,800 | | | | – | | | | 10,960,333 |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 1.5% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 1.2% | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.8% |
| Aramark | – | – | | Aramark | 78,700 | 2,279,939 | | Aramark | – | – | | Aramark | 78,700 | 2,279,939 |
| Century Casinos | – | – | | Century Casinos | – | – | | Century Casinos 1 | 89,900 | 664,361 | | Century Casinos 1 | 89,900 | 664,361 |
| Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 | | Hilton Grand Vacations | – | – | | Hilton Grand Vacations | – | – | | Hilton Grand Vacations 1,2 | 245,368 | 6,475,262 |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings | – | – | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings | – | – | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 367,713 | 4,949,417 |
| Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 | | Red Lion Hotels | – | – | | Red Lion Hotels | – | – | | Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 93,171 | 764,002 |
| | | 12,188,681 | | | | 2,279,939 | | | | 664,361 | | | | 15,132,981 |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% | | | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.0% | | | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.5% | | | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.2% | | |
| Ethan Allen Interiors | – | – | | Ethan Allen Interiors | – | – | | Ethan Allen Interiors | 15,500 | 272,645 | | Ethan Allen Interiors | 15,500 | 272,645 |
| La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 | | La-Z-Boy | – | – | | La-Z-Boy | – | – | | La-Z-Boy | 121,221 | 3,359,034 |
| | | 3,359,034 | | | | – | | | | 272,645 | | | | 3,631,679 |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.0% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.0% | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.4% |
| Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 | | Etsy | – | – | | Etsy | – | – | | Etsy 1 | 68,489 | 3,258,022 |
| Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Waitr Holdings Cl. A 1,2 | 126,859 | 1,414,478 |
| zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 | | zooplus | – | – | | zooplus | – | – | | zooplus 1 | 12,983 | 1,768,669 |
| | | 6,441,169 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | 6,441,169 |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.3% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.0% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 1.0% | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.3% |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 161,714 | 3,024,052 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings | – | – | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 29,000 | 542,300 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 190,714 | 3,566,352 |
| Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 | | Nautilus | – | – | | Nautilus | – | – | | Nautilus 1 | 96,465 | 1,051,468 |
| | | 4,075,520 | | | | – | | | | 542,300 | | | | 4,617,820 |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.3% | | | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 4.8% | | | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.2% | | | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 2.5% | | |
| American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 | | American Eagle Outfitters | – | – | | American Eagle Outfitters | – | – | | American Eagle Outfitters | 128,013 | 2,474,491 |
| America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 | | America's Car-Mart | – | – | | America's Car-Mart | – | – | | America's Car-Mart 1 | 109,064 | 7,901,687 |
| Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 | | Barnes & Noble | – | – | | Barnes & Noble | – | – | | Barnes & Noble | 75,187 | 533,076 |
| Caleres | 58,769 | 1,635,541 | | Caleres | – | – | | Caleres | 27,400 | 762,542 | | Caleres | 86,169 | 2,398,083 |
| Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | – | – | | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 544,376 | 6,243,993 |
| CarMax | – | – | | CarMax 1 | 70,400 | 4,416,192 | | CarMax | – | – | | CarMax 1 | 70,400 | 4,416,192 |
| Children's Place | – | – | | Children's Place | 17,000 | 1,531,530 | | Children's Place | – | – | | Children's Place | 17,000 | 1,531,530 |
| DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 | | DSW Cl. A | – | – | | DSW Cl. A | – | – | | DSW Cl. A | 96,594 | 2,385,872 |
| Monro | 163,723 | 11,255,956 | | Monro | 22,400 | 1,540,000 | | Monro | 6,700 | 460,625 | | Monro | 192,823 | 13,256,581 |
| Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 | | Shoe Carnival | – | – | | Shoe Carnival | – | – | | Shoe Carnival | 101,806 | 3,411,519 |
| | | 35,842,135 | | | | 7,487,722 | | | | 1,223,167 | | | | 44,553,024 |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.3% | | | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 1.7% | | | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 1.4% | | | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.4% | | |
| Movado Group | – | – | | Movado Group | – | – | | Movado Group | 20,200 | 638,724 | | Movado Group | 20,200 | 638,724 |
| Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 | | Steven Madden | – | – | | Steven Madden | – | – | | Steven Madden | 58,806 | 1,779,470 |
| Wolverine World Wide | 80,800 | 2,576,712 | | Wolverine World Wide | 84,200 | 2,685,138 | | Wolverine World Wide | 5,000 | 159,450 | | Wolverine World Wide | 170,000 | 5,421,300 |
| | | 4,356,182 | | | | 2,685,138 | | | | 798,174 | | | | 7,839,494 |
| Total (Cost $86,379,191) | | 120,926,574 | | Total (Cost $28,926,834) | | 27,108,965 | | Total (Cost $5,240,632) | | 6,067,948 | | Total (Cost $120,546,657) | | 154,103,487 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.4% | | | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 0.3% | | | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 4.9% | | | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 1.4% | | |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.3% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 2.3% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 0.7% | | |
| Cal-Maine Foods | 53,112 | 2,246,638 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 9,700 | 410,310 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 8,158 | 345,084 | | Cal-Maine Foods | 70,970 | 3,002,032 |
| Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 | | Farmer Bros. | – | – | | Farmer Bros. | – | – | | Farmer Bros. 1 | 52,408 | 1,222,679 |
| Industrias Bachoco ADR | – | – | | Industrias Bachoco ADR | – | – | | Industrias Bachoco ADR | 7,700 | 304,612 | | Industrias Bachoco ADR | 7,700 | 304,612 |
| John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | – | – | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | – | – | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 20,126 | 1,120,213 |
| Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 | | Nomad Foods | – | – | | Nomad Foods | – | – | | Nomad Foods 1,2 | 139,773 | 2,337,004 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 | | Seneca Foods Cl. A | – | �� – | | Seneca Foods Cl. A | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. A 1 | 105,072 | 2,965,132 |
| Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 | | Seneca Foods Cl. B | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. B | – | – | | Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | 6,292 | 177,497 |
| Tootsie Roll Industries | – | – | | Tootsie Roll Industries | – | – | | Tootsie Roll Industries | 18,300 | 611,220 | | Tootsie Roll Industries | 18,300 | 611,220 |
| | | 10,069,163 | | | | 410,310 | | | | 1,260,916 | | | | 11,740,389 |
| PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.8% | | | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.0% | | | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 2.6% | | | | PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.7% | | |
| Inter Parfums | 191,012 | 12,524,657 | | Inter Parfums | – | – | | Inter Parfums | 22,130 | 1,451,064 | | Inter Parfums | 213,142 | 13,975,721 |
| Total (Cost $10,549,664) | | 22,593,820 | | Total (Cost $357,992) | | 410,310 | | Total (Cost $1,718,903) | | 2,711,980 | | Total (Cost $12,626,559) | | 25,716,110 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-28
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| ENERGY – 3.8% | | | | ENERGY – 0.0% | | | | ENERGY – 3.6% | | | | ENERGY – 3.5% | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.7% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.6% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.5% | | |
| Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 | | Era Group | – | – | | Era Group | – | – | | Era Group 1 | 532,774 | 4,656,445 |
| Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 | | Forum Energy Technologies | – | – | | Forum Energy Technologies | – | – | | Forum Energy Technologies 1,2 | 134,485 | 555,423 |
| Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 | | Helmerich & Payne | – | – | | Helmerich & Payne | – | – | | Helmerich & Payne | 81,880 | 3,925,327 |
| Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 | | Natural Gas Services Group | – | – | | Natural Gas Services Group | – | – | | Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 48,162 | 791,783 |
| Oil States International | – | – | | Oil States International | – | – | | Oil States International 1 | 23,440 | 334,723 | | Oil States International 1 | 23,440 | 334,723 |
| Pason Systems | 1,040,509 | 13,940,016 | | Pason Systems | – | – | | Pason Systems | 69,340 | 928,969 | | Pason Systems | 1,109,849 | 14,868,985 |
| RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 | | RPC | – | – | | RPC | – | – | | RPC | 260,074 | 2,566,931 |
| SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 | | SEACOR Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Holdings 1 | 510,007 | 18,870,259 |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | – | – | | SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | 481,549 | 5,663,016 |
| TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 335,320 | 8,097,475 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | – | – | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 29,550 | 713,588 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 364,870 | 8,811,063 |
| Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 | | Unit Corporation | – | – | | Unit Corporation | – | – | | Unit Corporation 1 | 8,950 | 127,806 |
| | | 59,194,481 | | | | – | | | | 1,977,280 | | | | 61,171,761 |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.1% | | | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.0% | | | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.0% | | | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.0% | | |
| San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | 868,814 | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | – | – | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | – | – | | San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | 181,003 | �� 868,814 |
| Total (Cost $54,788,424) | | 60,063,295 | | Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $1,573,314) | | 1,977,280 | | Total (Cost $56,361,738) | | 62,040,575 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| FINANCIALS – 16.7% | | | | FINANCIALS – 8.8% | | | | FINANCIALS – 13.5% | | | | FINANCIALS – 16.0% | | |
| BANKS - 5.3% | | | | BANKS - 0.7% | | | | BANKS - 0.0% | | | | BANKS - 4.7% | | |
| Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 | | Ames National | – | – | | Ames National | – | – | | Ames National | 35,783 | 909,604 |
| Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | – | – | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | – | – | | Bar Harbor Bankshares | 48,324 | 1,083,907 |
| BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 | | BOK Financial | – | – | | BOK Financial | – | – | | BOK Financial | 140,934 | 10,334,690 |
| Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 | | Camden National | – | – | | Camden National | – | – | | Camden National | 112,400 | 4,043,028 |
| City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 | | City Holding Company | – | – | | City Holding Company | – | – | | City Holding Company | 45,154 | 3,051,959 |
| CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 | | CNB Financial | – | – | | CNB Financial | – | – | | CNB Financial | 195,735 | 4,492,118 |
| Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 | | Financial Institutions | – | – | | Financial Institutions | – | – | | Financial Institutions | 29,373 | 754,886 |
| First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | – | – | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | – | – | | First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | 65,446 | 24,676,414 |
| Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 | | Landmark Bancorp | – | – | | Landmark Bancorp | – | – | | Landmark Bancorp | 23,150 | 530,251 |
| MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 | | MidWestOne Financial Group | – | – | | MidWestOne Financial Group | – | – | | MidWestOne Financial Group | 156,172 | 3,877,751 |
| National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 | | National Bankshares | – | – | | National Bankshares | – | – | | National Bankshares | 89,855 | 3,273,418 |
| Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 | | Northrim BanCorp | – | – | | Northrim BanCorp | – | – | | Northrim BanCorp | 86,512 | 2,843,649 |
| Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 | | Popular | – | – | | Popular | – | – | | Popular | 205,102 | 9,684,916 |
| TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 | | TriState Capital Holdings | – | – | | TriState Capital Holdings | – | – | | TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 97,584 | 1,898,985 |
| Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 | | Unity Bancorp | – | – | | Unity Bancorp | – | – | | Unity Bancorp | 51,875 | 1,076,925 |
| Webster Financial | 223,305 | 11,006,704 | | Webster Financial | 22,145 | 1,091,527 | | Webster Financial | – | – | | Webster Financial | 245,450 | 12,098,231 |
| | | 83,539,205 | | | | 1,091,527 | | | | – | | | | 84,630,732 |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.3% | | | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 3.6% | | | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 7.2% | | | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 6.1% | | |
| Affiliated Managers Group | – | – | | Affiliated Managers Group | 5,630 | 548,587 | | Affiliated Managers Group | – | – | | Affiliated Managers Group | 5,630 | 548,587 |
| Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 | | Ares Management | – | – | | Ares Management | – | – | | Ares Management | 811,281 | 14,424,576 |
| Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 256,133 | 5,663,101 | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | – | – | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 56,400 | 1,247,004 | | Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A | 312,533 | 6,910,105 |
| B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 | | B. Riley Financial | – | – | | B. Riley Financial | – | – | | B. Riley Financial | 59,917 | 850,821 |
| Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 | | Cohen & Steers | – | – | | Cohen & Steers | – | – | | Cohen & Steers | 7,393 | 253,728 |
| Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | – | – | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | – | – | | Diamond Hill Investment Group | 51,918 | 7,759,145 |
| Federated Investors Cl. B | – | – | | Federated Investors Cl. B | – | – | | Federated Investors Cl. B | 13,660 | 362,673 | | Federated Investors Cl. B | 13,660 | 362,673 |
| Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 310,119 | 11,412,379 | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | – | – | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 36,200 | 1,332,160 | | Houlihan Lokey Cl. A | 346,319 | 12,744,539 |
| Lazard Cl. A | 156,565 | 5,778,814 | | Lazard Cl. A | 52,550 | 1,939,621 | | Lazard Cl. A | 28,470 | 1,050,827 | | Lazard Cl. A | 237,585 | 8,769,262 |
| Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | – | – | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | – | – | | Moelis & Company Cl. A | 93,720 | 3,222,094 |
| Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 | | Morningstar | – | – | | Morningstar | – | – | | Morningstar | 92,494 | 10,159,541 |
| Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 214,946 | 8,544,104 | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 32,700 | 1,299,825 | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | – | – | | Oaktree Capital Group LLC Cl. A | 247,646 | 9,843,929 |
| Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | – | – | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | – | – | | Pzena Investment Management Cl. A | 66,146 | 572,163 |
| Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 | | Reinet Investments DR | – | – | | Reinet Investments DR | – | – | | Reinet Investments DR | 116,469 | 1,768,386 |
| Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 | | Rothschild & Co | – | – | | Rothschild & Co | – | – | | Rothschild & Co | 101,069 | 3,572,423 |
| SEI Investments | 154,476 | 7,136,791 | | SEI Investments | 38,500 | 1,778,700 | | SEI Investments | – | – | | SEI Investments | 192,976 | 8,915,491 |
| Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 | | Sprott | – | – | | Sprott | – | – | | Sprott | 1,716,948 | 3,232,168 |
| Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | – | – | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | – | – | | Virtu Financial Cl. A | 562,354 | 14,486,239 |
| Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 | | Westwood Holdings Group | – | – | | Westwood Holdings Group | – | – | | Westwood Holdings Group | 24,434 | 830,756 |
| | | 99,667,229 | | | | 5,566,733 | | | | 3,992,664 | | | | 109,226,626 |
| INSURANCE - 3.0% | | | | INSURANCE - 4.5% | | | | INSURANCE - 3.2% | | | | INSURANCE - 3.2% | | |
| Alleghany Corporation | – | – | | Alleghany Corporation | 8,820 | 5,497,682 | | Alleghany Corporation | – | – | | Alleghany Corporation | 8,820 | 5,497,682 |
| Ambac Financial Group 1 | 38,442 | 662,740 | | Ambac Financial Group | – | – | | Ambac Financial Group | – | – | | Ambac Financial Group 1 | 38,442 | 662,740 |
| Berkley (W.R.) | – | – | | Berkley (W.R.) | 20,310 | 1,501,112 | | Berkley (W.R.) | – | – | | Berkley (W.R.) | 20,310 | 1,501,112 |
| E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 | | E-L Financial | – | – | | E-L Financial | – | – | | E-L Financial | 32,356 | 17,443,610 |
| James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 | | James River Group Holdings | – | – | | James River Group Holdings | – | – | | James River Group Holdings | 85,836 | 3,136,448 |
| Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 | | Kingstone Companies | – | – | | Kingstone Companies | – | – | | Kingstone Companies | 98,785 | 1,747,507 |
| MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 | | MBIA | – | – | | MBIA | – | – | | MBIA 1 | 692,387 | 6,176,092 |
| ProAssurance Corporation | 261,613 | 10,611,023 | | ProAssurance Corporation | – | – | | ProAssurance Corporation | 16,500 | 669,240 | | ProAssurance Corporation | 278,113 | 11,280,263 |
| RLI Corp. | 65,108 | 4,491,801 | | RLI Corp. | – | – | | RLI Corp. | 15,900 | 1,096,941 | | RLI Corp. | 81,008 | 5,588,742 |
| Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 | | Trupanion | – | – | | Trupanion | – | – | | Trupanion 1,2 | 141,592 | 3,604,932 |
| | | 47,874,153 | | | | 6,998,794 | | | | 1,766,181 | | | | 56,639,128 |
| INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% | | | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.0% | | | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.0% | | | | INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.1% | | |
| Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) | – | – | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) | – | – | | Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings (Units) 1 | 177,515 | 1,815,978 |
| THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.0% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 0.0% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 1.9% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 1.9% | | |
| Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 | | Axos Financial | – | – | | Axos Financial | – | – | | Axos Financial 1,2 | 167,208 | 4,210,297 |
| Genworth MI Canada | 552,769 | 16,276,966 | | Genworth MI Canada | – | – | | Genworth MI Canada | 58,760 | 1,730,261 | | Genworth MI Canada | 611,529 | 18,007,227 |
| Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | – | – | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | – | – | | Southern Missouri Bancorp | 31,803 | 1,078,122 |
| Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 | | Timberland Bancorp | – | – | | Timberland Bancorp | – | – | | Timberland Bancorp | 96,333 | 2,148,226 |
| TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | – | – | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | – | – | | TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 693,322 | 4,756,189 |
| WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 | | WSFS Financial | – | – | | WSFS Financial | – | – | | WSFS Financial | 83,500 | 3,165,485 |
| | | 31,635,285 | | | | – | | | | 1,730,261 | | | | 33,365,546 |
| Total (Cost $234,801,491) | | 264,531,850 | | Total (Cost $12,825,915) | | 13,657,054 | | Total (Cost $6,300,570) | | 7,489,106 | | Total (Cost $253,927,976) | | 285,678,010 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-29
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| HEALTH CARE – 7.2% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 2.1% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 3.3% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 6.6% | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.1% | | | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | |
| AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 83,536 | 1,268,911 |
| Eagle Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Eagle Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Eagle Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 1,700 | 68,493 | | Eagle Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 1,700 | 68,493 |
| Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 275,365 | 1,156,533 |
| Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 | | Zealand Pharma | – | – | | Zealand Pharma | – | – | | Zealand Pharma 1 | 101,722 | 1,286,257 |
| | | 3,711,701 | | | | – | | | | 68,493 | | | | 3,780,194 |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 2.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 0.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 0.8% | | | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 1.8% | | |
| AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 | | AtriCure | – | – | | AtriCure | – | – | | AtriCure 1 | 123,833 | 3,789,290 |
| Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 | | Atrion Corporation | – | – | | Atrion Corporation | – | – | | Atrion Corporation | 8,592 | 6,367,359 |
| Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 | | Cardiovascular Systems | – | – | | Cardiovascular Systems | – | – | | Cardiovascular Systems 1 | 34,844 | 992,706 |
| CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 | | CryoLife | – | – | | CryoLife | – | – | | CryoLife 1 | 68,108 | 1,932,905 |
| Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 | | Hill-Rom Holdings | – | – | | Hill-Rom Holdings | – | – | | Hill-Rom Holdings | 45,811 | 4,056,564 |
| Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 118,832 | 1,859,721 | | Lantheus Holdings | – | – | | Lantheus Holdings 1 | 27,100 | 424,115 | | Lantheus Holdings 1,2 | 145,932 | 2,283,836 |
| LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 | | LeMaitre Vascular | – | – | | LeMaitre Vascular | – | – | | LeMaitre Vascular | 75,978 | 1,796,120 |
| Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 | | Merit Medical Systems | – | – | | Merit Medical Systems | – | – | | Merit Medical Systems 1 | 198,088 | 11,055,291 |
| | | 31,849,956 | | | | – | | | | 424,115 | | | | 32,274,071 |
| HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.4% | | | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 0.7% | | | | HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 2.1% | | |
| AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 93,330 | 5,288,078 | | AMN Healthcare Services | – | – | | AMN Healthcare Services 1 | 7,000 | 396,620 | | AMN Healthcare Services 1,2 | 100,330 | 5,684,698 |
| Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 | | Encompass Health | – | – | | Encompass Health | – | – | | Encompass Health | 125,485 | 7,742,424 |
| Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 | | Ensign Group (The) | – | – | | Ensign Group (The) | – | – | | Ensign Group (The) | 29,764 | 1,154,546 |
| HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 | | HealthEquity | – | – | | HealthEquity | – | – | | HealthEquity 1 | 42,628 | 2,542,760 |
| National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 | | National Research | – | – | | National Research | – | – | | National Research | 136,613 | 5,210,420 |
| Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 | | Tivity Health | – | – | | Tivity Health | – | – | | Tivity Health 1,2 | 74,749 | 1,854,523 |
| U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 | | U.S. Physical Therapy | – | – | | U.S. Physical Therapy | – | – | | U.S. Physical Therapy | 133,872 | 13,701,799 |
| | | 37,494,550 | | | | – | | | | 396,620 | | | | 37,891,170 |
| HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 1.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.9% | | |
| Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 | | Medidata Solutions | – | – | | Medidata Solutions | – | – | | Medidata Solutions 1 | 230,671 | 15,551,839 |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% | | | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 2.1% | | | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.7% | | | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.6% | | |
| Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 25,953 | 6,026,806 | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 10,626 | 2,467,570 | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 1 | 36,579 | 8,494,376 |
| Bio-Techne | 79,397 | 11,490,334 | | Bio-Techne | – | – | | Bio-Techne | 6,394 | 925,340 | | Bio-Techne | 85,791 | 12,415,674 |
| ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 | | ICON | – | �� – | | ICON | – | – | | ICON 1 | 31,848 | 4,115,080 |
| NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 | | NeoGenomics | – | – | | NeoGenomics | – | – | | NeoGenomics 1 | 52,403 | 660,802 |
| PerkinElmer | – | – | | PerkinElmer | 10,074 | 791,312 | | PerkinElmer | – | – | | PerkinElmer | 10,074 | 791,312 |
| Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 | | Quanterix Corporation | – | – | | Quanterix Corporation | – | – | | Quanterix Corporation 1,2 | 158,379 | 2,899,919 |
| | | 25,192,941 | | | | 3,258,882 | | | | 925,340 | | | | 29,377,163 |
| Total (Cost $63,419,874) | | 113,800,987 | | Total (Cost $3,331,185) | | 3,258,882 | | Total (Cost $1,201,865) | | 1,814,568 | | Total (Cost $67,952,924) | | 118,874,437 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 26.9% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 27.6% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 28.9% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 27.0% | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.9% | | | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 2.5% | | | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 0.0% | | | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.9% | | |
| HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 | | HEICO Corporation | – | – | | HEICO Corporation | – | – | | HEICO Corporation | 261,065 | 20,227,316 |
| HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | – | – | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | – | – | | HEICO Corporation Cl. A | 142,534 | 8,979,642 |
| Hexcel Corporation | – | – | | Hexcel Corporation | 39,240 | 2,250,022 | | Hexcel Corporation | – | – | | Hexcel Corporation | 39,240 | 2,250,022 |
| Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 | | Magellan Aerospace | – | – | | Magellan Aerospace | – | – | | Magellan Aerospace | 70,271 | 771,066 |
| Teledyne Technologies | – | – | | Teledyne Technologies 1 | 7,700 | 1,594,439 | | Teledyne Technologies | – | – | | Teledyne Technologies 1 | 7,700 | 1,594,439 |
| | | 29,978,024 | | | | 3,844,461 | | | | – | | | | 33,822,485 |
| AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.8% | | | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.0% | | | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.0% | | | | AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.7% | | |
| Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 | | Forward Air | – | – | | Forward Air | – | – | | Forward Air | 157,115 | 8,617,758 |
| Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 | | Hub Group Cl. A | – | – | | Hub Group Cl. A | – | – | | Hub Group Cl. A 1 | 113,964 | 4,224,645 |
| | | 12,842,403 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | 12,842,403 |
| AIRLINES - 0.6% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.0% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.0% | | | | AIRLINES - 0.5% | | |
| Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 | | Allegiant Travel | – | – | | Allegiant Travel | – | – | | Allegiant Travel | 18,845 | 1,888,646 |
| Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 | | Hawaiian Holdings | – | – | | Hawaiian Holdings | – | – | | Hawaiian Holdings | 238,754 | 6,305,493 |
| Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 | | Spirit Airlines | – | – | | Spirit Airlines | – | – | | Spirit Airlines 1,2 | 26,730 | 1,548,202 |
| | | 9,742,341 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | 9,742,341 |
| BUILDING PRODUCTS - 0.9% | | | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 2.9% | | | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 3.2% | | | | BUILDING PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | |
| Apogee Enterprises | 210,137 | 6,272,589 | | Apogee Enterprises | – | – | | Apogee Enterprises | 23,100 | 689,535 | | Apogee Enterprises | 233,237 | 6,962,124 |
| Gibraltar Industries 1 | 144,789 | 5,153,041 | | Gibraltar Industries | – | �� – | | Gibraltar Industries 1 | 23,100 | 822,129 | | Gibraltar Industries 1 | 167,889 | 5,975,170 |
| Lennox International | – | – | | Lennox International | 11,257 | 2,463,707 | | Lennox International | – | – | | Lennox International | 11,257 | 2,463,707 |
| Simpson Manufacturing | 53,000 | 2,868,890 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 37,700 | 2,040,701 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 4,820 | 260,906 | | Simpson Manufacturing | 95,520 | 5,170,497 |
| | | 14,294,520 | | | | 4,504,408 | | | | 1,772,570 | | | | 20,571,498 |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.2% | | | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.1% | | | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 4.1% | | | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.3% | | |
| Copart | – | – | | Copart 1 | 45,100 | 2,154,878 | | Copart | – | – | | Copart 1 | 45,100 | 2,154,878 |
| Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 | | Healthcare Services Group | – | – | | Healthcare Services Group | – | – | | Healthcare Services Group | 164,656 | 6,615,878 |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean | – | – | | Heritage-Crystal Clean | – | – | | Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 167,241 | 3,848,215 |
| Kimball International Cl. B | 483,857 | 6,865,931 | | Kimball International Cl. B | – | – | | Kimball International Cl. B | 44,230 | 627,624 | | Kimball International Cl. B | 528,087 | 7,493,555 |
| Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 | | Mobile Mini | – | – | | Mobile Mini | – | – | | Mobile Mini | 154,633 | 4,909,598 |
| PICO Holdings 1 | 326,703 | 2,986,065 | | PICO Holdings | – | – | | PICO Holdings 1 | 33,900 | 309,846 | | PICO Holdings 1 | 360,603 | 3,295,911 |
| Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 39,233 | 1,283,704 | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | – | – | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 6,700 | 219,224 | | Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers | 45,933 | 1,502,928 |
| Steelcase Cl. A | – | – | | Steelcase Cl. A | – | – | | Steelcase Cl. A | 18,800 | 278,804 | | Steelcase Cl. A | 18,800 | 278,804 |
| Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 | | Team | – | – | | Team | – | – | | Team 1 | 141,510 | 2,073,121 |
| UniFirst Corporation | 31,208 | 4,464,929 | | UniFirst Corporation | 8,240 | 1,178,897 | | UniFirst Corporation | 5,600 | 801,192 | | UniFirst Corporation | 45,048 | 6,445,018 |
| Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 | | Viad Corporation | – | – | | Viad Corporation | – | – | | Viad Corporation | 20,864 | 1,045,078 |
| | | 34,092,519 | | | | 3,333,775 | | | | 2,236,690 | | | | 39,662,984 |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 2.1% | | | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 0.6% | | | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 4.7% | | | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 2.1% | | |
| Arcosa 1 | 395,838 | 10,960,754 | | Arcosa | – | – | | Arcosa 1 | 35,500 | 982,995 | | Arcosa 1 | 431,338 | 11,943,749 |
| Comfort Systems USA | – | – | | Comfort Systems USA | 21,200 | 926,016 | | Comfort Systems USA | 7,900 | 345,072 | | Comfort Systems USA | 29,100 | 1,271,088 |
| KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 | | KBR | – | – | | KBR | – | – | | KBR | 470,489 | 7,142,023 |
| Sterling Construction | – | – | | Sterling Construction | – | – | | Sterling Construction 1 | 60,500 | 658,845 | | Sterling Construction 1 | 60,500 | 658,845 |
| Valmont Industries | 132,101 | 14,656,606 | | Valmont Industries | – | – | | Valmont Industries | 5,495 | 609,670 | | Valmont Industries | 137,596 | 15,266,276 |
| | | 32,759,383 | | | | 926,016 | | | | 2,596,582 | | | | 36,281,981 |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.3% | | | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 3.2% | | | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.0% | | | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.4% | | |
| Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 | | Encore Wire | – | – | | Encore Wire | – | – | | Encore Wire | 144,259 | 7,238,917 |
| EnerSys | – | – | | EnerSys | – | – | | EnerSys | 7,300 | 566,553 | | EnerSys | 7,300 | 566,553 |
| Hubbell Cl. B | – | – | | Hubbell Cl. B | 22,721 | 2,257,104 | | Hubbell Cl. B | – | – | | Hubbell Cl. B | 22,721 | 2,257,104 |
| Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 | | Preformed Line Products | – | – | | Preformed Line Products | – | – | | Preformed Line Products | 233,761 | 12,681,534 |
| Sensata Technologies Holding | – | – | | Sensata Technologies Holding 1 | 59,750 | 2,679,190 | | Sensata Technologies Holding | – | – | | Sensata Technologies Holding 1 | 59,750 | 2,679,190 |
| | | 19,920,451 | | | | 4,936,294 | | | | 566,553 | | | | 25,423,298 |
S-30
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.3% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 2.8% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.0% | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 1.4% |
| Carlisle Companies | – | – | | Carlisle Companies | 43,103 | 4,332,713 | | Carlisle Companies | – | – | | Carlisle Companies | 43,103 | 4,332,713 |
| Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 | | Raven Industries | – | – | | Raven Industries | – | – | | Raven Industries | 564,110 | 20,415,141 |
| | | 20,415,141 | | | | 4,332,713 | | | | – | | | | 24,747,854 |
| MACHINERY - 9.5% | | | | MACHINERY - 5.1% | | | | MACHINERY - 12.3% | | | | MACHINERY - 9.3% | | |
| Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 | | Alamo Group | – | – | | Alamo Group | – | – | | Alamo Group | 38,956 | 3,012,078 |
| Allison Transmission Holdings | – | – | | Allison Transmission Holdings | 69,000 | 3,029,790 | | Allison Transmission Holdings | – | – | | Allison Transmission Holdings | 69,000 | 3,029,790 |
| CIRCOR International 1 | 344,615 | 7,340,299 | | CIRCOR International | – | – | | CIRCOR International 1 | 28,620 | 609,606 | | CIRCOR International 1 | 373,235 | 7,949,905 |
| Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 | | Colfax Corporation | – | – | | Colfax Corporation | – | – | | Colfax Corporation 1,2 | 113,964 | 2,381,848 |
| Franklin Electric | 225,023 | 9,648,986 | | Franklin Electric | 21,960 | 941,645 | | Franklin Electric | – | – | | Franklin Electric | 246,983 | 10,590,631 |
| Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 | | Graco | – | – | | Graco | – | – | | Graco | 185,633 | 7,768,741 |
| Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 | | Graham Corporation | – | – | | Graham Corporation | – | – | | Graham Corporation | 44,465 | 1,015,581 |
| Greenbrier Companies (The) | 85,446 | 3,378,535 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | – | – | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 33,600 | 1,328,544 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 119,046 | 4,707,079 |
| John Bean Technologies | 134,682 | 9,671,514 | | John Bean Technologies | – | – | | John Bean Technologies | 13,099 | 940,639 | | John Bean Technologies | 147,781 | 10,612,153 |
| Kadant | 114,206 | 9,303,221 | | Kadant | – | – | | Kadant | 13,060 | 1,063,868 | | Kadant | 127,266 | 10,367,089 |
| Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 | | Kornit Digital | – | – | | Kornit Digital | – | – | | Kornit Digital 1,2 | 59,526 | 1,114,327 |
| Lincoln Electric Holdings | 112,290 | 8,854,066 | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | 49,960 | 3,939,346 | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | – | – | | Lincoln Electric Holdings | 162,250 | 12,793,412 |
| Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 | | Lindsay Corporation | – | – | | Lindsay Corporation | – | – | | Lindsay Corporation | 119,403 | 11,492,539 |
| Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 | | Lydall | – | – | | Lydall | – | – | | Lydall 1 | 30,728 | 624,086 |
| Meritor 1 | 681,049 | 11,516,539 | | Meritor | – | – | | Meritor 1 | 93,300 | 1,577,703 | | Meritor 1 | 774,349 | 13,094,242 |
| Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 | | Miller Industries | – | – | | Miller Industries | – | – | | Miller Industries | 218,218 | 5,891,886 |
| Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 | | Nordson Corporation | – | – | | Nordson Corporation | – | – | | Nordson Corporation | 68,760 | 8,206,506 |
| RBC Bearings 1 | 60,338 | 7,910,312 | | RBC Bearings | – | – | | RBC Bearings 1 | 980 | 128,478 | | RBC Bearings 1 | 61,318 | 8,038,790 |
| Sun Hydraulics | 619,964 | 20,576,605 | | Sun Hydraulics | – | – | | Sun Hydraulics | 10,500 | 348,495 | | Sun Hydraulics | 630,464 | 20,925,100 |
| Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 | | Tennant Company | – | – | | Tennant Company | – | – | | Tennant Company | 240,474 | 12,531,100 |
| Wabash National | 627,668 | 8,209,897 | | Wabash National | – | – | | Wabash National | 59,800 | 782,184 | | Wabash National | 687,468 | 8,992,081 |
| | | 150,448,666 | | | | 7,910,781 | | | | 6,779,517 | | | | 165,138,964 |
| MARINE - 1.2% | | | | MARINE - 3.0% | | | | MARINE - 0.0% | | | | MARINE - 1.3% | | |
| Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 | | Clarkson | – | – | | Clarkson | – | – | | Clarkson | 405,000 | 9,808,045 |
| Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 | | Eagle Bulk Shipping | – | – | | Eagle Bulk Shipping | – | – | | Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | 279,836 | 1,290,044 |
| Kirby Corporation 1 | 112,933 | 7,607,167 | | Kirby Corporation 1 | 68,450 | 4,610,792 | | Kirby Corporation | – | – | | Kirby Corporation 1 | 181,383 | 12,217,959 |
| | | 18,705,256 | | | | 4,610,792 | | | | – | | | | 23,316,048 |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.7% | | | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 0.8% | | | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 0.9% | | | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.6% | | |
| Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 | | Exponent | – | – | | Exponent | – | – | | Exponent | 194,349 | 9,855,438 |
| GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 | | GP Strategies | – | – | | GP Strategies | – | – | | GP Strategies 1 | 80,727 | 1,017,967 |
| Heidrick & Struggles International | 125,928 | 3,927,694 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | – | – | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 16,300 | 508,397 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 142,228 | 4,436,091 |
| Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 | | Kforce | – | – | | Kforce | – | – | | Kforce | 91,376 | 2,825,346 |
| Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 | | Korn Ferry | – | – | | Korn Ferry | – | – | | Korn Ferry | 78,443 | 3,101,636 |
| ManpowerGroup | 76,110 | 4,931,928 | | ManpowerGroup | 19,000 | 1,231,200 | | ManpowerGroup | – | – | | ManpowerGroup | 95,110 | 6,163,128 |
| Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 | | Resources Connection | – | – | | Resources Connection | – | – | | Resources Connection | 42,928 | 609,578 |
| TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 | | TrueBlue | – | – | | TrueBlue | – | – | | TrueBlue 1 | 59,734 | 1,329,082 |
| | | 27,598,669 | | | | 1,231,200 | | | | 508,397 | | | | 29,338,266 |
| ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 2.0% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 2.7% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 1.8% | | |
�� | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | – | – | | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | 7,700 | 716,408 | | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | – | – | | J.B. Hunt Transport Services | 7,700 | 716,408 |
| Landstar System | 156,307 | 14,953,891 | | Landstar System | 25,810 | 2,469,243 | | Landstar System | 9,620 | 920,346 | | Landstar System | 191,737 | 18,343,480 |
| Saia 1 | 63,017 | 3,517,609 | | Saia | – | – | | Saia 1 | 10,220 | 570,480 | | Saia 1 | 73,237 | 4,088,089 |
| Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 | | Universal Logistics Holdings | – | – | | Universal Logistics Holdings | – | – | | Universal Logistics Holdings | 482,495 | 8,728,334 |
| Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 | | Werner Enterprises | – | – | | Werner Enterprises | – | – | | Werner Enterprises | 34,496 | 1,019,012 |
| | | 28,218,846 | | | | 3,185,651 | | | | 1,490,826 | | | | 32,895,323 |
| TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.6% | | | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 2.6% | | | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 0.0% | | | | TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.6% | | |
| Air Lease Cl. A | 466,067 | 14,079,884 | | Air Lease Cl. A | 112,300 | 3,392,583 | | Air Lease Cl. A | – | – | | Air Lease Cl. A | 578,367 | 17,472,467 |
| Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 | | Applied Industrial Technologies | – | – | | Applied Industrial Technologies | – | – | | Applied Industrial Technologies | 128,116 | 6,910,577 |
| Diploma | – | – | | Diploma | 13,585 | 209,517 | | Diploma | – | – | | Diploma | 13,585 | 209,517 |
| Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 | | Richelieu Hardware | – | – | | Richelieu Hardware | – | – | | Richelieu Hardware | 245,741 | 4,084,283 |
| Watsco | – | – | | Watsco | 3,000 | 417,420 | | Watsco | – | – | | Watsco | 3,000 | 417,420 |
| | | 25,074,744 | | | | 4,019,520 | | | | – | | | | 29,094,264 |
| Total (Cost $301,389,787) | | 424,090,963 | | Total (Cost $42,549,256) | | 42,835,611 | | Total (Cost $15,981,230) | | 15,951,135 | | Total (Cost $359,920,273) | | 482,877,709 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 21.0% | | | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 12.1% | | | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 17.7% | | | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 20.1% | | |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% | | | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.0% | | | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.7% | | | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% | | |
| ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 | | ADTRAN | – | – | | ADTRAN | – | – | | ADTRAN | 54,205 | 582,161 |
| Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 | | Digi International | – | – | | Digi International | – | – | | Digi International 1 | 297,575 | 3,002,532 |
| NetScout Systems | – | – | | NetScout Systems | – | – | | NetScout Systems 1,2 | 17,200 | 406,436 | | NetScout Systems 1,2 | 17,200 | 406,436 |
| | | 3,584,693 | | | | – | | | | 406,436 | | | | 3,991,129 |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 11.2% | | | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 5.8% | | | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 7.2% | | | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 10.6% | | |
| AVX Corporation | – | – | | AVX Corporation | 26,800 | 408,700 | | AVX Corporation | – | – | | AVX Corporation | 26,800 | 408,700 |
| Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 | | Badger Meter | – | – | | Badger Meter | – | – | | Badger Meter | 280,426 | 13,799,763 |
| Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 | | Benchmark Electronics | – | – | | Benchmark Electronics | – | – | | Benchmark Electronics | 344,222 | 7,290,622 |
| Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 | | Celestica | – | – | | Celestica�� | – | – | | Celestica 1 | 676,039 | 5,928,862 |
| Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 | | Cognex Corporation | – | – | | Cognex Corporation | – | – | | Cognex Corporation | 157,547 | 6,092,342 |
| Coherent 1 | 51,018 | 5,393,113 | | Coherent 1 | 18,590 | 1,965,149 | | Coherent 1 | 5,300 | 560,263 | | Coherent 1 | 74,908 | 7,918,525 |
| Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | – | – | | Dolby Laboratories Cl. A | 95,028 | 5,876,532 |
| Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 140,993 | 4,224,150 | | Electro Scientific Industries | – | – | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 11,500 | 344,540 | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 152,493 | 4,568,690 |
| Fabrinet 1 | 156,170 | 8,013,083 | | Fabrinet | – | – | | Fabrinet 1 | 5,400 | 277,074 | | Fabrinet 1 | 161,570 | 8,290,157 |
| FARO Technologies 1 | 299,843 | 12,185,620 | | FARO Technologies | – | – | | FARO Technologies 1 | 9,260 | 376,326 | | FARO Technologies 1 | 309,103 | 12,561,946 |
| FLIR Systems | 756,241 | 32,926,733 | | FLIR Systems | 64,500 | 2,808,330 | | FLIR Systems | – | – | | FLIR Systems | 820,741 | 35,735,063 |
| HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 | | HollySys Automation Technologies | – | – | | HollySys Automation Technologies | – | – | | HollySys Automation Technologies | 71,900 | 1,258,969 |
| Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 | | Insight Enterprises | – | – | | Insight Enterprises | – | – | | Insight Enterprises 1 | 191,368 | 7,798,246 |
| IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 | | IPG Photonics | – | – | | IPG Photonics | – | – | | IPG Photonics 1 | 58,063 | 6,577,957 |
| Kimball Electronics 1 | 182,454 | 2,826,212 | | Kimball Electronics | – | – | | Kimball Electronics 1 | 58,456 | 905,484 | | Kimball Electronics 1 | 240,910 | 3,731,696 |
| Littelfuse | – | – | | Littelfuse | 15,300 | 2,623,644 | | Littelfuse | – | – | | Littelfuse | 15,300 | 2,623,644 |
| Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 | | Mesa Laboratories | – | – | | Mesa Laboratories | – | – | | Mesa Laboratories | 46,004 | 9,586,774 |
| Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 | | Methode Electronics | – | – | | Methode Electronics | – | – | | Methode Electronics | 7,575 | 176,422 |
| MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 | | MTS Systems | – | – | | MTS Systems | – | – | | MTS Systems | 57,688 | 2,315,019 |
| National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 | | National Instruments | – | – | | National Instruments | – | – | | National Instruments | 312,534 | 14,182,793 |
| nLIGHT 1,2 | 483,043 | 8,588,505 | | nLIGHT 1 | 50,000 | 889,000 | | nLIGHT 1 | 25,500 | 453,390 | | nLIGHT 1,2 | 558,543 | 9,930,895 |
| PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 | | PC Connection | – | – | | PC Connection | – | – | | PC Connection | 321,859 | 9,568,868 |
| Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 | | Richardson Electronics | – | – | | Richardson Electronics | – | – | | Richardson Electronics | 137,743 | 1,196,987 |
| Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 | | Sanmina Corporation | – | – | | Sanmina Corporation | – | – | | Sanmina Corporation 1 | 146,413 | 3,522,697 |
| Vishay Intertechnology | 420,445 | 7,572,214 | | Vishay Intertechnology | – | – | | Vishay Intertechnology | 31,700 | 570,917 | | Vishay Intertechnology | 452,145 | 8,143,131 |
| Vishay Precision Group | – | – | | Vishay Precision Group | – | – | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 16,100 | 486,703 | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 16,100 | 486,703 |
| Zebra Technologies Cl. A | – | – | | Zebra Technologies Cl. A 1 | 1,810 | 288,206 | | Zebra Technologies Cl. A | – | – | | Zebra Technologies Cl. A 1 | 1,810 | 288,206 |
| | | 176,902,483 | | | | 8,983,029 | | | | 3,974,697 | | | | 189,860,209 |
S-31
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| IT SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | IT SERVICES - 0.7% | | | | IT SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | IT SERVICES - 0.1% | | |
| WEX | – | – | | WEX 1 | 7,200 | 1,008,432 | | WEX | – | – | | WEX 1 | 7,200 | 1,008,432 |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.2% | | | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 5.6% | | | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 7.7% | | | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 6.2% | | |
| Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 234,360 | 10,061,075 | | Advanced Energy Industries | – | – | | Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 20,800 | 892,944 | | Advanced Energy Industries 1 | 255,160 | 10,954,019 |
| Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 | | Brooks Automation | – | – | | Brooks Automation | – | – | | Brooks Automation | 391,252 | 10,242,977 |
| Cabot Microelectronics | 97,841 | 9,329,139 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 34,320 | 3,272,412 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 5,636 | 537,393 | | Cabot Microelectronics | 137,797 | 13,138,944 |
| Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 | | Cirrus Logic | – | – | | Cirrus Logic | – | – | | Cirrus Logic 1 | 312,010 | 10,352,492 |
| Cohu | 260,085 | 4,179,566 | | Cohu | – | – | | Cohu | 38,260 | 614,838 | | Cohu | 298,345 | 4,794,404 |
| Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 | | Diodes | – | – | | Diodes | – | – | | Diodes 1 | 196,302 | 6,332,703 |
| Entegris | 241,599 | 6,739,404 | | Entegris | 96,300 | 2,686,289 | | Entegris | – | – | | Entegris | 337,899 | 9,425,693 |
| FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 | | FormFactor | – | – | | FormFactor | – | – | | FormFactor 1 | 203,270 | 2,864,074 |
| Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 529,268 | 10,728,262 | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | – | – | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 22,400 | 454,048 | | Kulicke & Soffa Industries | 551,668 | 11,182,310 |
| MKS Instruments | 213,092 | 13,767,874 | | MKS Instruments | 43,320 | 2,798,905 | | MKS Instruments | 5,645 | 364,723 | | MKS Instruments | 262,057 | 16,931,502 |
| Nanometrics 1 | 65,370 | 1,786,562 | | Nanometrics | – | – | | Nanometrics 1 | 14,838 | 405,523 | | Nanometrics 1 | 80,208 | 2,192,085 |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 48,304 | 1,100,365 | | Nova Measuring Instruments | – | – | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1 | 16,400 | 373,592 | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 64,704 | 1,473,957 |
| Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 | | Photronics | – | – | | Photronics | – | – | | Photronics 1 | 154,371 | 1,494,311 |
| Rudolph Technologies | – | – | | Rudolph Technologies | – | – | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 8,100 | 165,807 | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 8,100 | 165,807 |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 146,739 | 5,062,496 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | – | – | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 12,200 | 420,900 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 158,939 | 5,483,396 |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 | | Ultra Clean Holdings | – | – | | Ultra Clean Holdings | – | – | | Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 88,433 | 749,028 |
| Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 | | Versum Materials | – | – | | Versum Materials | – | – | | Versum Materials | 121,099 | 3,356,864 |
| | | 98,147,192 | | | | 8,757,606 | | | | 4,229,768 | | | | 111,134,566 |
| SOFTWARE - 3.2% | | | | SOFTWARE - 0.0% | | | | SOFTWARE - 2.1% | | | | SOFTWARE - 2.9% | | |
| ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 | | ACI Worldwide | – | – | | ACI Worldwide | – | – | | ACI Worldwide 1 | 379,964 | 10,513,604 |
| Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 | | Altair Engineering Cl. A | – | – | | Altair Engineering Cl. A | – | – | | Altair Engineering Cl. A 1 | 62,154 | 1,714,207 |
| Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 | | Amber Road | – | – | | Amber Road | – | – | | Amber Road 1 | 119,809 | 986,028 |
| Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 | | Box Cl. A | – | – | | Box Cl. A | – | – | | Box Cl. A 1 | 180,531 | 3,047,363 |
| Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 | | Descartes Systems Group (The) | – | – | | Descartes Systems Group (The) | – | – | | Descartes Systems Group (The) 1 | 97,462 | 2,578,845 |
| Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 | | Everbridge | – | – | | Everbridge | – | – | | Everbridge 1,2 | 50,744 | 2,880,230 |
| Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 | | Fair Isaac | – | – | | Fair Isaac | – | – | | Fair Isaac 1 | 48,464 | 9,062,768 |
| Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 | | Five9 | – | – | | Five9 | – | – | | Five9 1,2 | 76,116 | 3,327,792 |
| j2 Global | 63,369 | 4,396,541 | | j2 Global | – | – | | j2 Global | 16,724 | 1,160,311 | | j2 Global | 80,093 | 5,556,852 |
| Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 | | Manhattan Associates | – | – | | Manhattan Associates | – | – | | Manhattan Associates 1 | 67,517 | 2,860,695 |
| QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 | | QAD Cl. A | – | – | | QAD Cl. A | – | – | | QAD Cl. A | 43,477 | 1,709,951 |
| Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 | | Qualys | – | – | | Qualys | – | – | | Qualys 1 | 23,500 | 1,756,390 |
| TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 | | TiVo | – | – | | TiVo | – | – | | TiVo | 254,622 | 2,395,993 |
| Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 | | Upland Software | – | – | | Upland Software | – | – | | Upland Software 1,2 | 89,179 | 2,423,885 |
| Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 | | Varonis Systems | – | – | | Varonis Systems | – | – | | Varonis Systems 1 | 4,727 | 250,058 |
| | | 49,904,350 | | | | – | | | | 1,160,311 | | | | 51,064,661 |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% | | | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.0% | | | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.0% | | | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.1% | | |
| Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 | | Cray | – | – | | Cray | – | – | | Cray 1 | 123,702 | 2,670,726 |
| Total (Cost $261,411,950) | | 331,209,444 | | Total (Cost $20,384,208) | | 18,749,067 | | Total (Cost $9,300,886) | | 9,771,212 | | Total (Cost $291,097,044) | | 359,729,723 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 9.4% | | | | MATERIALS – 14.1% | | | | MATERIALS – 3.7% | | | | MATERIALS – 9.6% | | |
| CHEMICALS - 5.1% | | | | CHEMICALS - 7.7% | | | | CHEMICALS - 2.5% | | | | CHEMICALS - 5.2% | | |
| Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 | | Balchem Corporation | – | – | | Balchem Corporation | – | – | | Balchem Corporation | 144,988 | 11,359,810 |
| Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 | | Chase Corporation | – | – | | Chase Corporation | – | – | | Chase Corporation | 33,780 | 3,379,689 |
| FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 | | FutureFuel Corporation | – | – | | FutureFuel Corporation | – | – | | FutureFuel Corporation | 567,519 | 9,000,851 |
| Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 | | Ingevity Corporation | – | – | | Ingevity Corporation | – | – | | Ingevity Corporation 1 | 83,197 | 6,962,757 |
| Innospec | 81,901 | 5,058,206 | | Innospec | 32,000 | 1,976,320 | | Innospec | – | – | | Innospec | 113,901 | 7,034,526 |
| Minerals Technologies | 233,415 | 11,983,526 | | Minerals Technologies | 76,846 | 3,945,274 | | Minerals Technologies | 26,856 | 1,378,787 | | Minerals Technologies | 337,117 | 17,307,587 |
| NewMarket Corporation | – | – | | NewMarket Corporation | 4,780 | 1,969,790 | | NewMarket Corporation | – | – | | NewMarket Corporation | 4,780 | 1,969,790 |
| Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 | | Platform Specialty Products | – | – | | Platform Specialty Products | – | – | | Platform Specialty Products 1 | 907,638 | 9,375,900 |
| Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 | | Quaker Chemical | – | – | | Quaker Chemical | – | – | | Quaker Chemical | 131,201 | 23,315,730 |
| Sensient Technologies | – | – | | Sensient Technologies | 31,342 | 1,750,451 | | Sensient Technologies | – | – | | Sensient Technologies | 31,342 | 1,750,451 |
| Westlake Chemical | – | – | | Westlake Chemical | 36,350 | 2,405,279 | | Westlake Chemical | – | – | | Westlake Chemical | 36,350 | 2,405,279 |
| | | 80,436,469 | | | | 12,047,114 | | | | 1,378,787 | | | | 93,862,370 |
| CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% | | | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.0% | | | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.0% | | | | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.1% | | |
| Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 | | Imerys | – | – | | Imerys | – | – | | Imerys | 40,000 | 1,923,943 |
| CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% | | | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.9% | | | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.0% | | | | CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.6% | | |
| AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 | | AptarGroup | – | – | | AptarGroup | – | – | | AptarGroup | 99,439 | 9,354,227 |
| Packaging Corporation of America | – | – | | Packaging Corporation of America | 16,100 | 1,343,706 | | Packaging Corporation of America | – | – | | Packaging Corporation of America | 16,100 | 1,343,706 |
| | | 9,354,227 | | | | 1,343,706 | | | | – | | | | 10,697,933 |
| METALS & MINING - 2.5% | | | | METALS & MINING - 2.8% | | | | METALS & MINING - 0.0% | | | | METALS & MINING - 2.5% | | |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | – | – | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | – | – | | Alamos Gold Cl. A | 2,113,448 | 7,601,106 |
| Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 | | Commercial Metals | – | – | | Commercial Metals | – | – | | Commercial Metals | 39,034 | 625,325 |
| Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | – | – | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | – | – | | Franco-Nevada Corporation | 93,216 | 6,540,967 |
| Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 | | Haynes International | – | – | | Haynes International | – | – | | Haynes International | 37,643 | 993,775 |
| Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 | | Hecla Mining | – | – | | Hecla Mining | – | – | | Hecla Mining | 151,513 | 357,571 |
| IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 | | IAMGOLD Corporation | – | – | | IAMGOLD Corporation | – | – | | IAMGOLD Corporation 1 | 800,000 | 2,944,000 |
| Kaiser Aluminum | – | – | | Kaiser Aluminum | 17,560 | 1,567,933 | | Kaiser Aluminum | – | – | | Kaiser Aluminum | 17,560 | 1,567,933 |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 | | Major Drilling Group International | – | – | | Major Drilling Group International | – | – | | Major Drilling Group International 1 | 913,761 | 3,078,890 |
| Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 | | Pretium Resources | – | – | | Pretium Resources | – | – | | Pretium Resources 1 | 89,701 | 760,211 |
| Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 141,198 | 10,049,061 | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 39,655 | 2,822,246 | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | – | – | | Reliance Steel & Aluminum | 180,853 | 12,871,307 |
| Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 | | Worthington Industries | – | – | | Worthington Industries | – | – | | Worthington Industries | 198,086 | 6,901,316 |
| | | 39,852,222 | | | | 4,390,179 | | | | – | | | | 44,242,401 |
| PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 2.7% | | | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.2% | | | | PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 1.2% | | |
| Stella-Jones | 569,501 | 16,523,539 | | Stella-Jones | 143,000 | 4,149,011 | | Stella-Jones | 22,400 | 649,915 | | Stella-Jones | 734,901 | 21,322,465 |
| Total (Cost $98,074,631) | | 148,090,400 | | Total (Cost $23,903,779) | | 21,930,010 | | Total (Cost $2,114,802) | | 2,028,702 | | Total (Cost $124,093,212) | | 172,049,112 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| REAL ESTATE – 3.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 2.9% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 5.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 3.4% | | |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 2.9% | | | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 5.3% | | | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.4% | | |
| FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 | | FRP Holdings | – | – | | FRP Holdings | – | – | | FRP Holdings 1 | 322,003 | 14,815,358 |
| Jones Lang LaSalle | – | – | | Jones Lang LaSalle | 10,209 | 1,292,459 | | Jones Lang LaSalle | – | – | | Jones Lang LaSalle | 10,209 | 1,292,459 |
| Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 543,368 | 9,872,996 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 123,400 | 2,242,178 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 66,100 | 1,201,037 | | Kennedy-Wilson Holdings | 732,868 | 13,316,211 |
| Marcus & Millichap 1 | 432,786 | 14,857,543 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 30,000 | 1,029,900 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 50,110 | 1,720,276 | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 512,896 | 17,607,719 |
| St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 | | St. Joe Company (The) | – | – | | St. Joe Company (The) | – | – | | St. Joe Company (The) 1 | 248,863 | 3,277,526 |
| Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 | | Tejon Ranch | – | – | | Tejon Ranch | – | – | | Tejon Ranch 1 | 598,465 | 9,922,550 |
| Total (Cost $49,470,265) | | 52,745,973 | | Total (Cost $4,489,900) | | 4,564,537 | | Total (Cost $2,358,285) | | 2,921,313 | | Total (Cost $56,318,450) | | 60,231,823 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
S-32
| Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Proforma Pennsylvania Mutual Fund |
| | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE | | | SHARES | VALUE |
| UTILITIES – 0.0% | | | | UTILITIES – 2.4% | | | | UTILITIES – 0.0% | | | | UTILITIES – 0.2% | | |
| GAS UTILITIES - 0.0% | | | | GAS UTILITIES - 2.4% | | | | GAS UTILITIES - 0.0% | | | | GAS UTILITIES - 0.2% | | |
| UGI Corporation | – | – | | UGI Corporation | 70,000 | 3,734,500 | | UGI Corporation | – | – | | UGI Corporation | 70,000 | 3,734,500 |
| Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $2,411,237) | | 3,734,500 | | Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $2,411,237) | | 3,734,500 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | |
| (Cost $1,188,735,717) | | 1,560,734,247 | | (Cost $143,878,463) | | 141,570,581 | | (Cost $46,119,827) | | 51,137,348 | | (Cost $1,378,734,007) | | 1,753,442,176 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 0.0% | | | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 8.9% | | | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 8.2% | | | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 1.0% | | |
| (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $13,754,000) | | 13,754,000 | | (Cost $4,528,000) | | 4,528,000 | | (Cost $18,282,000) | | 18,282,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.7% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.0% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.0% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 0.6% | | |
| Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | |
| Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | |
| (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 | | (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $–) | | – | | (Cost $11,147,862) | | 11,147,862 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.5% | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 100.1% | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 100.8% | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 99.6% |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $1,199,883,579) | | 1,571,882,109 | | (Cost $157,632,463) | | 155,324,581 | | (Cost $50,647,827) | | 55,665,348 | | (Cost $1,408,163,869) | | 1,782,872,038 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.5% | | 7,202,053 | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (0.1)% | | (164,108) | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (0.8)% | | (429,455) | | CASH AND OTHER ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES – 0.4% | | 6,422,9904 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,579,084,162 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 155,160,473 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 55,235,893 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 1,789,295,028 |
1 Non-income producing.
2 All or a portion of these securities were on loan at December 31, 2018.
3 Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.0% of net assets for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees.
These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value.
4 Includes adjustment for estimated reorganization expenses of $185,500.
S-33
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to
the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations
as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund as of December 31, 2018
| | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Adjustments | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments at value (including collateral on loaned securities)1 | | $ | 1,571,882,109 | | | $ | 51,137,348 | | | $ | 141,570,581 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 1,764,590,038 | |
Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | - | | | | 4,528,000 | | | | 13,754,000 | | | | - | | | | 18,282,000 | |
Cash and foreign currency | | | - | | | | 8,755 | | | | 791 | | | | - | | | | 9,546 | |
Receivable for investments sold | | | 35,664,664 | | | | 100,603 | | | | 317,942 | | | | - | | | | 36,083,209 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | | | 3,748,303 | | | | 256,382 | | | | 17,156 | | | | - | | | | 4,021,841 | |
Receivable for dividends and interest | | | 1,677,332 | | | | 52,286 | | | | 160,812 | | | | - | | | | 1,890,430 | |
Receivable for securities lending income | | | 11,710 | | | | 61 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 11,771 | |
Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | 2,866,330 | | | | 243 | | | | 1,135 | | | | - | | | | 2,867,708 | |
Total Assets | | | 1,615,850,448 | | | | 56,083,678 | | | | 155,822,417 | | | | - | | | | 1,827,756,543 | |
LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Payable for collateral on loaned securities | | | 11,147,862 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 11,147,862 | |
Payable to custodian for cash and foreign currency overdrawn | | | 8,606,852 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 8,606,852 | |
Payable for investments purchased | | | 765,641 | | | | 131,165 | | | | 240,641 | | | | - | | | | 1,137,447 | |
Payable for capital shares redeemed | | | 14,174,992 | | | | 566,309 | | | | 204,386 | | | | - | | | | 14,945,687 | |
Payable for investment advisory fees | | | 1,091,736 | | | | 48,088 | | | | 114,994 | | | | - | | | | 1,254,818 | |
Payable for trustees’ fees | | | 72,466 | | | | 3,088 | | | | 6,828 | | | | | | | | 82,382 | |
Accrued expenses | | | 906,737 | | | | 99,135 | | | | 95,095 | | | | 185,500 | 2 | | | 1,286,467 | |
Total Liabilities | | | 36,766,286 | | | | 847,785 | | | | 661,944 | | | | 185,500 | | | | 38,461,515 | |
Net Assets | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | $ | 55,235,893 | | | | 155,160,473 | | | $ | (185,500 | ) | | $ | 1,789,295,028 | |
ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | $ | 1,185,801,399 | | | $ | 50,224,482 | | | $ | 157,408,146 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 1,393,434,027 | |
Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | 393,282,763 | | | | 5,011,411 | | | | (2,247,673 | ) | | | (185,500 | )2 | | | 395,861,001 | |
Net Assets | | $ | 1,579,084,162 | | | $ | 55,235,893 | | | $ | 155,160,473 | | | $ | (185,500 | ) | | $ | 1,789,295,028 | |
Investment Class | | $ | 1,203,966,585 | | | $ | 28,041,820 | | | $ | 64,376,412 | | | $ | (91,155 | )2 | | | 1,296,293,662 | |
Service Class | | | 32,191,197 | | | | 27,194,073 | | | | 84,555,180 | | | | (86,965 | )2 | | | 143,853,485 | |
Consultant Class | | | 249,004,314 | | | | | | | | 6,228,881 | | | | (6,276 | )2 | | | 255,226,919 | |
Institutional Class | | | 83,908,171 | | | | | | | | | | | | (986 | )2 | | | 83,907,185 | |
R Class | | | 10,013,895 | | | | | | | | | | | | (118 | )2 | | | 10,013,777 | |
SHARES OUTSTANDING (unlimited number of $.001 par value): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class | | | 155,276,838 | | | | 5,946,340 | | | | 5,989,658 | | | | 11,924,933 | 3 | | | 167,201,771 | |
Service Class | | | 4,144,325 | | | | 5,828,474 | | | | 7,896,265 | | | | 14,382,143 | 3 | | | 18,526,468 | |
Consultant Class | | | 40,285,369 | | | | | | | | 828,659 | | | | 1,007,910 | 3 | | | 41,293,279 | |
Institutional Class | | | 10,787,665 | | | | | | | | | | | | - | | | | 10,787,665 | |
R Class | | | 1,372,678 | | | | | | | | | | | | - | | | | 1,372,678 | |
NET ASSET VALUES (Net Assets ÷ Shares Outstanding): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class4 | | $ | 7.75 | | | $ | 4.72 | | | $ | 10.75 | | | | - | | | $ | 7.75 | |
Service Class4 | | �� | 7.77 | | | | 4.67 | | | | 10.71 | | | | - | | | | 7.76 | |
Consultant Class5 | | | 6.18 | | | | | | | | 7.52 | | | | - | | | | 6.18 | |
Institutional Class6 | | | 7.78 | | | | | | | | | | | | - | | | | 7.78 | |
R Class6 | | | 7.30 | | | | | | | | | | | | - | | | | 7.30 | |
Investments at identified cost | | $ | 1,199,883,579 | | | $ | 46,119,827 | | | $ | 143,878,463 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 1,389,881,869 | |
Market value of loaned securities7 | | | 31,228,766 | | | | 444,361 | | | | | | | | | | | | 31,673,127 | |
1 | See Notes to Financial Statements for information on non-cash collateral on loaned securities. |
2 | Adjustment for estimated expenses of reorganization. |
3 | Reflects the change in shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund after giving effect to the distribution of shares of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund to Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018 |
4 | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 30 days may be subject to a 1% redemption fee, payable to the Fund. |
5 | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 365 days may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge, payable to Royce Fund Services, LLC. |
6 | Offering and redemption price per share. |
7 | Market value of loaned securities backed by non-cash collateral is as of prior business day. |
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Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to
the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations
as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund and Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund as of December 31, 2018
INVESTMENT INCOME: | | Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | Adjustments1 | | Pro Forma Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund Combined |
INCOME: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Non-Affiliated Companies | | | $ | 24,581,018 | | | | $ | 1,119,815 | | | | $ | 2,097,244 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 27,798,077 | |
Affiliated Companies | | | | 195,483 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 195,483 | |
Foreign withholding tax | | | | (510,433 | ) | | | | (35,959 | ) | | | | (6,185 | ) | | | | | | | | (552,577 | ) |
Interest | | | | 454,825 | | | | | 23,178 | | | | | 81,474 | | | | - | | | | | 559,477 | |
Securities lending | | | | 614,664 | | | | | 22,557 | | | | | 78 | | | | - | | | | | 637,299 | |
Total income | | | | 25,335,557 | | | | | 1,129,591 | | | | | 2,172,611 | | | | - | | | | | 28,637,759 | |
EXPENSES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment advisory fees | | | | 15,435,767 | | | | | 775,395 | | | | | 1,622,445 | | | | (356,156 | ) | | | | 17,477,451 | |
Distribution fees | | | | 3,572,101 | | | | | 91,548 | | | | | 352,264 | | | | - | | | | | 4,015,913 | |
Shareholder servicing | | | | 1,663,556 | | | | | 96,314 | | | | | 121,133 | | | | (50,880 | ) | | | | 1,830,123 | |
Administrative and office facilities | | | | 627,420 | | | | | 31,548 | | | | | 66,695 | | | | - | | | | | 725,663 | |
Registration | | | | 80,023 | | | | | 33,599 | | | | | 42,623 | | | | (66,035 | ) | | | | 90,210 | |
Custody | | | | 202,428 | | | | | 21,301 | | | | | 25,234 | | | | (14,600 | ) | | | | 234,363 | |
Audit | | | | 50,331 | | | | | 27,908 | | | | | 37,571 | | | | (65,208 | ) | | | | 50,602 | |
Shareholder reports | | | | 343,820 | | | | | 24,632 | | | | | 58,616 | | | | - | | | | | 427,068 | |
Trustees’ fees | | | | 261,106 | | | | | 10,226 | | | | | 25,035 | | | | - | | | | | 296,367 | |
Legal | | | | 64,480 | | | | | 2,478 | | | | | 6,002 | | | | - | | | | | 72,960 | |
Other expenses | | | | 132,011 | | | | | 6,769 | | | | | 15,339 | | | | (2,550 | ) | | | | 151,569 | |
Total expenses | | | | 22,433,043 | | | | | 1,121,718 | | | | | 2,372,957 | | | | (555,429 | ) | | | | 25,372,289 | |
Compensating balance credits | | | | (36,699 | ) | | | | (1,463 | ) | | | | (6,277 | ) | | | - | | | | | (44,439 | ) |
Fees waived by distributor | | | | - | | | | | (1,825 | ) | | | | (146,097 | ) | | | 147,922 | | | | | - | |
Expenses reimbursed by investment adviser | | | | (1,418 | ) | | | | (64,890 | ) | | | | (17,797 | ) | | | 72,763 | | | | | (11,342 | ) |
Net expenses | | | | 22,394,926 | | | | | 1,053,540 | | | | | 2,202,786 | | | | (334,744 | ) | | | | 25,316,508 | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | | 2,940,631 | | | | | 76,051 | | | | | (30,175 | ) | | | 334,744 | | | | | 3,321,251 | |
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | | 299,645,876 | | | | | 7,451,138 | | | | | 24,820,101 | | | | - | | | | | 331,917,115 | |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | | 1,101,984 | | | | | - | | | | | - | | | | | | | | | 1,101,984 | |
Foreign currency transactions | | | | (14,653 | ) | | | | (5,013 | ) | | | | (2,629 | ) | | | - | | | | | (22,295 | ) |
NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | | (471,384,762 | ) | | | | (15,563,033 | ) | | | | (53,745,945 | ) | | | | | | | | (540,693,740 | ) |
Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | | (4,976,463 | ) | | | | - | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | (4,976,463 | ) |
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | | (3,419 | ) | | | | (248 | ) | | | | 100 | | | | - | | | | | (3,567 | ) |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | | (175,631,437 | ) | | | | (8,117,156 | ) | | | | (28,928,373 | ) | | | - | | | | | (212,676,966 | ) |
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | | $ | (172,690,806 | ) | | | $ | (8,041,105 | ) | | | | (28,958,548 | ) | | $ | 334,744 | | | | $ | (209,355,715 | ) |
1 Investment advisory fee decrease due to application of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund's lower investment advisory fee rates at higher asset levels; other fees decrease due to the elimination of duplicate expenses achieved by merging the funds. |
S-35
Notes to Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to
the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations
as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 — Basis of Combination:
At a meeting held on December 13, 2018, the Board approved the Trust entering into the Plan on behalf of Pennsylvania Mutual and each Target Fund along with the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations. The Plan provides for the transfer of all of the assets of each Target Fund to Pennsylvania Mutual in exchange for Pennsylvania Mutual’s assumption of all of the liabilities of that Target Fund and Pennsylvania Mutual’s issuance of shares of beneficial interest of Pennsylvania Mutual (the “Pennsylvania Mutual Shares”) to that Target Fund. The Pennsylvania Mutual Shares received by a Target Fund in the relevant Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of such Target Fund that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by the Target Fund, on a pro rata basis, of the Pennsylvania Mutual Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of that Target Fund. Target Fund shareholders would receive the same class of Pennsylvania Mutual Shares as they held in the Target Fund immediately prior to the relevant Reorganization.
Each of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization and the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization will be accounted for as a tax-free merger of investments companies. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined schedule of investments and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of assets and liabilities reflect the financial position of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018 as if the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations had occurred on that date. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations reflects the results of operations of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018 as if the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations had occurred on January 1, 2018. These statements have been derived from the books and records of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual utilized in calculating daily net asset values at the dates indicated above in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Completion of the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations as of December 31, 2018 would not have caused Pennsylvania Mutual to violate any of its portfolio-level compliance tests. The historical cost of the investment securities of each of these Target Funds will be carried forward to the Combined Fund. The fiscal year end for each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual is December 31.
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual included in, and incorporated by reference into, the SAI. Such pro forma condensed combined financial statements are presented for information purposes only and may not necessarily be representative of what the actual combined financial statements would have been had the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations occurred on December 31, 2018 or January 1, 2018, as applicable. Following the completion of the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations, Pennsylvania Mutual will be the legal and accounting survivor.
Fees and expenses resulting from the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, these Funds as follows: Small-Cap Leaders (45%), Small/Mid-Cap Premier (45%), and Pennsylvania Mutual (10%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganizations are estimated to range from approximately $172,300 to $185,500 . Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by any of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, or Pennsylvania Mutual in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the relevant Reorganization will be borne by the relevant Fund and its shareholders. Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after a Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
NOTE 2 — Pennsylvania Mutual and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Valuation:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq’s Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest
S-36
bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent pricing services. Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Board, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the relevant Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, no assurance can be given that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the relevant Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, a Fund may fair value the security. Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by a Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the investments of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 | – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedules of Investments. |
| Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the investments of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual as of December 31, 2018. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification please refer to the pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations.
S-37
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund | | | | |
Common Stocks | $51,137,348 | – | – | $51,137,348 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | $4,528,000 | – | 4,528,000 |
|
Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund | | | | |
Common Stocks | 141,570,581 | – | – | 141,570,581 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | 13,754,000 | – | 13,754,000 |
|
Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund | | | | |
Common Stocks | 1,560,734,247 | – | – | 1,560,734,247 |
Money Market Fund/Collateral Received for Securities Loaned | 11,147,862 | – | – | 11,147,862 |
Certain securities have transferred in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 measurements during the reporting period. This is generally due to whether fair value factors have been applied. Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the reporting period. At December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual had securities transfer from Level 2 to Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy of $713,588, $209,517, and $30,306,386, respectively.
NOTE 3 — Securities Lending:
Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual loans securities through a lending agent to qualified institutional investors for the purpose of realizing additional income. Collateral for the Funds on all securities loaned is accepted in cash and cash equivalents, which are invested temporarily by the custodian, as well as non-cash collateral, which includes short and long-term U.S. Treasuries. The collateral maintained is at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Funds on the next business day. The Funds retain the risk of any loss on the securities on loan as well as incurring the potential loss on investments purchased with cash collateral received for securities lending. In the event of default or bankruptcy by the other party to the agreement, realization and/or retention of the collateral may be subject to legal proceedings. If the borrower fails to return loaned securities, and cash collateral being maintained by the borrower is insufficient to cover the value of loaned securities and provided such collateral insufficiency is not the result of investment losses, the lending agent has agreed to pay the amount of the shortfall to the Funds or, at the option of the lending agent, to replace the securities. In the event of the bankruptcy of the borrower, the Funds could experience delay in recovering the loaned securities or only recover cash or a security of equivalent value. Loans of securities generally do not have stated maturity dates, and the Funds may recall a security at any time. The Funds’ securities lending income consists of the income earned on investing cash collateral, plus any premium payments received for lending certain securities, less any rebates paid to borrowers and lending agent fees associated with the loan. The lending agent is not affiliated with Royce. The following table presents cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by cash collateral held by these Funds at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Cash Collateral1 | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | $11,147,862 | ($10,916,937) | $230,925 |
| | | |
1Absent an event of default, assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset in the pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations. The remaining contractual maturity of cash collateral is overnight and continuous. |
S-38
The following table presents non-cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by non-cash collateral held by the custodian for Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier and Pennsylvania Mutual at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Non-Cash Collateral | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Non-Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Pennsylvania Mutual | 22,903,585 | (20,311,829) | 2,591,756 |
Small-Cap Leaders | 453,376 | (444,361) | 9,015 |
NOTE 4 — Capital Shares:
As of December 31, 2018, Small-Cap Leaders only had Investment Class and Service Class shares outstanding while Small/Mid-Cap Premier only had Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares outstanding. As of December 31, 2018, Pennsylvania Mutual had Investment Class, Service Class, Institutional Class, Consultant Class, and R Class shares outstanding. No Consultant Class, Institutional Class, or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be issued or distributed to Small-Cap Leaders shareholders in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization. No Institutional Class or R Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be issued or distributed to Small/Mid-Cap Premier shareholders in connection with the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization.
The pro forma net asset value per share assumes the issuance of Investment Class and Service Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that would have been issued at December 31, 2018 in connection with the proposed Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations. The pro forma net asset value per share also assumes the issuance of Consultant Class shares of Pennsylvania Mutual that would have been issued at December 31, 2018 in connection with the proposed Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization. The number of full and fractional shares of each Class of Pennsylvania Mutual assumed to be issued in connection with the proposed Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations is determined by dividing: (i) the aggregate value of the assets of the relevant Target Fund that are transferred to Pennsylvania Mutual, net of all of the liabilities of that Target Fund that are assumed by Pennsylvania Mutual, by (ii) the net asset value of one share of the relevant Class of Pennsylvania Mutual.
The pro forma number of Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares outstanding for Pennsylvania Mutual consists of the following at December 31, 2018.
Class of Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual | Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: Before Both Reorganizations | Additional Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual Assumed Issued in Both Reorganizations* | Total Outstanding Shares of Pennsylvania Mutual: After Both Reorganizations* |
Investment | 155,276,838 | 11,924,933 | 167,201,771 |
Service | 4,144,325 | 14,382,143 | 18,526,468 |
Consultant | 40,285,369 | 1,007,910 | 41,293,279 |
*The data does not take into account expenses expected to be incurred by Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier in connection with the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization and the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, respectively. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Pennsylvania Mutual will be received by shareholders of Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier on the date of the Small-Cap Leaders Reorganization and the Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganization, respectively.
NOTE 5 — Pro Forma Operating Expenses:
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted, giving effect to the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations reflects changes in expenses of Pennsylvania Mutual as if both such Reorganizations were consummated on January 1, 2018.
NOTE 6 — Federal Income Taxes:
Each of Small-Cap Leaders, Small/Mid-Cap Premier, and Pennsylvania Mutual has elected to be taxed as a “regulated investment company” under the Code. If the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations are consummated, unless it determines such qualification is no longer in the best interest of shareholders, Pennsylvania Mutual will seek to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by complying with the provisions applicable to certain investment companies, as defined in applicable sections of the
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Code, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, Federal income taxes. In addition, each of these Target Funds will make any required income or capital gain distributions prior to consummation of the relevant Reorganization, in accordance with provisions of the Code relating to tax-free reorganizations of investment companies.
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, neither of these Target Funds expects to have any capital loss carryovers to offset any such gains. As a result of the net unrealized appreciation in Pennsylvania Mutual’s assets as set forth in the Annual Report, it is expected that for a period of years after the Small-Cap Leaders and Small/Mid-Cap Premier Reorganizations, the Combined Fund’s sale of appreciated portfolio securities likely will result in greater taxable capital gain distributions to a former shareholder of either Target Fund than such shareholder might otherwise have received in the absence of such Reorganizations.
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Pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to
Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | | | Proforma Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | |
| Common Stocks – 97.4% | | | | Common Stocks – 96.1% | | | | Common Stocks – 96.7% | | |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.9% | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 2.9% | | COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 2.5% |
| DIVERSIFIED TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - 0.7% | | DIVERSIFIED TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - 0.9% | | DIVERSIFIED TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - 0.8% |
| ORBCOMM 1 | 115,300 | 952,378 | | ORBCOMM 1 | 214,500 | 1,771,770 | | ORBCOMM 1 | 329,800 | 2,724,148 |
| INTERACTIVE MEDIA & SERVICES - 1.1% | | | | INTERACTIVE MEDIA & SERVICES - 1.2% | | | | INTERACTIVE MEDIA & SERVICES - 1.1% | | |
| QuinStreet 1 | 97,804 | 1,587,359 | | QuinStreet 1 | 143,742 | 2,332,933 | | QuinStreet 1 | 241,546 | 3,920,292 |
| MEDIA - 0.1% | | | | MEDIA - 0.8% | | | | MEDIA - 0.6% | | |
| ITE Group | – | – | | ITE Group | 1,511,999 | 1,223,768 | | ITE Group | 1,511,999 | 1,223,768 |
| Marchex Cl. B | 80,300 | 212,795 | | Marchex Cl. B | 174,000 | 461,100 | | Marchex Cl. B | 254,300 | 673,895 |
| | 212,795 | | | 1,684,868 | | | 1,897,663 |
| Total (Cost $1,327,440) | | 2,752,532 | | Total (Cost $4,397,470) | | 5,789,571 | | Total (Cost $5,724,910) | | 8,542,103 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 13.8% | | | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 15.8% | | | | CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 15.0% | | |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 2.9% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 3.8% | | | | AUTO COMPONENTS - 3.4% | | |
| Fox Factory Holding 1 | 17,000 | 1,000,790 | | Fox Factory Holding 1,2 | 33,800 | 1,989,806 | | Fox Factory Holding 1,2 | 50,800 | 2,990,596 |
| Modine Manufacturing | – | – | | Modine Manufacturing 1 | 183,900 | 1,987,959 | | Modine Manufacturing 1 | 183,900 | 1,987,959 |
| Standard Motor Products | 19,000 | 920,170 | | Standard Motor Products | – | – | | Standard Motor Products | 19,000 | 920,170 |
| Stoneridge 1 | 63,700 | 1,570,205 | | Stoneridge 1 | 114,900 | 2,832,285 | | Stoneridge 1 | 178,600 | 4,402,490 |
| Unique Fabricating | 157,200 | 663,384 | | Unique Fabricating | 209,041 | 882,153 | | Unique Fabricating | 366,241 | 1,545,537 |
| | 4,154,549 | | | 7,692,203 | | | 11,846,752 |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 2.7% | | | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 4.1% | | | | HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 3.5% | | |
| Century Casinos 1 | 109,600 | 809,944 | | Century Casinos 1 | 393,300 | 2,906,487 | | Century Casinos 1 | 502,900 | 3,716,431 |
| Del Taco Restaurants 1 | 105,100 | 1,049,949 | | Del Taco Restaurants 1 | 166,200 | 1,660,338 | | Del Taco Restaurants 1 | 271,300 | 2,710,287 |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 62,500 | 841,250 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 114,000 | 1,534,440 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | 176,500 | 2,375,690 |
| Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 147,100 | 1,206,220 | | Red Lion Hotels 1 | 257,400 | 2,110,680 | | Red Lion Hotels 1,2 | 404,500 | 3,316,900 |
| | 3,907,363 | | | 8,211,945 | | | 12,119,308 |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 1.4% | | | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.7% | | | | HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 1.0% | | |
| Cavco Industries 1 | 5,210 | 679,280 | | Cavco Industries | – | – | | Cavco Industries 1 | 5,210 | 679,280 |
| Lovesac Company 1,2 | 57,000 | 1,307,580 | | Lovesac Company 1,2 | 65,500 | 1,502,570 | | Lovesac Company 1,2 | 122,500 | 2,810,150 |
| | 1,986,860 | | | 1,502,570 | | | 3,489,430 |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.7% | | | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.8% | | | | INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.7% | | |
| Gaia Cl. A 1 | 90,500 | 937,580 | | Gaia Cl. A 1 | 157,900 | 1,635,844 | | Gaia Cl. A 1 | 248,400 | 2,573,424 |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 1.4% | | | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 1.7% | | | | LEISURE PRODUCTS - 1.6% | | |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 47,000 | 878,900 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 71,900 | 1,344,530 | | MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | 118,900 | 2,223,430 |
| Nautilus 1 | 106,100 | 1,156,490 | | Nautilus 1 | 182,313 | 1,987,212 | | Nautilus 1 | 288,413 | 3,143,702 |
| | 2,035,390 | | | 3,331,742 | | | 5,367,132 |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 3.6% | | | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 4.1% | | | | SPECIALTY RETAIL - 4.0% | | |
| Buckle (The) | – | – | | Buckle (The) | 95,975 | 1,856,156 | | Buckle (The) | 95,975 | 1,856,156 |
| Build-A-Bear Workshop 1 | 99,100 | 391,445 | | Build-A-Bear Workshop 1 | 116,000 | 458,200 | | Build-A-Bear Workshop 1 | 215,100 | 849,645 |
| Citi Trends | 48,724 | 993,482 | | Citi Trends | – | – | | Citi Trends | 48,724 | 993,482 |
| DSW Cl. A | – | – | | DSW Cl. A | 85,400 | 2,109,380 | | DSW Cl. A | 85,400 | 2,109,380 |
| Haverty Furniture | 66,200 | 1,243,236 | | Haverty Furniture | – | – | | Haverty Furniture | 66,200 | 1,243,236 |
| Kirkland's 1 | 116,700 | 1,112,151 | | Kirkland's 1 | 180,900 | 1,723,977 | | Kirkland's 1 | 297,600 | 2,836,128 |
| Shoe Carnival | 40,711 | 1,364,226 | | Shoe Carnival | 63,100 | 2,114,481 | | Shoe Carnival | 103,811 | 3,478,707 |
| | 5,104,540 | | | 8,262,194 | | | 13,366,734 |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 1.1% | | | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.6% | | | | TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.8% | | |
| Culp | 31,474 | 594,858 | | Culp | – | – | | Culp | 31,474 | 594,858 |
| Vera Bradley 1 | 105,300 | 902,421 | | Vera Bradley 1,2 | 147,200 | 1,261,504 | | Vera Bradley 1,2 | 252,500 | 2,163,925 |
| | 1,497,279 | | | 1,261,504 | | | 2,758,783 |
| Total (Cost $18,597,494) | | 19,623,561 | | Total (Cost $32,243,947) | | 31,898,002 | | Total (Cost $50,841,441) | | 51,521,563 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 2.5% | | | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 2.5% | | | | CONSUMER STAPLES – 2.5% | | |
| BEVERAGES - 0.7% | | | | BEVERAGES - 0.8% | | | | BEVERAGES - 0.8% | | |
| Primo Water 1 | 70,600 | 989,106 | | Primo Water 1,2 | 124,500 | 1,744,245 | | Primo Water 1,2 | 195,100 | 2,733,351 |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 1.8% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 1.7% | | | | FOOD PRODUCTS - 1.7% | | |
| Farmer Bros. 1 | 47,600 | 1,110,508 | | Farmer Bros. 1 | 54,739 | 1,277,061 | | Farmer Bros. 1 | 102,339 | 2,387,569 |
| John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 18,000 | 1,001,880 | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | – | – | | John B. Sanfilippo & Son | 18,000 | 1,001,880 |
| Landec Corporation 1 | 35,800 | 423,872 | | Landec Corporation 1 | 178,800 | 2,116,992 | | Landec Corporation 1 | 214,600 | 2,540,864 |
| | 2,536,260 | | | 3,394,053 | | | 5,930,313 |
| Total (Cost $3,666,176) | | 3,525,366 | | Total (Cost $5,766,779) | | 5,138,298 | | Total (Cost $9,432,955) | | 8,663,664 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY – 4.3% | | | | ENERGY – 6.0% | | | | ENERGY – 5.3% | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 3.8% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 5.6% | | | | ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 4.8% | | |
| Gulf Island Fabrication 1 ; | 96,518 | 696,860 | | Gulf Island Fabrication 1 | 154,700 | 1,116,934 | | Gulf Island Fabrication 1 | 251,218 | 1,813,794 |
| Independence Contract Drilling 1 | 305,386 | 952,804 | | Independence Contract Drilling | – | – | | Independence Contract Drilling 1 | 305,386 | 952,804 |
| Mammoth Energy Services | – | – | | Mammoth Energy Services | 49,800 | 895,404 | | Mammoth Energy Services | 49,800 | 895,404 |
| Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 60,087 | 987,830 | | Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 85,000 | 1,397,400 | | Natural Gas Services Group 1 | 145,087 | 2,385,230 |
| Newpark Resources 1 | 165,600 | 1,137,672 | | Newpark Resources 1 | 276,800 | 1,901,616 | | Newpark Resources 1 | 442,400 | 3,039,288 |
| Pason Systems | – | – | | Pason Systems | 70,250 | 941,161 | | Pason Systems | 70,250 | 941,161 |
| Profire Energy 1 | 485,812 | 704,428 | | Profire Energy 1 | 703,100 | 1,019,495 | | Profire Energy 1 | 1,188,912 | 1,723,923 |
| TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | – | – | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 52,000 | 1,255,722 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | 52,000 | 1,255,722 |
| Total Energy Services | 131,900 | 943,937 | | Total Energy Services | 215,500 | 1,542,217 | | Total Energy Services | 347,400 | 2,486,154 |
| Unit Corporation | – | – | | Unit Corporation 1 | 82,400 | 1,176,672 | | Unit Corporation 1 | 82,400 | 1,176,672 |
| | 5,423,531 | | | 11,246,621 | | | 16,670,152 |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.5% | | | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.4% | | | | OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.5% | | |
| Ardmore Shipping 1 | 140,175 | 654,617 | | Ardmore Shipping 1 | 194,600 | 908,782 | | Ardmore Shipping 1 | 334,775 | 1,563,399 |
| Total (Cost $6,713,250) | | 6,078,148 | | Total (Cost $12,557,938) | | 12,155,403 | | Total (Cost $19,271,188) | | 18,233,551 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| FINANCIALS – 14.3% | | | | FINANCIALS – 10.5% | | | | FINANCIALS – 12.0% | | |
| BANKS - 7.4% | | | | BANKS - 4.5% | | | | BANKS - 5.6% | | |
| Allegiance Bancshares 1 | 29,700 | 961,389 | | Allegiance Bancshares 1,2 | 45,200 | 1,463,124 | | Allegiance Bancshares 1,2 | 74,900 | 2,424,513 |
| BayCom Corporation 1 | 35,000 | 808,150 | | BayCom Corporation 1 | 15,100 | 348,659 | | BayCom Corporation 1 | 50,100 | 1,156,809 |
| Brookline Bancorp | 61,100 | 844,402 | | Brookline Bancorp | 122,400 | 1,691,568 | | Brookline Bancorp | 183,500 | 2,535,970 |
| Caribbean Investment Holdings 1 | 1,858,138 | 402,625 | | Caribbean Investment Holdings | – | – | | Caribbean Investment Holdings 1 | 1,858,138 | 402,625 |
| County Bancorp | 54,200 | 941,454 | | County Bancorp | – | – | | County Bancorp | 54,200 | 941,454 |
| HarborOne Bancorp 1 | 76,300 | 1,212,407 | | HarborOne Bancorp 1,2 | 124,300 | 1,975,127 | | HarborOne Bancorp 1,2 | 200,600 | 3,187,534 |
| HomeTrust Bancshares | 45,500 | 1,191,190 | | HomeTrust Bancshares | – | – | | HomeTrust Bancshares | 45,500 | 1,191,190 |
| Investar Holding | 47,600 | 1,180,480 | | Investar Holding | 73,000 | 1,810,400 | | Investar Holding | 120,600 | 2,990,880 |
| Midway Investments 1,4 | 1,858,170 | 0 | | Midway Investments | – | – | | Midway Investments 1,4 | 1,858,170 | 0 |
| Stewardship Financial | 94,500 | 859,950 | | Stewardship Financial | – | – | | Stewardship Financial | 94,500 | 859,950 |
| TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 52,757 | 1,026,651 | | TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 90,700 | 1,765,022 | | TriState Capital Holdings 1 | 143,457 | 2,791,673 |
| Two River Bancorp | 71,100 | 1,084,986 | | Two River Bancorp | – | – | | Two River Bancorp | 71,100 | 1,084,986 |
| | 10,513,684 | | | 9,053,900 | | | 19,567,584 |
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| Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | | | Proforma Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 3.0% | | | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 3.5% | | | | CAPITAL MARKETS - 3.3% | | |
| B. Riley Financial | 74,100 | 1,052,220 | | B. Riley Financial | 103,400 | 1,468,280 | | B. Riley Financial | 177,500 | 2,520,500 |
| Canaccord Genuity Group | 267,600 | 1,131,008 | | Canaccord Genuity Group | – | – | | Canaccord Genuity Group | 267,600 | 1,131,008 |
| Hamilton Lane Cl. A | – | – | | Hamilton Lane Cl. A | 40,888 | 1,512,856 | | Hamilton Lane Cl. A | 40,888 | 1,512,856 |
| Silvercrest Asset Management Group Cl. A | 96,700 | 1,279,341 | | Silvercrest Asset Management Group Cl. A | 164,300 | 2,173,689 | | Silvercrest Asset Management Group Cl. A | 261,000 | 3,453,030 |
| Sprott | – | – | | Sprott | 971,000 | 1,827,915 | | Sprott | 971,000 | 1,827,915 |
| Westwood Holdings Group | 22,572 | 767,448 | | Westwood Holdings Group | – | – | | Westwood Holdings Group | 22,572 | 767,448 |
| | 4,230,017 | | | 6,982,740 | | | 11,212,757 |
| DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES - 0.6% | | | | DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES - 0.0% | | | | DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES - 0.2% | | |
| Waterloo Investment Holdings 1,4 | 2,760,000 | 828,000 | | Waterloo Investment Holdings | – | – | | Waterloo Investment Holdings 1,4 | 2,760,000 | 828,000 |
| INSURANCE - 0.5% | | | | INSURANCE - 0.4% | | | | INSURANCE - 0.5% | | |
| Health Insurance Innovations Cl. A 1,2 | 28,700 | 767,151 | | Health Insurance Innovations Cl. A 1,2 | 30,000 | 801,900 | | Health Insurance Innovations Cl. A 1,2 | 58,700 | 1,569,051 |
| THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.8% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.1% | | | | THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 2.4% | | |
| PCSB Financial | 66,200 | 1,294,872 | | PCSB Financial | 114,600 | 2,241,576 | | PCSB Financial | 180,800 | 3,536,448 |
| Territorial Bancorp | 45,000 | 1,169,100 | | Territorial Bancorp | – | – | | Territorial Bancorp | 45,000 | 1,169,100 |
| Western New England Bancorp | 142,100 | 1,426,684 | | Western New England Bancorp | 202,800 | 2,036,112 | | Western New England Bancorp | 344,900 | 3,462,796 |
| | 3,890,656 | | | 4,277,688 | | | 8,168,344 |
| Total (Cost $19,660,631) | | 20,229,508 | | Total (Cost $22,724,953) | | 21,116,228 | | Total (Cost $42,385,584) | | 41,345,736 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE – 11.4% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 11.8% | | | | HEALTH CARE – 11.6% | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 3.1% | | | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 3.2% | | | | BIOTECHNOLOGY - 3.2% | | |
| AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 18,500 | 281,015 | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 25,800 | 391,902 | | AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1 | 44,300 | 672,917 |
| BioSpecifics Technologies 1 | 26,000 | 1,575,600 | | BioSpecifics Technologies | – | – | | BioSpecifics Technologies 1 | 26,000 | 1,575,600 |
| Dynavax Technologies 1 | 55,500 | 507,825 | | Dynavax Technologies 1 | 105,100 | 961,665 | | Dynavax Technologies 1 | 160,600 | 1,469,490 |
| Heron Therapeutics | – | – | | Heron Therapeutics 1 | 70,000 | 1,815,800 | | Heron Therapeutics 1 | 70,000 | 1,815,800 |
| Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 205,900 | 864,780 | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 310,074 | 1,302,311 | | Progenics Pharmaceuticals 1 | 515,974 | 2,167,091 |
| Zealand Pharma 1 | 97,000 | 1,226,548 | | Zealand Pharma 1,2 | 163,700 | 2,069,958 | | Zealand Pharma 1,2 | 260,700 | 3,296,506 |
| | 4,455,768 | | | 6,541,636 | | | 10,997,404 |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 5.0% | | | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 5.1% | | | | HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 5.0% | | |
| AtriCure 1 | 49,100 | 1,502,460 | | AtriCure 1 | 102,300 | 3,130,380 | | AtriCure 1 | 151,400 | 4,632,840 |
| Chembio Diagnostics 1 | 136,053 | 770,060 | | Chembio Diagnostics | – | – | | Chembio Diagnostics 1 | 136,053 | 770,060 |
| CryoLife 1 | 49,555 | 1,406,371 | | CryoLife 1 | 100,700 | 2,857,866 | | CryoLife 1 | 150,255 | 4,264,237 |
| OrthoPediatrics Corporation 1 | 41,400 | 1,444,032 | | OrthoPediatrics Corporation 1,2 | 74,200 | 2,588,096 | | OrthoPediatrics Corporation 1,2 | 115,600 | 4,032,128 |
| Surmodics 1 | 23,922 | 1,130,554 | | Surmodics 1 | 34,300 | 1,621,018 | | Surmodics 1 | 58,222 | 2,751,572 |
| Tactile Systems Technology 1,2 | 18,500 | 842,675 | | Tactile Systems Technology | – | – | | Tactile Systems Technology 1,2 | 18,500 | 842,675 |
| | 7,096,152 | | | 10,197,360 | | | 17,293,512 |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 2.4% | | | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 2.7% | | | | LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 2.6% | | |
| Harvard Bioscience 1 | 331,179 | 1,053,149 | | Harvard Bioscience 1 | 532,700 | 1,693,986 | | Harvard Bioscience 1 | 863,879 | 2,747,135 |
| NeoGenomics 1 | 88,200 | 1,112,202 | | NeoGenomics 1 | 107,300 | 1,353,053 | | NeoGenomics 1 | 195,500 | 2,465,255 |
| Quanterix Corporation 1 | 68,700 | 1,257,897 | | Quanterix Corporation 1 | 131,700 | 2,411,427 | | Quanterix Corporation 1 | 200,400 | 3,669,324 |
| | 3,423,248 | | | 5,458,466 | | | 8,881,714 |
| PHARMACEUTICALS - 0.9% | | | | PHARMACEUTICALS - 0.8% | | | | PHARMACEUTICALS - 0.8% | | |
| Axsome Therapeutics | – | – | | Axsome Therapeutics 1 | 332,400 | 937,368 | | Axsome Therapeutics 1 | 332,400 | 937,368 |
| Correvio Pharma 1,2 | 200,500 | 499,245 | | Correvio Pharma | – | – | | Correvio Pharma 1,2 | 200,500 | 499,245 |
| Paratek Pharmaceuticals 1 | 91,600 | 469,908 | | Paratek Pharmaceuticals 1 | 126,100 | 646,893 | | Paratek Pharmaceuticals 1 | 217,700 | 1,116,801 |
| Tetraphase Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 225,500 | 254,815 | | Tetraphase Pharmaceuticals | – | – | | Tetraphase Pharmaceuticals 1,2 | 225,500 | 254,815 |
| | 1,223,968 | | | 1,584,261 | | | 2,808,229 |
| Total (Cost $13,729,973) | | 16,199,136 | | Total (Cost $20,743,187) | | 23,781,723 | | Total (Cost $34,473,160) | | 39,980,859 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 22.2% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 18.6% | | | | INDUSTRIALS – 20.1% | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.6% | | | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.6% | | | | AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.6% | | |
| Astronics Corporation 1 | 38,291 | 1,165,961 | | Astronics Corporation | – | – | | Astronics Corporation 1 | 38,291 | 1,165,961 |
| CPI Aerostructures 1 | 166,518 | 1,060,720 | | CPI Aerostructures 1 | 246,766 | 1,571,899 | | CPI Aerostructures 1 | 413,284 | 2,632,619 |
| Kratos Defense & Security Solutions | – | – | | Kratos Defense & Security Solutions 1 | 120,300 | 1,695,027 | | Kratos Defense & Security Solutions 1 | 120,300 | 1,695,027 |
| | 2,226,681 | | | 3,266,926 | | | 5,493,607 |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 2.0% | | | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 1.3% | | | | COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 1.6% | | |
| Acme United | 49,800 | 709,650 | | Acme United | – | – | | Acme United | 49,800 | 709,650 |
| Atento | – | – | | Atento 1 | 280,900 | 1,126,409 | | Atento 1 | 280,900 | 1,126,409 |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 48,774 | 1,122,290 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 67,900 | 1,562,379 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean 1 | 116,674 | 2,684,669 |
| Viad Corporation | 21,000 | 1,051,890 | | Viad Corporation | – | – | | Viad Corporation | 21,000 | 1,051,890 |
| | 2,883,830 | | | 2,688,788 | | | 5,572,618 |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 1.8% | | | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 4.2% | | | | CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 3.2% | | |
| Ameresco Cl. A | – | – | | Ameresco Cl. A 1 | 234,500 | 3,306,450 | | Ameresco Cl. A 1 | 234,500 | 3,306,450 |
| Construction Partners Cl. A 1 | 106,300 | 938,629 | | Construction Partners Cl. A 1 | 97,100 | 857,393 | | Construction Partners Cl. A 1 | 203,400 | 1,796,022 |
| IES Holdings | – | – | | IES Holdings 1 | 89,800 | 1,396,390 | | IES Holdings 1 | 89,800 | 1,396,390 |
| Northwest Pipe 1 | 68,000 | 1,583,720 | | Northwest Pipe 1 | 122,000 | 2,841,380 | | Northwest Pipe 1 | 190,000 | 4,425,100 |
| | 2,522,349 | | | 8,401,613 | | | 10,923,962 |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 2.0% | | | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 0.7% | | | | ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.2% | | |
| American Superconducter 1 | 145,700 | 1,624,555 | | American Superconducter 1 | 39,400 | 439,310 | | American Superconducter 1 | 185,100 | 2,063,865 |
| Encore Wire | 24,100 | 1,209,338 | | Encore Wire | – | – | | Encore Wire | 24,100 | 1,209,338 |
| Power Solutions International | – | – | | Power Solutions International 1,3 | 99,900 | 919,080 | | Power Solutions International 1,3 | 99,900 | 919,080 |
| | 2,833,893 | | | 1,358,390 | | | 4,192,283 |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.7% | | | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.8% | | | | INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.8% | | |
| Raven Industries | 26,500 | 959,035 | | Raven Industries | 45,300 | 1,639,407 | | Raven Industries | 71,800 | 2,598,442 |
| MACHINERY - 9.0% | | | | MACHINERY - 6.0% | | | | MACHINERY - 7.2% | | |
| Alimak Group | 87,200 | 1,082,258 | | Alimak Group | – | – | | Alimak Group | 87,200 | 1,082,258 |
| ASV Holdings | – | – | | ASV Holdings 1 | 296,390 | 592,780 | | ASV Holdings 1 | 296,390 | 592,780 |
| Exco Technologies | 154,400 | 1,021,266 | | Exco Technologies | – | – | | Exco Technologies | 154,400 | 1,021,266 |
| FreightCar America 1 | 86,209 | 576,738 | | FreightCar America 1 | 114,900 | 768,681 | | FreightCar America 1 | 201,109 | 1,345,419 |
| Global Brass and Copper Holdings | 38,700 | 973,305 | | Global Brass and Copper Holdings | – | – | | Global Brass and Copper Holdings | 38,700 | 973,305 |
| Graham Corporation | 67,388 | 1,539,142 | | Graham Corporation | 126,900 | 2,898,396 | | Graham Corporation | 194,288 | 4,437,538 |
| Greenbrier Companies (The) | 15,800 | 624,732 | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | – | – | | Greenbrier Companies (The) | 15,800 | 624,732 |
| Kadant | 12,276 | 1,000,003 | | Kadant | – | – | | Kadant | 12,276 | 1,000,003 |
| Kornit Digital 1,2 | 79,700 | 1,491,984 | | Kornit Digital 1,2 | 158,700 | 2,970,864 | | Kornit Digital 1,2 | 238,400 | 4,462,848 |
| Lindsay Corporation | 12,000 | 1,155,000 | | Lindsay Corporation | – | – | | Lindsay Corporation | 12,000 | 1,155,000 |
| Luxfer Holdings | 42,700 | 752,801 | | Luxfer Holdings | 57,700 | 1,017,251 | | Luxfer Holdings | 100,400 | 1,770,052 |
| Lydall 1 | 37,600 | 763,656 | | Lydall | – | – | | Lydall 1 | 37,600 | 763,656 |
| Porvair | – | – | | Porvair | 364,400 | 1,925,204 | | Porvair | 364,400 | �� 1,925,204 |
| Sun Hydraulics | 19,100 | 633,929 | | Sun Hydraulics | – | – | | Sun Hydraulics | 19,100 | 633,929 |
| Twin Disc 1 | 46,000 | 678,500 | | Twin Disc | – | – | | Twin Disc 1 | 46,000 | 678,500 |
| Wabash National | – | – | | Wabash National | 140,500 | 1,837,740 | | Wabash National | 140,500 | 1,837,740 |
| Westport Fuel Systems 1 | 322,100 | 428,393 | | Westport Fuel Systems | – | – | | Westport Fuel Systems 1 | 322,100 | 428,393 |
| | 12,721,707 | | | 12,010,916 | | | 24,732,623 |
S-42
| Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | | | Proforma Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| MARINE - 0.6% | | | | MARINE - 0.7% | | | | MARINE - 0.7% | | |
| Clarkson | 36,500 | 883,935 | | Clarkson | 60,931 | 1,475,590 | | Clarkson | 97,431 | 2,359,525 |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 3.8% | | | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 3.3% | | | | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 3.5% | | |
| CRA International | 21,783 | 926,867 | | CRA International | – | – | | CRA International | 21,783 | 926,867 |
| GP Strategies 1 | 87,918 | 1,108,646 | | GP Strategies 1 | 122,500 | 1,544,725 | | GP Strategies 1 | 210,418 | 2,653,371 |
| Heidrick & Struggles International | 33,000 | 1,029,270 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 46,740 | 1,457,821 | | Heidrick & Struggles International | 79,740 | 2,487,091 |
| Kforce | 32,658 | 1,009,785 | | Kforce | 53,674 | 1,659,600 | | Kforce | 86,332 | 2,669,385 |
| Resources Connection | 92,052 | 1,307,138 | | Resources Connection | 144,700 | 2,054,740 | | Resources Connection | 236,752 | 3,361,878 |
| | 5,381,706 | | | 6,716,886 | | | 12,098,592 |
| ROAD & RAIL - 0.7% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 0.0% | | | | ROAD & RAIL - 0.3% | | |
| Marten Transport | 61,855 | 1,001,432 | | Marten Transport | – | – | | Marten Transport | 61,855 | 1,001,432 |
| Total (Cost $26,269,570) | | 31,414,568 | | Total (Cost $34,558,625) | | 37,558,516 | | Total (Cost $60,828,195) | | 68,973,084 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 21.1% | | | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 25.3% | | | | INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 23.7% | | |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 1.2% | | | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 1.5% | | | | COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 1.4% | | |
| Digi International 1 | 106,100 | 1,070,549 | | Digi International 1 | 139,200 | 1,404,528 | | Digi International 1 | 245,300 | 2,475,077 |
| EMCORE Corporation 1 | 146,800 | 616,560 | | EMCORE Corporation | – | – | | EMCORE Corporation 1 | 146,800 | 616,560 |
| Harmonic | – | – | | Harmonic 1 | 330,000 | 1,557,600 | | Harmonic 1 | 330,000 | 1,557,600 |
| | 1,687,109 | | | 2,962,128 | | | 4,649,237 |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 6.4% | | | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 6.9% | | | | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 6.7% | | |
| Airgain 1,2 | 52,000 | 515,320 | | Airgain | – | – | | Airgain 1,2 | 52,000 | 515,320 |
| CUI Global 1 | 321,474 | 395,413 | | CUI Global 1 | 379,100 | 466,293 | | CUI Global 1 | 700,574 | 861,706 |
| Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 20,600 | 617,176 | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 98,900 | 2,963,044 | | Electro Scientific Industries 1 | 119,500 | 3,580,220 |
| ePlus 1 | 13,634 | 970,332 | | ePlus | – | – | | ePlus 1 | 13,634 | 970,332 |
| Fabrinet 1 | 23,949 | 1,228,823 | | Fabrinet 1 | 40,600 | 2,083,186 | | Fabrinet 1 | 64,549 | 3,312,009 |
| LightPath Technologies Cl. A | – | – | | LightPath Technologies Cl. A 1 | 890,384 | 1,326,672 | | LightPath Technologies Cl. A 1 | 890,384 | 1,326,672 |
| Mesa Laboratories | 6,100 | 1,271,179 | | Mesa Laboratories | – | – | | Mesa Laboratories | 6,100 | 1,271,179 |
| nLIGHT 1,2 | 41,700 | 741,426 | | nLIGHT 1,2 | 81,100 | 1,441,958 | | nLIGHT 1,2 | 122,800 | 2,183,384 |
| Novanta 1 | 15,442 | 972,846 | | Novanta 1 | 28,500 | 1,795,500 | | Novanta 1 | 43,942 | 2,768,346 |
| PC Connection | 40,300 | 1,198,119 | | PC Connection | 63,800 | 1,896,774 | | PC Connection | 104,100 | 3,094,893 |
| Vishay Precision Group 1 | 41,700 | 1,260,591 | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 67,000 | 2,025,410 | | Vishay Precision Group 1 | 108,700 | 3,286,001 |
| | 9,171,225 | | | 13,998,837 | | | 23,170,062 |
| IT SERVICES - 0.9% | | | | IT SERVICES - 1.1% | | | | IT SERVICES - 1.1% | | |
| Carbonite | – | – | | Carbonite 1 | 92,200 | 2,328,972 | | Carbonite 1 | 92,200 | 2,328,972 |
| Cass Information Systems | 24,216 | 1,281,511 | | Cass Information Systems | – | – | | Cass Information Systems | 24,216 | 1,281,511 |
| | 1,281,511 | | | 2,328,972 | | | 3,610,483 |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 8.3% | | | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 10.0% | | | | SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 9.4% | | |
| Adesto Technologies 1,2 | 226,000 | 994,400 | | Adesto Technologies 1,2 | 67,200 | 295,680 | | Adesto Technologies 1,2 | 293,200 | 1,290,080 |
| Aehr Test Systems 1 | 279,300 | 393,813 | | Aehr Test Systems 1,2 | 590,400 | 832,464 | | Aehr Test Systems 1,2 | 869,700 | 1,226,277 |
| AXT 1 | 33,200 | 144,420 | | AXT 1 | 47,400 | 206,190 | | AXT 1 | 80,600 | 350,610 |
| Brooks Automation | 32,100 | 840,378 | | Brooks Automation | 66,582 | 1,743,117 | | Brooks Automation | 98,682 | 2,583,495 |
| Cirrus Logic | – | – | | Cirrus Logic 1 | 31,600 | 1,048,488 | | Cirrus Logic 1 | 31,600 | 1,048,488 |
| Cohu | 30,800 | 494,956 | | Cohu | 62,700 | 1,007,589 | | Cohu | 93,500 | 1,502,545 |
| CyberOptics Corporation 1 | 30,600 | 539,478 | | CyberOptics Corporation 1 | 48,700 | 858,581 | | CyberOptics Corporation 1 | 79,300 | 1,398,059 |
| Everspin Technologies 1,2 | 97,900 | 549,219 | | Everspin Technologies | – | – | | Everspin Technologies 1,2 | 97,900 | 549,219 |
| FormFactor | – | – | | FormFactor 1 | 206,500 | 2,909,585 | | FormFactor 1 | 206,500 | 2,909,585 |
| Inphi Corporation | – | – | | Inphi Corporation 1 | 63,400 | 2,038,310 | | Inphi Corporation 1 | 63,400 | 2,038,310 |
| NeoPhotonics Corporation 1 | 171,100 | 1,108,728 | | NeoPhotonics Corporation | – | – | | NeoPhotonics Corporation 1 | 171,100 | 1,108,728 |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1 | 53,900 | 1,227,842 | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 86,300 | 1,965,914 | | Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | 140,200 | 3,193,756 |
| PDF Solutions 1,2 | 88,700 | 747,741 | | PDF Solutions 1,2 | 123,200 | 1,038,576 | | PDF Solutions 1,2 | 211,900 | 1,786,317 |
| Photronics 1 | 161,200 | 1,560,416 | | Photronics 1 | 270,000 | 2,613,600 | | Photronics 1 | 431,200 | 4,174,016 |
| Rudolph Technologies 1 | 68,851 | 1,409,380 | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 116,100 | 2,376,567 | | Rudolph Technologies 1 | 184,951 | 3,785,947 |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 25,800 | 890,100 | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | – | – | | Silicon Motion Technology ADR | 25,800 | 890,100 |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 98,500 | 834,295 | | Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 153,400 | 1,299,298 | | Ultra Clean Holdings 1 | 251,900 | 2,133,593 |
| | 11,735,166 | | | 20,233,959 | | | 31,969,125 |
| SOFTWARE - 3.7% | | | | SOFTWARE - 5.8% | | | | SOFTWARE - 4.9% | | |
| Agilysys 1 | 73,600 | 1,055,424 | | Agilysys 1 | 127,700 | 1,831,218 | | Agilysys 1 | 201,300 | 2,886,642 |
| Amber Road 1 | 160,100 | 1,317,623 | | Amber Road 1 | 312,700 | 2,573,521 | | Amber Road 1 | 472,800 | 3,891,144 |
| Attunity 1 | 82,765 | 1,628,815 | | Attunity 1 | 160,237 | 3,153,464 | | Attunity 1 | 243,002 | 4,782,279 |
| QAD Cl. A | 32,500 | 1,278,225 | | QAD Cl. A | 66,513 | 2,615,956 | | QAD Cl. A | 99,013 | 3,894,181 |
| Rubicon Project | – | – | | Rubicon Project 1 | 403,500 | 1,505,055 | | Rubicon Project 1 | 403,500 | 1,505,055 |
| | 5,280,087 | | | 11,679,214 | | | 16,959,301 |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.6% | | | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.0% | | | | TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 0.2% | | |
| AstroNova | 43,100 | 808,125 | | AstroNova | – | – | | AstroNova | 43,100 | 808,125 |
| Total (Cost $25,615,774) | | 29,963,223 | | Total (Cost $41,511,969) | | 51,203,110 | | Total (Cost $67,127,743) | | 81,166,333 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 3.4% | | | | MATERIALS – 2.7% | | | | MATERIALS – 3.0% | | |
| CHEMICALS - 2.1% | | | | CHEMICALS - 0.7% | | | | CHEMICALS - 1.3% | | |
| FutureFuel Corporation | 62,500 | 991,250 | | FutureFuel Corporation | – | – | | FutureFuel Corporation | 62,500 | 991,250 |
| Quaker Chemical | 6,060 | 1,076,922 | | Quaker Chemical | – | – | | Quaker Chemical | 6,060 | 1,076,922 |
| Trecora Resources 1 | 113,900 | 888,420 | | Trecora Resources 1 | 187,400 | 1,461,720 | | Trecora Resources 1 | 301,300 | 2,350,140 |
| | 2,956,592 | | | 1,461,720 | | | 4,418,312 |
| METALS & MINING - 1.3% | | | | METALS & MINING - 2.0% | | | | METALS & MINING - 1.7% | | |
| Ferroglobe (Warranty Insurance Trust) | – | – | | Ferroglobe (Warranty Insurance Trust) 1,4 | 205,763 | 0 | | Ferroglobe (Warranty Insurance Trust) 1,4 | 205,763 | 0 |
| Haynes International | 39,030 | 1,030,392 | | Haynes International | – | – | | Haynes International | 39,030 | 1,030,392 |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | 241,700 | 814,401 | | Major Drilling Group International 1 | 468,500 | 1,578,597 | | Major Drilling Group International 1 | 710,200 | 2,392,998 |
| Pretium Resources | – | – | | Pretium Resources 1 | 155,700 | 1,319,549 | | Pretium Resources 1 | 155,700 | 1,319,549 |
| Superior Gold | – | – | | Superior Gold 1 | 1,700,000 | 1,046,001 | | Superior Gold 1 | 1,700,000 | 1,046,001 |
| | 1,844,793 | | | 3,944,147 | | | 5,788,940 |
| Total (Cost $5,159,641) | | 4,801,385 | | Total (Cost $7,224,893) | | 5,405,867 | | Total (Cost $12,384,534) | | 10,207,252 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
S-43
| Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | | | Proforma Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | |
| SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE | | SHARES | VALUE |
| REAL ESTATE – 2.5% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 0% | | | | REAL ESTATE – 1.0% | | |
| EQUITY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) - 0.9% | | | | EQUITY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) - 0.0% | | | | EQUITY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) - 0.3% | | |
| Community Healthcare Trust | 41,700 | 1,202,211 | | Community Healthcare Trust | – | – | | Community Healthcare Trust | 41,700 | 1,202,211 |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 1.6% | | | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 0.0% | | | | REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 0.7% | | |
| FRP Holdings 1 | 22,975 | 1,057,080 | | FRP Holdings | – | – | | FRP Holdings 1 | 22,975 | 1,057,080 |
| Marcus & Millichap 1 | 35,500 | 1,218,715 | | Marcus & Millichap | – | – | | Marcus & Millichap 1 | 35,500 | 1,218,715 |
| | 2,275,795 | | | – | | | 2,275,795 |
| Total (Cost $2,053,778) | | 3,478,006 | | Total (Cost $–) | | – | | Total (Cost $2,053,778) | | 3,478,006 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | |
| (Cost $122,793,727) | | 138,065,433 | | (Cost $181,729,761) | | 194,046,718 | | (Cost $304,523,488) | | 332,112,151 |
| | | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 2.2% | | | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 4.4% | | | | REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – 3.5% | | |
| (Cost $3,126,000) | | 3,126,000 | | (Cost $8,961,000) | | 8,961,000 | | (Cost $12,087,000) | | 12,087,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 3.2% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 2.4% | | | | COLLATERAL RECEIVED FOR SECURITIES LOANED – 2.7% | | |
| Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | | | Money Market Funds | | |
| Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | | | Federated Government Obligations Fund (7 day yield-2.2268%) | | |
| (Cost $4,584,805) | | 4,584,805 | | (Cost $4,834,830) | | 4,834,830 | | (Cost $9,419,635) | | 9,419,635 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 102.8% | | | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 102.9% | | | | TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 102.9% | | |
| (Cost $130,504,532) | | 145,776,238 | | (Cost $195,525,591) | | 207,842,548 | | (Cost $326,030,123) | | 353,618,786 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (2.8)% | | (4,003,736) | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (2.9)% | | (5,816,420) | | LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (2.9)% | | (10,002,756)5 |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 141,772,502 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 202,026,128 | | NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ 343,616,030 |
1 Non-income producing.
2 All or a portion of these securities were on loan at December 31, 2018.
3 These securities are defined as Level 2 securities due to fair value being based on quoted prices for similar securities.
4 Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.6% of net assets for Royce Micro-Cap Fund. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees.
These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value.
5 Includes adjustment for estimated reorganization expenses of $182,600.
S-44
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to
Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities for Royce Micro-Cap Fund and Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund as of December 31, 2018
| | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | Adjustments | | Pro Forma Royce Micro-Cap Fund Combined |
ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments at value (including collateral on loaned securities)1 | | $ | 142,650,238 | | | | $ | 198,881,548 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 341,531,786 | |
Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | 3,126,000 | | | | | 8,961,000 | | | | - | | | | | 12,087,000 | |
Cash and foreign currency | | | 480 | | | | | 8,812 | | | | - | | | | | 9,292 | |
Receivable for investments sold | | | 1,316,874 | | | | | 312,624 | | | | - | | | | | 1,629,498 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | | | 80,464 | | | | | 24,959 | | | | - | | | | | 105,423 | |
Receivable for dividends and interest | | | 99,524 | | | | | 68,093 | | | | - | | | | | 167,617 | |
Receivable for securities lending income | | | 5,388 | | | | | 4,695 | | | | - | | | | | 10,083 | |
Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | 805 | | | | | - | | | | - | | | | | 805 | |
Total Assets | | | 147,279,773 | | | | | 208,261,731 | | | | - | | | | | 355,541,504 | |
LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Payable for collateral on loaned securities | | | 4,584,805 | | | | | 4,834,830 | | | | - | | | | | 9,419,635 | |
Payable for investments purchased | | | 134,739 | | | | | 259,008 | | | | - | | | | | 393,747 | |
Payable for capital shares redeemed | | | 454,994 | | | | | 356,380 | | | | - | | | | | 811,374 | |
Payable for investment advisory fees | | | 158,495 | | | | | 176,893 | | | | - | | | | | 335,388 | |
Payable for trustees’ fees | | | 6,778 | | | | | 8,090 | | | | - | | | | | 14,868 | |
Accrued expenses | | | 167,460 | | | | | 600,402 | | | | 182,600 | 2 | | | | 950,462 | |
Total Liabilities | | | 5,507,271 | | | | | 6,235,603 | | | | 182,600 | | | | | 11,925,474 | |
Net Assets | | $ | 141,772,502 | | | | $ | 202,026,128 | | | $ | (182,600 | ) | | | $ | 343,616,030 | |
ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | $ | 125,732,134 | | | | $ | 188,645,408 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 314,377,542 | |
Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | 16,040,368 | | | | | 13,380,720 | | | | (182,600 | )2 | | | | 29,238,488 | |
Net Assets | | $ | 141,772,502 | | | | $ | 202,026,128 | | | $ | (182,600 | ) | | | $ | 343,616,030 | |
Investment Class | | $ | 117,040,213 | | | | $ | 46,430,314 | | | $ | (96,356 | )2 | | | | 163,374,171 | |
Service Class | | | 8,052,517 | | | | | 155,595,814 | | | | (75,503 | )2 | | | | 163,572,828 | |
Consultant Class | | | 16,679,772 | | | | | | | | | (10,741 | )2 | | | | 16,669,031 | |
SHARES OUTSTANDING (unlimited number of $.001 par value): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class | | | 12,512,702 | | | | | 7,283,512 | | | | 4,965,809 | 3 | | | | 17,478,511 | |
Service Class | | | 879,635 | | | | | 24,562,747 | | | | 17,005,007 | 3 | | | | 17,884,642 | |
Consultant Class | | | 2,306,358 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 2,306,358 | |
NET ASSET VALUES (Net Assets ÷ Shares Outstanding): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment Class4 | | $ | 9.35 | | | | $ | 6.37 | | | | | | | | $ | 9.35 | |
Service Class4 | | | 9.15 | | | | | 6.33 | | | | | | | | | 9.15 | |
Consultant Class5 | | | 7.23 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7.23 | |
Investments at identified cost | | $ | 127,378,532 | | | | $ | 186,564,591 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 313,943,123 | |
Market value of loaned securities6 | | | 6,069,277 | | | | | 11,111,588 | | | | | | | | | 17,180,865 | |
1 | | See Notes to Financial Statements for information on non-cash collateral on loaned securities. |
2 | | Adjustment for estimated expenses of Reorganization. |
3 | | Reflects the change in shares of Royce Micro-Cap Fund after giving effect to the distribution of shares of Royce Micro-Cap Fund to Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund shareholders as if the Reorganization had taken place on December 31, 2018. | | |
4 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 30 days may be subject to a 1% redemption fee, payable to the Fund. |
5 | | Offering and redemption price per share; shares held less than 365 days may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge, payable to Royce Fund Services, LLC. |
6 | | Market value of loaned securities backed by non-cash collateral is as of prior business day. |
S-45
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to
Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations for Royce Micro-Cap Fund and Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund as of December 31, 2018
INVESTMENT INCOME: | | Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | Adjustments1 | | Pro Forma Royce Micro-Cap Fund Combined |
INCOME: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends | | | $ | 1,814,692 | | | | $ | 2,465,029 | | | $ | - | | | | $ | 4,279,721 | |
Foreign withholding tax | | | | (42,378 | ) | | | | (51,801 | ) | | | - | | | | | (94,179 | ) |
Interest | | | | 22,233 | | | | | 46,098 | | | | - | | | | | 68,331 | |
Securities lending | | | | 181,632 | | | | | 106,373 | | | | - | | | | | 288,005 | |
Total income | | | | 1,976,179 | | | | | 2,565,699 | | | | - | | | | | 4,541,878 | |
EXPENSES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment advisory fees | | | | 2,341,557 | | | | | 2,571,299 | | | | (468,311 | ) | | | | 4,444,545 | |
Distribution fees | | | | 256,920 | | | | | 499,061 | | | | - | | | | | 755,981 | |
Shareholder servicing | | | | 211,198 | | | | | 391,889 | | | | (9,720 | ) | | | | 593,367 | |
Administrative and office facilities | | | | 65,512 | | | | | 85,764 | | | | - | | | | | 151,276 | |
Registration | | | | 42,881 | | | | | 48,801 | | | | (25,723 | ) | | | | 65,959 | |
Custody | | | | 29,241 | | | | | 47,594 | | | | (7,300 | ) | | | | 69,535 | |
Audit | | | | 34,904 | | | | | 37,350 | | | | (10,311 | ) | | | | 61,943 | |
Shareholder reports | | | | 73,737 | | | | | 83,478 | | | | - | | | | | 157,215 | |
Trustees’ fees | | | | 24,434 | | | | | 33,203 | | | | - | | | | | 57,637 | |
Legal | | | | 5,931 | | | | | 7,944 | | | | - | | | | | 13,875 | |
Other expenses | | | | 14,982 | | | | | 18,206 | | | | (525 | ) | | | | 32,663 | |
Total expenses | | | | 3,101,297 | | | | | 3,824,589 | | | | (521,890 | ) | | | | 6,403,996 | |
Compensating balance credits | | | | (6,567 | ) | | | | (6,327 | ) | | | - | | | | | (12,894 | ) |
Fees waived by distributor | | | | - | | | | | (24,971 | ) | | | 24,971 | | | | | - | |
Expenses reimbursed by investment adviser | | | | (47,255 | ) | | | | (93,761 | ) | | | 40,000 | | | | | (101,016 | ) |
Net expenses | | | | 3,047,475 | | | | | 3,699,530 | | | | (456,919 | ) | | | | 6,290,086 | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | | (1,071,296 | ) | | | | (1,133,831 | ) | | | 456,919 | | | | | (1,748,208 | ) |
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments | | | | 17,270,697 | | | | | 35,188,199 | | | | - | | | | | 52,458,896 | |
Foreign currency transactions | | | | (1,630 | ) | | | | (24,855 | ) | | | - | | | | | (26,485 | ) |
NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments | | | | (28,932,947 | ) | | | | (52,983,119 | ) | | | - | | | | | (81,916,066 | ) |
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | | (2,229 | ) | | | | 204 | | | | - | | | | | (2,025 | ) |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | | (11,666,109 | ) | | | | (17,819,571 | ) | | | - | | | | | (29,485,680 | ) |
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | | $ | (12,737,405 | ) | | | $ | (18,953,402 | ) | | $ | 456,919 | | | | $ | (31,233,888 | ) |
1 Investment advisory fee decrease due to reduction in Royce Micro-Cap Fund base fee; other fees decrease due to the elimination of duplicate expenses achieved by merging the funds. |
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Notes to Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements Relating to
Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 — Basis of Combination:
At a meeting held on December 13, 2018, the Board approved the Trust entering into the Plan on behalf of Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock along with the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. The Plan provides for the transfer of all of the assets of Low-Priced Stock to Micro-Cap in exchange for Micro-Cap’s assumption of all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap’s issuance of shares of beneficial interest of Micro-Cap (the “Micro-Cap Shares”) to Low-Priced Stock. The Micro-Cap Shares received by Low-Priced Stock in the proposed Reorganization will have an aggregate net asset value that is equal to the aggregate net asset value of the Low-Priced Stock shares that are outstanding immediately prior to such Reorganization. The Plan also provides for the distribution by Low-Priced Stock, on a pro rata basis, of the Micro-Cap Shares to its shareholders in complete liquidation of Low-Priced Stock. Shareholders of Low-Priced Stock would receive the same class of Micro-Cap Shares as they held in Low-Priced Stock immediately prior to the Reorganization.
The Low-Priced Stock Reorganization will be accounted for as a tax-free merger of investments companies. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined schedule of investments and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of assets and liabilities reflect the financial position of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap at December 31, 2018 as if the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization had occurred on that date. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations reflects the results of operations of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018 as if the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization had occurred on January 1, 2018. These statements have been derived from the books and records of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap utilized in calculating daily net asset values at the dates indicated above in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Completion of the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as of December 31, 2018 would not have caused Micro-Cap to violate any of its portfolio-level compliance tests. The historical cost of Low-Priced Stock’s investment securities will be carried forward to the Combined Fund. The fiscal year end for each of Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock is December 31.
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap included in, and incorporated by reference into, the SAI. Such pro forma condensed combined financial statements are presented for information purposes only and may not necessarily be representative of what the actual combined financial statements would have been had the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization occurred on December 31, 2018 or January 1, 2018, as applicable. Following the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization, Micro-Cap will be the legal and accounting survivor.
Fees and expenses resulting from the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization, including, without limitation, proxy solicitation costs and legal and audit fees, will be allocated among, and paid by, these Funds as follows: Low-Priced Stock (50%) and Micro-Cap (50%). The aggregate fees and expenses in respect of the Reorganization are estimated to range from approximately $169,400 to $182,600 . Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred by Low-Priced Stock or Micro-Cap in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities prior to the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization will be borne by the relevant Fund and its shareholders. Any brokerage or other trading costs incurred in connection with buying or selling portfolio securities after the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization will be borne by the Combined Fund and its shareholders.
NOTE 2 — Micro-Cap and Low-Priced Stock Valuation:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq’s Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent pricing services. Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Board, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general
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principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the relevant Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, no assurance can be given that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the relevant Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, a Fund may fair value the security. Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by a Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the investments of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 | – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedules of Investments. |
| Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the investments of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap as of December 31, 2018. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification please refer to the pro Forma Condensed Combined Schedule of Investments Relating to Low-Priced Stock Reorganization.
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | | | | |
Common Stocks | $193,127,638 | $919,080 | $0 | $194,046,718 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | 8,961,000 | – | 8,961,000 |
Money Market Fund/ Collateral Received for Securities Loaned | 4,834,830 | – | – | 4,834,830 |
|
Royce Micro-Cap Fund | | | | |
Common Stocks | 137,237,433 | – | 828,000 | 138,065,433 |
Repurchase Agreement | – | 3,126,000 | – | 3,126,000 |
Money Market Fund/ Collateral Received for Securities Loaned | 4,584,805 | – | – | 4,584,805 |
Certain securities have transferred in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 measurements during the reporting period. This is generally due to whether fair value factors have been applied. Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the reporting period. At December 31, 2018, Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap had securities transfer from Level 2 to Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy of $7,950,242 and $3,192,741, respectively.
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Level 3 Reconciliation:
| Balance as of 12/31/17 | Purchases | Sales | Realized Gain (Loss) | Unrealized Gain (Loss)1 | Balance as of 12/31/18 |
Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund | |
Common Stocks | $0 | $– | $– | $– | $– | $0 |
Royce Micro-Cap Fund | |
Common Stocks | 828,000 | $– | 0 | (37,370) | 37,370 | 828,000 |
|
1 The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in the pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) includes net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) resulting from changes in investment values during the reporting period and the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation (depreciation) when gains or losses are realized. Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions is included in the Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Relating to Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. |
The following table summarizes the valuation techniques used and unobservable inputs approved by the Valuation Committee to determine the fair value of certain Level 3 investments. The table does not include Level 3 investments with values derived utilizing prices from prior transactions or third party pricing information with adjustments (e.g. broker quotes, pricing services, net asset values).
| Fair Value at 12/31/18 | Valuation Technique(s) | Unobservable Input(s) | Range Average | Impact to Valuation from an Increase in Input1 |
Royce Micro-Cap Fund | |
Common Stocks | $828,000 | Discounted Present Value Balance Sheet Analysis | Liquidity Discount | 30%-40% | Decrease |
|
1 This column represents the directional change in the fair value of the Level 3 investments that would result in an increase from the corresponding unobservable input. A decrease to the unobservable input would have the opposite effect. Significant increases and decreases in these unobservable inputs in isolation could result in significantly higher or lower fair value measurements. |
NOTE 3 — Securities Lending:
Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap Leaders loans securities through a lending agent to qualified institutional investors for the purpose of realizing additional income. Collateral for the Funds on all securities loaned is accepted in cash and cash equivalents, which are invested temporarily by the custodian, as well as non-cash collateral, which includes short and long-term U.S. Treasuries. The collateral maintained is at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Funds on the next business day. The Funds retain the risk of any loss on the securities on loan as well as incurring the potential loss on investments purchased with cash collateral received for securities lending. In the event of default or bankruptcy by the other party to the agreement, realization and/or retention of the collateral may be subject to legal proceedings. If the borrower fails to return loaned securities, and cash collateral being maintained by the borrower is insufficient to cover the value of loaned securities and provided such collateral insufficiency is not the result of investment losses, the lending agent has agreed to pay the amount of the shortfall to the Funds or, at the option of the lending agent, to replace the securities. In the event of the bankruptcy of the borrower, the Funds could experience delay in recovering the loaned securities or only recover cash or a security of equivalent value. Loans of securities generally do not have stated maturity dates, and the Funds may recall a security at any time. The Funds’ securities lending income consists of the income earned on investing cash collateral, plus any premium payments received for lending certain securities, less any rebates paid to borrowers and lending agent fees associated with the loan. The lending agent is not affiliated with Royce. The following table presents cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by cash collateral held by these Funds at December 31, 2018:
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Fund | Cash Collateral1 | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Low-Priced Stock | $4,834,830 | ($4,642,915) | $191,915 |
Micro-Cap | 4,584,805 | (4,430,823) | 153,982 |
| | | |
1Absent an event of default, assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset in the pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities Relating to Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. The remaining contractual maturity of cash collateral is overnight and continuous. |
The following table presents non-cash collateral and the market value of securities on loan collateralized by non-cash collateral held by the custodian for Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap at December 31, 2018:
Fund | Non-Cash Collateral | Securities On Loan Collateralized By Non-Cash Collateral | Net Amount |
Low-Priced Stock | $6,640,579 | ($6,468,673) | $171,906 |
Micro-Cap | 1,677,450 | (1,638,454) | 38,996 |
NOTE 4 — Capital Shares:
As of December 31, 2018, Low-Priced Stock only had Investment Class and Service Class shares outstanding. As of December 31, 2018, Micro-Cap had Investment Class, Service Class, and Consultant Class shares outstanding. No Consultant Class shares of Micro-Cap will be issued or distributed to shareholders of Low-Priced Stock in connection with the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization.
The pro forma net asset value per share assumes the issuance of Investment Class and Service Class shares of Micro-Cap that would have been issued at December 31, 2018 in connection with the proposed Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. The number of full and fractional shares of each Class of Micro-Cap assumed to be issued in connection with the proposed Low-Priced Stock Reorganization is determined by dividing: (i) the aggregate value of the assets of Low-Priced Stock that are transferred to Micro-Cap, net of all of the liabilities of Low-Priced Stock that are assumed by Micro-Cap, by (ii) the net asset value of one share of the relevant Class of Micro-Cap.
The pro forma number of Investment Class and Service Class shares outstanding for Micro-Cap consists of the following at December 31, 2018.
Class of Shares of Micro-Cap | Shares of Micro-Cap: Pre-Low-Priced Stock Reorganization | Additional Shares of Micro- Cap Assumed Issued in Low- Priced Stock Reorganization* | Total Outstanding Shares of Micro-Cap: Post-Low- Priced Stock Reorganization* |
Investment | 12,512,702 | 4,965,809 | 17,478,511 |
Service | 879,635 | 17,005,007 | 17,884,642 |
*The data does not take into account expenses expected to be incurred by Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap in connection with the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization. No assurance can be given as to how many shares of Micro-Cap will be received by Low-Priced Stock shareholders on the date of the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization.
NOTE 5 — Pro Forma Operating Expenses:
The accompanying pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018, as adjusted, giving effect to the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization reflects changes in expenses of Micro-Cap as if such Reorganization was consummated on January 1, 2018.
As noted in the relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement, the contractual investment management fee of Micro-Cap will be reduced upon completion of the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization as set forth in the table immediately below.
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Current Contractual Investment Management Fee of Royce Micro-Cap Fund | Contractual Investment Management Fee of Royce Micro-Cap Fund Upon Completion of Low-Priced Stock Reorganization |
1.25% of the first $2,000,000,000 1.20% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.15% of the next $1,000,000,000 1.10% of any additional average net assets | 1.00% of the first $2,000,000,000 0.95% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.90% of the next $1,000,000,000 0.85% of any additional average net assets |
NOTE 6 — Federal Income Taxes:
Each of Low-Priced Stock and Micro-Cap has elected to be taxed as a “regulated investment company” under the Code. If the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization is consummated, unless it determines such qualification is no longer in the best interest of shareholders, Micro-Cap will seek to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by complying with the provisions applicable to certain investment companies, as defined in applicable sections of the Code, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, Federal income taxes. In addition, Low-Priced Stock will make any required income or capital gain distributions prior to consummation of the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization, in accordance with provisions of the Code relating to tax-free reorganizations of investment companies.
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, Low-Priced Stock does not expect to have any capital loss carryovers to offset any such gains. As a result of the net unrealized appreciation in Micro-Cap’s assets as set forth in the Annual Report, it is expected that for a period of years after the Low-Priced Stock Reorganization, the Combined Fund’s sale of appreciated portfolio securities likely will result in greater taxable capital gain distributions to a former Low-Priced Stock shareholder than such shareholder might otherwise have received in the absence of such Reorganization.
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PART C - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 15: Indemnification
(a) Article IX of the Trust Instrument of The Royce Fund (the “Registrant” or the “Trust”) provides as follows:
“ARTICLE IX
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION
Section 1. Limitation of Liability. All persons contracting with or having any claim against the Trust or a particular Series shall look only to the assets of the Trust or such Series for payment under such contract or claim; and neither the Trustees nor any other Trust’s officers, employees or agents, whether past, present or future, shall be personally liable therefor. Every written instrument or obligation on behalf of the Trust or any Series shall contain a statement to the foregoing effect, but the absence of such statement shall not operate to make any Trustee or officers of the trust liable thereunder. None of the Trustees or officers of the Trust shall be responsible or liable for any act or omission or for neglect or wrongdoing by him or any agent, employee, investment adviser or independent contractor of the Trust, but nothing contained in this Trust Instrument or in the Delaware Act shall protect any Trustee or officer of the Trust against liability to the Trust or to Shareholders to which he would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 2.
(a) Subject to the exceptions and limitations contained in Section 2(b) below:
(i) Every person who is, or has been, a Trustee or officer of the Trust (including persons who serve at the Trust’s request as directors, officers or trustees of another entity in which the Trust has any interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise) (hereinafter referred to as a “Covered Person”) shall be indemnified by the appropriate Fund to the fullest extent not prohibited by law against liability and against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his being or having been a Trustee or officer and against amounts paid or incurred by him in the settlement thereof; and
(ii) The words “claim”, “action”, “suit” or “proceeding” shall apply to all claims, actions, suits or proceedings (civil, criminal, administrative, investigatory or other, including appeals), actual or threatened, while in office or thereafter, and the words “liability” and “expenses” shall include, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties and other liabilities.
(b) No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Covered Person:
(i) Who shall, in respect of the matter or matters involved, adjudicated by a court or body before which the proceeding was brought (A) to be liable to the Trust or its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence in the performance of his duties or reckless disregard of the obligations and duties involved in the conduct of his office or (B) not to have acted in the belief that his action was in the best interest of the Trust; or
(ii) In the event of a settlement, unless there has been a determination that such Trustee or officer did not engage in willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office,
(A) By the court or other body approving the settlement;
(B) By a majority of those Trustees who are neither Interested Persons of the Trust nor are parties to the matter, based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry); or
(C) By written opinion of independent legal counsel, based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry).
(c) The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by policies maintained by the Trust, shall be severable, shall not be exclusive of or affect any other rights to which any Covered Person may now or hereafter be entitled, shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be such Trustee or officer and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person. Nothing contained herein shall affect any
rights to indemnification to which Trust personnel, other than Trustees and officers, and other persons may be entitled by contract or otherwise under law.
(d) Expenses in connection with the preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action, suit or proceeding of the type described in subsection (a) of this Section 2 may be paid by the applicable Fund from time to time prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such Covered Person that such amount will be paid over by him to the applicable Fund if and when it is ultimately determined that he is not entitled to indemnification under this Section 2; provided, however, that either (i) such Covered Person shall have provided appropriate security for such undertaking, (ii) the Trust is insured against losses arising out of any such advance payments or (iii) either a majority of the Trustees who are neither Interested Persons of the Trust nor parties to the matter, or independent legal counsel in a written opinion, shall have determined, based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a trial-type inquiry or full investigation), that there is reason to believe that such Covered Person will be found entitled to indemnification under this Section 2.”
(b) Paragraph 8 of the Investment Advisory Agreements by and between the Registrant and Royce & Associates provides as follows:
“8. Protection of the Adviser. The Adviser (or any sub-investment adviser as may be applicable) shall not be liable to the Fund or to any portfolio series thereof for any action taken or omitted to be taken by the Adviser in connection with the performance of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement or otherwise as an investment adviser of the Fund or such series, and the Fund or each portfolio series thereof involved, as the case may be, shall indemnify the Adviser and hold it harmless from and against all damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and amounts reasonably paid in settlement) incurred by the Adviser in or by reason of any pending, threatened or completed action, suit, investigation or other proceeding (including an action or suit by or in the right of the Fund or any portfolio series thereof or its security holders) arising out of or otherwise based upon any action actually or allegedly taken or omitted to be taken by the Adviser in connection with the performance of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement or otherwise as an investment adviser of the Fund or such series. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence of this Paragraph 8 to the contrary, nothing contained herein shall protect or be deemed to protect the Adviser against or entitle or be deemed to entitle the Adviser to indemnification in respect of, any liability to the Fund or to any portfolio series thereof or its security holders to which the Adviser would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its duties and obligations under this Agreement.
Determinations of whether and the extent to which the Adviser is entitled to indemnification hereunder shall be made by reasonable and fair means, including (a) a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before whom the action, suit or other proceeding was brought that the Adviser was not liable by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or (b) in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination, based upon a review of the facts, that the Adviser was not liable by reason of such misconduct by (i) the vote of a majority of a quorum of the Trustees of the Fund who are neither “interested persons” of the Fund (as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940) nor parties to the action, suit or other proceeding or (ii) an independent legal counsel in a written opinion.”
(c) Paragraph 9 of the Distribution Agreement made October 1, 2001 by and between the Registrant and Royce Fund Services, Inc. provides as follows:
“9. Protection of the Distributor. The Distributor shall not be liable to the Fund or to any series thereof for any action taken or omitted to be taken by the Distributor in connection with the performance of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement or otherwise as an underwriter of the Shares, and the Fund or each portfolio series thereof involved, as the case may be, shall indemnify the Distributor and hold it harmless from and against all damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and amounts reasonably paid in settlement) incurred by the Distributor in or by reason of any pending, threatened or completed action, suit, investigation or other proceeding (including an action or suit by or in the right of the Fund or any series thereof or its security holders) arising out of or otherwise based upon any action actually or allegedly taken or omitted to be taken by the Distributor in connection with the performance of any of its duties or obligations under this Agreement or otherwise as an underwriter of the Shares. Notwithstanding the preceding sentences of this Paragraph 9 to the contrary, nothing contained herein shall protect or be deemed to protect the Distributor against, or entitle or be deemed to entitle the Distributor to indemnification in respect of, any liability to the Fund or to any portfolio series thereof or its security holders to which the Distributor would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance,
bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its duties and obligations under this Agreement.
Determinations of whether and to the extent to which the Distributor is entitled to indemnification hereunder shall be made by reasonable and fair means, including (a) a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before whom the action, suit or other proceeding was brought that the Distributor was not liable by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or (b) in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination, based upon a review of the facts, that the Distributor was not liable by reason of such misconduct by (a) the vote of a majority of a quorum of the Trustees of the Fund who are neither “interested persons” of the Fund (as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act) nor parties to the action, suit or other proceeding or (b) an independent legal counsel in a written opinion.”
(d) The Fund, its officers and directors, R&A, the Distributor and certain others are presently insured under a Directors and Officers/Errors and Omissions Liability Insurance Policy issued by ICI Mutual Insurance Company, which generally covers claims by the Fund’s stockholders, and third persons based on or alleging negligent acts, misstatements or omissions by the insureds and the costs and expenses of defending those claims, up to a limit of $30,000,000, with a deductible amount of $500,000.
(e) The benefits of such indemnification are not waived by such persons. Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”) may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 16: Exhibits |
1(a) | Trust Instrument dated April 12, 1996, previously filed on August 16, 2006 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
1(b) | Certificate of Trust dated April 12, 1996, previously filed on August 16, 2006 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(2) | By-laws dated April, 12, 1996, previously filed on August 16, 2006 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(3) | Not applicable. |
(4)(a) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund, and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
(4)(b) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
(4)(c) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
(5) | Portions of the Trust Instrument, Investment Advisory Agreements, and Distribution Agreement in respect of the Registrant defining the rights of shareholders of the Registrant. See Item 15 of Part C of this Registration Statement on Form N-14. |
(6)(a) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund) and Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), dated July 1, 2016, previously filed on February 28, 2017 with the Trust’s Form N-SAR and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(b) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(c) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(d) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Micro-Cap Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(e) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(f) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Opportunity Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(g) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund) and Royce, dated July 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
6(h) | Form of Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between The Royce Fund (Royce Micro-Cap Fund) and Royce, dated __________ __, 2019, previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(i) | Investment Advisory Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement Agreements, each dated January 1, 2019, for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (Investment Class), Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (Service Class), Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (Consultant Class), Royce Micro-Cap Fund (Investment Class), Royce Micro-Cap Fund (Service Class), Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (Investment Class), Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (Service Class), and Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund (Investment Class). Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(6)(j) | Form of Investment Advisory Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement Agreements dated __________ __, 2019, for Royce Micro-Cap Fund (Investment Class) and Royce Micro-Cap Fund (Service Class), previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(7) | Distribution Agreement between The Royce Fund and Royce Fund Services, Inc. (now Royce Fund Services, LLC) dated October 1, 2001, previously filed on October 15, 2001 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 55 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(8) | Not applicable. |
(9)(a) | Form of Custodian Contract with State Street Bank and Trust Company dated as of December 31, 1985 and amendments dated December 11, 1987, May 13, 1988, April 7, 1992 and November 13, 1997, September 14, 2000, April 16, 2003 and June 30, 2005, previously filed on October 27, 2006 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(9)(b) | Special Custody and Pledge Agreement among The Royce Fund, Goldman Sachs and State Street Bank dated as of November 11, 2010, previously filed on April 28, 2011 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(10)(a) | Amended and Restated Distribution Plan of The Royce Fund, previously filed on February 29, 2012 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(10)(b) | Distribution Fee Agreements, dated May 1, 2006, between Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (Service Class), Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund (Service Class), Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund (Consultant Class and Service Class), Royce Micro-Cap Fund (Service Class), and Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund (Service Class) and Royce Fund Services, Inc. (now Royce Fund Services, LLC), previously filed on August 16, 2006 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Trust’s Registration Statement and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(10)(c) | Distribution Fee Agreement, dated October 15, 2001, between Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund (Consultant Class) and Royce Fund Services, Inc. (now Royce Fund Services, LLC), previously filed on October 15, 2001 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 55 to the Trust’s Registration Statement and hereby incorporated by reference. |
(10)(d) | Rule 18f-3 Plans for Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund, Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund, Royce Micro-Cap Fund, Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund, Royce Opportunity Fund, and Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund, dated December 13, 2016, previously filed on April 28, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 133 to the Trust’s Registration statement and hereby incorporated by reference. |
11(a) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of each of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. Filed herewith. |
11(b) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund. Filed herewith. |
11(c) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund. Filed herewith. |
12(a) | Form of Tax Opinion of Sidley Austin LLP supporting the tax matters and consequences to shareholders discussed in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement as it relates to the reorganization of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
12(b) | Form of Tax Opinion of Sidley Austin LLP supporting the tax matters and consequences to shareholders discussed in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement as it relates to the reorganization of Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
12(c) | Form of Tax Opinion of Sidley Austin LLP supporting the tax matters and consequences to shareholders discussed in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement as it relates to the reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
12(d) | Form of Tax Opinion of Sidley Austin LLP supporting the tax matters and consequences to shareholders discussed in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement as it relates to the reorganization of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
12(e) | Consent of Sidley Austin LLP. Filed herewith. |
13(a) | Form of Transfer Agency and Services Agreement between The Royce Fund and Royce Capital Fund and Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (now DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.), dated as of April 4, 2009, previously filed on April 30, 2009 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 91 to the Trust’s Registration statement and hereby incorporated by reference. |
13(b) | Administration Agreement between The Royce Fund and Royce & Associates, LLC dated January 1, 2008, previously filed on April 30, 2008 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the Trust’s Registration statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
13(c) | Amended and Restated Administration Agreement between The Royce Fund and Royce, dated July 1, 2016, previously filed on February 28, 2017 with the Trust’s Form N-SAR and hereby incorporated by reference. |
14(a) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund, Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. Filed herewith. |
14(b) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Micro-Cap Fund and Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund. Filed herewith. |
14(c) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Opportunity Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund. Filed herewith. |
15 | Not applicable. |
16 | Not applicable. |
17(a) | Form of Proxy Card for Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
17(b) | Form of Proxy Card for Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’ Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
17(c) | Form of Proxy Card for Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
17(d) | Form of Proxy Card for Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund. Previously filed on March 4, 2019 with the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 and hereby incorporated by reference. |
17(e) | Code of Ethics for The Royce Funds and The Royce Companies, as amended through April 1, 2017, previously filed on December 29, 2017 with Post-Effective Amendment No. 135 to the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A and hereby incorporated by reference. |
* Effective only upon completion of the Reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund. |
Item 17. Undertakings
(1) | The undersigned registrant agrees that prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered through the use of a prospectus which is a part of this registration statement by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of Rule 145(c) of the Securities Act [17 CFR 230.145c], the reoffering prospectus will contain the information called for by the applicable registration form for the reofferings by persons who may be deemed underwriters, in addition to the information called for by the other items of the applicable form. |
(2) | The undersigned registrant agrees that every prospectus that is filed under paragraph (1) above will be filed as a part of an amendment to the registration statement and will not be used until the amendment is effective, and that, in determining any liability under the 1933 Act, each post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement for the securities offered therein, and the offering of the securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering of them. |
(3) | The undersigned Registrant agrees that an opinion as to the tax consequences of each reorganization will be filed as part of a post-effective amendment once the relevant reorganization has been completed. |
SIGNATURES
As required by the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on Form N-14 has been signed on behalf of the Registrant, in the City of New York and State of New York, on the 28th day of March, 2019.
| THE ROYCE FUND |
| | | |
| | | |
| By: | | /s/ Christopher D. Clark |
| | | |
| | | Christopher D. Clark, President |
As required by the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on Form N-14 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | | TITLE | | DATE |
| | | | |
/s/ Charles M. Royce | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Charles M. Royce | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Christopher D. Clark | | President and Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Christopher D. Clark | | (Principal Executive Officer) | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Peter K. Hoglund | | Treasurer | | March 28, 2019 |
Peter K. Hoglund | | (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Patricia W. Chadwick | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Patricia W. Chadwick | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Christopher C. Grisanti | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Christopher C. Grisanti | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Stephen L. Isaacs | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Stephen L. Isaacs | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Arthur S. Mehlman | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Arthur S. Mehlman | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ David L. Meister | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
David L. Meister | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ G. Peter O’Brien | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
G. Peter O’Brien | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Michael K. Shields | | Trustee | | March 28, 2019 |
Michael K. Shields | | | | |
A copy of the Trust Instrument of The Royce Fund is on file with the Secretary of State of Delaware, and notice is hereby given that this instrument is executed on behalf of the Registrant by an officer of the Registrant as an officer and not individually and that the obligations of or arising out of this instrument are not binding upon any of the Trustees or shareholders individually but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Registrant.
Exhibit Index
Exhibit Number | Exhibit Name |
(4)(a) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund,and Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
(4)(b) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
(4)(c) | Plan of Reorganization of The Royce Fund, on behalf of each of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund and Royce Opportunity Fund. Included as Appendix A to relevant Prospectus/Proxy Statement. |
11(a) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of each of Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund into Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund. |
11(b) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund into Royce Micro-Cap Fund. |
11(c) | Legal Opinion of Richards, Layton & Finger as to the legality of the securities being registered in connection with the reorganization of Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund into Royce Opportunity Fund. |
12(e) | Consent of Sidley Austin LLP. | 14(a) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Pennsylvania Mutual Fund, Royce Small-Cap Leaders Fund, and Royce Small/Mid-Cap Premier Fund. |
14(b) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Micro-Cap Fund and Royce Low-Priced Stock Fund. |
14(c) | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for each of Royce Opportunity Fund and Royce Micro-Cap Opportunity Fund. |